The mission of the Department of Nutrition and Family Sciences is to provide innovative and technologically superior instruction, research, and service through scientifically-based programs. Curricula in family and consumer sciences, nutrition/dietetics and family and consumer sciences education are designed to enhance individual wellness and quality of life and to produce graduates who practice in an ethical and socially-responsible manner.
Welcome to the website of the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) Department of Nutrition and Family Sciences (NFS). The NFS Department is housed in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences on the UCA campus in Conway, Arkansas. Our programs are community-focused and practice-based. Through our >100 preceptors and >50 practice sites, our students enjoy diverse clinical experiences, networking, and internship opportunities.
The Department offers Bachelor’s (BS) and Master’s (MS) degrees. Our graduate faculty hold doctoral degrees and/or advanced practice certifications. Our nutrition faculty are all Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. All our faculty hold certifications and licensure in their respective fields and are committed to providing every student with quality teaching, academic advising, mentoring and research opportunities. It is this commitment that has earned UCA and the FCS Department a reputation for excellence in preparing Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, FCS Educators, Cooperative Extension Agents, Department of Health / WIC professionals, Department of Human Services professionals, and researchers. Our faculty form a collaborative team of professionals dedicated to helping you achieve your professional goals.
- The Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics prepares students for entry into a Dietetic Internship and careers in human nutrition, health and behavior, and foodservice systems management.
- The Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition Science prepares students to be eligible for application into professional degree programs such as Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and others.
- The Bachelor of Science degree in Community Nutrition prepares students with the skills needed to work in various employment positions including Department of Health and Human Services, Child Nutrition programs in public schools, Cooperative Extension, corporate wellness programs, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit feeding programs, as well as others.
- The Bachelor of Science degree in Family & Consumer Sciences prepares students to enhance the relationships among individuals, families, communities and the environments in which they function. Graduates use current and emerging technologies to analyze, develop, and implement programs to support the strength and vitality of families. A Minor in FCS is also available.
- The Bachelor of Science degree in Education in Family & Consumer Sciences prepares students for licensure in secondary (7-12) family and consumer science and for career opportunities in business, industry, and the public sector.
- The Master of Science degree in Family & Consumer Sciences is completely online. The program is designed to serve the needs of qualified students preparing for Family and Consumer Sciences careers in business, education, hospitals, industry, government, community agencies, and for entering a doctoral program in Family and Consumer Sciences or in a related discipline.
- The Master of Science degree in Nutrition is completely online. This program is intended to serve students in the dietetic internship and those wishing to pursue further graduate study in nutrition and foods.
This is an exciting era for Family & Consumer Sciences professionals. We look forward to meeting you and working with you to improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
Dr. Nina Roofe, PhD, RDN, LD, FAND
Department Chair