The Human Services option prepares students for a wide variety of careers and graduate school programs relating to individuals, families, and communities. The option provides both a theoretical and  experiential grounding in child and adult development, family and relationship dynamics, professional skills and therapeutic communication techniques, and macro subjects including needs assessment, grantsmanship and program design. All students complete field study experiences in agencies and organizations that match their career interests. The program is recognized by the National Council on Family Relations as an approved Certified Family Life Educator program. The Early Childhood Education Program leads to teacher certification for grades pre-kindergarten through six. It integrates an in depth study of child development within family, school and community contexts, the disciplines taught in elementary schools and opportunities for contact with young children in preschool and school age settings. This program is being phased out due to new Virginia regulations regarding teacher licensure.