The Family and Consumer Sciences Department offers three programs of study and learning experiences that are comprehensive and integrative. The Department prepares students for graduate study, and for people oriented professions in education, business, industry and government that contribute to the well being of individuals, families, and the institutions which serve them.

The major in Food, Nutrition and Dietetics accredited by the American Dietetic Association (ADA). The ADA is recognized by the United States Department of Education as the sole accreditation body for dietetics education programs. Graduates have a strong background in food and nutrition and are prepared to explore many career possibilities in institutional foods, food production and quality control, food and recipe testing laboratories, community nutrition programs and research. Graduates are eligible for admission to dietetic internship programs.

The Clothing, Textiles and Fashion Merchandising program prepares graduates for professional careers oriented to retail buying and merchandising of home and fashion apparel, clothing production such as design and quality control, manufacturer's sales representatives, textile and apparel marketing, and consumer affairs specialists.

The Consumer Sciences program prepares students for work as consumer credit specialists, consumer sales representatives, family financial specialists, and for positions in financial services organizations, industry, media, education, and government.

Programs of study, learning experiences, and Departmental outreach and research are designed to:
• Develop student competencies in subject matter areas
• Use science to address critical economic, technical, social and environmental issues impacting families and individuals
• Prepare students to work in a multi-cultural workplace
• Promote commitment to continuous learning and professional development
• Improve individual and family well being
• Promote the development of strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Promote ethical professional conduct in students
• Develop student skills in evaluating the impact of social trends and public policies on individuals, families and other social institutions.