Family Studies

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire's interdisciplinary family studies minor will give you a deeper understanding of the issues and problems families face in today's society. Coursework focuses on a variety of perspectives — including sociological, developmental, psychological, historical, religious, economic and anthropologic. The minor will also help you to learn about the dynamic relationships within families and the interaction between families and our society. 

Rooted in discussion and experiential learning, a minor in family studies will provide you with a better understanding of social problems and what you can do to make a positive impact on your community and the world. 

Foundational curriculum of the family studies minor includes the history of the family in America, human development and the sociology of families. Throughout the program, you will also select elective courses to explore topics of interest to you — public policy, gender and power, child psychology, the sociology of work and more — to deepen your understanding of family dynamics in contemporary and historical contexts. 

What classes do family studies minors take?

Your classes may cover topics like: 

• Child welfare
• Gender and violence 
• Human development 
• Social class and inequality 
• Social gerontology 
• Aging and the aged
• Sociology of family  

Learn more about the family studies minor in the UWEC catalog.

Thinking about minoring in family studies? Here are other programs you may be interested in exploring.