Human Development and Family Science is more than working with people – we strive to make a difference in their lives. We offer programs of study for both undergraduate and graduate students that address the needs of children, youth, adults, and families across the lifespan, with special attention to those in complicated families.

An interdisciplinary research environment enables shared learning between disciplines, faculty and cohorts. The department offers advanced degrees designed to inspire great thinking and distinguish students’ candidacy as they pursue professional careers. Curriculum prepares students to pursue careers that help society in a variety of human service settings, such as schools, government agencies, military family support programs, and child care programs.

Mission Statement

The Department of Human Development and Family Science at Florida State University is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of individuals, children, and families across the lifespan through evidence-based education, interdisciplinary research, and community collaboration. We prepare students for impactful careers in healthcare, education, research, counseling, family therapy, law, business, and public service by equipping them with the knowledge and skills to address complex human challenges. Our programs emphasize ethical practice, scientific inquiry, and service that impact communities worldwide.

We offer a B.S. in Human Development and Family Science as well as the following graduate degrees:

Learn more about our faculty.

Learn More

HDFS Seminar Series

Human Development & Family Science Research Speaker Series events take place on Wednesdays at 3:15 PM on Zoom, unless otherwise noted. The Zoom link can be found via the HDFS Research Speaker Series Canvas website.

View the schedule: annescollege.fsu.edu/hdfs-seminar-series


Questions?

Heidi Gazelle, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Seminar Series Coordinator
850.644.5722
hgazelle@fsu.edu 
Sandels 332D 

Becoming a Certified Family Life Educator

The Department of Human Development & Family Science is proud to announce that our program has been approved to offer students the opportunity to become a Certified Family Life Educator. Visit https://annescollege.fsu.edu/cfle for more information.

HDFS Graduate Student Departmental Forms
HDFS Orientation for Graduate Students

A departmental orientation has been created for newly admitted graduate students to the Department of Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) in the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. It will be held in two sessions: an online asynchronous session and an in-person session. Information provided in each session is distinct, and you must attend both. You will learn about academic expectations, campus, and community resources. Whether you are attending a university in the U.S. for the first time or are an FSU alumnus, the graduate student experience is filled with challenges and rewards. We are here to support you during your journey to becoming a successful professional in your field of study.

Requisite Student Orientations

The departmental orientation is one of several orientations that will be required. Please take a moment to view the Start-Up Activities schedule. We ask that you dress “business casual” for any in-person event. Please note that the weather in Florida is variable, and temperature inside buildings can fluctuate (we recommend you bring an umbrella and a sweater/light coat).

Students are required to be present in Tallahassee the week before classes begin.

Fall 2026

Information to be posted in July 2026.

Preparing for the Orientation

  • All Master’s and Doctoral Students admitted to programs in HDFS should successfully complete the departmental orientation before registering for classes.
  • Find out more about Canvas, the FSU software that we deliver courses through.

Department Orientation Contacts

Paul Peluso
Department Chair
Human Development and Family Science
prp24a@fsu.edu
(850) 644-4048
225-H SAN

Career Areas for HDFS Graduates (Examples)

Traditional HDFS Careers

  • Marriage and Family Therapist
  • Family Life Educator
  • Clinical, Child, and/or Developmental Researcher
  • Early Childhood Educator
  • Mental Health Counselor
  • Social Worker
  • School Counselor
  • Human Services Case Manager
  • Professor/Higher Education Instructor

Medical and Health-Related Careers:

  • Pre-Medical and Pre-Nursing Tracks
  • Physician Assistant (PA)
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Physical Therapist
  • Clinical Psychologist
  • Applied Behavior Analyst
  • Speech-Language Pathologist
  • Public Health Educator
  • Health Policy Analyst

Non-Traditional and Emerging Fields:

  • Law (e.g., Family Law, Juvenile Justice)
  • Policy and Advocacy (e.g., Child Welfare Policy)
  • Nonprofit Leadership and Program Management
  • Human Resources and Organizational Development
  • Research Analyst or Data Specialist in Human Services
  • Technology and UX Design for Family-Oriented Platforms

This broad career spectrum reflects the department’s commitment to preparing students not just for jobs—but for meaningful, impactful careers that improve lives and strengthen communities.