Family Systems
Total graduates
350
2025 · 13 schools
International share
0.0%
0 international students
Bachelor's degrees
320
0.0% international
Master's degrees
28
0.0% international
Overview
Family Systems is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on understanding the dynamics of family relationships and interactions. This area of study is rooted in systems theory, which views the family as a complex, interrelated system where changes in one part affect the whole. The Family Systems approach emphasizes the importance of communication patterns, roles, and behavioral tendencies within families, as well as how external factors impact family dynamics.
Students pursuing a degree in Family Systems typically explore various topics, including family therapy, conflict resolution, parenting styles, and the influence of culture and society on family life. The curriculum often includes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates to work in diverse settings such as counseling, social work, education, and community services.
Professionals in this field utilize various therapeutic approaches to address issues such as mental health, addiction, and interpersonal conflicts within families. They aim to help families understand their relational patterns and learn healthier ways of communication and problem-solving. Additionally, Family Systems theory is frequently applied in research, policy-making, and advocacy efforts to improve family well-being and support systems.
Overall, the Family Systems field is vital for fostering healthy family relationships and addressing the complex challenges that families face in contemporary society. It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate positive change within families and communities.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2002 to 2025, graduates fell 61% and the international share went from 0.3% to 0.0%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 13 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
| Rank | School | State | Graduates | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #116 | Utah | 131 | 0 | |
| #148 | Kentucky | 1 | 0 | |
| #227 | Indiana | 40 | 0 | |
| #250 | Tennessee | 6 | 0 | |
| #262 | Michigan | 6 | 0 | |
| #276 | Michigan | 8 | 0 | |
| #308 | Mississippi | 73 | 0 | |
| — | WWeber State University | Utah | 42 | 0 |
| — | CCentral Washington University | Washington | 20 | 0 |
| — | LLubbock Christian University | Texas | 8 | 0 |
| — | SSouthern Adventist University | Tennessee | 5 | 0 |
| — | Maryland | 1 | 0 | |
| — | EEast Mississippi Community College | Mississippi | 1 | 0 |
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farm and Home Management Educators | 8,220 | $29.35 | $61,060 |
| Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary | 2,770 | — | $81,940 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.