Family Science Major, B.S.

Students can select from a variety of options in the Family Science program. Each option is available as a B.S. or B.A., depending on the general education courses chosen: B.A. requires two semesters of foreign language; B.S. requires two additional math/science courses beyond general education requirements).

There are four tracks: 

1. Family Life Education (with Certified Family Life Education designation) (34 hours).  This major provides a robust offering of Family Science courses available to students designed as a second major. It provides experience and training with people and the “soft skills” in the work world. Some of the most desired skills in the job market are those provided with this major: Communication skills, conflict resolution, problem-solving, ability to work with groups, and interpersonal skills. 
2. Mental Health Professions (61 hours). This track is designed to prepare students for entering into graduate work to become a Marriage and Family Therapist or to enter other mental health professions, such as Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Graduates will also be prepared to become Certified Family Life Educators.This program is a bridge to graduate study. High performing senior level students may be eligible to take two graduate level courses in their senior year. These 6 hours will count toward a Masters at Lipscomb, or transferable to other programs.
3. Child and Family Services (55-61 hours). This track is designed to prepare students to enter careers in the emerging and growing field of human and family services. Careers in settings such as adoption and foster care agencies, child development centers, Head Start Centers, early childhood and family education programs, child protective services, hospice centers, non-profit and international agencies (such as refugee relocation), and military family support services.
4. Children’s and Family Ministry (55 hours). This major prepares students for careers in religious settings. It is distinct from the Children’s Ministry major in the Department of Bible, in that it is more heavily focused on family functioning.