Family, Consumer and Nutritional Sciences (FCSN) Vision and Mission

Vision - To be an innovative department renowned for rigorous, diverse programs of study steeped in the Catholic liberal arts tradition and distinguished by exemplary graduates responsibly engaged in the world.

Mission - Founded first on Catholic liberal arts tradition and offering rigorous programs of study, the Family, Consumer and Nutritional Sciences (FCNS) department educates women to be professional, ethical leaders. Grounded in science, the students become content experts with an innovative mindset and professional voice. The curriculum empowers students to understand and reflect upon the multi-faceted issues facing individuals and families today, challenging graduates to advocate for the dear neighbor without distinction in a socially responsible manner. Strong inter-professional and community collaborations prepare women for transformational leadership, life-long learning and a commitment to sustainability in the global context.

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Family and Consumer Science Course Descriptions

FACS 3350: CHILD IN THE FAMILY (4 credits)

Study of the needs of the child at each stage of her/his development with an emphasis on finding appropriate ways of meeting these needs within the context of the family. Identification of possible physical and emotional crises children may face including methods for effectively dealing with these crises. Prerequisites: PSYC 2025.

FACS 3360: PARENTING EDUCATION (2 credits)

This course involves the study of parenting as a means of facilitating the development of both parent and child. Alternative parenting styles related to the characteristics of parent and child are examined. Also involves the review and development of parent education curricula. Offered in alternate years. Prerequisites: FACS 3350, PSYC 2025.

FACS 3650: PERSONAL AND FAMILY FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT (4 credits)

Understanding the mechanics of viable financial management is the core of the course. You will participate in a practical study of establishing goals, planning and creating personal/family budgets. You will study, discuss and reflect upon establishing and managing credit, consumer decision making, housing options and home financing, taxes,insurance, employee benefits packages and investments. You will leave the class with a comprehensive framework for managing your finances. Prerequisites: Junior or senior status.

FACS 3700: INTERIOR DESIGN/HOUSING (4 credits)

The course involves the application of economic and art principles within responsible consumer decision-making paradigms in planning and selecting furniture, textiles and home accessories appropriate in decorating and furnishing new and remodeled homes. Studio problems emphasize application of theory. Offered in alternate years.

FACS 4000: MANAGEMENT APPROACH TO FAMILY SYSTEMS (4 credits)

This course involves the study of the systems approach to family management. It includes the principles of family living related to the management of human and environmental resources; establishment of family goals and values; home-related work, patterns of communication and decision making; and change as it affects families. It includes the study of current family forms and challenges affecting families today. Offered in alternate years. Prerequisites: Junior or senior status.

FACS 4602 or 4604: INTERNSHIP (2 or 4 credits)

Structured out-of-class learning experience that takes place on or off campus and includes a substantial work component. An internship involves you in a particular profession in an exploratory way to test career interests and potential. To initiate an internship experience, you meet with the internship coordinator in the Career Development Office. Prerequisites: Faculty sponsorship and approval by department chair.

FACS 4684: DIRECTED STUDY (4 credits)

Directed study is provided for students whose unusual circumstances prohibit taking a regularly scheduled course, but who need the material of that course to satisfy a requirement. Availability of this faculty-directed learning experience depends on faculty time and may be limited in any given term and restricted to certain courses. Prerequisites: Faculty, department chair and dean approval.

FACS 4952 or 4954: INDEPENDENT STUDY (2 or 4 credits)

Prerequisites: Permission of the faculty and department chair.

FACS 4992 or 4994: TOPICS (2 or 4 credits)

The subject matter of the course is announced in the annual schedule of classes. Content varies from year to year but does not duplicate existing courses.