The Master of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences is intended to serve two general groups: bachelor-degreed apparel industry professionals who seek to augment their educational background regarding consumers of apparel and related products (Specialization in Apparel Studies), and middle and high school educators in family and consumer sciences who wish to maintain their teaching certification while advancing professionally (Specialization in Family and Consumer Sciences Education). This program will increase a student's ability to use subject matter, research, and communication skills for employment in professional positions in business, education, non-profit organizations, or government. Graduates are prepared to continue their studies in doctoral programs.
With the assistance of an advisor, admitted students will complete a documented planned program of study by the end of the first semester. The program of study must support the student’s area of interest/thesis topic, meet graduation requirements, and be approved by the graduate faculty chair. Students will include in their program of study coursework from a variety of programs within the university. A thesis is required.
This program requires a minimum of 30 semester hours.
ETR 521, Educational Statistics I (3),
OR ETR 522, Educational Statistics II (3)
FCNS 504 Research Methods (3)
FCNS 599A Thesis (6)
One of the specializations noted above (18)
For additional information regarding either specialization, please contact Bette Montgomery, Ph.D., bmontgomery@niu.edu.