Child, Family & Community Studies

This social science interdisciplinary minor is co-sponsored by the Department of Psychology and the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Environmental Studies. It is intended for students seeking a deeper understanding of the dynamics of family relations and the interaction of the family with society. A minor in Child, Family, and Community Studies is useful for individuals interested in collaborative activities designed to improve the well being of children, adults, and families. Issues that may typically be dealt with by people interested in this minor include unemployment, drug and alcohol abuse, child abuse and neglect, domestic violence, juvenile delinquency, and an urban school system that is unable to address the complex needs of the students it serves.

This minor is geared toward students interested in pursuing graduate studies in Social Work (MSW), Counseling Psychology, School Psychology, or Counseling Education.  Its mission is to prepare undergraduate students for careers and future graduate studies in the fields of education, social work and social services. Embedded within the interdisciplinary focus of the minor is an emphasis on creating reflective and compassionate practitioners who are committed to the Jesuit ideal of men and women with and for others.

Minors are an important part of the undergraduate curriculum.  If students declare a minor by sophomore year, they can usually complete it in a timely manner.  Students should work with their advisor to determine if it is possible that the minor can be completed by graduation.  

To receive a minor, a student must complete at least 9 credit hours of coursework distinct from their major(s) and from other minors, and students must complete more than 50% of the coursework required for the minor at Canisius. Please note that “ancillary/supporting” courses required for a major may still count as distinct courses as long as the remaining coursework still meets the 30 credit-hours required for a major. For more information about minor policies, please see the Declaring Majors and Minors page in the catalog.

Curriculum

A total of 7 courses is needed for this minor.

Note: Students must complete 15 hours of volunteer/service learning to complete the requirements for this minor