Photo of student helping child write with markers.

Family Science and Human Development Minor

The interdisciplinary minor in Family Science and Human Development (FSHD) provides an in-depth understanding of individuals, families and communities by exploring multiple perspectives from social sciences and human services.  Grounded in social justice, diversity and inclusion, the FSHD minor:

  • Explores cultural, economic and social factors that shape children, families and their relationships
  • Examines human development from birth through death
  • Provides the knowledge and skills you’ll need to help improve the human condition

FSHD touches every field where families are involved.  This minor would be ideal for students pursuing careers in any discipline related to supporting children and families, including:

  • American Sign Language
  • Anthropology
  • Art Therapy
  • Child Advocacy
  • Criminal Justice
  • Gender, Sexuality & Women’s Studies
  • GLBTQ Studies
  • Law
  • Music Therapy
  • Nutrition
  • Nursing
  • Physical Education
  • Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Reading & Literacy
  • Social Work
  • Speech
  • Teaching

The 18-credit FSHD minor provides an expansive view of the field of family science, including a focus on human development through different life stages, and family development across the life course. The selection of electives is intentionally flexible so you can enroll in courses related to your interests and career goals. Here’s what you’ll take:

  • FSHD 200 – Intro to Content Areas in FSHD
  • FSHD 348 – Individual & Family Development over the Life Course
  • Your choice of Child, Adolescent or Adult Development
  • 3 FSHD electives chosen from a wide range of offerings such as:
    • Mindfulness
    • Family in Society
    • Immigrant Families
    • Interpersonal Relations
    • Family Sociology
    • Sibling relationships
    • Death and Bereavement in the Family
    • Families in Later Life

Applicant Requirements:

  • Minimum GPA of 2.0
  • You must meet with an Academic Advisor in the Student Success Center to discuss your options and to add the minor. Email CCHLadvising@montclair.edu or visit University Hall 1180 to schedule an appointment.

 

View the Program Requirements in the MSU Course Catalog.