Bachelors of Human Development and Family Studies

Undergraduate Programs Entry Requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Auburn University should have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. The minimum academic requirement is a score of 80-86% or above in the qualifying examination.
   
• English Language Proficiency:                                                                                                                                                               
  • IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required.
  • TOEFL: A minimum score of 79 on the internet-based test (iBT) is required.
  • PTE: A minimum score of 55 with no band less than 50 is required.

These scholarships recognize academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. International Merit Scholarships: Auburn University offers merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership skills, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. The scholarships are renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study and provide partial tuition coverage.

2. Global Scholars Program: The Global Scholars Program is a prestigious scholarship program at Auburn University. It is designed for academically talented international students who demonstrate exceptional leadership abilities, community involvement, and a commitment to global issues. Selected students receive a comprehensive scholarship package that includes full tuition, housing, and a stipend.

3. Cultural Diversity Scholarships: Auburn University recognizes and values the diversity of its student population. The Cultural Diversity Scholarships aim to support underrepresented international students who contribute to the university's cultural and global perspectives. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition and living expenses.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and colleges within Auburn University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be discipline-specific and require students to major in a particular field of study. Students are encouraged to explore departmental websites and contact their respective academic units for information on available scholarships.

5. External Scholarships: Auburn University also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities provided by governments, organizations, and foundations. The university's Office of International Programs provides guidance and resources to help students search and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to carefully review scholarship eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and any additional requirements specified by Auburn University. The university encourages early application submission to be considered for the available scholarships. 

Graduates with a Bachelors of Human Development and Family Studies degree from Auburn University are well-equipped for diverse career opportunities in human services, social work, counseling, education, healthcare, and community advocacy. Their interdisciplinary knowledge, practical skills, and commitment to promoting individual and family well-being make them valuable contributors to organizations and communities, addressing social issues, supporting vulnerable populations, and fostering positive change. Graduates emerge as compassionate and competent professionals ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families across the lifespan.A degree in Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) from Auburn University equips graduates with a diverse skill set and knowledge base, opening up various career opportunities in human services, social work, counseling, education, healthcare, and community advocacy. 

1. Family Support Specialist: Graduates may work as family support specialists in social service agencies, nonprofit organizations, or community centers, providing support and resources to individuals and families facing challenges such as poverty, substance abuse, domestic violence, or parenting difficulties. They may conduct needs assessments, develop individualized service plans, and connect families with community resources and support networks.

2. Case Manager: Graduates may pursue careers as case managers, working with individuals and families involved in the child welfare system, juvenile justice system, or social services programs. They may assess clients' needs, coordinate services, monitor progress, and advocate for clients' rights and interests. Case managers may work in child protective services agencies, foster care programs, mental health clinics, or nonprofit organizations.

3. Child Life Specialist: Graduates may work as child life specialists in hospitals, pediatric clinics, or healthcare facilities, providing psychosocial support to children and families facing medical procedures, hospitalization, or chronic illness. They may use play therapy, education, and therapeutic interventions to help children cope with medical experiences, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional well-being during challenging times.

4. Youth Counselor: Graduates may pursue careers as youth counselors or adolescent specialists, working with at-risk youth, adolescents, or young adults in schools, community centers, or youth programs. They may provide counseling, mentorship, and support services to help youth navigate academic challenges, social relationships, family issues, or behavioral problems. Youth counselors may also facilitate group therapy, life skills workshops, or prevention programs.

5. Parent Educator: Graduates may work as parent educators or family life educators, conducting parenting classes, workshops, or support groups to help parents enhance their parenting skills, strengthen family relationships, and promote positive child development. They may teach topics such as child development, discipline strategies, effective communication, and family wellness. Parent educators may work in schools, community organizations, or public health agencies.

6. Family Therapist: Graduates may pursue careers as family therapists, providing counseling and therapy to individuals, couples, and families experiencing relationship issues, communication problems, or conflict resolution challenges. They may use systemic therapy approaches to address family dynamics, improve communication patterns, and facilitate positive change within the family system. Family therapists may work in private practice, mental health clinics, or counseling centers.

7. Human Services Administrator: Graduates may work as human services administrators or program managers in social service agencies, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies. They may oversee programs and services related to child welfare, family support, aging services, or community development. Human services administrators may manage budgets, develop policies, supervise staff, and collaborate with community partners to address social issues and meet the needs of vulnerable populations.

8. Community Outreach Coordinator: Graduates may work as community outreach coordinators or program coordinators for nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, or government agencies. They may develop outreach initiatives, organize community events, and mobilize resources to raise awareness and address social issues such as homelessness, hunger, mental health, or family violence. Community outreach coordinators may engage with stakeholders, build partnerships, and advocate for policy change.

9. Educational Support Specialist: Graduates may work in educational settings as educational support specialists, providing academic and social-emotional support to students and families. They may collaborate with teachers, counselors, and administrators to develop intervention plans, provide individualized support services, and promote student success. Educational support specialists may work in schools, afterschool programs, or educational nonprofits.

10. Research Assistant: Graduates may pursue research assistant positions in research institutes, universities, or government agencies, assisting with research projects on topics related to human development, family dynamics, or social policy. They may collect data, conduct literature reviews, analyze research findings, and contribute to scholarly publications or policy reports. Research assistants may gain valuable research skills and experience to pursue advanced study or careers in research and academia.