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M-SC in Human Development And Family Studies at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Human Development and Family Studies at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This Human Development and Family Studies program at University of Mysore focuses on understanding the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of individuals across the lifespan within the context of family and societal structures. It addresses critical issues facing families and individuals in India, including early childhood education, adolescent challenges, aging, and family counseling. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for professionals who can support individual and family well-being in diverse settings.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Home Science, Human Development, Social Work, Psychology, or related fields seeking entry into social development, counseling, and education sectors. It also caters to working professionals like teachers, counselors, or NGO workers looking to upskill in areas of family welfare and child development. Career changers aiming for roles in child protection, community health, or family support services will also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as child development specialists, family counselors, geriatric care coordinators, early childhood educators, and social workers in NGOs or government bodies. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing to INR 7-12 LPA with experience. Growth trajectories include leadership positions in social welfare organizations, academic research, or establishing private counseling practices. The program aligns with professional certifications in counseling and child care.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research & Statistical Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong foundation in research methodologies and statistical analysis (HSC 401 & HSC 405) by actively participating in practical sessions, utilizing statistical software like R or SPSS, and critically analyzing research papers. Engage in peer study groups to clarify complex concepts and practice problem-solving.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for beginners, NPTEL courses on research methods, University library journals
Career Connection
Strong research skills are crucial for roles in program evaluation, policy analysis, and evidence-based practice in social development organizations.
Build Interdisciplinary Knowledge Base- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond core HDFS subjects, pay attention to interdisciplinary papers like Human Physiology and Biochemistry (HSC 402) and Nutrition for Human Health (HSC 403). Understand how biological and nutritional factors influence human development, connecting classroom learning to real-world health outcomes. Attend workshops on health and wellness.
Tools & Resources
Medical/Nutrition science textbooks, WHO/UNICEF reports, Health awareness campaigns
Career Connection
A holistic understanding enhances roles in public health, community nutrition, and integrated family support services, especially in rural Indian contexts.
Engage in Communication & Extension Activities- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Extension Education & Communication (HSC 404) field visits and community outreach programs. Practice effective communication strategies for diverse audiences, essential for community development. Volunteer for local NGOs working with families or children to gain practical experience.
Tools & Resources
NGO volunteer networks, Public speaking clubs, Communication skill workshops
Career Connection
Excellent communication and community engagement skills are vital for roles in social work, advocacy, and implementing grassroots development projects across India.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Child and Family Welfare Policies- (Semester 3)
Beyond theoretical knowledge in Early Childhood Care & Education (HDC 501) and Child Welfare & Legal Aspects (HDC 502), research current Indian policies like NEP, ICPS, and Juvenile Justice Act. Analyze their implementation challenges and success stories. Engage in debates and case studies related to child protection.
Tools & Resources
Ministry of Women and Child Development reports, National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), Policy analysis frameworks
Career Connection
This prepares students for roles in child protection services, policy advocacy, and program management within government and non-governmental organizations.
Develop Practical Skills in ECCE & Counseling- (Semester 3)
Utilize practical sessions in HDC 504 and HDC 505 to develop hands-on skills in curriculum development for young children, conducting child behavior observations, and basic counseling techniques. Seek mini-internships or observations at local preschools, daycares, or family counseling centers.
Tools & Resources
Early childhood centers, Counseling manuals, Role-playing exercises
Career Connection
Practical application skills are highly valued for direct service roles as early childhood educators, child facilitators, or junior family counselors.
Explore Specialization Electives for Niche Building- (Semester 3-4)
Thoughtfully choose and excel in your specialization electives, such as Gerontology (HDE 506.1), to carve out a niche. If possible, pursue additional online courses or certifications in your chosen elective area to demonstrate advanced interest and expertise.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX courses on specific topics, Professional bodies for gerontology/youth work, Specialized workshops
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge creates unique career opportunities in emerging fields like geriatric care, youth development programs, or specific family support initiatives.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Impactful Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Select a dissertation topic (HDC 555) that addresses a pressing social issue related to human development or family studies in the Indian context. Engage deeply in primary research, data analysis, and ethical considerations. Aim for publication in a peer-reviewed journal or present at a national conference.
Tools & Resources
Research mentors, Statistical software, Academic writing workshops, UGC Care List journals
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation enhances academic credibility, opens doors for further research (Ph.D.), and demonstrates problem-solving skills valued by NGOs and research institutions.
Master Adolescent & Family Counseling Skills- (Semester 4)
Refine counseling skills through Adolescent Development and Parenting (HDC 551) and Family Health and Counseling (HDC 552). Seek supervised practice, attend advanced counseling workshops, and understand ethical considerations (HDC 553). Focus on communication techniques for sensitive family issues.
Tools & Resources
Supervised counseling internships, Certified counseling programs, Ethical guidelines for counselors
Career Connection
This is crucial for becoming a certified family therapist, school counselor, or working in mental health support services, which are highly in demand in urban and semi-urban India.
