Bachelor of Applied Science - Family Studies and Human Development (GFD)

The Adult Development major focuses on health and well-being from young adulthood to old age within the context of changing family relationships and diverse social and cultural influences. Courses focus on current research and theory in adult development and aging, family relationships, human sexuality, social policy and community services. Field placements and community service learning opportunities enable students to gain knowledge, skills and values appropriate for work with individuals and groups in a variety of settings.

This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide students with an understanding of the influence of psychological, social, biological and economic factors on individual development, capabilities, health and relationships across the lifespan. It is one of several majors in the Department that share an over-riding goal of applying knowledge to promote individual and family well-being. This major offers a high degree of flexibility for students, who may choose to deepen their studies in one or more of the core content areas in the major (adulthood and aging, family and social relationships, human sexuality, or health and well-being) and/or to choose electives in a related or complementary field or declare a minor.

The academic program in the Adult Development majors provides a combination of traditional lectures and seminars with the application of theory in practicum courses. These practicum courses enable students to apply the social and biological components of human behaviour in various family, community and educational settings. Students work directly in the community with organizations and agencies that support adults and families during in their 3rd year; and have the option of completing a second placement in their 4th year. This variety of experiences affords students greater opportunity to apply the theory obtained in class to real-world issues.

Graduates of this program are pursuing careers in a variety of settings including family and community service agencies, government departments, services for seniors and their families, health care agencies, employee and family assistance programs, and local social planning councils. This program provides a solid foundation for the pursuit of graduate studies in fields such as social work, family relations, gerontology, occupational therapy, family law and mediation, couple and family therapy, education, sexual health, human resource management (business) and health studies.