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Department of Family & Consumer Sciences
Major and Degree Offered:
Family and Child Studies, M.S.
Major Program
The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences offers the Master of Science degree with a major in Family and Child Studies. The graduate program provides students with the knowledge and expertise to attain professional positions and advancement opportunities in family and child programs. The curriculum is designed to provide advanced training in areas of child life, infant mental health, and program administration.
The Master of Science degree provides a 37-semester hour program with a thesis and non-thesis option. Both the thesis and the non-thesis options require the completion of a common core of 18 semester credit hours and a 3 hour Practicum in Family and Child Studies. Students choosing the thesis option are required to complete a 6-hour thesis requirement. The non-thesis option requires the completion of an additional 3-hour practicum. Thesis students will have 9 semester credit hours of elective courses chosen by the student to create a concentration; non-thesis students will have 12 semester hours of electives for a concentration.
The core curriculum required of all students includes the following courses:
Family and Child Studies, M.S.
Major Program
The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences offers the Master of Science degree with a major in Family and Child Studies. The graduate program provides students with the knowledge and expertise to attain professional positions and advancement opportunities in family and child programs. The curriculum is designed to provide advanced training in areas of child life, infant mental health, and program administration.
The Master of Science degree provides a 37-semester hour program with a thesis and non-thesis option. Both the thesis and the non-thesis options require the completion of a common core of 18 semester credit hours and a 3 hour Practicum in Family and Child Studies. Students choosing the thesis option are required to complete a 6-hour thesis requirement. The non-thesis option requires the completion of an additional 3-hour practicum. Thesis students will have 9 semester credit hours of elective courses chosen by the student to create a concentration; non-thesis students will have 12 semester hours of electives for a concentration.
The core curriculum required of all students includes the following courses:
FCD 5100 Introduction to Family and
FCD 5341 Advanced Child Development
FCD 5350 Research Design and Methodology in Family and Child Studies
FCD 5351 Advanced Theory in Family and Child Studies
FCD 5352 Seminar: Issues in Family and Child Studies
FCD 5353 Program Evaluation in Family and Child Studies
FCD 5356 Advanced Program Administration
Comprehensive Exam
Thesis Option: The student is required to present an oral defense of the completed thesis to the Thesis Committee.
Non-Thesis Option: The student is required to make an oral presentation regarding the practicum experience to graduate faculty.
Thesis Option: The student is required to present an oral defense of the completed thesis to the Thesis Committee.
Non-Thesis Option: The student is required to make an oral presentation regarding the practicum experience to graduate faculty.
Admission Policy
Admission to the Master of Science degree in Family and Child Studies program is selective and designed to identify those applicants who have the ability and commitment to successfully complete the program. Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university and satisfy specific admission criteria. The primary criteria will be:
Admission to the Master of Science degree in Family and Child Studies program is selective and designed to identify those applicants who have the ability and commitment to successfully complete the program. Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university and satisfy specific admission criteria. The primary criteria will be:
- The applicant’s grade point average (GPA) must be 3.00 on a scale of 4.0 calculated on the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate work leading up to the bachelor’s degree.
- If the applicant has a GPA of less than 3.00, a GRE score of 900 or above (verbal and quantitative combined) is preferred.
- Recommendation from three persons capable of evaluating the applicant’s academic ability and potential.
- Statement of interest and goals for graduate study from the applicant.
Conditional Admission
A student who has a GPA of less than 2.75 in the last 60 hours of undergraduate work and a GRE score of less than 900 may apply for conditional admission consideration. Applications for conditional admission are reviewed by the Family and Child Studies graduate faculty for recommendations regarding admission and additional requirements. The Dean of theGraduate College
A student who has a GPA of less than 2.75 in the last 60 hours of undergraduate work and a GRE score of less than 900 may apply for conditional admission consideration. Applications for conditional admission are reviewed by the Family and Child Studies graduate faculty for recommendations regarding admission and additional requirements. The Dean of the
Certificate Program
Dietetic Internship. The Dietetic Internship atTexas State
This program incorporates a minimum of 1,100 hours of supervised practice with three graduate courses that address topics related to dietetic practice. The program is currently accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education of the American Dietetic Association. Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in their coursework. A grade of D or F in any of the graduate classes will result in dismissal from the program.
