COURSE CURRICULUM

The Human Development and Family Science Minor combined with the Educational Psychology master’s program at the University of North Texas prepares students to understand human development, family systems and learning processes while developing the research and leadership skills needed for educational and community-based careers. The program emphasizes both academic theory and practical application, helping students build expertise in child and adolescent development, family relationships, intervention strategies, educational assessment and community engagement. Students benefit from a highly interactive academic environment that includes conferences, seminars and professional development opportunities where they can learn about current research, share ideas and build professional networks. The Leaders in Family Education student organization further enhances the student experience through seminars, conferences and community service projects. The program has earned recognition from organizations such as the National Council on Family Relations and U.S. News & World Report for its quality and academic reputation. Faculty members conduct intervention-based research in areas including gifted education, adolescent development, cognitive and educational assessment, parent-child relationships, school intervention programs and therapy with abused children. The Department of Educational Psychology is connected with multiple research and intervention centers, creating opportunities for students to participate in research, development and community-focused initiatives. Hands-on learning experiences are integrated into many courses through service learning and volunteer opportunities with organizations such as the Kristin Farmer Autism Center, the Texas HIPPY Center and the UNT Child Development Laboratory. Graduates are prepared for careers such as family and child program administrator, family intervention specialist, gifted and talented coordinator, learning and development specialist, early childhood educator, program evaluation administrator and clinical research assistant. Coursework includes subjects such as Childhoods Across Time, Space and Place, Guidance of Children and Youth, Educational Psychology, Educational Research Methodology, Family Law and Policy, and Family, School and Community, all of which help students develop analytical, communication, assessment and collaboration skills essential for educational and family-focused professions.