Human development and social relations (HDSR) is an interdisciplinary major, drawing upon psychology, sociology, anthropology, and education, which:
• is oriented toward contemporary social problems and the ethical application of knowledge;
• stresses multiple perspectives and methodologies for understanding complex human and social phenomena;
• provides opportunities for the development of cultural competencies;
• is comparative, examining national and international variations in social problems and policies;
• is informed by social science theory and emphasizes the use of empirical methods of research and analysis.

HDSR promotes understanding of the dynamic interplay between human beings and their socio-cultural environments. The core courses help students comprehend the stages of human development over the life course; the processes by which thought and behavior are shaped by individual, group, institutional, societal, and cultural influences; and prevalent psychological and social problems.

Service-learning courses, study abroad, and off-campus work experience provide opportunities to develop relationships across social boundaries, challenging social stereotypes and enlivening students to new issues. To provide opportunities for the development of applied skills, HDSR strongly encourages full use of internship opportunities. The senior individualized project and senior seminar help students to integrate theory with application and more fully to understand the complementarity of multiple perspectives.

While many HDSR majors pursue careers in a wide range of applied professions requiring bachelor's or master's degrees, others enter doctoral study in traditional academic, interdisciplinary, or applied fields in the social sciences in preparation for careers as teachers and researchers.

Students may not major in human development and social relations (HDSR) and minor in psychology.