Bachelor of Science - Family and Consumer Sciences Education and Studies

The curriculum in Family and Consumer Sciences Education and Studies (FCEDS) prepares graduates with a broad understanding of individual and family well-being. Graduates apply knowledge and research in family and consumer sciences content in global professional settings. They work in an integrative fashion to improve well-being by addressing and acting on complex problems confronting individuals, families, and communities.

Students in the curriculum choose one of three options: Teacher Licensure, Communications, or Professional Studies.

Graduates of the Teacher Licensure option may teach family and consumer sciences in middle, junior high, and senior high schools. Students who enroll in Teacher Licensure must apply and be accepted into the educator preparation program prior to enrolling in advanced courses. This program option is approved by the Iowa Department of Education for the preparation of comprehensive and occupational career and technical education family and consumer sciences teachers.

Graduates of the Communications option have a broad-based knowledge of family and consumer sciences and the ability to communicate in a global and technologically changing society. They are able to plan, develop, creatively present and evaluate information. Students apply the principles of educational presentations, journalism, marketing, and public relations to the family and consumer sciences field within businesses, agencies, and organizations that work to empower individuals, families, and communities.

Graduates of the Professional Studies option pursue individualized career goals in family and consumer sciences that apply integrative knowledge of family and consumer sciences in diverse careers for global settings. Students are prepared to work in a variety of careers ranging from non-profit organizations to the private sector in a business or entrepreneurial venture working with family nutrition, financial planning, life planning, current issues or other topics from the 16 content areas that affect individuals, families and communities.