Mission and Vision

The mission of the Human Development and Family Science Department is (a) to provide students with a comprehensive, integrated knowledge of families and individuals across the lifespan as appropriate preparation for careers in human services and/or graduate study, and (b) to conduct research on the variety of factors and contexts relevant to human and family development.

The goal of the Department is to enhance the quality of life for individuals of all ages through teaching, research and service in a manner consistent with the University’s land grant mission.  The Department also serves as a resource base for citizens of North Dakota in the area of individual and family life.

The Department recognizes the importance of an ecological approach to the study of human development and families.  Therefore, a systematic approach is utilized in teaching, research, and service.  Interactions of individuals and families with the economic, political, judicial, religious, and educational systems are emphasized.

Goals

1. Generate research that impacts the disciplines and community.
2. Facilitate the continued success of HDFS undergraduate students, faculty, and staff.
3. Foster the continued growth and success of departmental graduate programs.
4. Promote outreach activities consistent with NDSU’s land-grant mission.
5. Foster an environment with active department citizens who are collegial and aim to build connections with each other.