Network and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in placement drives, career fairs, and networking events. Tailor your resume and interview skills to specific roles in social development, counseling, or education sectors. Utilize alumni networks for mentorship and insights into industry demands and opportunities in India.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Mock interviews
Career Connection
Proactive networking and tailored preparation directly lead to successful placements in reputable organizations and institutions in India, securing desired entry or mid-level positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc Home Science/B.A. Home Science / B.Sc. in Human Development, Rural Home Science, Family and Community Sciences, Food Science and Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Food Technology, or any degree considered equivalent by University of Mysore.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSC 401 | Research Methods and Statistics | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design and Types, Sampling Techniques, Data Collection and Analysis, Statistical Methods |
| HSC 402 | Human Physiology and Biochemistry | Core | 4 | Cell Structure and Function, Physiology of Body Systems, Carbohydrate Metabolism, Protein and Lipid Metabolism, Enzymes and Hormones |
| HSC 403 | Nutrition for Human Health | Core | 4 | Macronutrients and Micronutrients, Nutrient Requirements, Nutritional Assessment, Dietary Guidelines, Community Nutrition |
| HSC 404 | Extension Education & Communication | Core | 4 | Concepts of Extension Education, Communication Models, Teaching Methods in Extension, Program Planning and Evaluation, Rural Development |
| HSC 405 | Practical - Research Methods and Statistics | Core Lab | 2 | Data Collection Tools, Questionnaire Design, Statistical Software Usage, Data Interpretation, Report Writing |
| HSC 406 | Practical - Human Physiology & Biochemistry | Core Lab | 2 | Blood Analysis, Urine Analysis, Enzyme Assays, Physiological Measurements, Biochemical Tests |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSC 451 | Family Resource Management | Core | 4 | Resource Management Concepts, Decision Making in Families, Time and Energy Management, Financial Management, Housing and Interior Design |
| HSC 452 | Family Dynamics and Counseling | Core | 4 | Family Systems Theory, Stages of Family Life Cycle, Marital Adjustment, Family Crises and Coping, Counseling Approaches |
| HSC 453 | Advanced Nutrition | Core | 4 | Dietary Reference Intakes, Nutritional Genomics, Sports Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, Nutrition in Disease States |
| HSC 454 | Textiles and Clothing | Core | 4 | Fiber Classification, Fabric Construction, Textile Finishes, Fashion Design Principles, Apparel Production |
| HSC 455 | Practical - Family Resource Management | Core Lab | 2 | Budget Planning, Time Management Schedules, Interior Design Layouts, Consumer Awareness, Ergonomic Assessment |
| HSC 456 | Practical - Advanced Nutrition | Core Lab | 2 | Dietary Assessment Methods, Meal Planning for Diseases, Food Product Development, Nutrient Analysis Software, Food Preservation Techniques |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDC 501 | Early Childhood Care and Education | Specialization Core | 4 | Theories of Child Development, Importance of ECCE, Curriculum for Preschoolers, Teaching Strategies for Young Children, Role of Parents and Community |
| HDC 502 | Child Welfare and Legal Aspects | Specialization Core | 4 | Child Rights and Protection, Juvenile Justice System, Child Labor and Abuse, Adoption and Foster Care, Government Policies for Children |
| HDC 503 | Human Rights and Gender Justice | Specialization Core | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, International Human Rights Instruments, Gender and Society, Gender-Based Violence, Legal Frameworks for Gender Equality |
| HDC 504 | Practical - Early Childhood Care and Education | Specialization Lab | 2 | Developing Teaching Aids, Observing Child Behavior, Designing Play Activities, Curriculum Planning for Preschool, Parent-Teacher Interaction |
| HDC 505 | Practical - Child Welfare and Legal Aspects | Specialization Lab | 2 | Case Studies in Child Abuse, Legal Document Analysis, Advocacy for Child Rights, Interviewing Techniques, Field Visits to Child Welfare Organizations |
| HDE 506.1 | Gerontology | Elective | 4 | Concepts of Aging, Physiological Changes in Elderly, Psychological Aspects of Aging, Social Issues of Older Adults, Geriatric Care and Policies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDC 551 | Adolescent Development and Parenting | Specialization Core | 4 | Theories of Adolescent Development, Physical and Cognitive Changes, Psychosocial Development in Adolescence, Parenting Styles and Outcomes, Challenges in Adolescence |
| HDC 552 | Family Health and Counseling | Specialization Core | 4 | Health Determinants in Families, Reproductive and Child Health, Mental Health in Families, Family Therapy Techniques, Crisis Intervention |
| HDC 553 | Professional Ethics and Research | Specialization Core | 4 | Ethical Principles in Research, Informed Consent, Confidentiality and Privacy, Professional Conduct, Codes of Ethics in Human Services |
| HDC 554 | Practical - Adolescent Development and Parenting | Specialization Lab | 2 | Peer Group Influence Studies, Parenting Skill Workshops, Life Skill Education, Adolescent Counseling Simulations, Community Programs for Youth |
| HDC 555 | Project Work/Dissertation | Specialization Project | 6 | Literature Review, Research Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation and Defense |
| HDE 556.1 | Social Psychology | Elective | 4 | Social Perception, Attitudes and Persuasion, Group Dynamics, Prejudice and Discrimination, Prosocial Behavior |
