Developmental and Family Science

Purdue University in West Lafayette

The developmental and family science (DVFS) curriculum allows students to take an interdisciplinary approach to studying families and human development across the lifespan. Students gain knowledge and skills that can help them support individuals and families, develop community programs and interventions, and implement policies and practices that benefit individuals and families. Students have many opportunities for specialization within their coursework including optional concentrations in child development or family and community health.

The major culminates in a capstone experience, designed by the student from among three choices: a semester-long internship, a mentored research experience or a study abroad experience.

A degree in DVFS will prepare you for a wide variety of careers working directly with people or designing programs and policies to improve people’s lives. It is also a great choice for students interested in graduate or professional school.

The home of the developmental and family science major is the Department of Human Development and Family Science, located in Hanley Hall and Fowler House. In HDFS, all undergraduate students experience great academics, personal attention and real-world experience.

Developmental and family science majors are eligible to pursue either the accelerated five-year Master of Public Health (MPH) or Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) degrees. Developmental and family science majors can also pursue a Certificate in Gerontology.