Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core human science topics with applied skills. You will study lifespan human development, family systems and relationships, consumer and resource management, family financial planning, food and nutrition fundamentals, and textiles and clothing as they relate to everyday family life. Research methods and statistics for the social sciences are included to equip you to interpret evidence and evaluate programmes.

Students follow a mix of foundational general education courses and major-specific classes, and choose electives that allow focus areas such as child and adolescent development, ageing and gerontology, community nutrition, or consumer sciences. Practical learning is emphasised through a supervised practicum or internship, field-based projects with community partners, and a capstone experience that integrates theory and practice.

• Lifespan development and family relationships
• Parenting and child development
• Nutrition and wellness for families
• Consumer behaviour and household resource management
• Research methods, assessment and programme evaluation
• Professional skills: counselling basics, group facilitation and outreach
• Practicum/internship and capstone project

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically assess academic preparation in areas such as English, mathematics and laboratory science, along with overall grades. Applicants are usually asked to submit a personal statement outlining interest in family and consumer sciences and relevant experience, and some programmes welcome letters of recommendation.

Transfer applicants must provide official transcripts from previous institutions; demonstrated college-level coursework in social science, statistics or biology can be beneficial. International applicants should meet the university's English proficiency requirements. Specific minimums and supporting material requirements are provided by the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates find work across community, health and education sectors. Common roles include family life educator, community outreach coordinator, youth development specialist, consumer and financial education advisor, case manager in social services, and programme coordinator for non-profit organisations. Many graduates work with public health initiatives, extension services, school and after-school programmes, and community human service agencies.

With additional graduate study or professional credentials, graduates may also move into clinical careers such as family therapy, licensed counselling, dietetics or advanced policy and research roles. The degree also provides transferable skills for careers in human resources, nonprofit management and community programme evaluation.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers strong applied learning through connections with the statewide Extension system, which creates opportunities for field placements and community projects across Colorado. The programme is taught by faculty active in research on family wellbeing, nutrition, child development and consumer issues, giving students access to current evidence and practical applications.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments in the College of Health and Human Sciences, practicum placements with local agencies, and career support services that connect graduates with employers in health, education and community organisations. The campus environment and regional partnerships provide a variety of settings for hands-on learning and professional networking.