Graduate Degree

The Master of Science Degree in Human Development and Family Studies is designed to help students gain an understanding of increasingly diverse family units as well as individual family members as they develop across the life course.  Depending upon student interest and career goals, focus may be on human development (middle childhood, adolescence, emerging adulthood), family diversity, or cultural and community contexts .  Students are prepared to study, work with, and advocate for families, children, youth, and adults in a broad range of settings, including extension offices, community agencies, and policy-making contexts.  Both a thesis (Plan A) and non-thesis (Plan B) option are offered.  Those pursuing Plan A are prepared for doctoral study in a variety of related fields.

Admission

Students must have:

1. A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university. 
2. A grade-point average of 3.00 or better during the last two full years of undergraduate study. 
3. A favorable evaluation by at least three professional references. 
4. Academic records, references, and experiences that reflect strong qualifications for graduate study. 

All international applicants and applicants whose native language is not English must be able to provide evidence of English language proficiency. Please see the MSU Policy on English Language Competency for accepted tests and acceptable scores.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Human Development and Family Studies

The Master of Science Degree in Human Development and Family Studies is available under Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). A total of 30 credits is required for both Plan A and Plan B.