NACOGDOCHES, Texas - Stephen F. Austin State University has been ranked among the top 50 great value colleges for family and consumer sciences degrees in the nation by Great Value Colleges, a website dedicated to helping students discover the best degree and college for them.

SFA's No. 47 ranking among the almost 400 U.S. colleges identified for comparison distinguishes it as one of the most attractive programs for consumer sciences students.

The ranking was created based on master's and doctoral degree, research, internship and scholarship opportunities. Data also was collected from payscale.com and university websites.

Dr. Lynda Martin, director of SFA's School of Human Sciences, said receiving the ranking is an honor.

"This recognition is a testament to how qualified and supportive SFA's School of Human Sciences faculty members are," Martin said. "They go the extra mile to make sure our students receive a quality education, and it is nice to see it recognized."

The family and consumer sciences program at SFA is designed with two tracks. The family and consumer sciences degree track prepares students for broad-based employment in the field of family and consumer sciences and for effective individual and family living.

The second track, family and consumer sciences education with teacher certification, educates students to teach at the high school level.

Martin explained all students within this major must complete an internship, which offers real-world experience and networking opportunities. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in study abroad opportunities. SFA also offers an online Master of Science in family and consumer sciences.