Family and Consumer Scientists
Overview
Introduction
Family and consumer scientists, also called home economists, improve and help others to improve products, services, and practices that affect the comfort and well-being of the home and family. Family and consumer science covers a range of subjects from nutrition, food preparation, and meal planning to household economics and the psychology of family relations. All the aspects of household and home management are part of this broad field.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Earnings of family and consumer scientists vary a great deal, depending on their experience, education, and area of work. Those in entry-level positions, such as salespeople and child-care workers, may have annual earnings of well below $20,000. But teachers and those in upper-level sales and marketing jobs can earn considerably more. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the May 2023 medi...
Work Environment
Family and consumer scientists generally work in generally pleasant conditions regardless of their employer. Teachers often work extra hours assisting students and sponsoring home economics clubs, as well as teaching adult education classes, for which they are often paid extra. Extension workers, too, work long hours. Those in business and other areas generally work a 40-hour week. Family and c...
Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor predicts average employment growth (4 percent) for postsecondary family and consumer sciences teachers through 2033. Increased enrollment in postsecondary institutions will mean more openings for teachers. A decline in employment for elementary and high school teachers is anticipated, however, through 2033, due to a projected decline in student enrollment in the com...
