Concentration in contemporary family issues
Family Studies is an academic interdisciplinary major that focuses on understanding and working with families in the context of modern society. The Contemporary Family Issues concentration incorporates the study of human development and family systems with Psychology, Sociology and related fields. Additional electives may be chosen from approved courses in Biology, Economics, Nutrition and Religious Studies. This program prepares students to work with children, youth and families in a range of social service or educational settings. Family Studies is an approved major for students interested in obtaining the Connecticut Birth to Kindergarten teaching license at the graduate level or through the state-sponsored Alternate Route to Certification.
Program outcomes
The student will:
- Understand families in the context of their community, society, and culture
- Appreciate diverse pathways to developmental competence
- Apply research and theory to work with families
- Appreciate multiple and interacting influences on family systems
Specific areas of understanding include:
Individuals, families, societies and cultures
Students will know and understand the dynamic interrelationship of individuals, families, society and culture, including:
- Families within societies and cultures
- Socialization of individuals within family, society and culture
- Issues of diversity - values, beliefs, goals and practices; gender, ethnicity, race; and exceptionalities
Theory
Students will understand the development and implications of theoretical perspectives, including:
- Theories as socio-cultural and historic constructs
- Knowledge and applications of major family theories
Research
Students will be intelligent consumers and generators of research, including:
- Knowledge and understanding of research methods
- Criteria for evaluating research
- Participation in action research related to families
To develop and demonstrate communicative and experiential skills, including:
- Interpersonal and collaborative skills
- Oral and written communication
- Observation and data collection
- Library research
- Critical thinking and analysis
Admission and continuation requirements
Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 to be accepted into the Family Studies major. Family Studies majors are required to maintain a GPA of 2.7 or better throughout their academic program.
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