Best Online Master’s in Human And Family Development Degree Programs of 2024

A master’s in human and family development prepares students to support individuals and family units across several sectors, including education and social services. This degree is for empathetic individuals seeking the theoretical frameworks and practical skills to assist children and families struggling with substance abuse, community needs, mental health, and poverty. However, while these online programs can help you advance in the field and secure leadership positions, they are not designed for licensure in the counseling field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics outlines several professions related to community and social services. Projection data suggests that employment opportunities in this field will grow faster than the national average (as much as 10%) over the next decade. Individuals working in social services and community support occupations make an annual salary of $48,000.

The average tuition for an online master’s in human and family development is around $15,000, which is lower than many graduate degree options. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition for graduate programs in the U.S. is nearly $20,000. Moreover, human and family development coursework integrates well with remote learning formats, and individuals can typically continue working professionally while completing their degree. You can complete your online master’s in human and family development in one to two years.

Choose your area of study

Before applying to a program, identify a focus area and outline your goals. Most applicants have some professional experience in the field to help gauge the direction in which they’d like to hone their graduate work.

Your first choice will be a Master of Science, a Master of Arts, or a Master of Education. The type of degree largely depends on the school and focus. Master of Arts programs lean on the humanities, whereas Master of Science programs tend to be more research- and data-driven. Master of Education programs teach coursework through the specific perspective of that field and would be appropriate for those already serving in an educational capacity. Overall, the academic requirements are similar.

From there, each degree houses specific concentrations besides the core coursework. Typical concentrations include mental health and trauma, gerontology, family science, marriage and family therapy, and youth development. Institutions offer different concentrations, so narrow down the programs with the faculty and coursework that match your professional goals. Some programs, such as a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE), can lead to a professional certification credential.

Research schools and programs

After determining the programs that best meet your needs, it’s time to research and compare their support services and opportunities.

• Is the school accredited? There is no official accrediting agency for human and family development degrees, but an accrediting agency should recognize the school. If your program falls under a social work umbrella, you should look for programs with accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
• What is the online format? Some online programs for this field are asynchronous, and some are more interactive. Many programs are cohort-based and feature occasional in-person fieldwork. Choose the best course delivery for your schedule and learning aptitudes.
• Does the school provide support for online students? Look for programs that offer supplemental tutoring, career coaching, mental health resources, tech support, and other services for online attendees.
• What professional development or networking opportunities does the program feature? Most online master’s in human and family development mandate an internship or capstone experience/thesis. These practical components help you apply your theoretical knowledge to a real-world context.

To find the answers to these questions, browse the program website and attend an information session. If you have any specific concerns or accommodation needs, connect with an admissions counselor or advisor for the program.

Prepare for tests and applications

Few online master’s in human and family development require standardized test scores as part of their admissions process. However, preparing your application materials will still take some time; official transcripts and letters of recommendation can take several weeks to procure. International students or non-native English speakers should review each program for any additional requirements or testing.

Select your program

Double-check the application deadline once you’ve selected the program or programs that best meet your professional, personal, and financial needs. Many programs, especially those with more asynchronous coursework, facilitate a rolling admissions structure. However, more cohort-based coursework will likely have a firm deadline by which you must submit application materials.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

The first step in determining how to pay for your master’s degree is to complete the FAFSA. This form will help you ascertain the federal aid you qualify for, even if you don’t need it. If you currently work in a field related to human and family development, you should discuss your academic goals with your employer; they may be able to provide some tuition assistance.

Master’s programs are a big financial commitment, but most schools have staff ready to help you develop a payment strategy. Speak with your chosen program’s financial aid counselor or admissions counselor. These individuals can help identify any scholarships, grants, or assistantships that could also cover a portion of the cost (though these are less common and highly competitive at the graduate level).