Child and Family Studies, Master of Science (0489)
Department website: http://www.wku.edu/ahs
Program Coordinator
Adam R. West, adam.west@wku.edu, (270) 745-5138
This program is designed to provide advanced study in the growth and development of the individual and family. The program builds competence in human development, integration of theory into practice, program development, and research—preparing graduates to critically evaluate and synthesize issues related to children, youth, and families. Fieldwork is incorporated in the curriculum.
Program Admission
- An overall GPA of at least 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale) for all hours earned past the first 60-semester or 90-quarter hours of the baccalaureate degree.
- A 2-3 page letter of professional intent describing professional interests and career goals.
The letter of professional intent should be a measure of an applicant’s writing style and writing ability and is expected to be well organized, free of typing and grammatical errors, and clearly written. It should have an introduction, clearly stated purpose, and contents that demonstrate the best impression of the applicant’s writing. The letter of professional intent should articulate and demonstrate your specific qualifications for the program of study. We are interested in an applicant's reasoning for their intended course of study; therefore, each of the following points must be addressed:- Why do you want to pursue this degree?
- What are your career goals once you complete the program?
- Describe an impactful situation or experience you have had working with children, youth, and/or families.
- Describe the most important characteristics and qualities needed by professionals in working with children, youth, and/or families and where you stand relative to developing them.
- Three letters of reference from previous instructors, colleagues, or supervisors indicating the applicant’s ability to succeed in graduate classes.
Graduate School Admission
Please refer to the admission section of this catalog for Graduate School admission requirements.
Program Requirements (30 hours)
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| FACS 510 | Professional Development Seminar in Family and Consumer Sciences | 3 |
| FACS 511 | Grant Writing for Child and Family Programs | 3 |
| EDFN 500 | Research Methods | 3 |
| FACS 577 | Child Development Theory and Research | 3 |
| or FACS 550 | Youth and Family Theory and Research | |
| FACS 580 | Capstone in Child & Family Studies | 3-6 |
| or FACS 599 | Thesis Research/Writing | |
| Electives 1 | 12-15 | |
| Infant and Toddler Development and Research | ||
| Home Based Positive Behavioral Supports | ||
| Stress and Coping in Children | ||
| Global Perspectives of Child and Family | ||
| Issues in Child Care and Early Education | ||
| Community, Child, & Youth Program Development | ||
| Family Diversity | ||
| Adult Development and Aging in the Family | ||
| Advanced Family Resource Management | ||
| Independent Study in Family and Consumer Sciences | ||
| Special Topics in Family and Consumer Sciences | ||
| Qualitative Research in Education | ||
| Educational Statistics | ||
| Total Hours | 30 | |
- 1
Electives must be approved by advisor.