Human Development and Family Sciences at NIU
Bachelor of Science
Lead people to wellness to create a healthier world.
Your family can influence your entire life. By studying human development and family sciences, you'll explore how people grow within their family system and how that system interacts with culture and society. With the knowledge and skills you gain, you'll be ready to help individuals and families achieve increased well-being.
Currently working with young children? You may qualify for our Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Scholarship.
I chose this course of study because I know that I was born to help people. From my years working in the service industry, to just being a listening ear to the people in my life, helping others has always come naturally to me.
What Can I Do With a Human Development and Family Sciences Degree From NIU?
You'll be prepared for graduate school or a career working with children, adults, seniors and families in areas like health care and social services. You'll also be qualified to obtain certifications and credentials, such as early childhood Gateways credentials.
Top skills reported by alumni:
- Management
- Nonprofit organization
- Outreach
- Social services
- Teaching
Top fields alumni work in:
- Education
- Government
- Health care
- Human resources
- Nonprofit
Other Programs to Consider
Career Potential for NIU Human Development and Family Sciences Majors
Average mid-career salary:
$68,922
Top employers include:
- Advocate Health Care
- Bright Horizons
- Chicago Public Schools
- Centene Corporation
- State of Illinois
Job titles include:
- Behavioral therapist
- Case manager
- Director
- Preschool teacher
- School social worker
Source: Steppingblocks, 2023
What to Expect as a Human Development and Family Sciences Major at NIU
With opportunities for internships and practicums, our program blends classroom knowledge with hands-on experience. You can choose the emphasis that best aligns with your interests and goals:
- Adult development and aging
- Child development
- Family relations, prevention and wellness
- Family social services
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).
Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.
With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
Not considered.
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.