Bachelor of Science in Family Studies

Family Studies
The Bachelor of Science Degree in Family Studies is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to serve the needs of children and families in a variety of community settings. The Family Studies Degree Core examines ten content or subject areas prescribed by the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR) including: Interpersonal Relationships, Internal Dynamics of Families, Parent Education and Guidance, Human Sexuality, Human Growth and Development over the Life Span, Family Resource Management, Families in Society, Family Life Education Methodology, Family Law and Public Policy, and Ethics. Students use Supplemental Courses to build a specific area of study or concentration based on their professional interests such as child life, marriage and family, counseling, child and family ministry, gerontology, etc. Majors in Family Studies should be people oriented, sensitive to the concerns of children and families, possess effective communication and listening skills, and demonstrate the potential for leadership and management.

The types of position available are:

• Child Advocate
• Parent Education Specialist
• Family Life Educator
• Social Service Director
• Child Life Specialist
• Child Care Administrator
• Elder Care
• Family Minister
  

Family Studies in the Workplace
Graduates work with children and families in a variety of community organizations such as social service agencies; children's hospitals; adoption agencies; group homes; Head Start; Cooperative Extension services; corporate and family child care facilities; youth development and recreational programs; family life ministries; and elder care services among others.

Certification/Licensure Though certification is not guaranteed, the Family Studies Program is a strong foundation for those students who seek specialized careers as a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) or Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). The requirements for these certifications are regulated by the National Council on Family Relations (http://www.ncfr.org) and the Child Life Council (http://www.childlife.org) respectively. In addition, the Family Studies Degree is an excellent body of knowledge for students who plan to seek licensure upon completion of a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) or Social Work (MSW).

Completion Requirements
Classes required to complete the degree will vary depending upon the course of study selected and the catalog under which the student enters the Family Studies Program. For more details, refer to the University catalog.

ACU Catalog

Degree Plans and Sample Schedules

Course Descriptions