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The human development and family science (HDFS) program is an excellent option for those who enjoy working with people. This degree equips students for professions focused on assisting others, enhancing communities, and creating meaningful societal impact. Several trends highlight the importance of an HDFS degree, including an aging population, consistently high divorce rates, and the rise of dual-income households increasing demand for childcare services. Understanding child and family development proves invaluable across numerous career paths - from education to social services for youth and families, to geriatric care. Family studies offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to examining familial bonds throughout life stages, covering parent-child dynamics, romantic partnerships, and interpersonal connections in midlife and senior years. Combining academic instruction with hands-on training at community organizations, students gain practical experience to pursue roles in child and family-focused institutions.
Applicant must have successful completion of university preparatory courses, high school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA, Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community, Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement, Status as a first-generation university student, Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area and High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors. English proficiency level TOEFL: 79 or higher on the internet-based test, 550 or higher on the paper-based test and IELTS: 6.5 or higher