Consumer and Family Financial Services

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Consumer and Family Financial Services from Ohio State University prepares students to assist individuals and organizations with financial decision-making. The program offers specializations in Certified Financial Planner™ and consumer behavior, and graduates are eligible to sit for the Accredited Financial Counselor certification exam. Graduates find employment in various fields, including business, finance, and social services, with starting salaries ranging from $30,000 to $50,000.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Degree: Bachelor of Science (BS)
• Campus: Columbus
• College: Education and Human Ecology
• Program Name: Consumer and Family Financial Services

Objective:

• Prepares students for a career helping individuals, businesses, and organizations understand complex financial concepts, data, and policies.
• Develops analytical and people skills to assist clients in making informed financial decisions.

Description:

• Offers two specializations:
• Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) track
• Consumer behavior track
• Opportunity to sit for the Accredited Financial Counselor certification exam

Admission Requirements:

• Complete 15 semester hours at Ohio State
• Earn a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
• Complete economics and statistics courses with a grade of C- or higher

Outline:

Curriculum:

• Focuses on consumer behaviors, decision-making, marketplace complexities, and consumer problem resolution.
• Includes courses in:
• Family financial management
• Accounting
• Communications
• Consumer science (consumer problems and perspective, consumer service and satisfaction, multicultural consumer, consumer decision-making, professional development)

Careers:

• Graduates are employed in a wide range of careers in:
• Business and industry
• Financial establishments
• Nonprofit organizations
• State agencies
• Social service agencies
• Trade associations
• Public utilities
• State legislature
• Positions may include:
• Public relations representative
• Customer service representative
• Market research analyst
• Sales representative or manager
• Educational specialist
• Marketing specialist
• Legislative advocate
• Family financial services graduates may find employment as:
• Financial planners or counselors
• Life insurance, credit, or benefits counselors
• Loan officers
• Financial analysts
• Beginning salaries range from $30,000 to $50,000, varying based on skills, experience, and employer factors.