Improving Quality of Life via Education, Outreach, and Discovery
The mission of the Department of Human Sciences at Tennessee State University is to prepare students for leadership roles in the field of Family and Consumer Sciences that empower individuals, strengthen families, and enable communities through education, outreach (extension), and discovery (research).
Why Human Sciences?
Human Sciences is a people-centered field of study that focuses on the science and art of living and working well in a complex world. Through research, experiential education, and technology, Human Sciences professionals help individuals lead healthier lives through sound nutritional practices, build strong family connections across the lifespan, develop skills in fashion production, merchandising, forecasting, and retail display, and make meaningful contributions to their communities while preparing for successful careers and lifelong professional growth.
Career Options
Financial Assitance
The College of Agriculture offers several financial awards designed to assist students with funding their education. Students can apply for the Dean’s Scholars or Leadership Development programs.
Child Development and Family Studies
Aiding Families via Childcare, Family Support Programs and Education
About the Program
This undergraduate program combines knowledge regarding human development, relationships, and family well-being. Students are trained to work competently with individuals and families across the lifespan within the early educational system and in the community.
Students will graduate with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Family and Consumer Sciences and a concentration in Child Development and Family Studies.
Professional Opportunities
Since the education provided students concentrating in Child Development and Family Studies covers many areas, graduates may engage in a wide variety of professions. Many new professionals enter the childcare field. They have received training to be:
- appropriate teachers,
- administrators,
- family non-profit,
- or eventual owners of childcare institutions.
Some may choose to work more directly with families. The following agencies benefit greatly from our graduates’ knowledge of development and family well-being:
- nonprofit agencies
- family service agencies.
New professionals can run workshops, develop programs or work individually with families to improve their quality of life.
The training that students concentrating in Child Development and Family Studies receive also gives them a firm foundation to pursue further expertise as a Certified Family Life Educator, Family Life Coach, or Child Life Specialist. While these areas require either further education or additional experience, they build upon the education that students have received.
For More Information
Contact Dr. Margaret Machara.