Family & Consumer Sciences Education
Program Overview
Family & Consumer Sciences Education
NDSU's family and consumer sciences education degree program is designed for those passionate about shaping lives, equipping students to educate others in grades 5-12 and beyond. This versatile major prepares graduates for high-demand roles in schools, vocational centers, and nontraditional settings.
Program Overview
The program blends the science of human development, wellness, and decision-making with the art of teaching. It offers opportunities to teach adult enrichment programs, vocational education, and serve as an Extension educator.
Curriculum
The curriculum provides hands-on experience through immersive teaching opportunities and well-rounded coursework spanning:
- Individuals and families
- Nutrition and wellness
- Apparel and consumer decision-making
Professional Development and Leadership
Students complete an internship as the capstone experience to apply knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom in real-world settings.
Personalized Advising
Students work with an academic advisor to plan their program of study from the first semester to teacher licensure and beyond.
One Program, Two Pathways
The program offers two pathways:
- Teacher Licensure Pathway: Prepares students to teach at the middle, secondary, post-secondary, and adult levels in FACS education programs.
- Training and Development Pathway: Prepares students to develop and deliver educational programming in corporate training settings, Extension, and non-profit organizations.
Post-Graduation Career Snapshot
Graduates can explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation, including:
- Family and Consumer Science Teacher
- Wellness Teacher
- Life Skills Teacher
- Parent Educator
- Nutrition Educator
National Median Salary
The national median salary for these occupations is $50,900, reflecting national job listings that require five years of experience or less.
Future Career Pathways
As graduates gain experience, they can advance into more specialized or leadership roles, such as:
- Instructional Coach
- Director of Early Childhood Education
- Child Development Specialist
Tuition & Costs
NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost, with a range of need-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid options available.
Admission Info
NDSU welcomes students from all backgrounds seeking a dynamic learning environment within a supportive, welcoming community. The admission process is designed to support students in achieving their academic and career goals.
Department and College
The Family & Consumer Sciences Education program is located in the Department of Agricultural and Family Education, within the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources, and is also affiliated with the School of Education in the College of Arts and Sciences.