About the Program
(Major code BS6370)
The major in family and consumer sciences education (FCS) is offered jointly by the School of Human and Consumer Sciences in the College of Health and Human Services and the College of Education. Students completing this program fulfill the requirements for a teaching license in family and consumer sciences to teach in grades 4-12.
Career Opportunities
FCS Education majors gain in-depth knowledge in child and family studies with specialized course work in nutrition and food science, consumer and financial literacy, textiles and apparel, interior environments, and career planning.
A graduate might teach courses in nutrition & health, food safety, child care, parenting, building personal, family and career relationships, consumer and financial literacy, and/or transitions for academic and career success. In some school settings, a major might teach clothing or textile arts/construction, interior design and other life skills to enhance mind and body for productive citizenship.
Beyond licensed classroom teaching, graduates from Ohio University have also been employed as Extension program assistant, life skills teacher for disadvantaged individuals and in juvenile alternative schools, Peace Corps educator, private pre-school teacher (now a supervisor), community service program coordinator/educator, teen-pregnancy program teacher/coordinator, and in business settings related to the content of the major.
Curriculum
The Ohio University online graduate catalog identifies the following:
- Required General Education Courses
- Professional Education Prerequisites
- Professional Requirements for the Major
- Teaching Field Requirements
CLICK BELOW FOR THE FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES EDUCATION MAJOR (B.S.H.C.S.) AS DESCRIBED IN OHIO UNIVERSITY UNDERGRADUATE CATALOG
Expectations of Transfer Students
A college or university advisor can offer assistance with the transfer of courses to Ohio University. Ohio's Course Applicability System is another good resource at www.oh.transfer.org/cas/login.htm Recommended possible transfers: college algebra, freshman and junior level composition, psychology, chemistry, economics, communication (public speaking) health, nutrition, human growth and development.
Scholarships
Family, Community and Career Leaders of Tomorrow (graduating high school FCCLA members) www.fcclainc.org or www.ohiofccla.com
Ohio Association Family and Consumer Sciences (student members enrolled in college) www.oafcs.org
Students New to the Major
Undecided or declared FCS Education majors should begin their studies with HCGE 110 Educational Opportunities in Family and Consumer Sciences.
Field Experiences and Internships
EDTE 202 Field Experience in Education - observation, assistance, adapting tests and lessons and tutoring.
EDSE 350 Secondary School Planning and Instruction - Clinical experiences in a secondary school classroom.
HCCF 399 Junior Practicum Professional Development - Practical field-based experience in professional areas (Community agencies, business, alternative education settings).
HCCF 462F Family Ties and Aging - Community Service that focuses on older persons in the context of family life
EDPL 463 & 464 Professional Internship in Secondary Schools
(Optional) HCGE 479K Family LIfe Education- Students seeking additional field experiences can apply for a summer experience with credit.
Distance Learning
Several of the professional content courses in this major are offered online during the summer sessions and more are becoming available throughout the state.
Professional Organizations
- AAFCS/ OAFCS - American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences
- ACTE- Assocation for Career and Technical Education
- OATFACS - Ohio Association Teachers of Family and Consumer Sciences
Licensure/ Certifications
- Career Techincal Family and Consumer Sciences Education
- Serv-Safe Certification
Program Contact
Dr. Ann Paulins
Director, School of Human and Consumer Sciences
paulins@ohio.edu
Activities
As a student in the Family and Consumer Sciences Education Program at Ohio University, you will have the opportunity to be involved in the following professional activities in the School of Human and Consumer Sciences:
- Join OU/ HSO- Human Services Organization affiliated with AAFCS
- Visit schools to observe teachers and practice teaching
- Intern with Extension or other community service agencies
- Learn about and be involved in service learning projects
- Join numerous other professional organizations related to content courses