FCNS master’s program endorsed by committee

by Joe King

NIU’s School of Family Consumer and Nutrition Sciences is one step closer to securing approval for a new master of science degree program after the Academic, Student Affairs and Personnel Committee recommended it for approval.

Under the proposal, which the committee endorsed Sept. 7, students will be able to select from two specializations: one in family consumer sciences, the other in apparel studies.

The specialization in family consumer sciences is expected to be of particular interest to middle school and secondary educators who will be able to complete master’s degrees while meeting a new state law requiring them to earn professional development credits to maintain their certification.

The apparel studies specialization will help meet a growing need in that industry for individuals with advanced degrees, says FCNS Chair Laura Smart, pointing out that some leading apparel companies require high level executives to have Ph.D.s.

If demand for the master’s programs tracks that of FCNS undergraduate programs, they will be in great demand. Enrollment in FCNS programs at NIU has grown 44 percent over the last five years, Smart says. The school is housed in the College of Health and Human Sciences.

If endorsed by the full NIU Board of Trustees this Thursday, the proposal will move to the Illinois Board of Higher Education and, if approved by that body, could be available as early as next fall.

9-18-06