Career and technical education | Family and consumer sciences option
Bachelor of Science in Education
Overview
Related Topics
Teach practical skills for real-world success
Helping students build practical life skills can have a lasting impact on individuals, families and communities. Family and consumer sciences (FCS) career and technical education (CTE) prepares future secondary education teachers to deliver hands-on instruction that equips students with the knowledge and skills to thrive at home, in the workplace and throughout their lives.
In this program, you'll study nutrition and wellness, culinary arts, child development, family relations, consumer and personal finance, hospitality, apparel and textiles, housing and interior design and human development. Throughout the program, you'll explore project-based learning, emerging technologies and career-connected teaching that engages diverse learners.
Your education extends beyond campus through early field experiences, classroom observations and a semester of student teaching in secondary schools. These hands-on learning experiences allow you to develop confidence leading labs, demonstrations and experiential learning while refining your instruction alongside experienced mentor teachers. U of I faculty provide individualized support and bring extensive experience in family and consumer sciences, career and technical education and teacher preparation.
Graduates are prepared to teach family and consumer sciences and related career and technical education courses in middle schools, high schools, career technical centers and other educational settings. Upon completion of the program, you'll be eligible for Idaho secondary teacher certification in FCS. Graduates also pursue a range of careers in community education, workforce development, Extension, nonprofit organizations and other professions.
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy working with people and helping others succeed
- Are interested in nutrition, wellness, family studies, hospitality, consumer sciences or human development
- Want to become a family and consumer sciences teacher
- Enjoy teaching practical, hands-on life and career skills
- Have strong communication, leadership and relationship-building skills
- Want to prepare students for successful careers, healthy lives and thriving communities
Teach the tools of the trade
Curriculum
The B.S.Ed. in career and technical education, family and consumer sciences option is a 120-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
Explore program courses in the University Catalog
Hands-on learning
Put your knowledge into practice during a full semester of student teaching, typically completed in your final semester before graduation. Working alongside an experienced mentor teacher and supported by a University of Idaho supervisor, you'll gain the confidence and real-world classroom experience needed to begin your teaching career.
Our dedicated placement coordinator works closely with each student to secure a placement that aligns with their goals and preferred location. While many students complete their student teaching in Idaho, placements are available throughout the United States, and qualified students may even have opportunities to teach internationally.
Through this immersive experience, you'll plan lessons, lead instruction, build relationships with students and families, and experience the day-to-day responsibilities of a classroom teacher. By graduation, you'll have the practical skills, professional support and classroom experience to transition successfully into your own classroom.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,174 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Social and Community Service Managers
$88,282 - Social Science Research Assistants
$56,133 - Marriage and Family Therapists
$83,916 - Child, Family, and School Social Workers
$69,057 - Social and Human Service Assistants
$50,367
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Make the most of your Vandal experience by building leadership skills, connecting with peers and professionals, and participating in organizations and activities that complement your academic and career goals.
- EHHS ambassadors — Build communication, networking and professional skills while representing the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences.
- Aspiring Educators Club — Connect with fellow education students and learn about the teaching profession from experienced educators and education professionals currently working in the field.
- Volunteer and leadership opportunities — Gain leadership experience through campus events and community service.
Looking for even more ways to get involved? Explore student organizations, campus activities and leadership opportunities across the university.
Financial aid and scholarships
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
- Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
- Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
- Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty
What can you do with a CTE family and consumer sciences degree?
Family and consumer sciences educators help students build skills they can use every day — from nutrition and financial decision-making to career preparation, relationships and healthy living. With a B.S.Ed. in career and technical education, family and consumer sciences from University of Idaho, you'll prepare to turn those practical skills into meaningful learning experiences for middle and high school students.
This degree combines teacher preparation with broad knowledge across family and consumer sciences, giving you the flexibility to teach a variety of subjects while preparing students for life beyond the classroom. You'll graduate with hands-on teaching experience and the preparation needed to pursue Idaho secondary teacher certification in family and consumer sciences.
Your career options can extend beyond the traditional classroom, too. The knowledge and teaching skills you develop can prepare you for opportunities in community education, workforce development, Extension and outreach programs, nonprofit organizations and other careers focused on helping individuals, families and communities thrive.