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Master of Science in Child and Family Studies
Course Requirements: (Click on the courses below to view the course descriptions.)
CD 650 Theories in Child and Family Studies
CD 652 Advanced Child Development
FAM 605 Family Advocacy
FAM 650 Individual & Family Life Cycle Development
FAM 651 Adolescence and the Family System
FAM 652 Marriage Education
FAM 657 Parenting Across the Lifespan
FAM 653 Adulthood and Aging in the Family System
FAM 690 Practicum in Child and Family Studies
or
CD 698 Thesis
FCS 601 Program Evaluation and Assessment
REF 601 Educational Research
Course Descriptions:
CD 650. Theories in Child and Family Studies. 3hrs.This course is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge, skill, and understanding of children and families. Students will examine and apply selected theories and research in Child and Family Studies to address current challenges and critical issues important to professionals in the field. Course content can be applied both personally and professionally in order to promote optimal development of children and improve quality of life for individuals and families. (back to top)
CD 652. Advanced Child Development. The over-arching goals of this course are to explore optimal development in children and assess the impact of a child’s early years on life potential. Students will examine similarities and differences in conceptions of child development and connect these varying conceptual approaches to developmentally appropriate strategies. Emphasis will be on professional practice to effectively promote children’s development, including literacy and school readiness. Leadership opportunities for family professionals to make a positive impact on quality of life for children and families will be identified and stressed. (back to top)
CD 698. Thesis. 1-6 hrs. for a total of 6 hrs. (back to top)
FAM 605. Family Advocacy. 3hrs. This course emphasizes the critical need for family professionals to develop and apply advocacy and leadership skills. Students will explore historical development of laws and public policy affecting families and the role and ethical responsibilities of family professionals. The formation of social values, respect for the diversity of values, and the social consequences of value choices are analyzed. In addition, strategies for effective networking with community agencies are examined. (back to top)
FAM 650. Individual and Family Life Cycle Development. 3 hrs. Content of human interactions and the process of change in family structures over time is assessed in light of systems theory and family life cycle development theory. (back to top)
FAM 651. Adolescence and the Family System. 3hrs. This course will equip students to integrate theory and research for effective professional practice that focuses on families with adolescent members. Utilizing a systemic lens, students will examine issues important to adolescents, families, and professionals to successfully navigate this significant developmental stage. The assessment of family strengths and resources will be emphasized through the analysis of specific issues such as communication, sexuality, bullying, peer influence, and substance use and abuse. (back to top)
FAM 652. Marriage Education. 3hrs. Using a systemic approach, this course is designed to provide family professionals knowledge and skills to strengthen relationships across diverse contexts. Students will explore the impact of relationships on all aspects of the ecological model and apply evidence-based strategies to promote commitment and communication within relationships. (back to top)
FAM 653. Adulthood and Aging in the Family System. 3hrs. It takes a lifetime to prepare for old age. Students will explore the concept of finishing well based on focused preparation and successful adaptation to aging. Students will gain knowledge and skills necessary for effectively coping with multiple losses associated with aging and optimization of the aging process. Emphasis will be on skills and concepts needed for family professionals to enhance existing relationships in families with aging members and to identify available resources. (back to top)
FAM 657. Parenting Across the Lifespan. 3hrs. This course examines the significant impact of parents with regard to children’s development and life potential. Students will explore parenting as an evolving process that represents a privilege, a responsibility, and a life-changing role. Parenting theories and programs, as well as current research in the field, will be analyzed in the context of discovering and building on parenting strengths. (back to top)
FAM 690. Practicum in Child and Family Studies. 6hrs. The practicum is a synthesis experience that allows students to transform theory and principles into practical application in an approved human services setting. Students will utilize knowledge and skills developed throughout the Master’s program to generate new knowledge based on action research conducted at the practicum site. Emphasis will be on opportunities for family professionals to serve as catalysts for positive change throughout careers serving children and families. (back to top)
FCS 601. Program Evaluation and Assessment. 3 hrs. General philosophy and broad principles of family life education with emphasis on planning, implementing and evaluating such educational programs. (back to top)
REF 601. Educational Research. 3hrs. An orientation to the information, skills, and competencies necessary to understanding research in education, along with a rudimentary introduction to conducting action research. (back to top)