Program Overview
The University of North Alabama’s Master of Science in Family and Community Services program prepares students to support individuals, families, and communities through leadership, advocacy, and evidence-based practice. Through interdisciplinary study and applied learning experiences, you will explore the complex social, cultural, and environmental factors that influence family and community well-being while preparing to create meaningful, lasting impact.
Why Choose This Program?
- Explore family systems, community engagement, and human development through advanced study
- Apply research and theory to real-world challenges affecting individuals, families, and communities
- Prepare for leadership roles in nonprofit organizations, social services, community agencies, and related fields
Curriculum & Coursework
Family and Community Services students examine the relationships, programs, and policies that shape family and community well-being. Coursework emphasizes leadership, program development, family studies, and community engagement while encouraging students to connect theory with professional practice.
Sample Courses:
- FS 601 Family Relations
- FS 610 Family Resource Management
- FS 620 Parenting and Family Life Education
- FS 695 Research Methods in Family Studies
Learning Outcomes:
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Career Paths & Outcomes
A Master of Science in Family and Community Services equips graduates to serve individuals, families, and communities through leadership, advocacy, education, and program development. Graduates are prepared to address complex social challenges and contribute to stronger, healthier communities across a variety of professional settings.
Common Career Paths:
- Family Life Educator
- Community Services Director
- Nonprofit Program Manager
- Family Support Specialist
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Human Services Professional
- Youth Program Director
- Social Services Administrator
Admissions Requirements
In addition to the general requirements for admission to graduate studies (see General Regulations and Procedures), admission to the Master of Science in Family and Community Services requires the following:
- Preparation: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an institution that meets the general admission requirements for graduate study at UNA.
- Scholastic achievement: A minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in all previous undergraduate and graduate coursework.
- Formal cover letter: As part of the application process, applicants must submit a formal cover letter. The cover letter should include the applicant’s academic preparation for the MS program, related professional experience in the field of study, and skill sets the applicant will bring to the program. Long-term professional goals should be outlined in the cover letter.
- A sample of academic writing: (e.g., class paper, term paper, graduation thesis, etc.) with proper in-text and reference citations in an established academic format such as APA, ASA or MLA. Applicants who do not have an appropriate writing sample will be asked to complete a Mock Writing Assignment. Please contact the Graduate Program Coordinator for more information about the professional writing sample.
- References: Two reference persons who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities and success potential in our Master’s program must complete the Recommendation for Admission form. The form can be accessed through the online admissions system. References must not be coworkers, friends, or related to the applicant.Applicants have the following three options to satisfy this requirement:Option 1 – Default Option.The applicant shall submit recommendations from 2 (two) “academic references” served by current or former faculty instructors who taught a course in a related field that the applicant has taken at an accredited institution of higher education.Option 2:In addition to one “academic reference” (served by a current or a former faculty instructor who taught a course in a related field that the applicant has taken at an accredited institution of higher education), the applicant may elect to submit one “professional reference” as a substitute for one of the 2 (two) required “academic references”. The “professional reference” is typically the applicant’s current or past work supervisor in a profession relevant to the MSFCS program or the executive director of the applicants’ practicum or internship experience. Further, the supervisor (or the executive director) must also possess an advanced academic degree beyond the bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., MS, MSW, Ed.D., Psy.D., Ph.D.). Option 3:In addition to one “academic” or “professional” reference described above, the applicant may elect to submit the GRE scores that are equivalent to or higher than a GPA of 3.0 in the sliding scale (published below) in lieu of an academic reference.
- International Credentials: Applicants holding a bachelor’s degree, a graduate degree or the equivalent from an institution outside the United States of America must submit a WES, ECE, or other approved international credential evaluation.
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Student Experience
At UNA, Family and Community Services students participate in a collaborative learning environment focused on service, leadership, and community impact. Through faculty mentorship, applied projects, and engagement with issues affecting families and communities, students gain valuable perspectives that support both professional growth and meaningful service.
Opportunities include:
- Faculty mentorship and individualized guidance
- Applied projects focused on family and community well-being
- Research and professional development opportunities
- Collaboration with professionals across human services fields
- Leadership development experiences
- Networking opportunities within community-focused organizations
Meet the Faculty
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