Summary
The Bachelor of Science in Youth and Family Studies program within the College of Education and Human Development prepares students to become community change agents by combining a deep understanding of human development with practical strategies for youth mentoring and family advocacy.
College 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 Bachelor of Science in Youth and Family Studies
The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences offers two specialized tracks for those seeking to improve societal well-being: family life education and youth development, which are both part of the Bachelor of Science in Youth and Family Studies.
The family life education track takes a lifespan-oriented approach to enriching individual and family life, covering topics such as parent education, human sexuality, family resource management, and the influence of policy and legislation. In contrast, the youth development track program focuses on empowering young people and strengthening neighborhoods through mentoring, social action, and the study of child and adolescent development to create engaged citizens.
While both tracks equip students with the skills to be community change agents, the family life education track specifically prepares graduates for professional practice with eligibility for provisional status as a Certified Family Life Educator through the National Council on Family Relations.
What you’ll learn
Through a curriculum focused on social action, parent education, and resource management, graduates are equipped to strengthen neighborhoods and pursue professional certification as family life educators.
Student quote
Being able to get the help when I needed it and the access to my advisor is why I recommend WMU to anyone who wants to come here.
Where you’ll be after graduation
This degree equips graduates with the expertise to foster healthy, engaged citizens while preparing them for diverse roles within state government, community programs, and human service organizations. By integrating youth-focused initiatives like juvenile justice and dropout prevention with broader family and community services, the program qualifies students for specialized positions such as sexuality educators, caseworkers, substance abuse assessment specialists, and volunteer directors. Ultimately, the curriculum provides the comprehensive skills needed to lead in various settings, ranging from youth activism and after-school programs to public and private agencies dedicated to community well-being.
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 others have achieved
Learn about the successful journeys of recent program graduates and the advice they have to share for prospective WMU students.
Meet Donna
Helping prepare youth for life after their release from the Berrien County Juvenile Center, Donna is working as a youth specialist intern and is playing a major role in their rehabilitation process.
Meet Marcell
Supporting families with children under 5, Marcell interned with Family Futures during his senior year at WMU. The Grand Rapids non-profit provides tools and education to help children thrive during their first 5 years of life.
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.
As a Youth and Family Studies major, you'll get the opportunity to have a semester-long internship, along with ongoing professional exploration and development, that will enhance your understanding of current issues and practices. This internship will help you gain valuable work experience, and grow your professional network and resume.
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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.
