About Family Sciences - Graduate in University of Kentucky

The family sciences master’s (M.S.) program uses an integrative approach to learning about improving individual, family, and community well-being. The program prepares students for immediate employment in their chosen area, and also provides an excellent foundation for subsequent matriculation into a doctoral program.

Five emphasis areas are available in the family sciences master’s program: (a) adolescent development, (b) aging, (c) couple and family therapy, (d) family finance and economics, and (e) family processes. The curriculum for each emphasis area except couple and family therapy requires a minimum of 30 credit hours, comprised of 15 credit hours of core courses, 5 hours of electives, 3 hours of a data analysis or program evaluation course, 1 hour of a professional development seminar, and 6 credit hours for the thesis (Plan A) or scholarly project (Plan B).

The couple and family therapy emphasis area is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) and requires a prescribed curriculum totaling 53 credit hours (2 years, including one summer), comprised of 15 credit hours of core family sciences courses, 18 hours of core couple and family therapy courses, 10 hours of supervised practicum, 3 hours of a data analysis or program evaluation course, 1 hour of a professional development seminar, and 6 credit hours for the thesis (Plan A) or scholarly project (Plan B). Students also must complete 300-500 client contact hours, which is primarily accomplished during the 10 hours of practicum.

Academic qualification equivalents

• Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree 

English language requirements 

• IELTS : 6.5
• TOEFL IBT: 79

University of Kentucky Cost of Attendance

When calculating the total cost of attendance at the University of Kentucky, students must factor in tuition fees and living expenses in the United States.