Summary
The Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Education major within the College of Education and Human Development prepares future educators to teach essential life skills in K-12 settings. This program equips them with the knowledge and practical experience to empower students in areas like nutrition, personal finance, child development, and culinary arts.
Program Stats
97%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
98%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning
95%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working are satisfied with their job
Pursue a B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Education
Through the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, you will step into a dynamic program designed to launch a rewarding career in education. The bachelor of science in family and consumer sciences teacher education program will empower you to lead classrooms, engage meaningfully with students and successfully teach life skills.
This major is an approved program by both the State Board of Education and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, ensuring a high standard of educational quality. Upon completion, this degree directly leads to a State of Michigan Standard Certificate, which can also include a Standard CTE Vocational Certificate, enabling you to teach across various educational settings.
What you’ll learn
A Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Education degree teaches you how to educate students on vital life skills. This includes child development, nutrition, culinary arts, personal finance, consumer education, housing, and textiles. This program focuses on both subject matter and teaching methods, preparing you to empower students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for successful personal, family, and professional lives.
Student quote
WMU is such a comforting, nice community that will help you not only while you're in school, but also after you graduate to network.
Where you’ll be after graduation
Graduates primarily find fulfilling careers as FCS or home economics teachers in middle and high schools across the country, where they are in consistent demand. Beyond the traditional classroom, some graduates may also work as extension agents for university outreach programs, providing community education, or as training consultants developing educational programs for various organizations.
For 95% of College of Education and Human Development grads, they got that job or got into that graduate school program after graduation. That is because your journey of self-discovery begins the moment you step on campus. At WMU's Career and Student Employment Services, career specialists help you align your passions and abilities with future careers and advanced degrees. They will connect you to practical experiences like internships, job shadowing, research projects and professional mentors.
What other have achieved
Learn about the successful journeys of recent program graduates and the advice they have to share for prospective WMU students.
Meet Emily
Emily is a family and consumer sciences teacher at Portage Northern High School, instructing around 180 students daily in subjects like foods and nutrition and child development. She chose WMU for its personable class sizes and pursued a master's degree to further her knowledge and career.
Meet Stephanie
Stephanie teaches family and consumer sciences at Portage Central High School, where she also advises the gardening and cooking clubs. She was inspired to teach by her enjoyment of working with young people and the belief in lifelong skills.
Making the most of your learning experience
In the College of Education and Human Development, you'll embark on an incredible journey of experiential learning that goes beyond textbooks. Collaborating closely with faculty members, you'll dive into cutting-edge research, fieldwork and professional pursuits. Pushing the boundaries of the traditional classroom, you'll gain practical skills and make a tangible impact.
In an FCS Teacher Education program, you'll get hands-on experience through culinary and textile labs, and delve into child development through coursework and observation. A core part of the program involves extensive field experiences, observing and assisting in classrooms, culminating in a full semester of student teaching where you'll lead classes. You'll also learn vital teaching skills like curriculum development, lesson planning, and classroom management.
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Are scholarships available?
Yes! You've put in the hard work—now it's time to see your reward.
Scholarships are an excellent way to help the reduce the costs of higher education. Whether you are entering college for the first time, transferring to WMU from another institution or returning from a gap in your education, be sure to check out our scholarship options. Students earn scholarships for financial need, academic success and promoting multicultural awareness. Most are offered on a competitive basis.
