College of Education and Professional Studies
Family Science
Bachelor of Science | Major
Child Development and Family Science, BS—Family Science Specialization
Our program’s strong foundation in both theory and practice prepares you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
Family science is the interdisciplinary study of families and close interpersonal relationships. With a focus on family dynamics, parenting, human development, and social policies, you will gain valuable insights into the various factors that impact individual wellbeing and family life. This program will prepare you for work in different areas of family science; from teaching and policy shaping to jobs working directly with families.
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Child Development and Family Science
Michaelsen 100
You Belong Here
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Child Development and Family Science Website
Core Requirements
- CDFS 101 - Skills for Marriage and Intimate Relationships
- CDFS 232 - Child Development
- CDFS 234 - Contemporary Families
- CDFS 235 - Relationships and Personal Development
- CDFS 236 - Parent Education and Guidance
- CDFS 344 - Foundations of Marriage and Family Therapy
- CDFS 405 - Professional Obligations and Responsibilities
- CDFS 419 - Research in Child Development and Family Science
- CDFS 436 - Diversity in Families
- CDFS 492 - Child Development and Family Science Practicum
- CDFS 495 - Undergraduate Research
Family Science Specialization
Required Courses
- FCS 371 - Real World Finance
- CDFS 237 - Human Sexuality
- CDFS 339 - Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood
- CDFS 403 - Family Communication
- CDFS 433 - Family Life Education
- CDFS 435 - Adult Development, Aging, and Family Life
- CDFS 439 - Families and Public Policy
Department-Approved Electives
- CDFS 310 - Family Issues in the 21st Century
- CDFS 332 - Trauma and Resilience in Children and Adolescents
- CDFS 333 - Culture and Marriage
- CDFS 334 - Family Problems and Mediation
- CDFS 335 - Relationship Dissolution and Repartnering
- CDFS 340 - Supporting Families with Children with Disabilities
- CDFS 345 - Advanced Concepts in Child Development
- CDFS 403 - Family Communication
- CDFS 414 - Coping with Grief and Loss
- CDFS 415 - Therapeutic Play
- CDFS 416 - Child Life I: Child Life Scope of Practice
- CDFS 417 - Pediatric Diagnoses and Medical Terminology
- CDFS 418 - Child Life II: Impact of Child Hospitalization
- CDFS 432 - Theories in Child Development
- CDFS 438 - Attachment Theory and Practice
- CDFS 440 - Teaching for Child Development and Family Science
- IDS 405 - Essentials of Project Funding in the Social Sciences
Experiential Learning
All students complete a multi-quarter practicum experience where they gain experience working with children and families, along with providing needed services to the community.
Career Focused
Family Scientists are prepared to work in a variety of human service careers across many context including the community, government and medical fields.
Original Research
All students complete a two-quarter research methods course where they work with faculty and other students to develop an original research study, collect data from human subjects, analyze their findings, and present their research in the program.
Socially Minded
Students participate in a poverty simulation where they are assigned a role in a low-income family and participate in a month-long simulation of navigating social services and family relationships.
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Financial Aid
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Student Life
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Starting Salaries
Starting salaries range from $40,000-$70,000 per year.
Class Sizes
Find connection in our program with small class sizes that foster a supportive community.
and Only
CWU has the only Certified Family Life Educator-approved Family Science program in Washington State and one of two programs in the northwest.
Why Family Science at Central?
- Grow your ability to self-reflect as you become more emotionally intelligent through this program.
- Experience personalized guidance and mentorship from our close-knit department.
- Learn from experienced professionals dedicated to helping students achieve their goals and succeed in the field.
- Develop foundational research skills, from analysis to findings and recommendations.
Career Pathways
Social service case manager
Food/housing/employment programs
Welfare assistance programs
Parenting education programs
Substance abuse support programs
Public health programs
Aging and adult care