Admission Requirements: Minimum requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, verification of completion or intent to complete a Didactic Program in Dietetics prior to the beginning of the Dietetic Internship, admission to theGraduate College
Dietetic Internship. The Dietetic Internship at
This program incorporates a minimum of 1,100 hours of supervised practice with three graduate courses that address topics related to dietetic practice. The program is currently accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education of the American Dietetic Association. Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in their coursework. A grade of D or F in any of the graduate classes will result in dismissal from the program.
Admission Requirements: Minimum requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, verification of completion or intent to complete a Didactic Program in Dietetics prior to the beginning of the Dietetic Internship, admission to the
Courses Offered
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS)
5100 Introduction to Family and Child Studies. (1-0) Focus on gaining information and competencies important to graduate study success. Includes academic expectations for graduate students as well as information related to the Family and Child Studies graduate program. Required for Family and Child Studies majors.
5302D Advanced Methods in Child Life. (3-0) This course focuses on the applied techniques and methodologies essential to the child life profession. In addition, the course offers guided experience and opportunities for stepping into the child life profession, ongoing career development and self-care.
5302M Parent-Child Relationships. (3-0) The study of cultural values and beliefs regarding children and the reflection of these in childrearing practices and early care and education programs and practices in selected countries around the world. The interactive influence of culture and national policies on early childhood programs and practices will also be studied.
5302P Fashion Merchandising in Domestic Markets. (3-0) An on-site study of the regional fashion marketing center for apparel merchandisers. Course examines the design, production, distribution, and retailing of fashion goods from high fashion to mass markets. Course includes field study. Prerequisite: 2.25 GPA, 12 hours of Fashion Merchandising, includes FM 1330.
5302X Policy in Family/Child Studies. (3-0) An examination of the policy making process and the significance of national, state, and local policies as they affect the family. Frameworks for analyzing social policy will be used to examine existing government efforts and legislation. Implications for bringing about change in policies will be examined.
5340 International Study in Family and Consumer Sciences. (3-0) Study of Family and Consumer Sciences topics in international settings. Emphasis will be placed on an analysis of cultural differences and similarities and their application within FCS professions. Repeatable for credit.
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS)
5100 Introduction to Family and Child Studies. (1-0) Focus on gaining information and competencies important to graduate study success. Includes academic expectations for graduate students as well as information related to the Family and Child Studies graduate program. Required for Family and Child Studies majors.
5302D Advanced Methods in Child Life. (3-0) This course focuses on the applied techniques and methodologies essential to the child life profession. In addition, the course offers guided experience and opportunities for stepping into the child life profession, ongoing career development and self-care.
5302M Parent-Child Relationships. (3-0) The study of cultural values and beliefs regarding children and the reflection of these in childrearing practices and early care and education programs and practices in selected countries around the world. The interactive influence of culture and national policies on early childhood programs and practices will also be studied.
5302P Fashion Merchandising in Domestic Markets. (3-0) An on-site study of the regional fashion marketing center for apparel merchandisers. Course examines the design, production, distribution, and retailing of fashion goods from high fashion to mass markets. Course includes field study. Prerequisite: 2.25 GPA, 12 hours of Fashion Merchandising, includes FM 1330.
5302X Policy in Family/Child Studies. (3-0) An examination of the policy making process and the significance of national, state, and local policies as they affect the family. Frameworks for analyzing social policy will be used to examine existing government efforts and legislation. Implications for bringing about change in policies will be examined.
5340 International Study in Family and Consumer Sciences. (3-0) Study of Family and Consumer Sciences topics in international settings. Emphasis will be placed on an analysis of cultural differences and similarities and their application within FCS professions. Repeatable for credit.
Family and Child Development (FCD)
5101 Graduate Assistant Development. (1-0) This course is required as a condition of employment for graduate teaching and instructional assistants. This course provides regular in-service and planned periodic evaluations of instructional responsibilities. This course does not earn graduate degree credit. Repeatable with different emphasis.
