About Us
Mission
Our department mission is to enhance lifelong learning and the personal, social, economic and environmental well-being of diverse individuals, families and communities through state-of-the art Extension, Research and teaching programs. Included in this mission are the following key elements:
- To apply research-based information through innovative outreach programs.
- To extend the frontiers of knowledge through research and other scholarly endeavors
- To build student competencies for successful careers in human & community development.
- To enhance the professional development of individuals through continuing professional education.
Academics
The FYCS undergraduate and graduate degrees are interdisciplinary applied social science programs. These programs prepare students for careers in human services, community development, and youth professions in both the public and private sector and both nonprofit and for-profit organizations.
Extension
Faculty and staff members in FYCS develop and support academic programs, Extension education and research activities. The goal of these programs is to empower individuals, families, youth and communities to address areas of concern such as:
- Successful parenting and family development
- Family financial stability
- Consumer food safety
- Food, nutrition and health
- Sustainable community development
- Youth development
- Leadership and life skills development
- Community environmental issues
Research
FYCS research is designed to support academic and Extension programs. Diverse topics include:
- Enhancing food safety
- Promoting healthy lifestyles
- Positive youth development
- Life skills development
- Adult domestic violence
- Environmental sensitivity
- Resiliency in families, youth, and communities
Partners & Peers
UF/IFAS Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences partners with the USDA's Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service.
Other partners include:
Mary N. Harrison Professorship
- In honor of Mary N. Harrison, professor and Extension specialist, this professorship will recognize outstanding county and state Extension faculty on an annual basis.
- More...
Academics