College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies

Program Description

The goal of the certificate is to prepare students to provide family life education in a variety of settings such as schools, churches, youth programs, health care, and family service agencies. The certificate program is designed to cover the ten family life education content areas delineated by the National Council on Family Relations NCFR. The certificate is not a teaching credential. In conjunction with a Bachelor or Master degree or a state teaching credential, it may be helpful in obtaining employment as a Family Life Educator.

Note: This program is taken concurrently with established degree requirements. The majority of courses for the certificate program are applicable toward course requirements for a Bachelor's degree in Family Studies and Human Development. The certificate is not a teaching credential. In conjunction with a Bachelor or Master degree or a state teaching credential, it may be helpful in obtaining employment as a Family Life Educator.

Admission Requirements

1. Students must either be in a degree program at Sacramento State or must apply for graduate admission to the University.
2. Both undergraduates and graduate students must have a GPA of at least 2.5.
3. Students must meet with a Family Studies and Human Development major advisor for planning and verification that certificate requirements are met.

Program Requirements

1. Complete a baccalaureate degree program with a major in Family Studies and Human Development or a related field.
2. A GPA of 3.0 (B grade or higher) must be attained for all courses taken in the program.
3. At least 9 of the 21 required units must be taken in residence at Sacramento State.

National Council on Family Relations Family Life Content Areas

• Families and Individuals in Societal Contexts
• Internal Dynamics of Families
• Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan
• Human Sexuality
• Family Resource Management
• Interpersonal Relationships
• Parent Education and Guidance
• Family Law and Public Policy
• Professional Ethics and Practice
• Family Life Education Methodology

Career Possibilities

The Sacramento State certificate in Family Life Education can stand alone or serve as a step toward national certification through the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR). Family Life Educators have employment opportunities in a variety of public service areas: social services, health and welfare, recreation, youth programs, community action, preschool/daycare, after school programs, drug/alcohol rehabilitation centers, senior citizens programs, military family support, parent education, community education, extension services, and family service agencies. For information on certification at the national level see www.ncfr.org.