The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) prepares students for careers that focus on improving the quality of life of individuals and families. FCS offers baccalaureate degrees in Child Development and Family Studies, Child Development Early Education and Family Studies - Birth-Kindergarten (BK) Teaching Licensure, Fashion Merchandising and Design, Food Sciences and Nutrition/Dietetics, and Consumer Sciences. FCS also offers graduate degrees in BK-Teaching Licensure, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Food and Nutritional Sciences.

NCA&T students earning the Bachelor of Science degree in Child Development and Family Studies (CDFS) are eligible to use the Abbreviated Application for Certification in Family Life Education. During their studies, CDFS students are given a broad understanding of human development across the lifespan, family systems, parent education, family financial planning, human resources management, and appropriate living environments. Academic training includes multiple field experiences and internships at our 5-Star Child Development Laboratory, and other institutions comprising childcare and early childhood 
settings, youth-programs, family serving agencies, military installations, and faith-based organizations. Leadership skills are developed through student involvement in department-based student organizations and participation in professional conferences. Graduates of the CDFS program are employed in settings including education, family service, Cooperative Extension, religion, healthcare, special-needs, military, and other industries involved in child development and family life education.