The Diploma in Family Sciences is designed to professionally and academically prepare students to play a vital role in national development, family well-being, and social growth. This program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to the upbringing of future generations, ensuring family stability and promoting a high quality of life. Additionally, the program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and research capabilities to diagnose and address the challenges and issues confronting families.
The program aims to enhance the quality of family and community life by developing essential life skills and professional practices, while building research and critical thinking capacities. It seeks to effectively diagnose and address challenges facing families within the framework of national policies for family and community protection.
Program Objectives
The Diploma in Family Sciences encompasses five learning outcomes, aligned with the UAE’s National Qualifications Framework (QFE Level 5), which includes the following domains: Knowledge (K); Skills (S); Competence: Autonomy and Responsibility (AR), Role in Context (RC), and Self-Development (SD). Students are expected to successfully complete all program courses to achieve these outcomes, described as follows:
Knowledge (K):
Skills (S):
2. Exhibit practical skills in managing family affairs, focusing on social, health, nutritional, and economic aspects.
3. Implement comprehensive skills in child-rearing and care.
Competence:
(1) Autonomy and Responsibility (AR):
4. Develop and execute practical solutions related to family affairs and child-rearing, emphasizing cultural, health, and nutritional dimensions.
(2) Role in Context (RC):
5. Actively engage in social guidance projects related to family and child care, demonstrating proficiency and distinction within collaborative advisory teams.
(3) Self-Development (SD):
6. Uphold ethical standards and professional guidelines while performing tasks related to family affairs and child care.
To qualify for the Diploma in Family Sciences, students must successfully complete a total of 66 credit hours, which are distributed as follows: 30 credit hours of General Education Requirements and 36 credit hours of Family Sciences Diploma Requirements. The program is designed to be completed over four regular semesters (excluding summer semesters), with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 required for graduation. The detailed program structure is as follows:
| Course Type | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| General Education Courses (30 Credit Hours) | |
| (a) Compulsory General Education Courses | 30 Credit Hours |
| College Courses (36 Credit Hours) | |
| (a) Compulsory College Courses | 30 Credit Hours |
| (b) Elective College Courses | 6 Credit Hours |
| Total Credit Hours | 66 Credit Hours |
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| HUM-1613 | Islamic Studies | 3 | None |
| COM-1153 | Composition Arabic | 3 | None |
| COM-1113 | Academic Writing 1 | 3 | None |
| LSS-1723 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None |
| LSS-1733 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None |
| HUM-1463 | UAE Society | 3 | None |
| LSS-1463 | Ethics and Citizenship Rights | 3 | None |
| ICT-1313 | Introduction to Information Technology | 3 | None |
| LSS-1473 | Logic and Critical Thinking | 3 | None |
| LSS-2483 | Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainability | 3 | None |
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| FS-2000 | Human Rights | 3 | None |
| FS-2010 | Family Resource Management | 3 | None |
| FS-2020 | Child Development and Care | 3 | None |
| FS-2030 | Family Sociology | 3 | LSS-1733 |
| FS-2040 | Developmental Psychology | 3 | LSS-1723 |
| FS-2050 | Introduction to Family Jurisprudence | 3 | None |
| FS-2060 | Introduction to Food and Nutrition Sciences | 3 | None |
| FS-2070 | Family Healthcare | 3 | None |
| FS-2110 | Introduction to Statistics | 3 | None |
| FS-2120 | Social Research Methods | 3 | None |
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| FS-2080 | Introduction to Jurisprudence and Principles | 3 | None |
| FS-2100 | Introduction to the Quran and Sunnah | 3 | None |
| HM-2020 | Home Interior Design | 3 | None |
| Course Code | Course Name | Type | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUM-1613 | Islamic Studies | General Education (1) | 3 | None |
| COM-1153 | Arabic Composition | General Education (2) | 3 | None |
| COM-1113 | Academic Writing 1 | General Education (3) | 3 | None |
| LSS-1723 | Introduction to Psychology | General Education (4) | 3 | None |
| LSS-1733 | Introduction to Sociology | General Education (5) | 3 | None |
HUM-1613 Islamic Studies (3-0-3)
This course introduces students to the concept of Islamic culture, emphasizing its significance, core characteristics, and civilizational foundations. It highlights key Islamic values such as knowledge, compassion, peace, citizenship, and tolerance, and addresses contemporary societal challenges, including family issues and the rise of extremism and violence that undermine intellectual security. The course employs critical discussions, interactive teaching methods, and diverse activities to encourage students to engage with supplementary readings that deepen their understanding and promote self-directed learning. By the end of the course, students will have cultivated a robust intellectual identity and a well-rounded behavioral framework.
Prerequisites: None
COM-1153 Arabic Composition (3-0-3)
This course focuses on developing students’ proficiency in expressive language skills, enabling them to effectively convey their thoughts and ideas. It serves as the culmination of various linguistic activities, reflecting the overarching goal of language education as a medium of social communication and interaction.
