Program Details
Western Michigan University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Family Studies for interested in working with families for private or public organizations that are devoted to helping manage and improve the wellbeing of infants, children, and families. Students will take part in a general education, in which they develop their professional capabilities and develop their understanding of family services and family studies and related fields. While a part of the program, students are given provisional status as a Certified Family Life Educator by the National Council on Family Relations. Classes include teaching family life education, crises and resiliency in families, and later life family relationships.
Successful graduates should be able to exhibit the necessary professional work habits such as punctuality, productivity, verbal and written communication skills, cooperation with staff and clients and working within the policies, structures, and functions of social service agencies in providing services to and working with children; to demonstrate effective interpersonal communication skills needed for responsibilities in providing services to and working with children; and to demonstrate understanding of nutrition, family relations, developing age appropriate curriculum, child development and assessment, psychology, and parenting.
This degree has been approved and certified by the National Council on Family Relations for Certified Family Life Educators (CFLE).
Requirements
Students have option to complete entire degree, or 65 credits are required for students with an approved associate's degree entering the bachelor-completion program. Two campus experiences required on main campus (Kalamazoo).
High school diploma or GED equivalent. Official transcripts. ACT/SAT entrance exam.
School Accreditation Statement
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission