Hesston College's Child and Family Studies program provides a solid foundation of career program and pre-professional education for students who are interested in a variety of vocations related to working with families and children. Combining coursework from our Social Sciences division and our Early Childhood Education (ECE) program, students can tailor their studies to their career interests.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in all of the social service vocations is projected to grow faster than employment in many other vocations during the next ten years. Besides an overall increase in jobs, the types of programs serving families - and, therefore, job options - are becoming increasingly varied. Recent brain research, governmental policies, and societal needs are all causing an increase in programs that help nurture children within families and an emphasis upon family centered practices. No matter what role or setting in which a professional works, he or she must understand the relationship between a child's growth and development and the environment.
What is unique about Hesston's Child and Family Studies program?
Classes from the Social Sciences and our Early Childhood Education programs both offer students opportunities to gain practical experiences and hands-on learning. Opportunities are available through involvement with Hesston College Preschool and Schowalter Villa, as well as visits to other programs in the greater community. Through these varied experiences, you will be exposed to many possibilities for your later work with children and their families.
What kind of degree will I receive at Hesston?
At Hesston, you will earn an associate's degree and complete at least 60 hours of college credit. The options after graduation from Hesston College are as varied as our students.
The two-year degree goal is one option. Students complete two years of studies at Hesston and find employment right away in careers such as a family service worker, home visitor, outreach worker, social service assistant, physical or occupational therapy aide, congregational children's ministry worker, child advocate, teacher in a licensed early childhood care and education program, a licensed family care provider, or a paraeducator or instructional assistant in public school classroom.
But the degree that you receive at Hesston College may be only the beginning of your education. You may choose to continue your education at another college or university and earn a bachelor's degree and perhaps a graduate degree in family studies, child development or social work. Career options include various social work positions in child welfare, family services, or in an education setting, teaching in a variety of settings, directing a licensed care and education program, and children's ministry.
What courses will I take?
The following courses are recommended for Hesston's Child and Family Studies program. Your specific goals will determine whether you enroll in more Early Childhood Education or more social science courses.
Early Childhood Education courses:
Introduction to ECE
Environments for Young Children
Infants and Toddlers
Social Science courses:
General Psychology
Introduction to Sociology
Introduction to Social Welfare
The Helping Relationship
