Family Studies & Human Development

The knowledge of human development, family and relationship dynamics, social and life sciences, and ethics combined with communication and leadership skills gained from a major in Family Studies and Human Development provides a strong career foundation. Graduates in Family Studies and Human Development may work in social services, community health, social work, medical research, education, or outreach and advocacy. This major is also excellent preparation for law or medical school or graduate studies in public health, social work, family studies, nonprofit management, or public policy. Some of the job titles below require an advanced degree.

 

Potential Career Areas:

  • Human services
  • Social work
  • Policy
  • Community health
  • Cooperative extension services
  • Education
  • Outreach
  • Family legal advocacy
  • Health care
  • Gerontology

 

Sample Employers:

  • Social services agencies
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Schools and universities
  • Health care institutions
  • Legal offices
  • Nursing homes
  • Government agencies
  • Cooperative extension offices

 

Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:

Job Title

Salary Range

Patient Advocate $24,000 - $55,000
Family Law Mediator $27,000 - $97,000
Family/Consumer Scientist $20,000 - $50,000
Human Services Worker $15,420 - $37,550
Medical Ethicist $37,737 - $61,732
Nonprofit Program Director $35,000 - $65,000
Program Assistant $24,000 - $34,000
Health Policy Analyst $30,000 - $60,000
Community Health Worker $22,600 - $38,100
Community Organizer $18,000 - $45,000
Adult Education Instructor $23,000 - $71,000
Victim Services Specialist $20,000 - $54,000
Mental Health Advocate $38,560 - $66,970
Extension Agent $22,000 - $68,000

 

Sources of Information:  United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).