Anchored in knowledge of human ecological systems; human development throughout the lifespan; and features of individual, relational, and familial wellness and resilience; studies in Family Science and Human Development (FSHD) prepare students for effective practice in a range of human service roles and settings. FSHD is organized around three areas of concentration/professional preparation. All concentrations include 27 credit hours of coursework in core FSHD program courses with additional 27 credit hours of concentration credits. Each FSHD student  chooses from one of the three concentrations. Twenty-seven credits are the same across all concentrations, which provides ease in changing from one concentration to another if needed. A grade of “C” or better is required for all required FCS classes in the concentrations. Three 15-credit hour minors are also available.

Youth and Community Development Concentration (FSYJ)

The Family Science and Human Development: Youth and Community Development concentration prepares change agents to transform communities through an intentional investment in youth with interdisciplinary coursework and community-based experiences. It is based on theoretical perspectives in childhood, adolescent, and family development, best pedagogical practices, and grounded in an ethic of family engagement and social action.

The concentration in Youth and Community Development is situated at the intersection of developmental theory, socio-ecological context, and youth advocacy skills and competencies. This concentration is rooted in community psychology and the prevention sciences to provide a foundation for studying setting-level interventions and developmental needs. This concentration invites students to critically examine youth in context of families and communities, root causes, and how individuals and organizations can address social inequalities. Students will study the practice of the youth development professionals to develop understandings and competencies in organizing effective learning environments and experiences to promote human flourishing.

The Youth and Community Development Concentration in undergraduate program will prepare youth development professionals to take roles in diverse youth-serving, family, and community settings. Graduates may pursue careers in after school, community service, and youth activism programs; public and private human services organizations and agencies; dropout prevention and alternative education; and juvenile justice. Students may also assume positions in informal learning environments such as museums, nature centers, environmental education, outdoor and adventure programs.

The Concentration in Youth and Community Development is designed to build the skills and knowledge outlined in the National AfterSchool Association’s Core Knowledge and Competencies for AfterSchool and Youth Development Professionals.

All required FSHD core courses are available online. Students can also take the majority of FSHD classes for any concentration in-person (FCS 1030, FCS 2190, and FCS 4295 are only offered online). Many required courses for this concentration are available both online and in-person.

There is no minor required with the FSHD: Youth and Community Development concentration. Students must successfully complete the WMU Essential Studies requirements.