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Human Environmental Sciences
Graduate Studies in HES: Serving a World in Need
View Details on our Concentrations:
Enrich the lives of individuals, families and communities… with balance. Human environmental sciences (HES) prepares professionals to examine environmental tensions and seek balance – between consumer needs and production challenges in Apparel Studies; family needs and societal demands in Child and Family Studies; and promotion or distortion of health claims in Multidisciplinary Health Communication Studies.
Our graduate program provides a strong professional knowledge base to enhance skills in advocacy and leadership, enabling graduates to effectively meet the needs of individuals, families and communities in their local and global environments.
Earning a master’s in HES prepares you for a career in a variety of settings, including for-profit and non-profit institutions that meet the health, wellness, food, shelter, clothing, financial, employment and literacy needs of those they serve. A diverse course of study for an ever-changing world also prepares you to serve in a variety of capacities. The U.S. Dept. of Labor Statistics (2009) notes:
- The need for qualified professionals to serve individuals and families will rise 19% over the next 8 years.
- Continued growth in careers related to health promotion and communication are expected, including an 18 to 26% increase in public relations, technical writing/editing, and health education.
- The increasing population and complexity of global production will require more professionals with advanced knowledge of apparel systems, leading to a 7% increase in marketing and advertising positions in apparel-related fields by 2018.
“We prepare professionals who understand the complexities of the human experience by challenging students to address issues intellectually, compassionately, and with respect for the dignity of the human spirit. As professionals in a variety of settings, our graduates are participants in the transformation of public and private spaces, while being advocates for the common good.”
At Fontbonne, you’ll experience small class sizes that encourage meaningful discussion among faculty and students. Our professors are supportive and committed to your success in and out of the classroom, sharing theory and practical knowledge. Guest speakers and off-site community program opportunities help you gain additional real-world experiences.
You’ll also learn how to:
- use theoretical frameworks in the context of your professional experiences
- address human needs intellectually, compassionately, and respectfully
- advocate for individuals in public and private spaces
- assist colleagues by addressing the need for balance in the workplace
Opportunities to Advance and Excel
Professionals with master's degrees enhance their development by adding expertise and relevance to their jobs today and careers tomorrow. For those working in school settings, the degree will also help you move up on the salary schedule. Others may wish to use the master's program to add to their foundation for their terminal degree. There is a growing shortage and demand for college and university professors in HES and related areas.
With our HES graduate degree, you can explore a variety of satisfying career choices, within:
- Family-centered agencies
- Not-for-profit agencies
- Non-governmental organizations
- Youth development and community-based programs
- For profit corporations
- Public relations offices
- Medical communication industries
- Entrepreneurial endeavors
Another Option
Would you like to teach in a related area of study? Fontbonne also offers a master's of teaching degree with a concentration in family and consumer sciences (FCS). Learn more.
Find out more
Get more information about this program or set up an informational meeting with the program director.
For information regarding financial aid, e-mail financialaid@fontbonne.edu or call (314) 889-1414.
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