
The bachelor’s degree in family and human services prepares students for careers in family life education, human services, advocacy groups, nonprofit organizations, and youth services. Through this program, students will learn principles and skills pertaining to healthy family functioning, including skills related to communication and conflict management. Students will also develop skills pertaining to effective advocacy, problem solving, and basic social science research.
This degree is developed and granted by BYU-Idaho, with


Essential Knowledge and Skills
Outcomes
- Communicate effectively
- Problem-solve at individual and group levels
- Employ basic research skills
- Demonstrate fundamental knowledge regarding healthy relationships
- Demonstrate leadership qualities consistent with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Bachelor of Science of Family and Human Services
Program requirements
Degrees are built by selecting three certificates, which are typically made up of five courses each. Our recommended plans are designed to lead to better job opportunities. To earn a bachelor’s degree, you will complete three certificates plus additional requirements:
Family & Human Services Path
Steps to your Bachelor's Degree in Family and Human Services
If getting a better job is not your primary focus, there are
Core
Course Code | Course Name | # of Credits |
ENG 150 | Writing and Reasoning Foundations | 3 |
ENG 301 | Advanced Writing and Research | 3 |
MATH 108x | Math for the Real World | 3 |
GE 103 | Online University Success | 1 |
Natural Sciences
Course Code | Course Name | # of Credits |
PUBH 132 | Personal Health and Wellness | 3 |
GESCI 110 | Sustaining Human Life | 3 |
Art & Humanities
Course Code | Course Name | # of Credits |
HUM 110 | Discovery and Discernment Through the Arts | 3 |
Social Science
Course Code | Course Name | # of Credits |
FCS 160 | Home and Family Resource Management | 3 |
PEACE 101 | Conflict and Peace | 3 |
Religion (plus an additional 6 credits)
Course Code | Course Name | # of Credits |
REL 200C | The Eternal Family | 2 |
REL 225C | Foundations of the Restoration | 2 |
REL 250C | Jesus Christ Everlasting Gospel | 2 |
REL 275C | Teachings and Doctrines of the Book of Mormon | 2 |
Previously earned course credits from PathwayConnect and/or other colleges and universities will be evaluated after a student is admitted and submits valid transcripts.

- Social and community services
- Family mediation
- Parent education
- Family issues and child advocacy
Why choose this degree?
The bachelor’s degree in family and human services has a strong emphasis on the development of employable skills. Specifically, the marriage and family studies degree emphasizes effective communication, professional writing, teaching skills, synthesizing research, basic data analysis, problem-solving, conflict resolution, persuasive speaking and writing, and other interpersonal and leadership skills. These skills can help students obtain employment in a variety of work settings, including but not limited to human services, parent education, and child advocacy. Additionally, these skills assist students in establishing and maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships-especially in the family. This degree will provide students with an extensive understanding of family systems and relationships.
BYU-Pathway has found that certain combinations of certificates lead to better job opportunities. Most degrees have a