Program Policies and Progression Requirements
The department's major is designed for students whose educational and career goals are focused on studying and working with children and families within educational programs, community services, and other professional settings. The major is designed to accommodate the special interests or strengths of students to allow for flexibility and individualization. Students design a program of study in consultation with their advisor that includes a set of required courses, a complement of courses across the social sciences that support individual interests, and a 12-hour practicum that will complete their program of study. All students graduating with a child and family studies major will have in-depth knowledge about children and families, a broad integrative perspective, and means for application. Students must complete a total of 15 credits of Advanced Social Science coursework. Advanced Social Science courses may not be used to fulfill any other elective requirement. This required program of coursework meets the current eligibility requirements for certification as a "Certified Family Life Educator" (CFLE) through the National Council on Family Relations' approved program mechanism. Students interested in applying for provisional certification as a Family Life Educator are encouraged to pursue the steps indicated at ncfr.org.
Students are expected to know the criteria they must meet in order to progress into a practicum (CFS 470 , CFS 472 , CFS 480 , or CFS 490 ) and to regularly monitor their progress in meeting these criteria. Students will not be allowed to progress into the practicum until these criteria are met. If students do not appear able to meet these criteria, they are encouraged to work closely with their advisor to plan an alternative educational program. Specific information on how to apply for the practicum is available from the student's advisor. Students must work closely with their advisor to ensure that they understand the requirements for progression and that they strictly follow the application process for the practicum experience of their choice.
College of Education, Health and Human Sciences Honors Program
Child and Family Studies majors have the opportunity to participate in the college's honors program. For eligibility and requirements, see College of Education, Health and Human Sciences Honors Program .