Family Studies and Human Development
Why Study Family Studies and Human Development at U of G?
Embark on the journey to a rewarding career centered on individuals and families. This interdisciplinary program offers a comprehensive exploration of individual and family health, well-being, and relationships across all stages of life, embedded within diverse social and cultural contexts.
Gain practical experience through guaranteed practicum placements totaling up to 336 hours, enabling you to refine your skills. Tailor your studies with specialized focuses such as adult development and gerontology, sexuality and relationships, and youth studies. Prepare yourself for diverse career paths in fields such as social work, public health, speech-language pathology, and beyond, equipped with a solid foundation in understanding and supporting individuals and families throughout their lives.
Understand Individual and Family Health
Build an interdisciplinary understanding of how individual health, well-being, and relationships are impacted by psychological, social, biological and economic factors across the lifespan.
Become an Expert in Your Field of Interest
Focus on Adult Development and Gerontology, Sexuality and Relationships, or Youth Studies to prepare for careers in social work, gerontology, public health, occupational therapy, family law, mediation, and couple and family therapy.
Gain Real-World Practicum Experience
Experience firsthand the impact of our Bachelor of Applied Science degree with a guaranteed practicum placement, offering up to 336 hours of practical engagement with youth, young adults, families, or seniors within human service organizations.
To see all courses offered in the Family Studies and Human Development program, visit our Academic Calendar.
Careers in Family Studies and Human Development
Graduates from the University of Guelph Family Studies and Human Development program are prepared for a variety of graduate studies opportunities and career pathways, all under the context of working with individuals and families.
Here are just a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Adult or Parent Education
- Community-based Services
- Counselling or Social Work*
- Occupational Therapy*
- Secondary School Teaching*
- Sexuality Education
- Speech and Language Pathology*
- Working with Older Adults
*Careers that require further education/training
Hear From A Family Studies And Human Development Student
I chose Family Studies and Human Development at U of G because I wanted to learn about health, well-being, and human development from a biopsychosocial perspective. Throughout my degree, I've had the opportunity to learn about the social determinants of health, counselling skills, intersectionality, screening/assessment, and development across the lifespan. Currently, I am looking into pursuing a master's degree in occupational therapy and I feel that the FSHD courses have prepared me well for this. I also think that there are opportunities to pursue lots of other fields after completing this degree, including education, public health, social work, and counselling.
Discover More Options
Students in the Family Studies and Human Development program may also be interested in studying Child Studies, Sociology, Psychology, a degree in Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, or other majors.
Admission Requirements
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Scholarships & Bursaries
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