Child and Family Sciences MS

Overview

The Master of Science in Child and Family Sciences is a fully online program designed for students interested in the integration of theory, research, and experiential learning. It builds upon a foundation in family systems theory and emphasizes leadership, critical thinking skills, and the connection between research and practice. Students learn to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to promote quality of life and to serve as effective advocates for children and families.

The program prepares graduates to improve lives through careers in both public and private organizations, agencies, and educational settings that serve children and families. Program graduates are also prepared to pursue advanced graduate work at the specialist and doctoral levels.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the requirements detailed in Admissions Requirements and Procedures , applicants must submit the following documents:

1. An essay related to the field of CFS. See graduate application for detailed instructions. 
2. Statement of Purpose - In a 2-3 page essay, describe your educational training, experiences working with children and families, and discuss your professional goals and describe how they are compatible with the program’s mission.
3. Résumé
4. Letters of Recommendation - Three (3) letters of recommendation from previous professors and/or employer supervisors who can attest to your academic performance and readiness for graduate work.

Program Requirements and Academic Policies

In addition to the requirements detailed in General Degree Requirements  and General Academic Information , students must maintain the requisite minimum 3.00 GPA with no grade below a “C” and with no more than one “C” to graduate. Students who make two “Cs” must retake one course to bring the grade up to a “B” or higher and into compliance with degree requirements. Failure to make the requisite grades will result in program dismissal.

Course Requirements (37 hours)

• CD 650 - Theories in Child Development 3 hrs.
• CD 652 - Critical Issues in Child Development 3 hrs.

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• CD 654 - Seminar in Child Development 3 hrs. or
• FAM 535 - Families in Crisis 3 hrs. or
• FAM 653 - Adulthood and Aging in the Family System 3 hrs.

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• FAM 500 - Orientation to Child and Family Studies MS Program 1 hr.
• FAM 501 - Child and Family Life Education 3 hrs.
• FAM 555 - Advanced Family Theories 3 hrs.
• FAM 603 - Parenting Across the Lifespan 3 hrs.
• FAM 605 - Family Advocacy 3 hrs.
• FAM 633 - Adolescence and the Family System 3 hrs.
• FAM 652 - Intimate Relationship Development 3 hrs.

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• FAM 675 - Practice of Family Research 3 hrs. or
• REF 601 - Educational Research: Interpretation and Applications 3 hrs.

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• FAM 698 - Thesis 1-6 hrs. for a total of 6 hrs. or
• FAM 601 - Program Evaluation and Assessment 3 hrs. and
• CD 655 - Practicum in Child Development 3 hrs. or
• FAM 690 - Practicum in Child and Family Studies 3-9 hrs. (3 hrs. required)