Family and Consumer Sciences

Department of Family and Consumer Sciences
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5322 USA
(269) 387-3704

Accelerated Graduate Degree Program in Family and Consumer Sciences

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This program is offered in person to current WMU students.

Qualifying students can accumulate up to 12 credit hours toward the Master of Arts in Family and Consumer Sciences while enrolled as undergraduates in the Family Science and Human Development, and Fashion Merchandising and Design majors. Designated 5000- and 6000-level courses are counted in both the bachelor’s degree and the master’s degree. 

Why this program at Western Michigan University?

    • Program completion leads to both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts in Family and Consumer Sciences with an accelerated completion time.
    • Earn up to 12 graduate credit hours at undergraduate credit prices for an estimated savings of over $8,000. 
    • Flexible program with four different tracks to choose from: Child Life, Family Science and Services, Youth and Community Development, and Fashion Merchandising and Apparel Design. 

Who should apply?

Motivated undergraduate students with select declared majors interested in advancing their education with a master's degree.

Additional information

  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and major GPA of 3.5.
  • Declared major in Family Studies, Child and Family Development, or Youth and Community Development or Family Science and Human Development (FSHD) with relevant major
    • Available in Fall 2025 - Declared major in Fashion Merchandising and Design majors in Fall 2025 
  • Meet general admission criteria for the MA in Family and Consumer Sciences

 

1. As early as possible in the academic junior year or before, contact Dr. Kimberly Doudna to discuss this AGDP option and review the requirements, timelines, and application procedures..

2. Apply for a graduation audit even if you have not completed 88 credit hours. Contact your undergraduate advisor to request a graduation audit.

3. Complete an online admissions application. Go to WMU Apply and select the application type "Accelerated degree seeking - only available to current WMU undergraduate student." In a dropdown menu look for MA in FCS – Accelerated. The application is considered complete when all required information is received, including three letters of reference, transcripts, a resume, and a self- statement).

Graduates are employed as:

  • Childlife Specialists
  • Youth advocates
  • Parent educators
  • Specialists and supervisors in community-based social services

Questions?

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Dr. Kimberly Doudna

FCS Graduate Advisor
Contact