Minor Degree Program
The Family Social Science minor allows students to gain an understanding
of families from several social science perspectives. Couple relationships,
family systems, and diversity are included in the basic courses. Other
themes can be selected from the elective courses to create a minor that will
enhance your major either in the College of Education and Human Development or some other
college in the University of Minnesota.
Required Courses
Elective Courses
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FSOS 1101, Intimate Relationships (3 credits)
- A/F grade base, minimum grade C-
- This course focuses on couple dynamics and gives and overview of how
to develop, maintain, and terminate an intimate relationship.
Relationship skills and issues including communication, conflict,
resolution, power, and roles are discussed. The course objectives are to
provide an overview of these topics as well as a deeper appreciation and
awareness of their importance. General topics to be covered include
dating, cohabitation, marriage, sexual orientation, gender roles and
power, communication and conflict resolution, relationship problems
(abuse, infidelity, divorce) and couple enrichment and couple therapy.
FSOS 3102, Family Systems and Diversity (3 credits)
- A/F grade base, minimum grade C-
- This course uses family theories to focus inquiry on the dynamics
and processes relevant to family life. We will examine the influence of
gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and disability on families.
Specific topics affecting families such as divorce, single parenthood,
and remarriage are also covered. Major themes addresses in this course
include the need for balance between family strengths and family
problems and the identification and management of resources available to
help families succeed.