5302 Topics in Family and Child Development. (3-0) Provides an in-depth analysis of selected currents topics in family and child studies. Course may be repeated when topics vary. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5302E Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. (3-0) This course provides an interdisciplinary understanding of the social and emotional development of infants and young children within the context of the family. Focus will be on the role of the infant mental health specialist in strengthening the development of young children and the parent-child relationship. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5302G Advanced Principles of Guidance. (2-2) The study of theory and practice related to child socialization and utilization of positive guidance strategies. Participation inChild Development Center
5302H Current Issues inChild Development. (3-1) Focus in on the growth and development of the total child from conception through adolescence. Analysis and application of secondary research, observations in Child Development Center
5340 Advanced Cultural Diversity of Families. (3-0) Survey study of family diversity through selected family science research methods and topics including family structure and function, family life patterns, multicultural groups, agents of enculturation, and family life education. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5341 Advanced Child Development. (3-0) Focus on developmental processes and influences from conception through early childhood period. Includes interactive relationship of biological and environmental factors in total development of the child. Child observations required. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5342 Early Childhood Intervention. (3-0) This course provides an interdisciplinary introduction, study, and application of information to the professional discipline of early childhood intervention and the early intervention specialist (EIS). Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5343 Hospitalized Child: Child Life Specialist. (3-0) This course enhances students’ ability to utilize theoretical and applied technologies when interacting with children and families in hospital settings. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5350 Research Design and Methods in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) Evaluation of research concepts, methods, and strategies in family and child studies. Topics include the nature of scientific research, sampling, measurement, data collection, types of socio-behavioral research, data analysis, and evaluation of research reports.
5351 Advanced Theory in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) A critical evaluation of theoretical concepts and current research in family and child studies. Emphasis on recent trends in family and child theories.
5352 Seminar: Issues in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) Seminar to examine current issues in family and child studies. Emphasis on current research, theories, and applications. Also includes orientation to the conceptual and methodological perspectives of multi-disciplinary study in the field of family and child studies.
5353 Program Evaluation in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) Study of the diversity and effectiveness of family and child services programs at the federal, state, and community levels. Program evaluation strategies and measures, fiscal management, and grant writing will be included.
5354 Programs and Practices in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) Planning and implementation of family and child programs. Needs assessments, models, delivery systems, and evaluation procedures for programs for families with diverse needs. Includes single parents, adolescent parents, and parents of children with developmental disabilities.
5355 Advanced Independent Study. (3-0) Individual work on problems related to student’s primary area of specialization. Work may consist of empirical research or of critical reviews and integration of existing literature. Course may be repeated once for credit when topics vary.
5356 Advanced Program Administration. (3-0) Study of family and child services systems. Management theory and strategies, strategic planning, program development and implementation, personnel management, and public policy are emphasized.
5357 Comparative Studies in Child Development. (3-0) The study of cultural values and beliefs regarding children and the reflection of these in childrearing and early care and education programs and practices in theU.S.
5358 Practicum in Family andChild Studies I.
5359 Practicum in Family and Child Studies II. (0-6) Continued practical experience in family and child studies at a private or public setting with supervision provided by a member of the graduate faculty and a designated individual at the work site. A research report will be integrated with practical application. Graded on a credit (CR), no credit (F) basis. Prerequisite: FCD 5358
5399A Thesis. (3-0) This course represents a student’s initial thesis enrollment. Focus is on identification of thesis topic, review of literature, and research design. No thesis credit is awarded until student has completed the thesis in FCD 5399B. Graded on a credit (CR), progress (PR), no credit (F) basis.
5399B Thesis. (3-0) This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment. Focus is on data collection, analysis, and writing of thesis. The student continues to enroll in this course until the thesis is submitted for binding. Graded on a credit (CR), progress (PR), no credit (F) basis. Prerequisite: FCD 5399A.
5101 Graduate Assistant Development. (1-0) This course is required as a condition of employment for graduate teaching and instructional assistants. This course provides regular in-service and planned periodic evaluations of instructional responsibilities. This course does not earn graduate degree credit. Repeatable with different emphasis.
