The ҹɫÊÓƵ’s College of Education & Human Development is expanding access to its highly ranked Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) by offering the degree fully online.
The online program will soft launch in spring 2026 for current students and officially open to new students in fall 2026. Designed with a flexible, asynchronous format, the program makes it possible for working professionals, caregivers and students unable to attend classes on campus to earn their degree on their own schedule.
“The new online Human Development and Family Science program expands access to students across Nevada and beyond, preparing them with the knowledge and skills to support families, children and communities in meaningful ways,” said Donald Easton-Brooks, Ph.D., dean of the College of Education & Human Development. By offering this program online, we are removing barriers and creating new opportunities for students to pursue careers that make a lasting impact.”
Ranked among the top five Human Development and Family Science programs in the West by College Factual, HDFS provides students with a strong foundation in human development across the lifespan, family dynamics and community engagement. Graduates are prepared for careers in early childhood education, human services, public policy, health and business. Students may also earn the Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) credential through approved coursework or a national exam.
“Human Development and Family Science graduates are in high demand for their expertise in working with children, adolescents and families,” Melissa Burnham, Ph.D., department chair of Human Development, Family Science and Counseling, said. “Making this program available online allows us to serve more students who want to pursue these meaningful career paths but need a flexible format to do so. Our faculty members have been working hard to create engaging content for each of the asynchronous courses. We can’t wait for our first cohort of students!”
The fully online degree also supports statewide workforce development efforts, particularly addressing the shortage of well-trained early childhood educators.
Students will work closely with an academic advisor and a dedicated mentor, receiving individualized support throughout their courses, internships and practicum experiences. Students also can engage with faculty-led study abroad programs in the college.
“As an active duty Airman, a mom of two and a student, an online class gives me the flexibility to balance all three roles,” Dana Cooper said. “Online classes allow me to complete coursework during breaks in my duty schedule or after putting my kids to bed, without missing out on my responsibilities at home or in uniform. This balance allows me to pursue my education while still giving my best to my family and my service. Without the online option for practicum and internship, I have had challenges trying to balance my roles. ”
"The HDFS program has been an incredible opportunity for me to complete,” Kendrah Yardley said. “I have a chronic illness that makes it very hard to get around campus, so I am delighted for others in my situation who can now complete school without compromising their health. As someone who also loves to travel and has lived in many places, I am overjoyed for people to be able to achieve their dreams from wherever they are in the world. The accessibility of online degrees is so important. I can't wait for more people to jump at the chance to gain this knowledge!"
The online degree was developed in collaboration with , the University’s digital learning platform.
“Offering the fully online HDFS bachelor’s degree allows the program to expand its reach to learners located anywhere who may be time- or place-bound,” said Carley Ries, vice provost of Online Learning. “HDFS is essentially meeting the learner where they want to be met, all the while the learner is fulfilling their educational goals.”
