Child & Family Studies - Overview

The Department of Family & Consumer Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science degree in the concentration of Child and Family Studies. This concentration provides students with a thorough knowledge base in child and family development. Developmental needs of children, birth through adolescence, and developmental needs of families of all ethnic and cultural origins prepare students to meet the needs of individuals, children, and families. Contemporary issues related to child development, individual development, and family development are continuously explored and researched. Opportunities for involvement with children and families in a variety of settings prepares students for a variety of professional specializations. Students are encouraged to seek outside course work in areas that complement their child and family concentration, thus further broadening their levels of expertise.

The Child and Family Studies concentration provides a number of educational opportunities outside of class. These include opportunities for in-depth observation of children, involvement with child and family oriented organizations and knowledge of community, state and regional resources available for assisting children and families. In addition, the program provides for placements in a variety of community organizations, public school systems and child care facilities in order to provide experience. Furthermore, the concentration provides in-depth preparation for graduation, formulation of professional resumes and portfolios, and interview techniques while working on skills like PSA formulation (Public Service Announcements - for broadcasting).

The Child Life Specialist requirements include all of the above and:

• Medical Terminology
• Program Planning
• Processes for Creative Development

Career Opportunities

• Preschool Teacher
• Child Life Specialist (requires additional coursework for certification)
• Child Advisory Center Director
• Child Advocacy Director
• Case Worker
• Child Care Director/Teacher
• Family Resource Director
• Extension Agent
• Nonprofit Organization Director