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Bachelor of Science in Family Studies & Gerontology 

Learn to transform our society by maximizing their knowledge of human development, social services, aging, and family dynamics.

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Thank You

"I have always wanted to pursue my degree but had to raise my children first. I was determined to show my children that no matter how old we get, we are never too old to pursue our dreams, regardless of how difficult or how long the process may take. Completing the bridge program and then the FSG program, plus working full-time and sometimes two jobs, took a lot of time and dedication. I will be forever thankful for the professors, advisors, and friends I made along the way. 

Diana P.

FSG Graduate

Program Overview

Professionals educated in Family Studies and Gerontology will play a pivotal role in caring for people while transforming society. Americans are aging and living longer, and young families are also caught in this sea of change. Your understanding of the entire lifespan is crucial. Whether you want to enhance the meaning of your life, springboard into a new career, advance an existing career or simply have a passion to make a difference in the lives of others, you will be equipped to follow your calling with a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies and Gerontology. You have found your platform to further your life goals for graduate school and professional fields that include the practical side of ministry, community, human, and social services with nonprofits, private, for-profit, state and local government. Welcome to becoming the change our world needs!

By attending class one night a week, students can earn a bachelor’s degree while learning about family dynamics and relationships, the processes of development and aging, and the social service resources available in contemporary society. 

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5
week course format
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7
start dates per year
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Graduate in as few as
18 months
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36
total credit hours
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$475
per credit hour
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Learn entirely online or on campus one night a week

Upcoming Start Dates

Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Bethany
Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Tulsa
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Online

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Frequently Asked Questions

HOW CAN I EARN THIS DEGREE WHILE WORKING FULL-TIME OR RAISING A FAMILY?

Earning a degree while working full-time or raising a family has never been more possible. Here’s why adult students are thriving and reaching their goals at SNU:

  • Classes take place one night a week or entirely online.
  • Students focus on one class at a time to ensure true mastery and prevent overwhelm.
  • You can earn up to 30 hours of college credit for what you already know.
  • Earn up to 9 hours of college credit from field-specific credentials, certifications, or other professional development.
  • Students study alongside other adults in similar stages of life.
  • Instructors with vast amounts of industry experience guide students through courses.
  • Textbooks are delivered directly to your door at the beginning of each class.
  • A dedicated student success advisor guides students through the duration of your studies.
WHAT DOES A COMMUNITY, SOCIAL, AND HUMAN SERVICES SPECIALIST DO?

A community, social, and human services specialist works within a variety of organizations, from government to non-profit organizations, in a myriad of fields and settings, providing support, assistance, programs, services, care, resources, activities, education, information, oversight, enrichment, and well-being best practices for individuals of all ages in need.

WHY SHOULD I GET A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FAMILY STUDIES & GERONTOLOGY DEGREE?

This degree prepares individuals to make a positive difference in the world, addressing the concerns and needs that people face while doing so more creatively and intentionally. FSG graduates are encouraged to critically assess life issues through the lens of hope and opportunity to make a difference. FSG graduates are often the most extraordinary human beings working on behalf of others.

WHO HIRES COMMUNITY, SOCIAL, AND HUMAN SERVICES SPECIALISTS?

Government organizations, non-profit organizations, and for-profit organizations all hire community human social service specialists.

WHAT JOBS WILL A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FAMILY STUDIES & GERONTOLOGY DEGREE PREPARE ME FOR?

Jobs of all kinds in the context of Advocacy, Support Services, Relief Services, Community Outreach, Individual and Family Services, Residential Care Facilities, Rehabilitation Services, Education, and Practical Ministry Services.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR COMMUNITY, SOCIAL, AND HUMAN SERVICES SPECIALISTS?

As of May 2023, the average salary for community, social, and human services specialists is around $52,000 annually.

WHAT MAKES SNU'S BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FAMILY STUDIES & GERONTOLOGY PROGRAM UNIQUE?

The Family Studies and Gerontology degree provides a strong academic foundation for the pursuit of a graduate degree and equips individuals to help others across their entire lifespan, which is a beautiful bonus for those who see their profession as an extended practical side of our calling to care for others for Holy Kingdom purposes.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FAMILY STUDIES & GERONTOLOGY PROGRAM?

In the Bachelor of Science in Family Studies & Gerontology program at SNU, you can expect a well-rounded education focused on family dynamics and aging. The program integrates courses in human development, gerontology, and family systems, equipping students with the skills needed to work with both families and older adults. SNU’s unique emphasis on ethics, service, and faith-based learning enhances students' understanding of these fields. Additionally, you’ll gain practical experience through a practicum, preparing for careers across the lifespan in family services,  lifecare and well being, and aging-related professions.

In this program, learners are covered in prayer daily since they are specifically preparing and becoming equipped to meet the needs of those who are most frequently fragile, vulnerable, and in the greatest need.

HOW MUCH DOES THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FAMILY STUDIES & GERONTOLOGY DEGREE COST?

This program costs $475 per credit hour, with 36 hours totaling $17,100 plus the cost of books.

