Program Description

The Master of Science in Family Studies is a fully online program that prepares graduates to work as professionals in government, non-profit, and for-profit agencies that serve children and families. Students gain the knowledge and skills required to enhance the quality of life for children and families and serve as effective advocates. For more information about the wide variety of careers options available to our graduates, please visit the Careers in Sociology and Family Studies page. Since the program is fully online, it is possible to obtain our degree while being employed and/or living in another state. As an online program, we offer in-state tuition to all of our students.

Program Requirements

The M.S. in Family Studies program is comprised of 31 credit hours of course work and the completion of a comprehensive exam or thesis. The program is designed to be completed in two years.

View the Degree Plan Overview.

View a list of Course Titles and Descriptions.

Admissions Requirements

View the Sliding Scale of GPA/Test Score requirements for admission to the program.

How to Apply

Step 1: Apply Online

To apply go to www.una.edu/graduate and click on Getting Started.

Materials you will be required to upload to the online application:

• • Letter of Intent (example) - that outlines the reasons candidates are interested in the program and how it aligns with their future professional goals.
  • Writing Sample (example) - that best reflects candidates' writing and critical thinking skills, typically chosen from undergraduate work.
  • Resume (example) - that includes candidates' records of employment and participation in volunteer activities.

Step 2: Request letters of recommendation

Using the online admissions system, you will input the information of three professional references who will receive an email requesting that they complete an online recommendation form on your behalf. At least one recommendation form must be completed by a current or former faculty member who can speak to your academic abilities.  To request a UNA faculty to serve as reference, fill out Letter of Recommendation Form and submit it to the faculty as an email attachment.  

Step 3: Request official transcripts

Request official transcripts from each institution previously attended whether or not you received a degree from that institution. Transcripts from University of North Alabama are not required.  Official transcripts can be sent through an electronic transcript service to graduate@una.edu or mailed to: Office of Admissions, UNA Box 5078, Florence, AL 35632.    

Step 4: Submit official test score report for GRE or MAT

Submit official test score report (GRE or MAT) to the University of North Alabama (test code 1735). The GRE and MAT are offered at UNA.  Visit UNA Testing Services to learn more.

Step 5: Check your Application Status

To check the status of your application, visit the Applyweb Applicant Portal at www.applyweb.com. Click on Application Status, login, and view your checklist.

Frequently Asked Questions

View our responses to the most Frequently Asked Questions regarding our graduate program (e.g., cost of attendance, student loan information, etc.).

For more information:

Please contact Dr. Amber Paulk, Coordinator of Graduate Studies, at apaulk@una.edu or (256) 765-4855.

Request for Information

Thank You

Thank you for requesting more information. You will be contacted via phone or email regarding your request.