Family and Human Studies: AS

Associate of Science | 61-62 credits

Program Website
Academic Advising

Program Description
The Family and Human Studies program is an interdisciplinary two-year program designed to help students develop the skills needed to provide professional services for children and families in a variety of settings. Students will gain a thorough understanding of current theories of human development, the family environment, and the ways in which they interact with one another, as well as with their broader physical and social contexts.

Students choose between two tracks: Family and Human Development (“FHD”) and Early Childhood Education (“ECE”).

The FHD track focuses on theory and research that helps us better understand and strengthen individuals and families. It serves as a foundation for students wishing to become social service providers, case managers, marriage/family therapists, child therapists/counselors, community service/outreach providers, elder care providers, youth service providers, child life specialists, women’s protective service providers, policy analysts, lobbyists, advocates, etc.

The ECE track is a CTE program that prepares students for (a) going directly into the workforce (CTE) or (b) transferring to a 4-year university to get a bachelor’s degree. It requires Community-Engaged Learning and lab school participation, where the student is assigned to work with seasoned professionals

Career Opportunities
Family and Human Studies students will choose between (1) an ECE track that will prepare them to work with families and children within the field of early care and education as teachers and/or directors or (2) an FHD track that provides the first two years of study in human development and family studies, in preparation for a career in a variety of human service fields.

Transfer/Articulation Information
Please refer to the Student Resources section of the SLCC University Transfer webpage.

Estimated Cost for Students
Tuition and student fees: http://www.slcc.edu/student/financial/tuition-fees.aspx
Other: Required fees to work in a childcare facility, background check, and food handler permit. Costs are determined by the Utah State Health Department.

NOTE: Fees may vary based upon specific registration and are subject to change.

General Education Requirements

Complete all General Education courses. Refer to Notes for program specific requirements and recommendations.

Associate of Science (AS) / Associate of Arts (AA) Degree General Education Requirements

Program General Education Notes

RECOMMENDED:

Quantitative Literacy (QL): MATH 1030

Program Requirements

Required Courses (12 or 16 Credits)

Students should select courses from the track that supports their intended area of emphasis.

Early Childhood Education Track

FHS 1500 - Lifespan Human Development (SS)
FHS 2500 - Child Development: Birth-Eight
FHS 2600 - Introduction to Early Childhood Education
FHS 2610 - Child Guidance
FHS 2620 - Creative Learning
Note:
FHS 0010 & FHS 0011 are two hour per week labs. FHS 2620 will require two 2-hour per week labs (4 hrs per week total).

Family and Human Development Track

Elective Courses (11-15 credits minimum)

Students should select courses from the track that supports their intended area of emphasis.

Early Childhood Education Track

Family and Human Development Track

FHS 1230 - Adolescent Growth & Dev.
FHS 1900 - Individual Studies in FHS
FHS 2000 - Co-op Education in FHS
FHS 2550 - Infant and Toddler Development
FHS 2570 - Growth & Dev. of Children 6-12
FHS 2600 - Introduction to Early Childhood Education
FHS 2610 - Child Guidance
FHS 2645 - Early Childhood Integrated Curriculum
FHS 2900 - Special Topics in FHS
Up to 6 credit hours from: SOC 1010 , PSY 1010 , SW 1010 , EDU 1010 , or CJ 1010 .

Note: A total of three credit hours from either FHS 1900 and/or FHS 2000 may be applied toward graduation.

Time to Completion & Graduation Map

Family and Human Studies AS (Early Childhood Education Track): Full-time
Family and Human Studies AS (Family and Human Development Track): Full-time
Time to completion is 4 semesters based on a full-time minimum of 15 credits per semester, with one semester of 16 credits. Fewer credits per semester will increase time to completion.

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcome alignment with Student Learning Outcomes in brackets.

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to: apply the major concepts, theories, and methodologies of the field to real-world situations; describe our current best understanding of biological, cognitive, and psychosocial aspects of human development; demonstrate the ability to use current best practices for working effectively with individuals and families in the student’s desired setting; describe their plan for further education/training in Family and Human Development, Education, Early Childhood Education, or a related discipline. Additionally, ECE students will be able to: evaluate and prepare curriculum and program activities consistent with current research on early childhood learning theory and models; incorporate core knowledge content in a classroom setting. [1]
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to: communicate effectively (orally and in writing) about key concepts and significant topics in Family and Human Development and/or Early Childhood Education; communicate effectively in professional and educational settings; articulate and support positions on sensitive and controversial topics within the field of Family and Human Development. Additionally, ECE students will be able to: maintain appropriate state and Federally required documentation; demonstrates effective nonverbal communication techniques with young children. [2]
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to: use and interpret information represented as data, graphs, and tables to analyze and understand individuals in their developmental and familial contexts; use and interpret data to explain issues such as normative/nonnormative behavior and development, family patterns and dynamics, etc.; evaluate data and interpret research findings. [3]
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to: engage in higher-order critical thinking skills, such as analysis, synthesis, evaluation, problem-solving, reflection, and scientific inquiry; discuss complex developmental and social issues; examine and explain the societal values, attitudes, and/or the historical context affecting individuals and families in contemporary society; describe the impact of demographic variables on individual and family experiences; systematically complete reflective assignments demonstrating analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Additionally, ECE students will be able to: construct a personal philosophy of early childhood education and care; connect the discipline of early childhood education with other disciplines relevant to child development and learning. [4,5]
Upon successful completion of the program students will be able to: incorporate a multidimensional perspective when examining issues in the community, society and the world at large; collaborate with peers to produce high-quality work; dialogue with seasoned professionals in the field to enhance theoretical perspectives. Additionally, ECE students will be able to: successfully complete service learning and laboratory experiences in predetermined early childhood learning environments; demonstrate appropriate social and interpersonal relationship skills in a variety of early childhood professional contexts. [6,7]