Degree Overview: Bachelor’s Degrees in Home Economics
Majors Overview August 16, 2014Receive information about bachelor’s degree programs in home economics and their coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Home Economics
Students enrolled in a home economics major, also referred to as a family and consumer sciences major, are prepared to seek careers that require them to help families and children through the provision of knowledge aimed at strengthening their family life.
Graduates teach young adults about various life management skills, including parenting, nutrition, and personal finance; these topics are reflected in the curriculum of the home economics major program. Home economics and education are the typical components of the study plan, whereby students are allowed to gain proficiency in both the areas.
The education courses cover topic areas such as teaching methods and curriculum development. Most programs also incorporate a student teaching requirement during the senior year.
A bachelor’s degree is awarded to graduates and varies by state; teacher certification at the high school, and middle school levels may also be given. The coursework of some programs may also include additional coursework in interior design and clothing construction.
Coursework
General education coursework apart from teacher training courses, as well as courses in the areas of the social, biological and physical sciences, are included in the curriculum.
The program also covers the fields of community, parenting, wellness, nutrition, human development and education, via coursework in such topic areas as:
•Teaching methods
•Work and family balance
•Needs of the elderly
•Nutrition
•Child development
•Parenting
•Personal finance
•Human relationships
•Children and developmental disabilities
•Curriculum development
Career Choices
Those who successfully graduate from home economics programs often want to become home economics teachers in high and middle schools teaching students vital life skills, such as raising a child, preparing nutritious meals, and managing a family budget. They may also choose entry-level careers in:
•Educational media producers
•Social services and child welfare offices
•Textbook publishers
•Cooperative extension offices
•Community programs
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2010 – 2020 decade, middle school and postsecondary school teachers have been predicted to have an average job growth rate. During the same period, teachers working in high schools are expected to see a slower-than-average growth rate (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, teachers brought in an average annual salary of $53,090, while high school teachers banked an average annual wage of $64,040 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Home economics teachers who complete a bachelor’s degree program may choose to continue their education via a master’s degree. The focus areas of the curriculum typically include the areas of research methods, evaluation and curriculum development. Teachers in many states may be required to maintain their teaching license by completing some continuing education courses every year.
