M.S. in Civil Engineering
The University of New Mexico (UNM) offers a comprehensive Master of Science (M.S.) in C...
B.S. in Family and Child Studies
Albuquerque
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.S. in Family and Child Studies program at the University of New Mexico (UNM) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the development, dynamics, and well-being of families and children. This interdisciplinary program integrates coursework from psychology, sociology, education, and human development to explore various aspects of family relationships, child development, parenting, and family systems. Through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on experiences, and field placements, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to support and advocate for families and children in diverse settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.S. in Family and Child Studies program encompasses a range of courses that cover key topics in family studies, child development, and related disciplines. Core courses may include family theories and dynamics, child development across the lifespan, parenting education, family interventions, cultural diversity in families, and research methods in family studies. Additionally, students have the opportunity to select elective courses based on their interests and career goals, such as early childhood education, family law and policy, adolescence, special needs populations, or family counseling. The curriculum emphasizes a holistic approach to understanding families and children, integrating theory, research, and practical application to prepare students for careers in family services, education, counseling, or advocacy.
Research Focus: The B.S. in Family and Child Studies program at UNM emphasizes research as a fundamental component of understanding family and child development and promoting family well-being. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas, including parent-child relationships, early childhood education, family interventions, and cultural influences on child development. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, collaborate with faculty mentors, and conduct independent research on topics of interest to them. Research experiences help students develop critical thinking skills, research methodology expertise, and data analysis skills, preparing them for graduate studies or careers in research, evaluation, or program development related to families and children.
Industry Engagement: The program actively engages with industry partners, community organizations, and social service agencies to provide students with opportunities for industry engagement and professional development. Students may participate in internships, practicums, or field placements with organizations that provide family support services, childcare, early intervention programs, or parent education. These experiences allow students to gain firsthand experience working with families and children, develop counseling and communication skills, and understand the challenges and opportunities in the field of family and child services. Additionally, the program may invite guest speakers, organize networking events, or facilitate workshops and seminars to expose students to various career paths and connect them with professionals working in the field.
Global Perspective: The B.S. in Family and Child Studies program at UNM incorporates a global perspective to understanding family dynamics and child development in diverse cultural contexts. Courses may explore topics such as cross-cultural variations in parenting practices, family structures, and child-rearing beliefs; international approaches to early childhood education and care; or global issues affecting families and children, such as poverty, migration, and conflict. Students may have opportunities to participate in study abroad programs, research projects with an international focus, or service-learning experiences in global communities, allowing them to gain cross-cultural competencies, broaden their understanding of family diversity, and explore strategies for promoting family resilience and child well-being on a global scale.
Location
Albuquerque
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 27166
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: US$ 50
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.5.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 68 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 47 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Scholarships for International Students at the University of New Mexico:
Global Education Office Scholarships: UNM's Global Education Office (GEO) offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are merit-based and can be awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students. They may cover tuition and fees, living expenses, or a combination of both.
International Amigo Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at fostering cultural exchange and friendship between international students and the local community. It provides financial assistance to international students while also encouraging them to engage in community service and cultural outreach activities.
Graduate Assistantships: UNM offers graduate assistantships to qualified international graduate students. These assistantships may involve teaching, research, or administrative duties. They often come with a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance benefits.
College or Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within UNM may have their own scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields of study. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, research interests, or other criteria relevant to the department.
Private and External Scholarships: UNM encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by international foundations, government agencies, and private organizations. The Global Education Office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for such scholarships.
Fulbright Scholarships: UNM participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students, scholars, and professionals. The university assists eligible international applicants in the Fulbright application process.
Cultural and Country-Specific Scholarships: Some cultural or country-specific organizations and foundations offer scholarships to students from particular regions or countries. International students should research opportunities related to their background and nationality.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UNM awards merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs.
Research Scholarships: International graduate students in research-intensive programs may have the opportunity to receive research scholarships from faculty members conducting research projects. These scholarships often include a stipend and tuition support.
Diversity Scholarships: UNM is promoting diversity and inclusion. Some scholarships are awarded to international students who contribute to the university's diversity through their experiences, backgrounds, or interests.
It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary from year to year. Additionally, students are encouraged to meet academic and application requirements to enhance their chances of receiving scholarships.
Graduates of the B.S. in Family and Child Studies program at the University of New Mexico (UNM) possess a diverse skill set and knowledge base that prepares them for various rewarding careers focused on supporting and advocating for families and children.
Child Life Specialist: Child life specialists work in hospitals, clinics, or pediatric healthcare settings to support children and families facing medical challenges. They provide emotional support, education, and therapeutic activities to help children cope with hospitalization, medical procedures, and illness. They also collaborate with healthcare teams and advocate for the psychosocial needs of pediatric patients and their families.
Family Services Coordinator: Family services coordinators work for social service agencies, non-profit organizations, or government agencies to assist families in accessing support services and resources. They provide counseling, advocacy, and referrals to services such as housing assistance, childcare, healthcare, or financial aid. They also conduct assessments of family needs and develop service plans to address challenges and promote family well-being.
Early Childhood Educator: Early childhood educators work in preschools, childcare centers, or Head Start programs to provide early education and care to young children. They create developmentally appropriate lesson plans, facilitate learning activities, and promote social, emotional, and cognitive development. They also communicate with families, assess children's progress, and collaborate with other professionals to support children's overall development.
Family Counselor: Family counselors provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families to address relationship issues, communication challenges, and family dynamics. They help clients navigate life transitions, cope with stress, and develop healthy coping strategies. They may specialize in areas such as marriage and family therapy, child and adolescent counseling, or trauma-informed care.
Parent Educator: Parent educators design and facilitate educational programs for parents to enhance parenting skills, strengthen family relationships, and promote child development. They teach parenting techniques, child behavior management strategies, and communication skills through workshops, classes, or home visits. They also provide support and resources to help parents address challenges and build positive family environments.
Child Welfare Case Manager: Child welfare case managers work for child welfare agencies or social service organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of children in vulnerable situations. They assess family needs, develop service plans, and coordinate services to support families and protect children from abuse or neglect. They also facilitate foster care placements, monitor children's progress, and advocate for their best interests.
Family Advocate: Family advocates work for advocacy organizations, legal aid clinics, or social service agencies to support and empower families facing legal or social challenges. They provide advocacy, information, and referrals to resources to help families navigate legal proceedings, access social services, and advocate for their rights and needs within the justice system or social welfare system.
Community Outreach Coordinator: Community outreach coordinators work for community-based organizations, healthcare agencies, or educational institutions to develop and implement outreach programs and initiatives that support families and children. They collaborate with community partners, plan events and workshops, and provide information and resources to promote family well-being and community engagement.
Research Assistant: Research assistants work in research settings, universities, or government agencies to support research projects related to family studies, child development, or social sciences. They collect and analyze data, conduct literature reviews, and assist with research design and implementation. They may also contribute to writing research reports, grant proposals, or scholarly publications.
Family Resource Specialist: Family resource specialists work in community organizations, schools, or social service agencies to connect families with resources and services that meet their needs. They provide information, assistance, and referrals for services such as childcare, housing, healthcare, or financial assistance. They also conduct outreach and education to raise awareness of available resources and support options for families in the community.
