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.

North Carolina State University — based in Raleigh — offers an online master of science in youth, family, and community sciences. This program relies heavily on research and program evaluation, which may be especially appealing to students interested in pursuing a doctoral degree.This MS degree requires 36 credits and culminates in a thesis and a final oral examination. Classes can be completed entirely online, and instructors deliver coursework synchronously. Distance learners explore a variety of topics, such as theories in family science, human sexuality, and statistical methods for researchers.Graduates of this program often pursue careers working for government agencies, social service organizations, and schools. To apply, prospective students must submit a 500-800-word essay, a personal statement, and three letters of professional recommendations. GRE scores are not required.

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.

The University of Missouri — located in Columbia — offers an online master of arts in family and community services. Distance learners in this MA program gain practical knowledge and develop the skills needed to effectively lead and manage family and community programs.This curriculum spans 36 credits and explores topics such as resilience in families, interpersonal relationships, and administration and program management. Graduates often secure positions as social service managers, health educators, and family life educators.Distance learners at Mizzou pay the same per-credit tuition as in-state students. Courses are delivered entirely online and can be completed in 2-3 years. Prospective graduate students must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college with a minimum 3.0 GPA over their last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework.

The online master of science in family and community services at Oklahoma State University focuses on the development and application of support services for families and communities. The core curriculum features topics such as lifespan development, interpersonal relationships, and dynamics of family interaction.

This 36-credit curriculum includes 30 core credits, three elective credits, and three creative component credits. OSU participates in the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance — courses in this program are led by experienced faculty who teach across several universities.OSU uses a rolling-admissions process and recommends applicants apply three months before the start of their target term. A bachelor's degree in human development or a related area is required for admission into this program.