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M-SC in Human Development Family Studies at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology
Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand
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About the Specialization
What is Human Development & Family Studies at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology Udham Singh Nagar?
This M.Sc. Human Development & Family Studies program at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology focuses on the scientific study of human growth across the lifespan and the dynamics of family systems. It addresses the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of individuals, alongside understanding family structures, relationships, and societal influences within the Indian context. The program prepares professionals to contribute to improving individual well-being and strengthening families in diverse community settings.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for graduates with a B.Sc. in Home Science or Community Science who are passionate about human well-being and family dynamics. It suits fresh graduates aspiring to careers in child development, family counseling, or community outreach, as well as working professionals in social work or education looking to deepen their expertise. Individuals seeking to apply scientific principles to support vulnerable populations and promote healthy family environments will thrive.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as child development specialists, family counselors, program managers in NGOs, early childhood educators, and research associates. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program equips students with skills relevant for government social welfare schemes, private counseling centers, and academia, contributing to crucial social development goals.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Research & Statistical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with courses like Research Methods and Statistics, focusing on understanding various research designs, data collection tools, and statistical analysis software. Practice applying these concepts using real-world datasets, even small ones, to build confidence.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R for beginners, NPTEL courses on research methodology, University library''''s statistical software access
Career Connection
Essential for conducting thesis research, analyzing program effectiveness, and pursuing roles in evidence-based policy formulation and research organizations.
Immerse in Child and Family Development Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Go beyond textbook learning by critically analyzing theoretical perspectives in human and family development. Participate in discussions, case studies, and observe child development centers or family counseling sessions (if feasible and approved) to connect theories with practical scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Psychology and sociology textbooks, Online lectures from renowned developmental psychologists
Career Connection
Builds a strong conceptual base for counseling, early childhood education, and designing effective intervention programs for children and families.
Enhance Communication and Technical Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Leverage courses like Technical Writing and Communication Skills by meticulously practicing report writing, seminar presentations, and academic paper structuring. Seek feedback on every written assignment and presentation to refine clarity and impact.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Academic writing guides, University''''s communication labs (if available), Peer review groups
Career Connection
Crucial for effective communication with stakeholders, writing research papers, grant proposals, and professional reports in any development sector role.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Field-Based Program Planning Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively seek opportunities to engage in program planning and evaluation exercises, ideally with local NGOs or community centers. Apply theoretical knowledge from ''''Program Planning and Evaluation'''' to design, implement, and assess small-scale community interventions.
Tools & Resources
Project management software (Trello/Asana for personal use), Local NGOs and community organizations for collaboration, University''''s extension department
Career Connection
Develops practical skills in project management, monitoring, and evaluation, highly sought after in development sector organizations, government schemes, and social enterprises.
Focus on Specialized Skill Development for Vulnerable Groups- (Semester 3-4)
Deepen understanding and practical skills related to ''''Development of Special Children'''' and ''''Guidance and Counseling''''. Explore certifications or workshops in specific intervention techniques (e.g., play therapy, cognitive behavior therapy basics) or special education needs.
Tools & Resources
Online courses from recognized institutions, Workshops by disability organizations, Relevant books and manuals
Career Connection
Opens doors to specialized roles in special education centers, rehabilitation units, inclusive schools, and counseling practices for diverse populations.
Proactively Engage in Master''''s Research & Seminar- (Semester 3-4)
Identify a research area of interest early, engage deeply with your advisor, and meticulously execute your Master''''s Research I & II. Present findings confidently in Master''''s Seminar I & II, incorporating feedback to refine your work.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, Statistical software for analysis, University research labs, Academic conferences (local/national)
Career Connection
Forms the backbone for academic pursuits (Ph.D.), research positions, and demonstrates critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to employers in any field.
Advanced Stage
Strategic Networking and Internship Pursuit- (Semester 3-4)
Actively network with professionals in human development, family studies, and related fields by attending webinars, seminars, and conferences. Secure internships during semester breaks or alongside coursework to gain hands-on experience and build professional contacts.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University career services, Professional associations in community science or social work, Alumni network
Career Connection
Leads to direct job opportunities, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of industry expectations and organizational cultures.
Develop Entrepreneurial Mindset and Skills- (Semester 4)
Beyond the ''''Entrepreneurship Development'''' course, explore practical applications by developing a mini-business plan for a social enterprise or service related to human development. Participate in pitch competitions or innovation challenges to refine ideas and gain exposure.
