Family and Consumer Sciences

This degree provides the pedagogy requirements for an Family and Consumer Science teaching certificate for most states. Standards for teacher certification vary by state, and students must meet the requirements of the state in which they want to be certified. Additional requirements may include courses in the teaching specialization, tests, or other requirements. Alternatively, graduates may choose to develop and conduct youth programming in an informal educational setting.

Nationwide, there is strong demand for FCS teachers. Many states are experiencing a serious shortage, with the most severe need in rural areas.

With the degree you will be able to:

• Plan curriculum for teaching
• Engage students in the learning process
• Examine the relationship of diverse groups and the educational process
• Analyze the historical and philosophical underpinnings of FCS education.
• Apply research to practice

Gerontology

We live in a aging society, one in which the older population is growing both in absolute numbers and in proportion to all other age groups. Businesses, government agencies, service organizations, educational institutions and self-employed professionals from every economic sector are recognizing the need for specialized knowledge and skills to meet the needs of this changing demographic.

An advanced degree in Gerontology can benefit the professional in:

• social work
• nursing
• counseling
• recreation
• public policy
• long-term care administration
• medicine
• architecture
• interior design
• adult education
• rehabilitation therapy
• human/family services

Some Gerontologists work directly with older persons in a wide variety of programs and services in the community. Other work on behalf of older persons in areas such as advocacy and teaching about aging.