Best Online Master’s in Human and Family Development Programs

Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University offers an online master of education in human development counseling with a specialization in school counseling. This track provides foundations in the social and behavioral sciences, with an emphasis on child development. Though students complete most courses online, this program requires three internships and two on-campus sessions. 

The curriculum spans 48 credit hours and includes areas of studies in social and cultural diversity, human growth, and helping relationships. Full-time distance learners can complete the program in three years. Graduates of the school counseling track often obtain positions as school counselors at K-12 levels. Nearly all human development counseling graduates find employment within four months of graduation. 

Designed for professionals who currently work in child and family services, the online master's degree in human development and family studies at Texas Tech University focuses on lifespan development and interpersonal relationships. Students enrolled in this program can choose between two concentrations: gerontology and youth development. 

Both concentrations require 36 credits and can be completed in 2-3 years. The youth development specialization consists of 28 core credits and an eight-credit practicum, thesis, or research project. The non-thesis gerontology concentration includes 24 core credits and 12 elective credits. 

Both curriculums feature topics like theories of human development, family theories, and research methods. Distance learners enjoy a variety of support services, including one-on-one mentoring, research facilities, and technology support. 

Providing distance education for over 50 years, Kansas State University offers an online MS in family and community services. Online students at K-State pay the same tuition rate as on-campus learners, regardless of state residency. Designed for students interested in helping families by creating and implementing services at the community level, this program prepares learners for career opportunities in social service organizations. 

The curriculum consists of 36 credits and includes courses like family resource management, resilience in families, and parenting education. The university features an impressive placement rate, with nearly 95% of online students finding employment within months of graduation. Distance learners at K-State have access to the same academic and career resources as on-campus students. 

Based in Mequon, Concordia University Wisconsin oversees a master of science in family life program that can be completed entirely online. This non-thesis program aims to develop students' counseling skills, preparing graduates to positively impact the lives of parents, teachers, and students.

This MS degree requires 36 credits and 120 practicum hours. These practicum hours are included within the curriculum and focus on creating and evaluating family programs. Potential careers include life scientist, family therapist, and family social worker.

Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited college with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Prospective applicants must submit a one-page essay and two signed letters of recommendation. Students wishing to transfer in graduate credits obtained in the last seven years must contact the admissions department for a transfer evaluation.