Tools & Resources
Startup incubators (if available in the region), Online business plan templates, Government schemes for small businesses, Mentorship from successful social entrepreneurs
Career Connection
Empowers graduates to create their own ventures, work in CSR departments, or lead innovation in existing organizations, addressing societal needs through sustainable models.
Master Thesis Defense and Publication Preparedness- (Semester 4)
Work diligently on the Master''''s Research II, aiming for a high-quality dissertation. Practice defending your thesis with peers and faculty, anticipating questions. Consider preparing a manuscript for submission to a peer-reviewed journal based on your research findings.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Faculty mentorship, Academic writing workshops, Journal submission portals, Thesis defense simulations
Career Connection
A well-defended thesis and potential publication enhance academic credibility, research career prospects, and demonstrates advanced scholarly capabilities to prospective employers.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. (Home Science/Community Science) with a minimum of 6.00/10.00 OGPA (equivalent to 60% marks) from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 67 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDST-501 | Theoretical Perspectives in Human Development | Core | 3 | Theories of human development, Life span perspective, Cognitive development theories, Psychoanalytic theories, Ecological systems theory |
| HDST-502 | Child Development and Guidance | Core | 3 | Infancy and toddlerhood, Early childhood development, Middle childhood challenges, Adolescent growth and adjustment, Guidance techniques |
| HDST-503 | Research Methods and Statistics in Human Development | Core | 3 | Research design, Sampling methods, Data collection tools, Descriptive statistics, Inferential statistics |
| RMCS-501 | Recent Advances in Community Science | Core | 2 | Emerging trends in community science, Innovations in home science, Sustainable development, Rural empowerment, Policy implications |
| PGS-501 | Library and Information Services | Core | 1 | Literature search, Referencing styles, Digital library resources, Information ethics, Research databases |
| PGS-502 | Technical Writing and Communications Skills | Core | 1 | Scientific writing, Presentation skills, Oral communication, Report writing, Thesis preparation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDST-504 | Advanced Family Studies | Core | 3 | Family theories, Family life cycle, Family dynamics, Parenting styles, Marital relationships |
| HDST-505 | Adult Development and Aging | Core | 3 | Midlife development, Gerontology, Cognitive changes in aging, Social aspects of aging, End of life issues |
| HDST-506 | Human Resource Management in Family and Community Settings | Core | 3 | Human resource planning, Family resource management, Community programs, Leadership skills, Conflict resolution |
| HDST-507 | Program Planning and Evaluation in Human Development | Core | 3 | Program needs assessment, Goal setting, Program design, Implementation strategies, Evaluation models |
| RMCS-502 | Computer Applications in Community Science | Core | 3 | Statistical software, Data analysis, Presentation tools, Internet applications, Data management |
| PGS-503 | Intellectual Property Rights | Core | 1 | Types of IPR, Patenting process, Copyright laws, Trademarks, Geographical indications |
| PGS-504 | Basic Concepts in Biotechnology | Core | 1 | Principles of biotechnology, Genetic engineering, Cell culture, Biotechnological applications, Ethical issues |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDST-601 | Child Health and Nutrition | Core | 3 | Maternal and child health, Nutritional requirements, Common childhood diseases, Immunization, Growth monitoring |
| HDST-602 | Early Childhood Education and Care | Core | 3 | ECCE philosophy, Curriculum development, Teaching methodologies, Play-based learning, Child-friendly environments |
| HDST-603 | Guidance and Counseling in Human Development | Core | 3 | Counseling theories, Interviewing techniques, Assessment tools, Career counseling, Family therapy |
| HDST-604 | Development of Special Children | Core | 3 | Types of disabilities, Inclusive education, Early intervention, Rehabilitation, Parental support |
| HDST-605 | Master''''s Seminar I | Core | 1 | Seminar presentation, Scientific communication, Literature review, Research proposal, Public speaking |
| HDST-606 | Master''''s Research I | Research Project | 5 | Research problem formulation, Experimental design, Data collection, Preliminary analysis, Thesis writing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDST-607 | Entrepreneurship Development in Human Development | Core | 3 | Entrepreneurial skills, Business planning, Funding sources, Marketing strategies, Micro-enterprises |
| HDST-608 | Master''''s Seminar II | Core | 1 | Advanced seminar presentation, Research defense, Peer review, Critical analysis, Scholarly discourse |
| HDST-609 | Master''''s Research II | Research Project | 15 | Advanced data analysis, Interpretation of results, Dissertation writing, Manuscript preparation, Research dissemination |
