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Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) focuses on supporting positive human development over a lifespan in diverse economic and cultural contexts. 

HDFS helps people identify and develop important life skills for effective management of personal, family, and community resources, enabling families to thrive and lead healthy and happy lives.

What is Kumuola?

Kumuola–Caregiver of Life is a guided transfer pathway to UH Mānoa. Earn the liberal arts AA degree and pair it with an academic subject certificate in Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) that will seamlessly transfer to a bachelor of science degree in HDFS at UH Mānoa.

Mother playing with a toy with her toddler.

Overview

  • Fully online liberal arts AA degree (60 credits)
  • Fully online academic subject certificate (12 credits) 
  • 8-week online cohorts
  • Proactive academic counseling and student support
  • Transfer support to UH Mānoa
  • Student jobs on campus at Hānaiaulu Childcare Center
  • Assistance with finding and applying for financial aid opportunities

Career Opportunities

Grounded in culture and aloha, the Kumuola pathway is designed to prepare students for careers working with people and strengthening communities.

  • Certified Family Life Educators 
  • Family Violence Prevention Specialist 
  • Child, Youth, and Gerontology Program Manager 
  • Geriatric Care Specialist 
  • Case Manager 
  • Prevention / Intervention Counselor 
  • Consumer Affairs Specialist 
  • Social Science Researcher 
  • Early Childhood Educator 
  • Youth Counselor

For a more comprehensive list, visit www.ncfr.org

Information Sessions

Learn more in a one-on-one informational session by completing the online interest form. You will be contacted by a staff member.

Book a One-on-One Information Session

Contact

For questions about the Kumuola pathway, contact:

Kahōkū Baker Calventas
Program Coordinator 
808-462-4797
ebaker@hawaii.edu

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