5302 Topics in Family and Child Development. (3-0) Provides an in-depth analysis of selected currents topics in family and child studies. Course may be repeated when topics vary. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5302E Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. (3-0) This course provides an interdisciplinary understanding of the social and emotional development of infants and young children within the context of the family. Focus will be on the role of the infant mental health specialist in strengthening the development of young children and the parent-child relationship. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5302G Advanced Principles of Guidance. (2-2) The study of theory and practice related to child socialization and utilization of positive guidance strategies. Participation in
5302H Current Issues in
5340 Advanced Cultural Diversity of Families. (3-0) Survey study of family diversity through selected family science research methods and topics including family structure and function, family life patterns, multicultural groups, agents of enculturation, and family life education. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5341 Advanced Child Development. (3-0) Focus on developmental processes and influences from conception through early childhood period. Includes interactive relationship of biological and environmental factors in total development of the child. Child observations required. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5342 Early Childhood Intervention. (3-0) This course provides an interdisciplinary introduction, study, and application of information to the professional discipline of early childhood intervention and the early intervention specialist (EIS). Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5343 Hospitalized Child: Child Life Specialist. (3-0) This course enhances students’ ability to utilize theoretical and applied technologies when interacting with children and families in hospital settings. Prerequisite: Graduate Standing.
5350 Research Design and Methods in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) Evaluation of research concepts, methods, and strategies in family and child studies. Topics include the nature of scientific research, sampling, measurement, data collection, types of socio-behavioral research, data analysis, and evaluation of research reports.
5351 Advanced Theory in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) A critical evaluation of theoretical concepts and current research in family and child studies. Emphasis on recent trends in family and child theories.
5352 Seminar: Issues in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) Seminar to examine current issues in family and child studies. Emphasis on current research, theories, and applications. Also includes orientation to the conceptual and methodological perspectives of multi-disciplinary study in the field of family and child studies.
5353 Program Evaluation in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) Study of the diversity and effectiveness of family and child services programs at the federal, state, and community levels. Program evaluation strategies and measures, fiscal management, and grant writing will be included.
5354 Programs and Practices in Family and Child Studies. (3-0) Planning and implementation of family and child programs. Needs assessments, models, delivery systems, and evaluation procedures for programs for families with diverse needs. Includes single parents, adolescent parents, and parents of children with developmental disabilities.
5355 Advanced Independent Study. (3-0) Individual work on problems related to student’s primary area of specialization. Work may consist of empirical research or of critical reviews and integration of existing literature. Course may be repeated once for credit when topics vary.
5356 Advanced Program Administration. (3-0) Study of family and child services systems. Management theory and strategies, strategic planning, program development and implementation, personnel management, and public policy are emphasized.
5357 Comparative Studies in Child Development. (3-0) The study of cultural values and beliefs regarding children and the reflection of these in childrearing and early care and education programs and practices in the
5358 Practicum in Family and
5359 Practicum in Family and Child Studies II. (0-6) Continued practical experience in family and child studies at a private or public setting with supervision provided by a member of the graduate faculty and a designated individual at the work site. A research report will be integrated with practical application. Graded on a credit (CR), no credit (F) basis. Prerequisite: FCD 5358
5399A Thesis. (3-0) This course represents a student’s initial thesis enrollment. Focus is on identification of thesis topic, review of literature, and research design. No thesis credit is awarded until student has completed the thesis in FCD 5399B. Graded on a credit (CR), progress (PR), no credit (F) basis.
5399B Thesis. (3-0) This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment. Focus is on data collection, analysis, and writing of thesis. The student continues to enroll in this course until the thesis is submitted for binding. Graded on a credit (CR), progress (PR), no credit (F) basis. Prerequisite: FCD 5399A.
Nutrition (NUTR)
5302 Special Topics in Nutrition and Foods. (3-0) An in-depth study of selected topics or emerging issues of particular relevance to nutrition and food science professionals.
5302A Nutrition and Metabolism. (3-0) An advanced study of the biochemical and physiological foundations of nutrition and metabolism and its relevance to health and wellness. Scientific literature pertaining to biochemical structure, metabolism, and physiological regulation of macronutrients and water-soluble vitamins. Prerequisites: NUTR 3365, 4361; CHEM 2450
5302B Advanced Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals. (3-0) Sources and mechanism of action of dietary bioactive compounds in functional foods, nutraceuticals and supplements in the prevention and management of chronic and infectious diseases. The efficacy, safety and regulatory issues governing development and commercialization will be discussed. Prerequisite: enrolled in the Dietetic Internship or consent of instructor.
5360 Practicum for Dietetic Internship. (0-6) Students observe and engage in the practice of dietetics under the supervision of practitioners in facilities for health care, public health, and food systems. Repeated twice to meet requirements to complete the dietetic internship program. Graded on a credit (CR), no credit (F) basis. Prerequisites: Admission toTexas State
5361 Advanced Food Systems Administration. (3-0) Techniques and procedures for management, service, and marketing of meals in commercial and noncommercial food service facilities.
