M.Ed. in Family Education
Education at the foundation of society
Family is the basic building block of society—the environment where we first learn about the world, build skills for our earliest explorations, and acquire the beliefs and behaviors that can help or hinder us throughout life.
The Master’s of Education (M.Ed.) in Family Education recognizes this vital role and our tremendous responsibility to equip parents and caregivers with evidence-based tools and knowledge that will foster stronger, healthier families and children.
Career options
This degree will prepare you to design, deliver, and evaluate family-focused programs for adult learners. Interested in preparing for a teaching license while earning your M.Ed? Learn more on the M.Ed. with Parent and Family Education License page.

Master's degree students who reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the knowledge they gained in their program.

Master's degree students who said their analytical and critical thinking skills had developed to a large or very large extent.
Program options
The M.Ed. in Family Education offers you two options:
- A 30-credit master's program with a Capstone Interview. For more information view the program checklist (PDF).
- A 30-credit master's program with a Capstone Interview that includes the requirements for licensure. For more information visit the M.Ed. in Family Education with Parent and Family Education License page.
Unsure which program is right for you? Learn more about these options in the Parent and Family Education program manual.
How to apply
Application deadlines:
M.Ed. in Family Education
- March 1 for fall admission
- October 1 for spring admission
Begin your application and learn more about the Department's specific application requirements on the How to apply page.
If you have any questions, please e-mail famed@umn.edu, or call 612-625-2705.
Financing your education
Visit OneStop Student Services: Finances for information on tuition, fees, and financial aid.
Visit Assistantships, Fellowships, & Other Funding for more information on funding opportunities through FSoS, CEHD, and UMN.
Admissions
Admission to the Department of Family Social Science (FSoS) is based on a review of multiple sources of information:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. academic institution or foreign equivalent, evidence of strong academic preparation, and the ability and desire to perform graduate level scholarship.
- Alignment of applicant's professional goals with the Parent and Family Education program's goals to prepare practitioners to design, deliver, and evaluate educational programs for parents and families.
- Unique contributions applicant would make to FSoS values, including social relevance, collaboration, inclusiveness, excellence, innovation, and diversity.