• child development and guidance
• consumer education
• family living and parenting education
• fashion, textiles and apparel
• food and nutrition
• housing and furnishings
• individual and family health
• leadership development.  

Home Economics Related Occupations focuses on preparing students with skills for earning a living and careers in eight pathways:

• child development and education
• consumer services
• family and human services
• fashion design
• manufacturing and merchandising
• food science, dietetics, and nutrition
• food service and hospitality
• hospitality, tourism, recreation
• interior design, furnishings and maintenance.

The attitudes, skills, and knowledge learned in the CFS content areas provide a basis for success in balancing home and work responsibilities as well as for transitioning to career pathways in home economics related occupations.

Students develop an awareness of Home Economics Careers and Technology in the elementary grades and through exploratory courses at the middle level providing a foundation for selecting a career path. CFS core instruction, at the high school level, provides a basis for students to select courses that further develop their life management skills and/or pursue a HERO career path option. Both CFS and HERO programs prepare students for transitioning to post-secondary education, including baccalaureate degree programs.

FHA - HERO, the career technical student organization for students in Home Economics Careers and Technology, provides leadership and career development opportunities that are integral to both CFS and FHA-HERO programs. Through FHA-HERO, students learn interpersonal, leadership, citizenship and career skills for a successful future.

A unique feature is the direct link between the application of science, technology, career-technical, and life management skills that prepare students for careers as well as for managing work and family roles. A vital segment of the educational system, Home Economics Careers and Technology Education integrates academic and career-vocational skills, concepts and principles in the context of work, family and personal responsibilities. Home Economics Careers and Technology education is a necessity for all students for effective living and earning.