DOES SNU, OR THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FAMILY SERVICES & GERONTOLOGY PROGRAM OFFER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES OR JOB PLACEMENT?

All FSG learners are encouraged to network with their instructors who are experts in their professional fields. In addition, FSG learners are required to complete a practicum learning experience that directly connects them to the professional area of their greatest interest. We encourage learners to network and use this as an opportunity to explore professionally. Learners frequently walk away from a successful practicum experience with recommendations for graduate school and/or possible career opportunities.

WHY SHOULD I COMPLETE MY BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FAMILY STUDIES & GERONTOLOGY DEGREE AT SNU?

This particular degree is personally affirming due to the nature of the course of study, as it stretches learners intellectually, emotionally, interpersonally, and spiritually. Learners are often prepared for academic studies but are unexpectedly surprised by the personal therapeutic nature of the study and academic process. Specifically, for the learner who leans into this educational pursuit, it is frequently described as life-changing and personally transformative.

AM I TOO OLD TO ATTEMPT A NEW ACADEMIC PURSUIT?

Age is just a number. If you are ready to take on the challenge and believe that you are being called to this academic pursuit, then you have arrived at this moment right on time. So, smile, take the first step, and embrace the adventure!

I WANT TO WORK WITH CHILDREN SO CAN I COMPLETE THIS DEGREE TO ACCOMPLISH MY GOALS?

Yes! This is a study of the complete human lifespan from conception to the end of life. Most of the courses, by design, will allow you to explore your specific interest within the context of the course being studied. For example, when you are studying Death, Grief, and Loss, you may want to look at the implications of Death, Grief, and Loss specifically as they apply to children since that is your population of interest specifically.

HOW WILL I KNOW THAT THIS IS THE RIGHT PROGRAM FOR ME?

1. When you read through the listing of courses, most of the courses seem to speak to the very heart of what you care most about, and that is people.

2. You realize more fully that you want to become better equipped to help people in your family, neighborhood, community, and in the nature of your day-to-day professional work, through the most challenging times of life.

3. You like the idea that when questions and requests for help come your way, you will be able to provide real help and assistance and, therefore, often change the trajectory of a person's life. You really want to make a difference in the lives of others, those you love, care about and connect with while utilizing best practices.

  • "The model of prayer and having devotionals and having teachers that are available, a chaplain that is available at your leisure and is there to help you with your own self-care as an adult definitely helped sway my decision toward SNU"
    Dorsey Ramsey
    B.S. Family Studies and Gerontology & M.S. Counseling Psychology
  • "Being able to attend an educational institution that genuinely understands the importance of life, family, and faith is a blessing, and I'm very proud to say that I am a Southern Nazarene University alum today"
    Nina S
    B.S. Family Studies and Gerontology
  • "I am grateful for my experience at snu it changed my life and continues to set my life up for the vision I have for my future."
    Cherokee King
    B.S. Family Studies and Gerontology Graduate

    Courses

    The Family Studies and Gerontology curriculum is designed to maximize your knowledge of human development, social services, aging, and family dynamics so you can provide the best service to others after graduation. 

    HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

    Credit hours: 3
    This course focuses on early development—conception through adolescence. Emphasis is placed on understanding the physical, psychological and social processes that form the foundation upon which development rests.

    PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

    Credit hours: 2
    This course examines adult learning theory and various learning styles. The course provides a model that is used to analyze life experience.

    FAMILY COMMUNICATION

    Credit hours: 2
    This course examines interpersonal communication and the factors that influence its effectiveness in professional, family, and personal relationships.

    ADULTHOOD & AGING

    Credit hours: 3
    This course provides a study of development from young adulthood through later life. An introduction to the field of gerontology is also given.

    FAMILY: DYNAMICS & STRUCTURE

    Credit hours: 2
    This course studies the origin, development, functions, and problems of the basic social institution of our culture—the family. A systems approach is used to study the relationships and dynamics of family functioning.

    INTRO TO SOCIAL SERVICES SEMINAR

    Credit hours: 0
    This seminar examines the social, economic, and legal services that are relevant to the family and later life adults. Special coverage will be given to the availability of public and private resources. This seminar lays the foundational framework for the practicum in a community setting and the research component. 

    DATA ANALYSIS METHODS

    Credit hours: 3
    This course provides a survey and application of the basic data analysis methods used in the process of evaluation, including a study of both descriptive and inferential statistical methods.

    INTRODUCTION TO COUNSELING

    Credit hours: 3
    This course combines the relevant principles and techniques of counseling and is designed to develop counseling competency.

    BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES IN WESTERN CULTURE

    Credit hours: 3
    This course provides study of the Bible as a foundation to an understanding of Western culture and history. The course also explores the Relevance of the Bible to modern day life.

    FAMILY: COPING WITH CRISES

    Credit hours: 3
    This course examines the various crises and transitions which a family can experience throughout its various stages, as well as the dynamics of relationships and coping strategies for times of transition and crisis.

    INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION

    Credit hours: 2
    This course examines management styles and supervisory principles relevant to the administration of programs for the family and aging individuals.

    ASSESSMENT AND WELLNESS

    Credit hours: 2
    This course examines the techniques for assessing the physical, mental, social, and emotional status of the adult in later life. Emphasis will be given to the development of appropriate methods for optimizing the functioning of the aging individual.

    DEATH, GRIEF & LOSS

    Credit hours: 2
    This course explores the modern concepts of death and loss in contemporary society. The course examines the symptoms of grief and loss, and available coping strategies.

    PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL: ETHICS AND VALUES

    Credit hours: 3
    This capstone course examines various theories of man and their relevance to personal and social values. The course provides the basis to formulate or clarify a philosophy of life that is consistent with the demands of a responsible lifestyle in the contemporary world.

    SOCIAL SERVICES RESOURCES/PRACTICUM

    Credit hours: 3
    This intensive, field experience-based learning opportunity begins in the Intro. to Social Services Seminar and through independent sequential study, spans the final two thirds of the FSG program of study.  Focus is given to a unique learner specific hands on experiential learning opportunity incorporating a practicum research component, providing a more relevant and meaningful course of study.

    Meet the Program Director

    Dr. Delilah Joiner Martin

    Family Studies & Gerontology

    I have worked with SNU for most of my adult professional life. One of my fun facts is that I’m a first-generation high school and college graduate (SNU) and went on to earn a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology degree from the University of Central Oklahoma and a Doctor of Education in Occupational and Adult education from Oklahoma State University. Through the years, I have held various positions and been blessed to have learned much from colleagues and learners alike, have been provided immeasurable opportunities and have made many cherished memories.  

    Read MoreDown Red Angle

    In many respects, higher education and SNU have truly become my home away from home.  It has afforded the opportunity to be closely involved with organizations like Christian Adult Higher Education Association (CAHEA), to serve as a community partner with organizations like, VillagesOKC, and to develop a leadership philosophy deeply woven in faith. I believe the gift of working in Christian higher education has been a worthwhile place for me to invest a full measure of life. 

    In my world away from SNU, one will find a loving husband, grown children, small grandchildren, extended family, and many precious friends.  In 2014, my world was forever altered with the devastating unexpected death of my daughter, Kaytie, just 2 ½ weeks prior to her wedding. This grief journey resulting in the choice to celebrate my child’s life with praise and thanksgiving for our 27 years together, has provided a myriad of opportunities to love those who have experienced catastrophic loss and tragedy, develop a unique perspective on resilience and overcoming, practice the pathway to peace and healing through prayer, and encourage others on their own unique life journey with excruciating pain, life disappointment, and loss. I make myself available to speak to both small and large groups. My most recent outstanding honors include being selected as the 2024 Oklahoma Mother of the Year and as one of the 2024 SNU Outstanding Alumni Award Recipients.

    There is a thought that I treasure that has influenced me deeply by John Wesley.  Wesley is attributed to having cultivated the idea of faith-mentoring pairs and twin souls in relation to the spiritual journey.  It has been written that John Wesley “discovered what Italian author Lucian de Crescenzo knew: “We are, each of us angels with only one wing, and we can fly embracing each other”” (Tracy, 2003, p. 19).  In our mission in higher education, we have the privilege and great honor to come alongside our learners for only a short season, but it is my earnest prayer that in our season together, we will help our learners find their wing and be provided the opportunity to fly. 

    Read LessUp Red Angle
    "Completing this degree gave me the knowledge and understanding to better help my parents as they age. I watched my grandparents age, and I felt that a degree in Family Studies and Gerontology would benefit us all, and it would also help me be able to become a certified teacher. It felt like the right choice for this time in my life."
    Dianna C.
    FSG Graduate

    Admissions

    Enrolling at SNU is a simple process. With rolling start dates, there’s no need to wait months at a time to begin your educational journey. Plus, our generous transfer policy, enhanced advanced standing, and prior learning assessment can shorten your path to graduation. Once you are ready, take the following steps:

    Step 1. Apply online at degrees.snu.edu/apply

    Step 2. Complete your FAFSA at fafsa.gov using school code 003149

    Step 3. Send official transcripts from any colleges you have attended to SNU at pgsadmissions@snu.edu or ATTN: SNU PGS Admissions, Southern Nazarene University, 6729 NW 39th Expressway, Bethany, OK 73008.

    You will be contacted regarding any supporting materials we may need. Upon acceptance, your student success advisor will help you enroll and prepare for success as an adult student at SNU.

    Locations

    Online

    Online classes are specially
    designed for professional &
    graduate studies.
    Phone: +1 (405) 491-6332
    pgs@snu.edu

    Bethany Campus

    6729 NW 39th Expressway
    Bethany, OK 73008
    Phone: +1 (405) 491-6332
    pgs@snu.edu

     

    Program Resources

    Blog-117-SNU-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-fsg-practicum

    BLOG

    All You Need to Know about the FSG Practicum

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