major in family sciences
Bachelor’s Degree in Family Sciences
B.S. in Family Sciences Overview
Unlock your potential for success in family sciences and relationship enhancement with Freed-Hardeman University’s Family Sciences major. Gain specialized knowledge and practical skills applicable to diverse career paths, including early childhood education, childcare, eldercare, gerontology, family life education and community-based family programs.
Department:
Department of Behavioral Sciences
Department chair name:
Lisa Beene
B.S., M.S.S.W., A.C.S.W.
Program Coordinator:
Mr. Josh Taylor
Learning at FHU
Why study family sciences at FHU?
Benefit from experienced faculty, practical experience through the Senior Practicum and promising career opportunities. Join FHU’s supportive learning environment and make a lasting impact on families and communities through lifelong learning.
Program Highlights:
- In-Depth Knowledge
- Career Opportunities
- Practical Experience
- Emphasis Options
- Supportive Learning Environment
- Impactful Careers
Bridge Program Overview
The Behavioral Sciences Bridge program is designed to prepare undergraduate students for pursuit of a graduate degree in behavioral sciences, and especially relevant to students who desire to pursue a clinical mental health counseling degree. Students who complete the Behavioral Sciences Bridge program will complete 13 hours of graduate-level coursework in place of elective requirements within their B.S. or B.S.W. degree in behavioral sciences. Students who complete the Behavioral Sciences Bridge program within their degree at FHU who are subsequently accepted into the M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at FHU will be allowed to count these same graduate courses towards the M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree program. (The courses will be subject to the time limits and all other policies of the M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree.)
Family Sciences Bachelor’s Degree Four-Year Plans
Embark on a path of meaningful service with Freed-Hardeman University’s Family Sciences major. This four-year program is tailored to prepare you for a rewarding career centered on positively impacting individuals and communities. Through extensive field experiences and values-based coursework, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to make a lasting difference in the lives of families and communities. Choose Family Sciences at FHU for a fulfilling journey of serving others and promoting family well-being.
2024-2025 4-Year Plan(s)
2023-2024 4-Year Plan(s)
2022-2023 4-Year Plan(s)
2021-2022 4-Year Plan(s)
Careers for Family Science Majors
Graduates with a major in Family Sciences have a diverse range of career opportunities that allow them to positively impact individuals and families. Some of the potential careers for Family Sciences majors include
- Early Childhood Educator
- Childcare Coordinator
- Elder Care Specialist
- Gerontologist
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Family Advocate
- Family Resource Coordinator
Major in Family Sciences Degree Requirements
The Family Sciences major emphasizes theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Engage in field education to gain invaluable practical skills. Our dedicated faculty supports academic and personal growth. We prioritize global perspectives and cultural awareness, preparing graduates to positively impact diverse communities. Join our Family Sciences program for a fulfilling career in helping families thrive.
I. Liberal Arts Core Requirements - 34 hours
Listed in this catalog under Academics: Liberal Arts Core
Limit III. A. Behavioral Sciences to SOC241 General Sociology
II. Major Core Requirements - 31 hours
| FAM 205 | Introduction to Careers in Family Sciences | 1 |
| FAM 230 | Marriage and the Family | 3 |
| FAM 288 | Personal Finance | 3 |
| FAM 310 | Developmental Psychology | 3 |
| FAM 315 | Marriage and Relationship Development | 3 |
| FAM 325 | Stress and Resilience in Individuals and Families (W) | 3 |
| FAM 331 | Parenting and Family Relations (W) | 3 |
| FAM 335 | Human Sexuality | 3 |
| FAM 365 | Family Life Education Methodology | 3 |
| SOC 445 | Ethnic Cultures (W) | 3 |
| SWK 362 | Social Welfare Policies and Services II | 3 |
*Students desiring to pursue certification as a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) are required to complete FAM 497 Senior Practicum
III. Additional Requirements (choose one emphasis below - 9-12 hours
| A. Family and Child Sciences | (9 hours) | |
| FAM 201 | Child Development and Lab | 3 |
| Choose six (6) hours from the following courses | 6 | |
| FAM 299B/399B | Death and Dying | (3) |
| FAM 305 | Childhood Disorders | (3) |
| FAM 349 | Religion, Faith, and Families | (3) |
| FAM 360 | Men, Faith, and Families | (3) |
| FAM 405 | Introduction to Marriage and Family Therapy | (3) |
| FAM 497* | Senior Practicum | (3) |
| B. Family Child Science/Family Life Education | (12 hours) | |
| FAM 497* | Senior Practicum | 3 |
| FAM 201 | Child Development and Lab | (3) |
| FAM 299B/399B | Death and Dying | (3) |
| FAM 305 | Childhood Disorders | (3) |
| FAM 349 | Religion, Faith, and Families | (3) |
| FAM 360 | Men, Faith, and Families | (3) |
| FAM 405 | Introduction to Marriage and Family Therapy | (3) |
IV. Electives (including additional Bible) - 48-52 hours
Meet our Faculty
Dana Baldwin, B.A., M.A., D.Min.
Professor of Clinical Mental Health and Family Science
Mike Cravens, A.A., B.A., M.S., M.A., D.H.S., Ed.D.
Director of the Doctor of Behavioral Health Program
Frequently Asked Questions About a Bachelor’s Degree in Family Sciences at FHU
Below are answers to questions prospective students often have when considering a major in Family Sciences. If you have additional questions or need more information, please contact [email protected] and they will happily answer questions and provide additional details about our program.
What are some of the best jobs for someone with a Bachelor's Degree in Family Sciences?
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Family Sciences, graduates have a range of rewarding career opportunities that center around promoting family well-being and strengthening relationships. Some of the best jobs for someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Family Sciences include:
- Early Childhood Educator: Provide nurturing and educational support to young children in preschools, daycare centers, or early learning programs.
