The major in Family Studies emphasizes an understanding of the family as the primary social institution linking individuals to their world. Students develop a working knowledge of individual and family development throughout the life span, interpersonal relations, and resource use. Courses examine family dynamics, changing family structures, ethnic families, intergenerational relations, family crises, family violence, family policy, legal problems, and family economics.
Students study prevention and intervention strategies for combatting family problems.
The reciprocal relationships between families and the social policies, practices and management of institutions and organizations are examined. The curriculum prepares students for careers in human services, human resource management, family life education, public policy and related positions emphasizing the family. Opportunities exist in public, private and non-profit agencies and institutions working with family members, entire family units or family issues. Graduates are also prepared for graduate study in the family sciences, family therapy, human services administration, health, law, social work, human resource management and other social and behavioral science disciplines and professions. A grade of C or better is required in these courses.