Human Development Family Science Jobs - What Are They and How to Get One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

Human development and family science jobs, often shortened to HDFS, include positions such as childcare coordinator, crisis intervention worker, elementary educator, marriage counselor, and volunteer coordinator. These positions apply the practical aspects of human development and family sciences. Most HDFS jobs involve working directly with clients; you may work with or meet them at their homes, school, office, clinic, or another mutually convenient location. In this field, you may support public health efforts, educate groups on specific topics, provide therapy to youth and families, and manage community programs. Some use their training in academia and teach social services or psychology courses at the college level.

The qualifications for getting an HDFS job vary, depending on the position. Some positions require an associate degree, while others seek candidates who have a bachelor's or master's degree. For example, agencies that do population studies require employees to hold a bachelor's degree, while couple and family therapy positions usually have a minimum of a master's degree. To teach at the college level, you typically need to have a doctorate. Some degrees are offered under different names but are still considered part of the HDFS field, so be sure to check the degree programs at your school to see what courses are available. To be successful in a human development and family science job, you need excellent communication and organizational skills, and, in some positions, the ability to remain professional in stressful situations.