NCFR is pleased to announce that Towson University has changed the name of its department in the College of Liberal Arts to the Department of Family Science. The previous name was Department of Family Studies and Community Development.

The department also changed the name of its minor to Family Science (previously Family Studies). Towson also offers a bachelor's degree in Family and Human Services and a master's degree in Child Life, Administration and Family Collaboration.

Find Towson's program listings in NCFR's Degree Programs in Family Science guide.

Are your degree programs updated in the degree programs guide? Check your university's listings and submit updates here as needed!

Considering a Name Change for Your Program?

If your department is considering a name change, NCFR has sample documents and free resources available that other schools have successfully used. Access the resources.

Family Science is the name and disciplinary identity supported by NCFR for the scientific study of families and close interpersonal relationships. More than 170 academic degrees and departments use the Family Science name for their curricula because it is the clearest and most accurate label for this discipline.

Using the term Family Science expands visibility of programs among prospective students, their families, and other institutions. It increases credibility by demonstrating support of a proven scientific discipline that has developed a rigorous base of scholarly knowledge and an evidence-based foundation for graduates in their careers. It also allows faculty and graduates to adopt a respected professional identity of Family Scientist, and to make an even greater impact in their work by uniting under the Family Science umbrella.

Does your college or university have a new program or new name? Use our online form to let us know!