Bachelor of Science in Family Studies

The Bachelor of Science in Family Studies at Kansas State University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for diverse careers in helping families, individuals, and communities. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from social sciences, psychology, education, and health sciences to equip students with a thorough understanding of family dynamics, development, and well-being. Students will gain practical skills in counseling, communication, problem-solving, and program planning, enabling them to address complex issues faced by families in today’s society.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to explore topics such as child development, parent education, family resource management, and intervention strategies. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with hands-on learning experiences including internships, community engagement, and research projects. These experiences are designed to prepare graduates for careers in social services, family counseling, child and family welfare agencies, non-profit organizations, and educational settings.

Additionally, the program encourages students to develop cultural competency and awareness of diverse family structures and cultural backgrounds, preparing them to serve in a variety of community contexts. The faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. Graduates of the Kansas State University Family Studies program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or certifications in related fields, or to enter the workforce ready to make a positive impact on families and communities.

This program also emphasizes ethical practices, professional development, and lifelong learning, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving challenges faced by families today. With a strong foundation in research and evidence-based practices, students will be prepared to contribute meaningfully across a range of settings that promote family strength, resilience, and well-being. The Bachelor of Science in Family Studies at Kansas State University is an ideal choice for individuals passionate about working with families and committed to fostering healthier, more supportive communities.

The Family Studies program at Kansas State University offers students a comprehensive understanding of family dynamics, human development, and social systems that influence individuals and families throughout their lives. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes the development of practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to support families in diverse settings, including social service agencies, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and research institutions. Students engaging in this program will explore topics such as child development, family relationships, parenting, family policies, and the impact of culture and society on family functioning. The curriculum is designed to cultivate critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities, preparing graduates to address complex family issues with empathy and professionalism. Coursework includes classes in human development, family theory, research methods, and special topics like family diversity and crisis intervention. The program also provides experiential learning opportunities through internships, community engagement, and research projects, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to student success and the advancement of family sciences. Graduates of the Family Studies program are equipped to pursue careers in social services, counseling, youth development, community planning, and education, or to continue their education through graduate studies. The program's integrative approach ensures that students gain a well-rounded perspective on how families operate and how to support healthy family development in a variety of societal frameworks. Upon completing the program, students will have developed a strong foundation to contribute positively to the well-being of families and communities across Kansas and beyond.

The Family Studies undergraduate program at Kansas State University requires students to complete a total of 120 credit hours for graduation. The curriculum encompasses a comprehensive range of courses designed to provide students with a deep understanding of human development, family relationships, and community dynamics. Core coursework includes Introduction to Family Studies, Human Development across the Lifespan, Family Relations, and Family Diversity. Students are also required to undertake specialized classes such as Family Resource Management, Marriage and Interpersonal Relationships, and Youth and Adolescent Development. In addition to these academic courses, students must complete both foundational and experiential learning components, including practicum or internship placements to gain practical experience in family services or related fields. The program encourages students to develop research skills through courses in quantitative and qualitative methods, enabling them to analyze family dynamics effectively. Elective courses allow students to explore areas such as aging, child development, or consumer behavior, tailoring their education to specific interests within family studies. To fulfill graduation requirements, students must also complete a capstone project that synthesizes their learning and demonstrates applied knowledge in real-world settings. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and often partners with community organizations, providing students with opportunities for engagement beyond the classroom. Additionally, students are advised to meet with academic advisors regularly to ensure they are meeting all program requirements and to assist with career planning and professional development. The Family Studies program aims to prepare graduates for careers in social services, counseling, non-profit organizations, or further academic pursuits, emphasizing ethical practice, cultural competence, and lifelong learning.

The Family Studies program at Kansas State University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the program can take advantage of federal and state financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and student loans. The university's Office of Financial Aid provides comprehensive guidance on applying for federal aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Scholarships specific to family studies or related fields are available based on merit and need, and students are encouraged to apply early to maximize their eligibility. Additionally, Kansas State University offers departmental scholarships for students demonstrating academic excellence within the Family Studies program.

Students may also explore external funding sources such as private scholarships, grants from professional organizations related to family and consumer sciences, and community-based funding opportunities. For students enrolled in graduate levels of family studies, assistantships may be available, including research or teaching assistant roles that provide a tuition waiver and a stipend in exchange for work responsibilities. Payment plans are also an option, allowing students to spread out tuition payments over the semester to ease financial burden.

Financial literacy programs at the university assist students in managing their finances effectively, including budgeting and borrowing responsibly. The Family Studies program's career services can also help graduates find employment with competitive salaries, enabling better planning for future financial stability. Overall, Kansas State University aims to make education accessible through its diverse financing options, ensuring that students committed to studying Family Studies can afford to pursue their academic and career aspirations without undue financial hardship.

Family Studies at Kansas State University offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for diverse careers in family and human services, counseling, education, and community development. The program emphasizes the understanding of family dynamics, child development, human welfare, and the social and psychological factors that influence family functioning. Students gain theoretical knowledge through coursework combined with practical experiences, including internships and community involvement. The curriculum covers topics such as lifespan development, parenting, family finance, interpersonal relationships, and family policies. The program aims to develop students' skills in communication, problem-solving, and counseling, preparing them to support families and individuals through various life challenges. Graduates of the program are equipped to work in settings like family service agencies, school systems, social work organizations, and healthcare institutions. Kansas State University is committed to providing a supportive learning environment, with faculty who are experts in family studies and human development. The program also encourages research opportunities and engagement with community partners to foster experiential learning. With a focus on both theory and applied skills, the Family Studies program at Kansas State University prepares students for meaningful careers dedicated to improving family well-being and supporting community resilience.