College of Education and Human Development

Family Social Science

About us

The Department of Family Social Science (FSoS) prepares students to use research to discover and apply knowledge, build interpersonal communication skills, and develop personally and professionally.

Considered one of the premier family departments in the United States and globally, our history reaches back to the very first classes taught at the University of Minnesota in 1884. 

The CEHD Connect article "Responding to the needs of the time" has interviews with department leaders, photos, and more!

The department was among the first to be accredited by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. In addition, Family Social Science has had a long-standing relationship with UMN Extension and the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station to bring evidence-based programming to families across the state and the nation. We are leaders in community-based participatory research to develop community-based programs and educational models.

We know from our own continuing work related to equity, diversity, and inclusion that disparities are the result of systemic inequities stemming from White supremacy and other forms of injustice in the world. We are dedicated to increasing equity, diversity, and inclusion across our academic programs, within our faculty, and in teaching and learning, research, outreach and engagement, and clinical practice. Read our statement on diversity.

Our faculty are innovative mentors, renowned researchers, and committed teachers who are focused on student success. Check out their profiles on the Faculty Directory page and their scholarly work on the Research Topics & Labs, Outreach, and Extension pages. 

Diversity and inclusion

The department values and welcomes diversity in all its forms. Read the department's statement on diversity.

History

Considered one of the premier family departments in the United States, our history reaches back to the very first classes taught at the University of Minnesota in 1884.

Mission

To enhance the well-being of diverse families in a changing world through teaching, research, and outreach.

Vision

Family social science will be an international leader in:

  • Undergraduate, graduate, and extension education
  • Discovery and application of new knowledge
  • Innovative engagement with communities

Values

Collaboration – Excellence – Diversity – Inclusiveness – Innovation – Social relevance.

Department Directory

Contact us

612-625-1900
fsosinfo@umn.edu
Contact form: How can we help you?

Department office

290 McNeal Hall on the St. Paul campus.

Office hours:
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CST.