Prerequisites: None
Academic Writing 1 (COM-1113)
This course prepares students for freshman composition by reinforcing fundamental grammar and writing skills. It introduces essential concepts in grammar, punctuation, and clear communication, emphasizing the development of coherent paragraphs and effective argumentative prose with a focus on organization and clarity. Students will improve their writing skills through writing workshops, peer reviews, and individual tutoring sessions. This ability will prepare them for advanced academic challenges and enable effective communication in both academic and professional contexts.
Prerequisites: None
Introduction to Psychology (LSS-1723)
This course provides a foundational understanding of psychological principles, focusing on key theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches. It addresses common misconceptions in psychology and explores core concepts derived from contemporary psychological schools. The course aims to enhance students’ ability to apply psychological knowledge in improving personal performance, productivity, and social relationships within various professional contexts.
Prerequisites: None
Introduction to Sociology (LSS-1733)
This course introduces fundamental sociological concepts and theories related to human behavior and social interactions. It covers topics such as culture, social structures, institutions, and social change, emphasizing the role of sociological analysis in understanding societal dynamics. By developing critical thinking and analytical skills, students will be equipped to interpret and navigate social phenomena and the forces shaping individual and group behaviors within their communities.
Prerequisites: None
| Course Code | Course Name | Type | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUM-1633 | UAE Society | General Education (6) | 3 | None |
| LSS-1463 | Ethics and Citizenship Rights | General Education (7) | 3 | None |
| FS-2000 | Human Rights | Compulsory college (1) | 3 | None |
| FS-2010 | Family Resource Management | Compulsory college (2) | 3 | None |
| FS-2020 | Child Development and Care | Compulsory college (3) | 3 | None |
HUM-1633 UAE Society (3-0-3)
This course explores the society of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), focusing on its general characteristics, key components, geographic location, and population distribution and growth. It examines the demographic structure, economic activities, family and tribal systems, and the nature of services provided to the community before and after the oil era. The course also studies the role of cultural, educational, and media institutions and the services they provide to Emirati society. Through interactive lectures, discussions, research projects, and presentations, students develop a sense of loyalty and belonging to the UAE by gaining a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of life in the country.
Prerequisites: None
LSS-1463 Ethics and Citizenship Rights (3-0-3)
This course addresses the concept of ethics, various ethical doctrines, and philosophical theories related to ethics. It explores the linguistic and terminological meanings of ethics, the relationship between ethics and other sciences, and perspectives on ethics from philosophers and Islamic jurisprudence. The course concludes with an analysis of the key concepts of human rights and citizenship.
Prerequisites: None
FS-2000 Human Rights (3-0-3)
This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand human rights at both international and national levels. It explores the historical development and philosophical foundations of human rights, as well as the evolution of international human rights law within the framework of the United Nations. The course focuses on analytical methodologies and discussions on contemporary challenges in the field. By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to analyze legal texts related to human rights within local and international legislative contexts.
Prerequisites: None
FS-2010 Family Resource Management (3-0-3)
This course provides students with fundamental concepts of family resource management, including its types, characteristics, and applications within the family context. It covers the basics of financial management, its various sources, and its impact on the family. The course employs lectures, group discussions, interactive workshops, and practical exercises to enable students to prepare family budgets and manage economic affairs effectively. It emphasizes the application of administrative processes within the family as a social institution and aims to develop planning, organizational, and decision-making skills in accordance with gender roles.
Prerequisites: None
FS-2020 Child Development and Care (3-0-3)
This course equips students with theoretical knowledge and practical approaches essential for child care and upbringing. It covers the scientific and conceptual foundations of child development from social, psychological, educational, and Islamic perspectives. The course introduces key concepts for child care in early childhood settings, addressing physical, psychological, mental, and social dimensions. Students learn to apply information-gathering techniques and assess child development in various domains. Through interactive lectures, case studies, and practical workshops, students gain the ability to understand the principles of child upbringing and accurately evaluate growth across different developmental dimensions.
Prerequisites: None
| Course Code | Course Name | Type | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICT-1313 | Introduction to Information Technology | General Education (8) | 3 | None |
| LSS-1473 | Logic and Critical Thinking | General Education (9) | 3 | None |
| FS-2030 | Family Sociology | Compulsory college (4) | 3 | None |
| FS-2040 | Developmental Psychology | Compulsory college (5) | 3 | None |
| FS-2110 | Introduction to Statistics | Compulsory college (6) | 3 | None |
| Elective College (1) | Elective College (1) | 3 | None |
ICT-1313 Introduction to Information Technology (3-0-3)
Introduction to Information Technology is an introductory course designed to enhance the student's knowledge of the principles governing information technology. Students will learn concepts including terminology, computer hardware, software, and networks. Students will engage in hands-on tutorials, real-world projects, and lab exercises to gain a solid understanding of fundamental IT concepts and allow them to apply their skills. The course covers the impact of computers on society, ethical issues in computing, current trends in information technology, and commonly used application software.
