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AcademicsUndergraduate Majors

More than a degree. A difference.

The UW–Madison School of Human Ecology gives students the tools to make an impact in the world. Explore our undergraduate majors.

Bachelors of Science in Human Ecology

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Community & Organizational Development, BS

Community & Organizational Development prepares students to advance positive societal change through communities and organizations, including careers in social justice, advocacy, social work/social services, and more.

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Consumer Behavior & Marketplace Studies, BS

Consumer Behavior & Marketplace Studies centers on a dynamic marketplace for goods and services, leveraging consumer behavior, marketing, entrepreneurship, merchandising, and product development to understand and improve the global consumer experience.

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Design, Innovation & Society, BS

Design, Innovation & Society develops skills in design and problem-solving, exploring the interconnectedness between people, technology, culture, and social change to address complex societal issues.

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Human Development & Family Studies, BS

Human Development & Family Studies examines relationships and development across the lifespan and prepares students for meaningful futures in areas such as health care, education, occupational therapy, family therapy, social work/services, and human resources.

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Interior Architecture, BS

Interior Architecture combines creativity and interior design with social and physical sciences, empowering students to design human-centered spaces and environments.

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Personal Finance, BS

Personal Finance leverages economics, business administration, and social sciences from a human-centered perspective, creating financial experts who can help people live financially secure lives and build wealth.

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Textiles & Fashion Design, BS

Textiles & Fashion Design merges creative talents in fashion, textiles, and styling with sustainability and merchandising to launch careers in the global fashion industry.

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Certificates in Human Ecology

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Material Culture Studies Certificate

Designed for all majors, the certificate in Material Culture Studies offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding objects and landscapes that shape human experiences. Explore the intersections of history, sociology, and anthropology. Students will develop skills in analysis, research, and ethical considerations to prepare for careers in museums, heritage, and academia.

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Textiles and Design Certificate

The certificate in Textiles and Design allows students from any major to gain a fundamental understanding of the creative and innovative application of textiles and visual design. By nature, textiles are interdisciplinary, weaving together art, commerce, history, culture, technology, material culture, and science. Students will develop artistic and technical skills valuable for both pursuing a professional career in the textile industry and nurturing personal creative interests.

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