人类发展与家庭研究系设在教育与人类服务学院内，在美国所有研究生教育学院中排名前2％，在获得的总研究经费中排名第三。家庭研究（MHDFS）旨在培养专业人员，为个人和家庭提供前沿的教育和服务。学生接受有关个人发展和家庭过程的高级培训，研究他们在更大范围的社会机构和政策中的相互作用。MFHD是一种以实践为导向的非论文学位，特别适合已在家庭或社会服务部门，教育和矫正领域工作的个人，他们希望在对个人发展和家庭过程有更深入了解的领域中寻求就业。
The master’s degree in human development and family studies is designed to provide students with both theoretical and practical knowledge. The Department of Human Development and Family Studies is housed in the College of Education and Human Services, which is in the top 2% of all graduate colleges of education in the nation and is ranked third in total research dollars received. In the program, students learn research methodology and statistics and have applied practicum experiences. Students are able to choose a specialization where they can gain in-depth expertise in their area of interest. Each specialization focuses on current issues affecting individuals and families, and students gain an education that prepares them for a career in teaching, research, or a variety of agencies serving consumers, individuals, families, and children.