More career options now available for W family science graduates
Mississippi University for Women’s family science students now have the opportunity earn credentials recognized by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Office of Head Start (OHS).
Announced by the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR) in August, the Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) credential is now recognized by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and the Office of Head Start.
“The new endorsements from the Office of Head Start and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs have brought widespread recognition to the Certified Family Life Educator credential and has increased employment opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Dorothy Berglund, chair of the Department of Psychology and Family Science.
According to the NCFR, “For Family Science programs, including CFLE-approved programs, these recognitions mean enhanced recruitment opportunities due to increased job prospects and credential accessibility. The approvals enhance the attractiveness of Family Science and CFLE-approved programs to prospective students and further support the success of Family Science graduates.”
The W is one of approximately 130 certified CFLE programs throughout the United States. The W’s program has been credentialed for 20 consecutive years.
Berglund said, “The fact that companies are recruiting CFLEs is encouraging. We anticipate that more students will be inspired to pursue the certification and discover more chances to advance family well-being as a result of this.”
The coursework required by the W’s Family Science major is approved by the NCFR CFLE program for provisional certification. Family Science majors can become a provisional Certified Family Life Educator by completing their abbreviated application form during their final term at The W or within two years of graduation.
CFLE credentials are provided by the NCFR and are recognized in the U.S. and Canada. Accredited programs offer coursework covering 10 content areas that provide the foundation for working with individuals within the family system context.
Announced in May 2024, any veteran throughout the United States who takes the CFLE exam or graduates from a CFLE-approved program can apply to have their fees reimbursed through the GI Bill.
Family Science is a major based on social sciences that focuses on the study of families, couples and communities. This major provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand family dynamics and relationships and to offer support to families in various contexts.
To learn more about The W’s family science program, please visit https://www.muw.edu/pfs/