Become who you're meant to be. While earning a B.A. in Family Life Studies, you'll prepare to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families by studying family relationships, human development, communication, and family wellbeing. Through a strengths-based, preventive approach, you'll learn how to help families thrive and prepare to pursue Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) certification.
Contact us
Request info
Interested in learning more about Bethel’s family life studies program? Fill out this simple form and we'll send you more information soon.
Hey! Looks like the form didn't load. If it doesn't load after a second or two, please refresh the page and you should see it. If that doesn't work, please let us know.
Connect with a counselor
They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
By majoring in family life studies, you'll develop the knowledge and practical skills to strengthen families, build healthy relationships, and educate people across every stage of life.
Relational competency
Develop the communication, conflict resolution, and relationship-building skills needed to support couples, parents, and families in a variety of settings.
Human development understanding
Gain a deeper understanding of how people grow and develop across the lifespan so you can meet the unique needs of children, adolescents, adults, and older adults.
Family advocacy and support
Explore how families interact with schools, communities, workplaces, and public systems while learning to connect them with resources and support.
Research and professional practice
Build skills in research, ethics, program planning, and family education methods as you prepare for Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) certification and professional practice.
Cultural awareness
Learn to articulate social and cultural influences that impact various aspects of family life and assess the impact of demographics on contemporary families.
Skills for any career
Develop strengths in communication, critical thinking, collaboration, leadership, and problem solving—skills that will prepare you for careers in education, nonprofit organizations, ministry, healthcare, community services, and beyond.
Academic plans
Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you'll find numerous opportunities to get involved, apply what you've learned, and gain experience. And Bethel's size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue meaningful experiences from your first year on campus.
Study abroad
You can take classes abroad through trips over a full semester, January session, spring break, and summer.
Clubs and activities
Get involved in student organizations that align with your interests in communication, relationships, leadership, and service. You'll build friendships, strengthen your leadership skills, and connect with others who share your passion for supporting individuals and families.
Networking and professional connections
Learn from faculty, alumni, and professionals working in family services, education, ministry, healthcare, and nonprofit organizations. And working with The Studio for Vocation and Calling, you’ll find applicable opportunities to build professional connections.
Real-world impact
What can I do with this degree?
With a family life studies major, you'll be prepared to educate, support, and strengthen individuals and families in a variety of community settings. You'll graduate ready to pursue Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) certification and make a meaningful difference through education, advocacy, and relationship-centered work.
Family life education
Help individuals and families thrive by developing and leading educational programs in schools, nonprofit organizations, churches, healthcare organizations, and community-based settings.
Community and human services
Support children, parents, couples, and older adults through organizations that strengthen families, promote healthy relationships, and connect people with valuable resources.
Certified Family Life Educator certification
Prepare to pursue Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) certification through coursework approved by the National Council on Family Relations, opening doors to careers in family education and advocacy.
Graduate school and continued preparation
You'll be well prepared for graduate study in marriage and family therapy, counseling, social work, public health, nonprofit leadership, higher education, and related fields.
Start your journey
Explore Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
$facultyDescription
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
A path with promise
Clear price. Clear outcomes.
Know what your education costs—and where it’s taking you. You’ll start with a clear price so you can focus on what truly matters: your education and your future. And you’ll graduate with confidence through the Bethel Career Commitment, which includes built-in career coaching and additional support for eligible graduates who still need help.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
Explore the full lists: