The Family and Consumer Sciences Education Program (FCS) provides educational opportunities designed to fulfill the needs of society in general and the State of Maryland in particular for FCS teachers. The program (1) offers a hands-on experience, performance-based program that will prepare prospective FCS teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to address some of life’s most difficult tasks; and (2) enhances the quality of life for individuals and families in regard to resource management; living environments; individual, child and family development; nutrition and food; and textiles at the secondary level. The knowledge, skills, and processes acquired through Family and Consumer Sciences Education are applicable to the management of personal and family lives as well as work responsibilities.
Departmental Requirements
Human Ecology students are required to maintain a “C” in each course in the Human Ecology Major Core requirements, Program Foundation Knowledge, Program Electives, and a “C” average in General Education and Supportive Course Requirements. Individual concentration areas may choose specific courses to fulfill General Education requirements. Students transferring into the department from another department or institution must have a 2.5 cumulative GPA.
All Human Ecology students are required to complete an out of class practical experience which can be in a form of an Internship, practicum, or research project. Each concentration has specific requirements for this out-of-classroom practical experience so students should consult with their advisors for details about this aspect of their academic preparation.
Students with a concentration in Family and Consumer Science Education are also required to meet the education requirements for admission to teacher candidacy through the Department of Education, including passing PRAXIS I. Students will be expected to consult their departmental academic advisor for information regarding requirements.