Program Overview
The Master of Science in Human Ecology equips students with a comprehensive understanding of human development and community-focused environments. Through a flexible and interdisciplinary curriculum, students gain practical skills in research, advocacy, and community programming, preparing them for careers in human services, community development, and related fields. The program emphasizes real-world experience through fieldwork and internships, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address complex social issues.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objectives
- To equip students with a multifaceted understanding of current theories and methodologies for creating, managing, and evaluating human development-focused environments.
- To provide students with practical knowledge and skills in research, advocacy, and community-based programming.
- To prepare students for careers in human services, community development, and related fields.
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Human Ecology is a multidisciplinary program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively in human services, community development, and related fields. Students will study theories of human development, research methods, program evaluation, and community organizing. They will also gain practical experience through fieldwork and internships. The program is designed to be flexible and interdisciplinary, allowing students to tailor their studies to their individual interests and career goals. Students will work closely with faculty advisors to develop a plan of study that meets their specific needs.
Outline:
The curriculum for the Master of Science in Human Ecology consists of three core courses, three specialization courses, and one capstone project.
Core Courses
- Understanding and Translating Research
- Content and Theory
- Professional Skills
Specialization Courses
Students will choose three courses from one of the following specialization areas:
- Community-Based Development
- Community Psychology
- Environmental Studies
- Food Systems
- Health Promotion
- Human Development
- Policy Analysis
- Social Justice
Capstone Project
The capstone project is a required component of the Master of Science in Human Ecology program. The capstone project is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their mastery of the program's learning objectives. Students will work with a faculty advisor to develop a project that addresses a real-world problem.
Assessment:
Students in the Master of Science in Human Ecology program will be assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Assignments
- Presentations
- Research projects
- Fieldwork
- Internships
- Capstone project
Teaching:
The Master of Science in Human Ecology program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members. The faculty have a wide range of expertise, including human development, research methods, program evaluation, and community organizing. The program also benefits from a strong partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Madison community, which provides opportunities for students to engage in research and fieldwork in a real-world setting.
Careers:
Graduates of the Master of Science in Human Ecology program are prepared for a wide range of careers in human services, community development, and related fields. Graduates may pursue careers in the following areas:
- Community-based organizations
- Nonprofit organizations
- Government agencies
- Educational institutions
- Research institutions The program also prepares students for further study in doctoral programs in human development, social work, public health, and other related fields.