Family Studies
Major, Minor*
Why choose a family studies major?
Some of the hardest things happen at home. Starting a family. Raising kids. Handling money problems. Dealing with substance abuse. Adjusting to change. In our family studies program, you'll learn how to help others face these and other challenges.
Our family studies program is ideal if you’re interested in:
- Family Dynamics: Understand how families work, talk to each other and deal with problems.
- Relationships: Get tips on building and keeping healthy relationships.
- Social Policy: Learn how laws affect families and how to push for positive changes.
- Human Development: Learn about how kids and teens grow physically, socially and emotionally.
AT A GLANCE
What can you do with a family studies major?
A major in family studies opens doors to many careers where you can help people of all ages. Here are some examples:
- Family Life Educator: Create and run programs about parenting, communication and relationships.
- Family Services Worker: Help families in need with social services, resources and crisis intervention.
- Marriage and Family Therapist: Help couples and families talk better, solve problems and get closer. Keep in mind you may need to earn a graduate degree for this role.
- Youth Program Coordinator: Design and lead programs that help young people grow and form healthy relationships.
- Juvenile Justice Specialist: Work with young children in the legal system, offering them guidance, support and treatment.
You can find job opportunities in many areas, from parent education and after-school programs to crisis services, financial management and elder care.
Highlights of our family studies major
Our program offers many great experiences to help you start your career:
- Nationally Accredited Program: Our program is accredited by the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR). This means you get a high-quality education that meets national standards.
- Preparation for CFLE Certification: You can graduate with professional credentials. Family studies majors can become Certified Family Life Educators through the NCFR.
- Real-World Experience: Our students have worked as interns at places like Department of Health and Human Services, adoption agencies and other family-focused organizations in Michigan, the U.S. and even around the world. This helps you learn about family dynamics in different cultures.
- Network with Fellow Students: Join student groups like the Children and Families Advocates Association (CFAA).
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from professors who are experts in human development, family dynamics and relationship counseling.
Careers as a family studies major
Graduates of CMU’s family studies program find jobs in community and government agencies. They serve children, families and the aging.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Case Worker | $58,380 |
| Substance Abuse Counselor | $53,710 |
| Child/Family/School/General Social Worker | $58,380 |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $56,570 |
| Social Worker | $55,350 |
Our family studies grads are taking charge
CMU grad Brooke Gow is the Executive Director for the Family Service Agency (FSA) of Mid-Michigan. FSA is a non-profit social service agency that has been serving the community since 1945, providing services to improve the lives of individuals, families and the elderly. Under Gow's leadership, the agency serves more than 7,000 clients annually in Genessee, Lapeer and Shiawassee counties.
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