Department Chair's Welcome

      Are you interested in a rewarding education that will enhance your personal and professional life? If so, welcome to the Department of Child and Family Studies in the Jerry and Vickie Moyes College of Education at Weber State University. We offer programs in Family Studies, Early Childhood, and Early Childhood Education.
       The Department of Child and Family Studies prepares Early Childhood and Family Life Educators, who respect diversity. These graduates work in a variety of community and state settings, as Early Childhood Teachers in the public school system and Family Advocates and Human Service Workers in social service settings.  This is in addition to obtaining knowledge and skills to use in one’s personal and professional life.
     We are committed to making your experience a time for learning and growth. We strive to meet diverse student educational needs, training future generations of child, youth, and family professionals. Our programs will provide you with extensive opportunities in theory, research, and practice skills necessary for a productive life and career. Your academic careers are in the hands of an excellent group of fine faculty composed of talented researchers, teachers, and professionals who provide service to individuals, children, and families. We have an excellent department advisor who is available to assist you in setting up a program of study, and introduce you to your faculty advisor. We also have a wonderful department secretary that is willing to help.
     The Melba S. Lehner Children’s school serves as a training lab for students majoring in Early Childhood and Early Childhood Education, as well as a teaching school for young children of pre-kindergarten age. It also gives observation and research opportunities intended to advance learning in the field.
     Another program within the department is The Northern Region of Child Care Resource & Referral, serving Davis, Morgan and Weber counties. This program is funded through a block grant from the Department of Workforce Services and the Utah Office of Child Care.
     The Child and Family Studies Student Association (CFSSA) provides service-learning opportunities on campus and in the community. This organization was the Most Active Club 2003-2004, awarded the Tradition of Excellence Award 2004-2005, won Crystal Crest Organization of the year 2005, and was one of the five finalists for Crystal Crest Organization of the Year 2006 and 2007.
     As a student in this department, you are part of a diverse student community who bring with them their unique experiences and skills, which can expand your personal and professional boundaries. Together with this group of high-quality students and faculty, we can fashion a better future for children, youth, individuals and families.

We hope you will explore the options we offer and consider enrolling.

Chloe D. Merrill, Ph.D., CPC, CFCS, CFLE
Department Chair


Weber State University

Ogden, Utah 84408