5362 Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy. (3-0) Advanced study of medical nutrition therapy with emphasis on application of principles and techniques of nutritional assessment emphasizing current clinical nutrition practices. Current scientific literature will be used extensively to discuss most recent advances in the area of medical nutrition therapy.
5363 Advanced Community Nutrition. (3-0) Assessment of the nutritional needs of the community and of programs that serve the needs. Experiences include survey techniques, nutritional education, and management of programs to meet specific nutritional needs through community agencies.
5364 The Science of Nutrition and Exercise. (3-0) An advanced course focusing on the physiological and biochemical impact of nutrient intake on physical performance, health and fitness. Special emphasis will be placed on the investigation of a variety of dietary supplements, including purported ergogenic aids. The course requires significant reading and interpreting of the scientific literature.
5302 Special Topics in Nutrition and Foods. (3-0) An in-depth study of selected topics or emerging issues of particular relevance to nutrition and food science professionals.
5302A Nutrition and Metabolism. (3-0) An advanced study of the biochemical and physiological foundations of nutrition and metabolism and its relevance to health and wellness. Scientific literature pertaining to biochemical structure, metabolism, and physiological regulation of macronutrients and water-soluble vitamins. Prerequisites: NUTR 3365, 4361; CHEM 2450
5302B Advanced Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals. (3-0) Sources and mechanism of action of dietary bioactive compounds in functional foods, nutraceuticals and supplements in the prevention and management of chronic and infectious diseases. The efficacy, safety and regulatory issues governing development and commercialization will be discussed. Prerequisite: enrolled in the Dietetic Internship or consent of instructor.
5360 Practicum for Dietetic Internship. (0-6) Students observe and engage in the practice of dietetics under the supervision of practitioners in facilities for health care, public health, and food systems. Repeated twice to meet requirements to complete the dietetic internship program. Graded on a credit (CR), no credit (F) basis. Prerequisites: Admission to
5361 Advanced Food Systems Administration. (3-0) Techniques and procedures for management, service, and marketing of meals in commercial and noncommercial food service facilities.
5362 Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy. (3-0) Advanced study of medical nutrition therapy with emphasis on application of principles and techniques of nutritional assessment emphasizing current clinical nutrition practices. Current scientific literature will be used extensively to discuss most recent advances in the area of medical nutrition therapy.
5363 Advanced Community Nutrition. (3-0) Assessment of the nutritional needs of the community and of programs that serve the needs. Experiences include survey techniques, nutritional education, and management of programs to meet specific nutritional needs through community agencies.
5364 The Science of Nutrition and Exercise. (3-0) An advanced course focusing on the physiological and biochemical impact of nutrient intake on physical performance, health and fitness. Special emphasis will be placed on the investigation of a variety of dietary supplements, including purported ergogenic aids. The course requires significant reading and interpreting of the scientific literature.
Graduate Faculty
Blunk, Elizabeth, Associate Professor of Family and Consumer Sciences. B.S., M.A., Ph.D., TheUniversity of Texas at Austin
Cana bal, Maria, Professor and Chair of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences. B.S., University of Puerto Rico ; M.S., Florida State University
Sylvia L., Associate Professor of Family and Consumer Sciences. B.S., M.S., Texas State University-San Marcos; Ph.D., The University of Texas
Potsdam College ; B.S., M.A., Cornell University ; Ph.D., Middle Tennessee State University
Illinois State University ; M.A., Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin
Elizabeth Corpus Chris ti State University ; M.A., Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin
Michelle , Associate Professor of Family and Consumer Sciences. B.A., Ohio Dominican College ; M.S., Ph.D., The Ohio State University
Delhi University ; M.S., Central Food Technological Research Institute; Ph.D., University of Massachusetts
Williams, Sue W ., Professor of Family and Consumer Sciences. B.S., M.S., Ed.D., Oklahoma State University
North Dakota State University ; M.A., Michigan State University ; Ph.D., University of Minnesota
University of Florida ; M.S., Ph.D., University of Illinois
Blunk, Elizabeth, Associate Professor of Family and Consumer Sciences. B.S., M.A., Ph.D., The