Human Sciences (M.S.) - Family and Consumer Sciences Education Specialization

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Program Contact/Coordinator

Nicole Graves, Assistant Professor
Department of Teaching, Learning, and Leadership
Wenona Hall 102, Box 507
605-688-6484

Program Information

There is a strong demand for family and consumer sciences teachers and education professionals nationwide. Through the online Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA) program, graduates will earn a Master’s of Science in Human Sciences with a specialization in Family and Consumer Sciences Education. Students in the program develop skills in planning curriculum, creating physical and psychological learning environments conducive to learning, developing engaging activities for learners, integrating technology, advising student organizations, working with diverse audiences and analyzing the historical and philosophical underpinnings of the family and consumer sciences profession. Courses will also address professionalism and applying research to practice.

There are two emphases within this specialization:

Teacher Licensure/Certification Emphasis - This emphasis is designed for those seeking initial teacher certification and is a teacher preparation focused program.
Professional Practice Emphasis – This emphasis is designed for practicing professionals in family and consumer sciences education and extension and is a professional development/advancement focused program.

Student Learning Outcomes

Nutrition - Students will demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the nutritional value of food and the necessary steps for food preparation and safety.
Diversity - Students will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of multicultural and pluralistic trends, including characteristics and concerns within and among diverse groups nationally and internationally.
Careers - Students will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the varied careers available to individuals who pursue a career in this area. (Transferable Skill: Career Preparedness)
Communication - Students will demonstrate critical and innovative thinking.

Accreditation, Certification, and Licensure

Accreditation

The programs in Teaching, Learning and Leadership are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (2010 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20036-1023; Phone 202-466-7496). In order to become a licensed/certified family and consumer sciences educator, students may require additional content courses, tests or other individual state requirements.

Course Delivery Format

The online program has been developed by faculty from the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA). Courses will be entirely Internet based and will be taught by faculty within the Alliance (Central Washington University, North Dakota State University, South Dakota State University, Texas Tech University, and University of Nebraska - Lincoln). Courses are offered fall, spring and summer semesters.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Teacher Licensure/Certification Emphasis
Master of Science	Option C - Coursework Only	38-41 Credit Hours

Professional Practice Emphasis
Master of Science	Option C - Coursework Only	36 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

Teacher Licensure/Certification Emphasis

EDFN 700 - Exceptional Learners Credits: 3
EDFN 725 - Education in a Pluralistic Society Credits: 3
EDFN 730 - Current Issues in Education (COM) Credits: 3 (Teaching Reading Across Disciplines)
EDFN 792 - Topics (COM) Credits: 1-3 (3 credits required) (Teaching FCS with Technology)
EPSY 723 - Adolescent Psychology Credits: 3
FCSE 595 - Practicum Credits: 1-3 (2 credits required)
FCSE 611 - History and Philosophy of Family and Consumer Sciences Credits: 3
FCSE 673 - Supervised Student Teaching in Family and Consumer Sciences Education Credits: 6-9 (credit requirement based on certification requirements)
FCSE 721 - Occupational Programs in Family and Consumer Sciences Credits: 3
FCSE 751 - Curriculum of Family/Consumer Sciences Education Credits: 3
FCSE 761 - Advanced Methods and Assessment in Family & Consumer Sciences Education Credits: 3

Total Required Credits: 38-41 (Option C)

Professional Practice Emphasis

EDFN 730 - Current Issues in Education (COM) Credits: 3 (Teaching Reading Across Disciplines)
EDFN 792 - Topics (COM) Credits: 1-3 (3 credits required) (Teaching FCS with Technology)
FCSE 611 - History and Philosophy of Family and Consumer Sciences Credits: 3
FCSE 721 - Occupational Programs in Family and Consumer Sciences Credits: 3
FCSE 761 - Advanced Methods and Assessment in Family & Consumer Sciences Education Credits: 3
FCSE 792 - Topics (COM) Credits: 1-3 (3 credits required) (Current Trends)
FCSE 792 - Topics (COM) Credits: 1-3 (3 credits required) (Supervision of Student Teachers OR Administration of FCS Education Programs)
FCSE 792 - Topics (COM) Credits: 1-3 (3 credits required) (Advising FCCLA)
HDFS 602 - Research and Evaluation in Counseling and Human Development Credits: 3

Select from the following

Select nine credits from the following. Credits: 9

EDFN 700 - Exceptional Learners Credits: 3
EDFN 725 - Education in a Pluralistic Society Credits: 3
EPSY 723 - Adolescent Psychology Credits: 3
or other elective coursework approved by advisor

Total Required Credits: 36 (Option C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not Required
TOEFL: Department Requirements of 525 paper-based, 71 Internet-based
IELTS: 5.5

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .