Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers at the postsecondary level teach courses covering childcare, family relations, finance, nutrition, and home management. They work in colleges and universities, combining classroom instruction with research responsibilities. These educators prepare students for careers and personal roles involving family and household decision-making.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against family and consumer sciences teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes preparing lesson plans, teaching classes on topics like nutrition or financial planning, grading assignments, and meeting with students during office hours. Instructors may develop laboratory exercises or demonstrations related to course content. Many also conduct research in their subject area, write for publication, or serve on departmental committees. The balance between teaching and research varies by institution.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIA. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you enjoy investigating how families function and make decisions, and if you're drawn to teaching others these practical skills. Your Social interest drives you to help students succeed, while your Investigative side pushes you to explore questions about behavior, relationships, and household dynamics through research.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $58,220 | $97,620 | $129,440 | 380 |
| Michigan | $74,450 | $83,500 | $110,580 | 50 |
| Ohio | $60,770 | $83,400 | $98,080 | 90 |
| Oklahoma | $65,580 | $83,200 | $83,940 | 60 |
| Illinois | $53,630 | $80,220 | $85,900 | 140 |
| Rhode Island | $64,250 | $80,200 | $97,190 | 40 |
| Iowa | $69,250 | $79,310 | $132,220 | 40 |
| North Carolina | $62,030 | $78,770 | $90,420 | 290 |
| Pennsylvania | $60,590 | $78,220 | $124,670 | 100 |
| Utah | $61,210 | $76,790 | $104,040 | 190 |
| Missouri | $62,040 | $76,320 | $99,320 | 110 |
| Oregon | $61,440 | $75,870 | $104,780 | 60 |
All 21 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified in Family and Consumer Sciences (CFCS) — American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences
- Certified Personal and Family Finance Educator (CPFFE) — American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences
- Certified Family Life Educator (NCFR) — National Council on Family Relations
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against family and consumer sciences teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1192.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.