Best Online Master’s in Human And Family Development Degree Programs of 2025

A master’s in human and family development prepares students to support individuals and family units across several sectors, including education and social services. This degree is for empathetic individuals seeking the theoretical frameworks and practical skills to assist children and families struggling with substance abuse, community needs, mental health, and poverty. However, while these online programs can help you advance your career and secure leadership positions, they are not designed for licensure in the counseling field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics outlines several professions related to community and social services. Overall, employment opportunities in this field are projected to grow faster than the national average over the next decade. Individuals working in social services and community support occupations make an average annual salary of $49,380. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition for graduate degree programs in the U.S. is $20,513.

Human and family development coursework integrates well with remote learning formats, and individuals can typically continue working professionally while earning their degree. You can complete your online master’s in human and family development in one to two years if you attend school full-time.

Choose your area of study

Before applying to a program, identify a focus area and outline your goals. Most applicants have some professional experience in the field to help gauge the direction in which they’d like to hone their graduate work.

Your first choice will be a Master of Science, a Master of Arts, or a Master of Education. The type of degree largely depends on the school and focus. Master of Arts programs lean on the humanities, whereas Master of Science programs tend to be more research- and data-driven. Master of Education programs teach coursework through the specific perspective of that field and would be appropriate for those already serving in an educational capacity. Overall, the academic requirements are similar.

From there, each degree houses specific concentrations besides the core coursework. Typical concentrations include mental health and trauma, gerontology, family science, marriage and family therapy, and youth development. Institutions offer different concentrations, so narrow down the programs with the faculty and coursework that match your career goals.

Research schools and programs

You should only consider institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.

Also, research the following questions:

• Does the school provide support for online students? Look for programs that offer supplemental tutoring, career coaching, mental health resources, tech support, and other services for online attendees.
• What professional development or networking opportunities does the program feature? Most online master’s in human and family development programs mandate an internship or capstone experience/thesis. These practical components help you apply your theoretical knowledge to a real-world context.

To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.

Prepare for tests and applications

Application requirements vary by school and program, though few online master’s in human and family development programs require standardized test scores as part of their admissions process. Preparing your application materials will still take some time; official transcripts and letters of recommendation can take several weeks to procure. International students or non-native English speakers should review each program for any additional requirements or testing. You may need to submit an essay or personal statement as well.

Before submitting an application, always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.

Select your program

Before deciding where you will apply to, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Are you only interested in 100% online programs, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a few in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer?

Double-check the application deadline once you’ve selected the program or programs that best meet your professional, personal, and financial needs. Many programs, especially those with more asynchronous coursework, facilitate a rolling admissions structure. However, more cohort-based coursework will likely have a firm deadline by which you must submit application materials.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

The first step in determining how to pay for your master’s degree is to complete the FAFSA. This form will help you ascertain the federal aid you qualify for, even if you don’t need it. If you currently work in a field related to human and family development, you should discuss your academic goals with your employer; they may be able to provide some tuition assistance.

Master’s programs are a big financial commitment, but most schools have staff ready to help you develop a payment strategy. Speak with your chosen program’s financial aid counselor or admissions counselor. These individuals can help identify any scholarships, grants, or assistantships that could also cover a portion of the cost (though these are less common and highly competitive at the graduate level).