Family and Work Studies: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Family and Work Studies prepares students to understand the dynamic interplay between individuals, families, and societal systems within personal and professional contexts. This foundational program explores core principles of family science, consumer behavior, and human development, equipping learners with practical knowledge for diverse career pathways in community and family services.
- Career, Community, and Family Connections: Examines how personal and professional networks influence family well-being and community engagement, focusing on building supportive relationships across diverse settings.
- Family and Consumer Resources: Investigates the management of time, finances, housing, and material goods to enhance family stability and quality of life in real-world contexts.
- Human Development Across the Lifespan: Studies physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth from infancy through later adulthood, with applications in education, counseling, and social services.
- Interpersonal Relationships: Explores communication strategies, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence to strengthen personal and professional interactions within family and work environments.
- Nutrition and Wellness: Focuses on dietary science, healthy eating habits, and the role of nutrition in preventing disease and promoting overall physical and mental well-being.
- Parenting and Family Life Education: Addresses evidence-based approaches to child development, parenting skills, and supporting family cohesion in varied cultural and socioeconomic contexts.
- Career Pathways in Family and Consumer Sciences: Highlights emerging and traditional roles in fields such as family counseling, youth development, community outreach, consumer advocacy, and public health programming.
Family and Work Studies Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Family and Work Studies Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Family and Work Studies degrees, including Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary and Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 20,170 professionals.
National Average Salaries
Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
---|---|---|---|---|
Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1192 | $77,280 | $47,580 - $133,180 | 2,630 | N/A |
Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other 25-1069 | $75,040 | $45,280 - $176,350 | 17,540 | N/A |
Family and Work Studies Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $46,790 in Kansas to $134,150 in Hawaii—a 187% difference. The highest-paying states include Hawaii, California, and Colorado. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 20,170 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Family and Work Studies by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Family and Work Studies programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Family and Work Studies is found at San Juan College (SJC) (9 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 9 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
San Juan College (SJC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
9 | Farmington, New Mexico | Public | sanjuancollege.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Family and Work Studies programs
How much can I earn with a Family and Work Studies degree?
Salaries for Family and Work Studies graduates vary by role and location. Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $77,280 annually, while Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other earn around $75,040. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Hawaii average $134,150 compared to $46,790 in Kansas. Approximately 20,170 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Family and Work Studies programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Family and Work Studies degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include San Juan College (SJC) (9 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Family and Work Studies degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other, . Related occupations employ approximately 20,170 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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