The Consumer and Family Financial Services major offers specializations in Family Financial Management and Consumer Services.
The focal point of the major is the interaction between consumers and the marketplace. Courses emphasize understanding of consumer issues and concerns, consumer behavior and decision making, marketplace complexities, resolution of consumer problems, and public policy affecting consumer welfare. Emphasis is placed on development of communication and analytical skills related to consumer/market concepts.
Coursework in the Consumer Services Specialization provides opportunity for more in-depth study of solutions to consumer problems, analysis of consumer data, and the business environment. Students can select courses to specialize in sales, management and human resources, or housing/real estate.
The Family Financial Services Specialization focuses on financial planning with emphasis on family financial management rather than corporate finance. Study in this option prepares students for careers related to helping families and individuals reach financial goals through effective management of financial resources. Specific topics of study include general financial planning; use of insurance, credit, savings, and investment instruments to reach financial goals; and retirement and estate planning.
Graduates find employment in business and industry, financial establishments, and nonprofit organizations, as well as in state agencies, social service agencies, trade associations, public utilities, and the state legislature. Positions in the area of consumer affairs include public relations representative, customer service representative, market research analyst, sales representative or manager, educational specialist, marketing specialist, and legislative advocate. Family financial management graduates may find employment as financial planners or counselors; life insurance, credit, or benefits counselors; loan officers; or financial analysts. Beginning salaries for graduates of the family resource management major are in the mid 30,000s, depending on candidates' skills, previous work experience, and other factors determined by various employers.
© 2009 The Ohio State University - College of Education and Human Ecology. All Rights Reserved.
If you have trouble accessing this page and need to request an alternate format, contact the webmaster.