Master's degree programs

MA Family Science

• Plan A (thesis): Consists of a minimum 20 credits of coursework, of which at least 6 credits are outside the Department of Family Social Science in a supporting program; and a research thesis for 10 credits that is presented in written format, followed by an oral examination. 

• Plan B (capstone project): Consists of a minimum of 26 credits of coursework, 6 of which are outside the Department of Family Social Science in a supporting program, and a project for four credits that is presented in written format, and an oral examination. The supporting program might represent anthropological, psychological, sociological, economic, historical, or other approaches to the study of family; or education, policy, counseling, or other applications.

Master’s degree students are required by the Graduate School to complete at least 60 percent of the coursework for their official degree programs as registered University of Minnesota Graduate School students. 

With approval of the advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) in the major (and DGS in the minor, if courses are for a designated minor), and the Graduate School, students may transfer up to 40 percent (8 credits for Plan A students and 10 credits for Plan B students) of the degree program coursework from any combination of the following:

• other recognized Graduate Schools

• registration for graduate credit by non-admitted students

• registration through other University of Minnesota units in pursuit of graduate-level degrees