This emphasis is intended for students who seek entry-level employment in family service, family life education, mental health, or community welfare agencies which serve primarily older children, adolescents, adults, couples, and/or the elderly. It is recommended as preparation for advanced degrees in social work, human development and family sciences, marriage and family therapy, and related fields. Studying child development and early education in the Human Development and Family Studies program will prepare you to serve infants, toddlers and young children, as well as their parents, in home school and community-based settings. You'll be ready for a career or graduate study focused on areas such as early intervention, early childhood education and leadership/advocacy roles. Students in the program complete their practicum experience at the award-winning Child Development and Family Center at NIU. Graduates from the program qualify for various Illinois Gateways credentials.