The programs in Family and Child Sciences provides understanding of child development and family relationships over the life span. We emphasize the diversity of families and how children and families are influenced by the broader environment and change over time. Students learn to apply this knowledge in working with children, youth and families in various professional settings through practicum experiences. Such experiences occur in a variety of human service agencies and organizations, educational and child care centers, and child and family advocacy organizations. All students are encouraged to participate in the Global Scholars Program.  The master’s degree provides advanced knowledge of family process, child development, and evidence-based interventions; both a thesis and non-thesis options are available. Two doctoral programs are available: Marriage and Family Therapy and Family Relations. Both address relational development and enhancement of young adults, couples, and families; distressed families and relational interventions; and the link between parenting process and relational outcomes within the diversity of contemporary families.  Both programs are highly research-focused and emphasize preparing the next generation of scholars with the goal of placing students in careers at colleges and universities, research units, and public policy organizations.