The bachelor's in family life education program is accredited by the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR) and endorsed by Focus on the Family. In 2007, SAU had the highest percentage of graduates nationally to become family life educators through the NCFR.

Family life education is an applied field of study with a conceptual foundation drawn from psychology, education, home management, sociology, law, economics, social work, philosophy, biology and theology. The Bachelor of Arts degree is conferred upon successful completion of all graduation requirements. View the family life education brochure [PDF]. A minor in family life education is also available.

Career opportunities

• Social Services: Family service agencies, foster care, legal services, referral programs, food stamp programs, Meals-on-Wheels and transportation programs.
• Health Services: Nursing homes, hospitals, day care centers, community mental health centers, housing projects and public health clinics.
• Program Planning: Group homes, senior centers, government agencies, parks and recreation departments, educational institutions, religious organizations and department of corrections.

Program strengths and emphases

The major centers on gaining insight into human development, dynamics of relationships, and the science and practice of family life education and consultation. Further refinement of skills increases this base of knowledge and the student’s ability to assess and analyze human dynamics and skills in communication, interviewing and problem-solving. The major requires 42 credits.

Students in this program will:

• Gain knowledge about concepts and principles relevant to family living;
• Explore personal attitudes and values;
• Identify and understand the attitudes and values of others;
• Provide guided learning experiences relevant to preventing family problems;
• Develop interpersonal skills that contribute to family well-being; and
• Gain practical experience through a required independent study project.