What is FCS?

Family and Consumer Sciences is the people-centered science. A research-based discipline focused on supporting individuals, families, and communities live healthy successful lives through the provision of education, research, and technology.

Within Family and Consumer Sciences, Human Sciences - Health and Human Sciences - Home Ecology - Home Economics, are all terms that have been used to refer to the discipline and sub-areas of FCS. By clicking on the images to your right, you will learn more about each term and its application within Family and Consumer Sciences.

Publications:

"Family and Consumer Sciences: Overview of a 100-year-old industry sector," click here.

Career pathways common to FCS professionals can be found here and here.

Stories from FCS Professionals:

FCS professionals work in all facets of industry, government, education, and more. Throughout history, FCS professionals have changed the lives of the people around them for the better through public outreach, programming, education, and advocacy.

Click here to read their stores.

Information on the Family and Consumer Sciences Industry can be found here.

Family and Consumer Sciences

The People-Centered Sciences

Definition

Field of study focused on the science and the art of living and working well in our complex world.

Value

Through research, experiential education, and technology, our professionals help people develop the essential knowledge and skills to:

Lead better lives
Be work and career ready
Build strong families
Make meaningful contributions to our communities

Content Areas

Our Primary areas of focus include:

Culinary arts, hospitality, and tourism
Education and training
Food science and nutrition
Health management and wellness
Housing and interior design
Human/child development and family relations
Personal and family finance
Textiles, apparel, and retailing

Sustainable practices, consumerism, and leadership principles are woven throughout the content areas.

Practice Settings

You will find professionals in:

Academic education at these levels:
- Early childhood
- Elementary
- Secondary
- Higher Education
Community education for adults and youth, including Cooperative Extension programs
Business and industry
Government
Health and human services

The Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Body of Knowledge establishes the intellectual and philosophical foundation for the field. The Body of Knowledge provides the framework through which FCS professionals communicate, research, and practice. Through an understanding and application of the Body of Knowledge, FCS professionals enhance individual and family well-being, expand community vitality, and address societal trends and issues.

VIEW THE RETOOLED Body of Knowledge!

Click here for an overview and explanation of the FCS Body of Knowledge.

*The FCS Body of Knowledge is currently undergoing revision and the AAFCS expects to publish an updated and enhanced Body of Knowledge in 2025, see the press release announcing the revision.

To learn more about the development and evolution of the FCS Body of Knowledge, check out the AAFCS E-Book - Family and Consumer Sciences Compendium Series: Volume 1, Body of Knowledge.

FCS - Brand

AAFCS is the copyright and trademark owner of the FCS icon, tagline, and related visuals.

To learn more about the FCS brand usage, guidelines, and supporting materials, see our visit the Family & Consumer Sciences Brand page. You may also want to reference the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for additional information on AAFCS and FCS.

NEW! FCS Key Message Card