The Department of Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) serves undergraduate and graduate students by offering a bachelor of science in human development and family studies and a Ph.D. in human ecology: human development and family studies. Students and faculty in HDFS are dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adolescents, and adults by discovering, integrating, applying and disseminating knowledge about lifespan human development, relationships, families, and communities, all in their larger social contexts. The application of human ecological and interdisciplinary perspectives to solve societal problems and strengthen the well-being of children, adults, and families is a distinctive feature of the department.
Professors
Papp, Poehlmann-Tynan, Raison;
Associate Professors
Dilworth-Bart, Duncan, Halpern-Meekin, Hartley, Kirkorian, Nix;
Assistant Professors
Kerr, Litzelman;
Faculty Associates
Burkholder, Levchenko
For more information, visit the School of Human Ecology faculty and staff directory.
Student Academic Affairs & Career Development
The Student Academic Affairs & Career Development Office (SAA) fosters undergraduate students' personal, academic, and professional development. Through advising, academic planning, and career education we support students as they navigate the college experience - from exploring our majors as prospective students to becoming SoHE alumni.
Academic Advising
Each SoHE student is assigned to an academic advisor in the Student Academic Affairs & Career Development Office. SoHE academic advisors support academic and personal success by partnering with current and prospective SoHE students as they identify and clarify their educational goals, develop meaningful academic plans, and pursue their own Wisconsin Experience.
To explore academic advising resources or schedule an appointment with a SoHE academic advisor, visit Advising in SoHE.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Active engagement in the career development process is a vital component of a student’s personal growth in college and future success as a life-long learner, professional, and global citizen. SoHE career advisors help prepare students for life post-graduation through individual and group advising and integration of career readiness throughout our curriculum.
To explore career development resources or schedule an appointment with a SoHE career advisor, visit Internship and Career Preparation.
SCHOLARSHIPS AND OTHER FINANCIAL RESOURCES
The School of Human Ecology awards many merit and need-based scholarships each year. The deadline to apply for scholarships is typically late in the fall semester. To be eligible for these awards, scholarship recipients must be registered as full-time SoHE students.
Students who experience emergency financial situations may inquire about the availability of short-term loans through the SoHE Student Academic Affairs & Career Development Office. In addition, university scholarships, loans, and employment are available through the Office of Student Financial Aid (333 East Campus Mall; 608-262-3060).