Family and Consumer Sciences

Family and Consumer Sciences fundamentals

The University of Akron prepares students to take positions as generalists and specialists in the areas of family and consumer sciences. The University offers undergraduate majors in:

• Child and Family Development,
• Child Life,
• Dietetics,
• Fashion Merchandising,
• Interior Design, and
• Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Education.

Each program includes a core of courses intended to connect the various specialties into a cohesive foundation for future life experience

Our Faculty

• are innovative and interactive
• use multimedia technology to enhance classroom learning

Akron Advantage

Hands-on Research

The School of Family and Consumer Sciences offers a variety of resources for its students, including: 

• labs devoted to nutrition and foods, clothing construction and restoration, textiles and computer technology
• interior design studio space
• historic costume and textile collection
• Center for Child Development (operated with College of Education)
• Center for Family Studies
• Program for Nutrition Intervention (supports nutrition assessment and counseling services to UA and Akron area communities

Real-world Experience

All School of Family and Consumer Sciences programs provide opportunities to gain practical professional experience and training in the field of your choice under the direction of skilled professionals

Family and Consumer Sciences Student Organizations

Interact with other students and professionals in the field through organizations such as:

• American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences

• American Society of Interior Designers
• Student Fashion Association
• Student Dietetic Association
• Kappa Omicron Nu 


• Organization for Children's Health Care 


• University Association for the Education of Young Children

Sample Curriculum

Here are sample curricula for each of the majors available within the Family and Consumer Sciences program:

• Child and Family Development
• Child Life Specialist
• Family Development
• Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Education
• Fashion Merchandising
• Interior Design
• Nutrition/Dietetics