Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises the scientific study of individuals, families and consumer issues across the lifespan, combining theory, research methods and applied practice. Typical course topics include lifespan and family development, family policy, program planning and evaluation, consumer resource management, research design and statistics, and specialised seminars in areas such as parenting, couple relationships, ageing, and family financial wellbeing.

Students may choose between thesis and non‑thesis tracks. A thesis option provides a supervised independent research project grounded in advanced research methods and statistics, while the non‑thesis option commonly includes a professional practicum, internship or a capstone project focused on community application, extension programming or organisational practice.

• Core methodological subjects: research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, and applied statistics.
• Thematic subjects: family systems, child and adolescent development, ageing and later life, family policy, and consumer resource management.
• Applied skills: programme development and evaluation, grant writing, community engagement and extension education.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses from nutrition, public health, psychology, education and economics to tailor the degree to individual career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably in family and consumer sciences, human development, psychology, sociology, education, nutrition, or a closely related field. A competitive undergraduate grade profile is expected.

Admissions typically require submission of official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or career goals, and letters of recommendation. A curriculum vitae or résumé is normally requested. Some applicants may be asked to submit GRE scores where required by the programme; international applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests unless otherwise exempt.

Relevant paid or volunteer experience in community programmes, extension, research, or client services can strengthen an application. Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential faculty advisors whose research aligns with their interests before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in community and organisational contexts. Common career paths include family life educator, extension or community outreach specialist, programme coordinator or manager, research assistant or analyst, policy specialist focused on family and consumer issues, and roles in non‑profit and governmental agencies that serve children, families and older adults.

The programme also provides a foundation for further academic study, including doctoral research in human development, family studies or interdisciplinary social sciences. Employers value graduates’ skills in programme development, evaluation, data analysis and evidence‑based practice.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers access to strong faculty expertise across human development, family sciences and consumer resource management, together with applied opportunities through the university’s community outreach and extension networks. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments such as public health, psychology and nutrition, and from a research environment that supports both applied and theoretical projects.

The programme emphasises hands‑on experience—through practica, internships and community partnerships—so graduates leave with practical skills as well as academic knowledge. Prospective students can explore funded assistantships and research opportunities with faculty, and can take advantage of campus resources for professional development and career advising.