Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals and families in Oklahoma? Oklahoma State University (OSU) offers a Master of Science (MS) in Human Development and Family Science with an option in Applied Human Services, designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in Oklahoma Human Services. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum, focusing on real-world issues and practical applications within the field of human services.
The Applied Human Services option requires 33 credit hours and culminates in a master’s capstone project, allowing students to apply their learning to a specific area of interest within Oklahoma human services. Students can tailor their degree by choosing to specialize in high-demand areas such as developmental disabilities, infant mental health, or aging studies, ensuring they are well-prepared to address the diverse needs within Oklahoma’s communities.
The core coursework delves into essential topics relevant to Oklahoma human services professionals, including:
- Lifespan Development: Understanding human growth and development across all stages of life, crucial for effective intervention and support in human services settings.
- Family Issues: Examining critical family challenges prevalent in Oklahoma, such as poverty, divorce, diversity, and abuse, providing a foundation for informed and sensitive practice.
- Parent Education: Learning strategies and techniques to empower parents and strengthen families, a vital component of preventative human services in Oklahoma.
- Successful Aging and Elder Care: Addressing the needs of Oklahoma’s aging population, including elder care and promoting successful aging, an increasingly important aspect of human services.
- Policy in Human Development and Family Science: Analyzing policies impacting individuals and families, enabling graduates to advocate for effective human services policies in Oklahoma.
OSU’s commitment to impactful research provides students with exceptional opportunities to contribute to the field of Oklahoma human services. Research centers and initiatives, such as the OSU Center for Family Resilience, offer avenues for students to engage in cutting-edge research focused on prevention and intervention strategies that strengthen individuals and families across Oklahoma. Faculty expertise spans a wide range of human services areas, allowing students to learn from and collaborate with leading researchers.
Institute for Developmental Disabilities
Institute for Building Early Relationships
Admission to the Master of Science in Human Development and Family Science, Applied Human Services option, is offered twice a year. Deadlines for application are:
Fall Semester – April 1
Spring Semester – October 15
To apply, candidates should submit the following materials through the Graduate College application portal:
- Graduate College application
- Official academic transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your academic and professional capabilities.
- A statement of professional goals (2-3 pages) outlining your aspirations within Oklahoma human services and how this program aligns with them.
- A Resume or Curriculum Vitae detailing your relevant experiences.
- For applicants whose first language is not English, TOEFL scores are required to demonstrate English language proficiency.
Investing in your education is an investment in your future career in Oklahoma human services. OSU offers various resources to assist graduate students with the cost of their education. Tuition waivers and graduate assistantships may be available to qualified students. Currently enrolled students are also eligible to apply for scholarships offered through the College of Education and Human Sciences, making this program accessible and affordable.
Take the next step towards a rewarding career in Oklahoma human services. Apply to the MS in Human Development and Family Science program at Oklahoma State University and become a leader in serving the communities of Oklahoma.
