Tarleton State University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory and applied practice across the human sciences, emphasising the wellbeing of individuals and families across the lifespan. Core themes include human development and family studies, community and public health principles, nutrition and wellness, consumer and family resource management, and applied research methods.

• Human development and family studies: child and adolescent development, family dynamics, parenting education and lifespan development.
• Nutrition and wellness: principles of nutrition, food science fundamentals for health promotion, and community nutrition education.
• Consumer and resource management: personal finance, housing and interior environmental management, consumer rights and advocacy, and sustainable resource use for families.
• Applied skills and practicum: community outreach, internships or field placements with family service agencies, school programmes or extension services; practicum experiences develop programme planning, teaching and counselling skills.
• Research and professional practice: coursework in social science research methods, statistics for human sciences, capstone or senior project focusing on applied solutions for family and consumer issues.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Tarleton considers a combination of academic record, preparation in core subjects and any relevant experience. Typical preparation includes coursework in English and mathematics; science and social studies are advantageous.

• Freshman applicants submit secondary school transcripts and any standardised test scores if required by university admissions policy; transfer applicants submit college transcripts demonstrating satisfactory progress toward a degree.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide credential evaluations as required by the university.
• Candidates seeking classroom teacher certification will need to complete the university's educator preparation requirements and meet state licensure standards, which include background checks and certification exams.

Career prospects

Graduates find roles across education, community services, health promotion and consumer-focused organisations. The degree provides practical skills and an adaptable foundation for a range of entry-level and specialist positions.

• Family and consumer science teacher (with appropriate teacher certification)
• Community outreach coordinator or education specialist for public health or social service agencies
• Extension agent or programme specialist with cooperative extension services
• Child development or family support practitioner in non-profit organisations, childcare agencies or early intervention services
• Consumer affairs or client services roles in government, non-profit and private sectors; roles in retail management, product education or corporate wellness
• Further study and specialisation in areas such as nutrition, counselling, social work, public health or education

Why study at Tarleton State University

Tarleton offers a student-centred learning environment with an emphasis on applied learning and community engagement. Students benefit from hands-on practicum placements in the region, opportunities to work with local schools and service organisations, and mentorship from faculty who focus on practical solutions for family and community wellbeing.

• Access to facilities and laboratories suited to nutrition, human development and textiles/resource management coursework.
• Strong ties with regional employers and Cooperative Extension networks that support internships and experiential learning.
• Support services for career development, advising and pathways to teacher certification or graduate study within the Texas A&M University System and beyond.