Family Studies focuses on healthy family functioning within a family systems perspective and provides a primarily preventative approach.  The skills and knowledge needed for healthy functioning include strong communication skills, knowledge of typical human development, good decision making skills, positive self-esteem, and healthy interpersonal relationships.  The goal of family life education is to teach and foster this knowledge and these skills to enable individuals and families to function optimally.  Family Studies professionals consider societal issues including economics, education, work-family issues, parenting, sexuality, gender, and more within the context of the family.  Mid Atlantic is one of the few schools in North Carolina and Virginia that offers the opportunity to become a Certified Family Life Educator (provisional licensure at graduation) through The National Council on Family Relations (http://www.ncfr.org/cfle-certification).

Students completing the Family Studies Major will:
•    demonstrate an ability to plan programming and regular training in family life skills;
•    understand the nuances of and be able to adapt to the distinct requirements of ethnic groups and special needs students;
•    know the cultural and legal trends that are redefining family life and altering the mindset of today’s young people;
•    develop professional skills useful for dealing with people;
•    develop skills to recruit and train volunteers;
•    refine interpersonal skills for positive relationships with volunteers and paid staff;
•    demonstrate the ability to serve in a variety of leadership roles.

Your two-year plan includes:
Biblical Studies - Minor
Family Studies - Major

About Mid-Atlantic Christian University:
Mid-Atlantic Christian University was founded in Elizabeth City NC in 1948. MACU is primarily supported by independent churches and members, who are part of a heritage commonly known as the Stone-Campbell or Restoration Movement. The Restoration Movement promotes Christian unity on the basis of the Bible and without denominational structure. MACU is a biblical community whose mission is to impact the world by transforming ordinary people into extraordinary Christian Leaders.