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.
Minor Degree Program: Required CoursesFSOS 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.