Program Overview
Graduates are equipped to promote well-being, implement research-informed practices, lead programs, influence policy, and support diverse individuals and families in professional, academic, or community settings.
Family and Consumer Sciences Program
The Family and Consumer Sciences M.S. program includes a concentration in Human Development and Family Studies. This program is designed to prepare students to focus on the development of the individual across the human lifespan. With advanced instruction in human development and family studies, students gain knowledge of improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities through the study of a variety of topics including human growth and development across the lifespan, principles of leadership and supervision, changing family structures, program evaluation techniques, and curriculum and program planning. This concentration requires offers a thesis and nonthesis (internship) option.
Our Program At a Glance
The Master of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences provides a strong academic foundation that prepares professionals for meaningful careers after graduation. Graduates will leverage research with real world topics to empower graduates to lead in human services, education, policy, and community development.
Program Format
- Degree: Master of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences
- Credits: 36 credit hours
- Format & Location: On-Campus, Main Campus
- Time to Complete: ~2 years full-time (varies parttime)
- Schedule: Evening classes Mon–Thurs, with some flexible online sessions
Admission Deadlines
- U.S. Applicants: Fall – July 1 | Spring – Nov 1
- International Applicants: Fall – Apr 1 | Spring – Sept 1
Admission Requirements Overview
- Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution
- GPA Requirement: 3.0 minimum (conditional admission available)
- Additional Materials: 2 letters of recommendation,
- resume/CV, statement of purpose GRE not required
Career Outcomes
Graduates of this program work in human services, education, public policy, or research:
- Child Advocate / Early Interventionist
- Child Development or Family Life Specialist
- Child Care Center Owner / Program Coordinator
- Case Manager / Social Services Manager
- Human Services or HR Specialist
- Nonprofit Leader / Agency Director
- Researcher in Family and Human Development
Why Choose This Program?
The Family and Consumer Sciences, M.S. program takes a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to understanding and enhancing the well-being of individuals and families across the lifespan. Students build a strong academic foundation rooted in research and theory while developing practical skills to address real-world challenges. With flexible Thesis and Non-Thesis options, the program empowers students to tailor their studies to align with their career goals and research interests.
Program Outcomes
Graduates of this program will:
- PLO 1: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of individuals across the lifespan.
- PLO 2: Apply knowledge of human development and family studies to assess and address the diverse needs of individuals and families in various settings (e.g., community organizations, healthcare, education).
- PLO 3: Conduct and evaluate research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in human development, family studies, and related fields.
- PLO 4: Demonstrate effective communication and leadership skills when working with individuals, families, and communities to foster positive developmental outcomes
Admission Requirements
Applications for admission to Graduate School at NCCU can be submitted online using the online application system, making application a pain-free process!
International Applicants
International applicants follow a different process and timeline for admission. Click here to learn more about how to apply to NCCU Graduate School.
Financial Aid
Investing in your graduate education at NCCU is both affordable and supported by a variety of funding options designed to help you succeed.
Program Exit Requirements
Your journey doesn’t end with admission—it begins there. The Family and Consumer Sciences program provides clear matriculation requirements designed to ensure you’re fully prepared to achieve your academic and professional goals.
Meet our Faculty
Glass, Wykeshia
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator, Early Childhood Ed.
Curriculum and Instruction
H. M. Michaux, Jr. School of Education Building, Room 2098
919-530-6669
Mitchell, Charles I
Assistant Professor
School of Education