Department of Human Development and Family Studies Interdisciplinary Programs
View DepartmentUndergraduate Certificate in Gerontology
As the U.S. population rapidly ages to the point where one in five adults will be older than 65 by 2030, there is a need for trained professionals in careers ranging from health services to engineering to public policy. This certificate is designed to address existing and future needs by introducing you to the breadth of subjects and perspectives related to aging as well as potential career paths in gerontology, geriatrics and other age-related human services.
The certificate requires 18 credit hours. In many cases, students may find they can include courses from their home department/major in their certificate.
Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) Credential
The Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) credential, offered by the National Council on Family Relations, is the nationally recognized standard in family life education. The CFLE credential can validate and communicate to employers your knowledge, skills and abilities to help families enhance their well-being and strengthen their interpersonal relationships. The undergraduate curriculum in HDFS meets the standards and criteria for the provisional CFLE credential. Students who wish to pursue this credential will complete coursework in the 10 CFLE content areas as well as a capstone internship. To learn more about the coursework requirements, see the program checklist. For more information about the CFLE credential, visit the National Council on Family Relations webpage.
Accelerated (4+1) Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis
Purdue University’s Online Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs offer personal, high-quality instruction from leading behavior analytic researchers. You will become a leader in the ABA field, working in settings such as schools, homes, communities and clinical environments. You will apply your knowledge of behavior analytic principles to teach new behaviors and decrease undesired behaviors, particularly in the areas of education or human services. The Accelerated Master of Science in Educational Studies with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis is available through the College of Education. The coursework has been verified to meet the requirement under the 5th Edition Task List needed to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. For more information about the program and how to apply, visit the Applied Behavior Analysis web page.
Combined (4+1) Master’s Degree in Public Health
As the burden on the healthcare system increases, the need for highly skilled public health professionals is growing. The Department of Public Health prepares students to plan, implement and evaluate public health programs and policies. Graduates work with individuals, families and communities in a variety of settings, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, corporate wellness programs, industry and healthcare. The Purdue Master of Public Health degree offers options to study the areas that interest you most. Working with the public health coordinator, you can tailor your coursework, concentration and practicum to match your unique interests in the public health field. For more information, view the Master of Public Health program requirements.