- Childcare Coordinator: Oversee and manage childcare facilities, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for children and their families.
- Family Life Educator: Educate and support families on various topics, such as parenting, communication, and relationship dynamics.
- Marriage and Family Therapist Assistant: Work alongside licensed therapists to provide counseling and support to couples and families.
- Social Services Case Manager: Assess and assist families in need, connecting them with relevant resources and services.
- Gerontology Assistant: Assist elderly individuals with their daily living activities, promoting their well-being and quality of life.
- Early Intervention Specialist: Work with families and children with developmental delays or disabilities, providing early intervention services.
These jobs allow Family Sciences graduates to make a positive impact on individuals and families, foster stronger relationships, and contribute to the well-being of diverse communities.
Graduates can pursue fulfilling careers in areas aligned with their interests and passions, leveraging their knowledge and skills to support families in various life stages and circumstances.
What are the benefits of a Family Sciences Bachelor's Degree at FHU?
The Family Sciences Bachelor’s Degree at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) offers numerous benefits, providing students with a comprehensive and well-rounded education to excel in careers centered around family well-being and relationships. Some of the key benefits of the Family Sciences Bachelor’s Degree at FHU include:
- In-Depth Knowledge: The program provides in-depth knowledge of the strengths and well-being of families, covering physical, psychological, economic, and social dimensions.
- Career Opportunities: Graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in early childhood education, childcare, eldercare, gerontology, family life education, and community-based family programs.
- Certification: The Family Sciences program at FHU is certified by the National Council on Family Relations, meeting standards for the Provisional Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) designation, enhancing graduates’ credibility and employability.
- Practical Experience: The program includes a Senior Practicum, offering hands-on experience and opportunities for students to apply their learning in real-world settings.
- Emphasis Options: Students can choose from two distinct emphases within the major, allowing them to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals.
- Supportive Learning Environment: FHU fosters a supportive and nurturing learning environment, enabling students to thrive academically and personally.
- Impactful Careers: Graduates are prepared to make a positive impact on individuals and families, fostering healthier relationships and overall family well-being in various settings.
Overall, the Family Sciences Bachelor’s Degree at FHU equips students with the knowledge, skills, and compassion to excel in careers that positively impact families and communities. With a focus on practical experience and a certified program, graduates are well-prepared to pursue meaningful and fulfilling careers in the field of family sciences.
How do the core values of FHU affect the family sciences program?
The core values of Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) play a significant role in shaping and enhancing the Family Sciences program. These values influence the curriculum, teaching methodologies, and overall approach to education, ensuring that the program aligns with the university’s mission and vision. Some of the core values of FHU and their impact on the Family Sciences program include:
- Christian Faith and Values: As a Christian university, FHU’s core value of faith and values permeates the Family Sciences program. The curriculum emphasizes ethical principles, compassion, and empathy, preparing graduates to approach family-related issues with a strong sense of morality and integrity.
- Academic Excellence: The commitment to academic excellence ensures that the Family Sciences program provides a rigorous and well-rounded education. Faculty members are dedicated to delivering high-quality instruction and staying current with the latest research and industry practices, empowering students with the best possible education.
- Service-Oriented: The focus on service aligns perfectly with the Family Sciences program’s goal of promoting family well-being and positively impacting communities. Graduates are encouraged to use their knowledge and skills to serve families, advocate for their needs, and contribute to the betterment of society.
- Global Perspective: The value of a global perspective enriches the Family Sciences program by encouraging students to understand and respect diverse family structures, cultural backgrounds, and societal contexts. Graduates are prepared to work with families from various backgrounds, promoting cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in their careers.
- Personal Attention: FHU’s core value of personal attention ensures that students in the Family Sciences program receive individualized support and mentorship from faculty. This personal touch fosters a supportive learning environment where students can grow academically and personally.
Overall, the core values of FHU underpin the Family Sciences program, creating a nurturing and values-driven educational environment. Graduates of the program not only receive a solid academic foundation but also embody the university’s core values, becoming compassionate, skilled, and service-oriented professionals dedicated to improving family well-being and community welfare.
What is unique about majoring in family sciences at FHU?
Majoring in Family Sciences at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) offers several unique aspects that set it apart from other programs:
- Certification by National Council on Family Relations (NCFR): FHU’s Family Sciences program is certified by the NCFR, meeting all standards and criteria for the Provisional Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) designation. This certification enhances graduates’ credibility and professional opportunities in the field.
- Two Distinct Emphases: The Family Sciences major at FHU offers students the flexibility to choose from two distinct emphases: Family and Child Sciences, and Family Science/Family Life Education. This allows students to tailor their studies to align with their specific interests and career goals.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program provides in-depth knowledge of the strengths and well-being of families, covering physical, psychological, economic, and social dimensions. Students gain a holistic understanding of family dynamics and are well-prepared to address diverse family-related challenges.
- Supportive Learning Environment: FHU fosters a supportive and nurturing learning environment. Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized attention from experienced faculty members, promoting academic and personal growth.
- Faith-Based Approach: As a Christian university, FHU’s Family Sciences program infuses ethical principles, compassion, and empathy into the curriculum. Graduates are equipped with a strong sense of moral values and integrity as they support families and individuals.
- Impactful Faculty: Faculty members in the Family Sciences program are dedicated professionals passionate about family well-being. They provide personalized support, mentorship, and guidance to students throughout their academic journey.
Overall, majoring in Family Sciences at FHU offers a unique combination of certification, emphasis options, practical experience, global perspectives, and a faith-based approach. Graduates are well-prepared to embark on fulfilling careers that make a meaningful difference in the lives of families and communities.
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