Family Consumer Science trains future professionals to promote the well-being of individuals and families through degrees in dietetics, child development and family studies, family consumer science education, and foods and nutrition. We also offer a minor in the areas of consumer studies, child development and family studies, and foods and nutrition.
Career Opportunities
Family Consumer Science (FCS) trains future professionals for careers such as:
- clinical dieticians, wellness nutritionists or food service managers
- Family Consumer Science middle school and secondary teachers
- Human services professionals or child protection workers
- Mental health practitioners
- Group or youth home directors
- Family life and parenting educators
Our graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings including hospitals, medical clinics, nursing homes, nonprofits, health clubs, private practices, schools and educational settings, group homes, day cares, Head Start, food companies and restaurants.
Real-World Experiences
Specialized equipment and facilities, designed for FCS students:
- Food Science lab for experiementing and sensory testing
- Food lab for food prep and testing
- Textiles lab with specialized clothing construction equipment
- FCS Education classroom with state-of-the art teaching materials
- Nutrition assessment lab designed for nutrition education, body composition and energy need testing
Clubs and student organizations
- American Association of FCS at Minnesota State Mankato (AAFCS-MSU)
- Child Development & Family Studies Club
- Phi Upsilon Omicron (honorary)
- Student Dietetic and Nutrition Organization (SDNO)
Dietetics
The Dietetics Program provides students pursuing a dietetics career the highest quality advisory, academic and interactive opportunities and to develop their confidence and competency for advancement following graduation to supervised practice, graduate studies or related employment.
Child Development and Family Studies, BS
With an emphasis on understanding human development and family related issues, our accredited program prepares students to work with children, adults, and families in a variety of human service, educational and leadership settings or pursue a graduate degree.
Foods and Nutrition, BS
This flexible program prepares students for a variety of in-demand careers within the wellness and food industries. Our applied approach, hands-on opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities give students real-world opportunities.
Minor in Family Consumer Science
A flexible minor of FCS courses or other courses approved by an advisor. Students may work with an FCS advisor to select the courses most helpful. However, most students will benefit from a minor within one of three focus areas.
Family Consumer Science Education
The undergraduate and graduate programs in family consumer science education prepare students for rewarding careers and advanced degrees educating in the family consumer science field. Your big ideas are within reach through world-class educators and facilities at Minnesota State Mankato.
Child, Youth & Family Services
A fully online 18-credit Certificate in Child, Youth, & Family Services is available to Minnesota State University, Mankato students or as a stand-alone certificate.
About the Department
The Department of Family Consumer Science is committed to training professionals to promote the well-being of individuals and families through bachelor’s degrees in multiple majors and minors.
Advising
Request an advisor in the department of Family Consumer Science.
