Consumer Science, MS

About the Program

Purdue University’s College of Health and Human Science’s Master of Science program enhances students’ expertise in consumer science by providing a comprehensive, interdisciplinary education that prepares them for success in various organizations and professional roles, including but not limited to customer service, sales, retailing, financial planning, consulting, and other customer-focused sectors. The residential program sharpens students’ understanding of dynamic consumer behaviors, equipping them with the ability to conduct research, analyze data, and apply consumer science principles to real-world challenges. Through this program, students gain the knowledge and tools necessary to excel in managing customer relationships and navigating the complexities of consumer-driven industries.

Program Highlights:

• Small classes are designed to maximize learning and engagement with world-class faculty.
• Both thesis and non-thesis tracks are available.
• Integrated curriculum consisting of key competencies for consumer science while covering a wide range of applications to various types of organizations.
• Immersive coursework in issues requiring integration, insight and critical thinking encourage the illumination and creation of new knowledge.

Master’s students can pursue a thesis or non-thesis option. See below for each set of requirements.

Program Website

Program Requirements - Thesis

33 Credits Required

Program Requirements - Non-Thesis

30 Credits Required

Concentrations

Optional departmental concentrations:

• Consumer Behavior
• Family and Consumer Economy
• Retail Management
• Textile Science
   

GPA Requirements

Any student on Academic Notice whose following semester GPA and cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 will be separated from the university. If a graduate student is on academic notice and EITHER the semester GPA or the cumulative GPA is 2.0 or above, the student will remain on notice. Academic standing is not addressed during Summer Session.

Graduate Programs Disclaimer

• The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. Students should consult with their advisor/department for more information.
• Not all graduate programs may be actively recruiting students and course modality availability may vary. 
• Please refer to the Explore Graduate Programs website for a list of currently available graduate programs.
• Transfer credit policy: Credits earned for graduate study at other universities (both domestic and international) may be applied toward an advanced degree. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer. Any additional conditions under which credit transfers may be made are determined by the various departments.
• Comparative information about Purdue University and other U.S. educational institutions is also available through the College Navigator tool, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics, and through the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.