Prerequisites: None
LSS-1473 Logic and Critical Thinking (3-0-3)
This course is designed to enrich students' cognitive skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, perception, description, reasoning, and judgment. It emphasizes the construction of logical arguments, distinguishing between inductive and deductive reasoning, and the evaluation of arguments, including identifying formal and informal fallacies. Students will engage with analytical texts, practicing the analysis and critique of arguments to develop their proficiency in critical thinking.
Prerequisites: None
FS-2030 Family Sociology (3-0-3)
This course examines the family as a fundamental social institution within society. It explores theoretical perspectives on the family, including various definitions, family structures, and their roles in socialization processes and adaptation to societal changes. Through discussions, research projects, and field visits to social institutions, the course addresses contemporary challenges faced by families in modern societies. By the end of the course, students are expected to professionally approach and address family-related issues in their personal and professional lives.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Sociology (LSS-1733)
FS-2040 Developmental Psychology (3-0-3)
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of developmental principles across the human lifespan, focusing on the characteristics, demands, and underlying causes of growth at various stages. It examines foundational theories explaining developmental processes from childhood to old age. The course employs interactive methodologies such as case studies, psychological analyses, discussions, and practical applications to foster a deep understanding of psychological and social changes throughout life. By the end of the course, students are expected to apply this understanding to enhance quality of life through informed behavior guidance.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Psychology (LSS-1723)
FS-2110 Introduction to Statistics (3-0-3)
This course equips students with a strong foundation in statistical principles, focusing on descriptive, inferential, and analytical statistical concepts relevant to family studies and social research. The course combines theoretical instruction with practical application, utilizing statistical software packages to facilitate data entry and analysis. By the end of the course, students are expected to develop the ability to critically interpret statistical results and make informed, evidence-based decisions.
Prerequisites: None
| Course Code | Course Name | Type | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LSS-2483 | Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainability | General Education (10) | 3 | None |
| FS-2050 | Introduction to Family Jurisprudence | Compulsory college (7) | 3 | None |
| FS-2060 | Introduction to Food and Nutrition | Compulsory college (8) | 3 | None |
| FS-2070 | Family Healthcare | Compulsory college (9) | 3 | None |
| FS-2120 | Social Research Methods | Compulsory college (10) | 3 | None |
| Elective College (2) | Elective College (2) | 3 | None |
LSS-2483 Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainability (3-0-3)
This course provides students with the allied knowledge, skills, and sustainability principles they need to be innovative and entrepreneurial leaders who are also committed to living sustainably. It acquaints students with the concepts and models of venture opportunity, strategy, and sustainability; concept development and formation; approaches to intellectual property, organizations, and operations; and financing and leading the enterprise. This course is designed to give students the background they need to be innovative and entrepreneurial leaders who can also integrate sustainable practices to address societal, economic, and environmental issues. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of how innovation and entrepreneurship can be used to create a more sustainable and equitable future through a mix of theoretical learning, hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and real-world case studies both the international and UAE contexts.
Prerequisites: None
FS-2050 Introduction to Family Jurisprudence (3-0-3)
This course introduces students to key concepts and terminologies in Islamic family jurisprudence derived from religious sources. It traces the historical development of Islamic jurisprudence over the ages and its progression through various stages. The course highlights the contributions of major juristic schools, particularly in the family domain, and examines the role of Islamic jurisprudence and legislative frameworks in regulating family relationships. Students engage in critical discussions, interactive lectures, and case studies to analyze family issues from an Islamic jurisprudential perspective. By the end of the course, students will be able to understand fundamental jurisprudential concepts, analyze the role of Islamic jurisprudence in organizing family relations, and critically evaluate family issues from an Islamic perspective.
Prerequisites: None
FS-2060 Introduction to Food and Nutrition (3-0-3)
This course introduces students to fundamental concepts in food science and nutrition, including the composition, functions, and key sources of nutrients, as well as their relationship with human health. The course emphasizes the principles of planning balanced and healthy meals, food preservation methods, and factors affecting food safety. Students will learn to apply standards for preparing healthy meals based on age and health requirements. Through interactive lectures, workshops, and practical exercises, students will gain the ability to design balanced and healthy meal plans, analyze factors affecting food safety, and implement standards that meet the nutritional needs of various groups.
Prerequisites: None
FS-2070 Family Healthcare (3-0-3)
This course aims to familiarize students with the principles and foundations of healthcare, focusing on safety standards and practices in promoting a healthy living environment. It covers the essentials of comprehensive care, quality, and safety in delivering healthcare services, and improving the overall quality of healthcare. The course utilizes diverse teaching strategies, educational activities, and practical applications, including field visits. By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to apply these principles effectively across different healthcare contexts.
Prerequisites: None
FS-2120 Social Research Methods (3-0-3)
This course equips students with essential tools and skills for conducting high-quality social research. It covers the process of selecting research topics, formulating research questions in accordance with scientific methodologies, and gathering data from diverse sources. Students will learn to analyze data using specialized statistical software. The course incorporates a variety of teaching methods, including the analysis of research papers and practical exercises. By the end of the course, students are expected to develop an understanding of social phenomena and contribute to solving social problems through the production of new knowledge.
Prerequisites: None
Expected jobs for graduates include working in:
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