The family and consumer sciences nonteaching option emphasizes the family as a dynamic social unit and examines diverse families in contemporary society. The program focuses on family behavior, strengths, and challenges using family-specific theoretical frameworks (family systems, family crisis) and research methods. Social, cultural, historical, political, and economic trends that influence family functioning and well-being are addressed. Students study a wide range of family issues including development across the lifespan, changing family structures, intergenerational relations. Additionally, human response to stress and crisis, family policies and laws, family finance and economics, work and family issues, and human service delivery and decision-making are included.

The family and consumer sciences nonteaching option provides a strong background for students seeking careers in human services, family life education, family policy, and financial counseling. However, graduate training will be necessary for students wishing to enter the counseling/therapy fields. The curriculum prepares students to work in a wide range of organizations and settings, state or federal agencies, nonprofit settings, and for admission to graduate programs in family science, family resource management, human development, social work, law, and other related behavioral and social science disciplines. Also, graduates of the program may be involved in family-owned business and work in occupations requiring knowledge of family finance including financial counseling.

Students completing the degree may apply for provisional certification as a Certified Family Life Educator. MSU's family and consumer sciences major is accredited by the National Council on Family Relations. Provisional certification is awarded at the completion of a baccalaureate degree and course work in the 11 family life substance areas. After two years' work experience, you may apply for full CFLE certification. Students must receive a grade of "C " or higher in all required courses as outlined in the major.