M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
B.A. in Human Development and Family Science
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Human Development and Family Science program at George Mason University (GMU) offers students a holistic understanding of human development across the lifespan and the dynamics of family relationships and systems. Situated in Fairfax, Virginia, GMU is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and interdisciplinary research. The B.A. in Human Development and Family Science program provides students with theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and experiential learning opportunities to prepare them for careers in human services, counseling, education, research, and advocacy.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.A. in Human Development and Family Science program at GMU is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human development theories, family dynamics, and social contexts that shape individual growth and well-being. Core courses cover topics such as child development, adolescent development, adult development and aging, family relationships, parenting, diversity and culture, and human services. Students also have the opportunity to explore specialized areas of interest through elective courses, concentrations, or interdisciplinary minors. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interpersonal skills, and ethical perspectives, preparing students for graduate study or careers in fields such as counseling, social work, education, or research.
Research Focus: GMU's B.A. in Human Development and Family Science program emphasizes research as a fundamental component of understanding human development, family dynamics, and social relationships. Faculty members are engaged in diverse research projects exploring topics such as child development outcomes, family resilience, parenting interventions, cultural influences on family dynamics, and social policy implications. Students have the opportunity to participate in research initiatives, independent studies, or research assistantships, gaining hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Through research-focused courses and seminars, students develop research skills, methodological expertise, and critical perspectives that prepare them for graduate study or careers in research-oriented fields.
Industry Engagement: GMU's B.A. in Human Development and Family Science program fosters strong connections with human services agencies, community organizations, schools, and healthcare providers to provide students with opportunities for industry engagement and practical experience. Through internships, field placements, or service-learning projects, students apply theoretical concepts and counseling skills to real-world situations, gaining valuable insights into human service delivery, client advocacy, and community resources. Industry professionals, counselors, educators, and policymakers often serve as guest speakers, mentors, or collaborators, offering insights into career pathways and opportunities in human development, counseling, and family services.
Global Perspective: In an increasingly interconnected world, GMU's B.A. in Human Development and Family Science program emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in understanding human diversity, cultural influences, and social change. Courses incorporate discussions on cross-cultural development, immigrant families, global health disparities, and international family policies. Students have the opportunity to explore global issues, engage with diverse populations, and participate in international service-learning projects or study abroad programs. Additionally, GMU welcomes students from diverse cultural backgrounds and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the learning experience and fostering a sense of global citizenship among graduates.
Location
Fairfax, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 38750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: Waiver
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.0.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 59 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 110 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
George Mason University recognizes the importance of making higher education accessible to a diverse range of students, including international students. As such, the university offers a variety of scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition and support the academic pursuits of international students.
Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based award available to incoming international undergraduate students. It recognizes academic achievement, leadership skills, and contributions to the community. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years.
College and Departmental Scholarships: Many of George Mason University's colleges and academic departments offer scholarships to international students who excel in specific fields of study. These scholarships may require students to meet certain academic criteria and demonstrate a strong their chosen area of study.
Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students at George Mason University have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide funding for tuition and stipends for work as research or teaching assistants. These assistantships offer valuable hands-on experience while helping to offset educational costs.
International Baccalaureate Scholarships: International students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program may be eligible for scholarships based on their IB scores and academic achievements. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Private Scholarships: George Mason University encourages international students to explore private scholarship opportunities from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students find and apply for these scholarships.
Fullbright Scholarships: International students seeking advanced degrees may be eligible to apply for the prestigious Fullbright scholarship program, which provides funding for graduate study, research, and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Human Development and Family Science from George Mason University (GMU) provides students with a diverse range of career opportunities in fields related to human services, counseling, education, research, and advocacy. With a strong foundation in understanding human development and family dynamics.
Human Services Specialist: Many graduates choose to pursue careers as human services specialists, working for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or community-based programs that provide support and resources to individuals and families in need. Human services specialists assess client needs, develop service plans, and connect clients with social services, counseling, healthcare, or educational programs. They may specialize in areas such as child welfare, family support, aging services, mental health, or substance abuse treatment, advocating for clients and promoting their well-being.
Family Counselor/Therapist: Graduates may pursue careers as family counselors or therapists, helping individuals, couples, and families navigate relationship challenges, life transitions, and mental health concerns. Family counselors work in private practice, mental health clinics, schools, or community agencies, providing counseling, psychotherapy, and support to clients facing issues such as communication breakdowns, parenting conflicts, divorce, trauma, or grief. They utilize therapeutic techniques and interventions to promote healthy family dynamics, strengthen relationships, and improve emotional well-being.
Early Childhood Educator: For those passionate about working with young children and families, careers in early childhood education offer opportunities to support children's development and school readiness. Early childhood educators work in preschools, childcare centers, Head Start programs, or elementary schools, designing and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum, activities, and interventions to promote children's cognitive, social, and emotional growth. They collaborate with families, caregivers, and community resources to create nurturing and supportive learning environments for young children.
Research Assistant/Analyst: Graduates with strong research skills may pursue careers as research assistants or analysts, working in academic institutions, research organizations, or government agencies. Research assistants support research projects by collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, and assisting with research design and methodology. Research analysts analyze research findings, prepare reports, and contribute to research publications or grant proposals on topics related to human development, family relationships, or social policy. They may work on projects evaluating program effectiveness, assessing community needs, or informing policy decisions.
Family Advocate/Community Organizer: Many graduates choose to work as family advocates or community organizers, advocating for the needs and rights of individuals and families within their communities. Family advocates work for nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, or social service agencies, providing information, support, and resources to families facing challenges such as poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, or parental incarceration. Community organizers mobilize community members, build coalitions, and advocate for policy changes or community initiatives that address systemic barriers and promote family well-being.
