NOTE: Freshman and upperclassman scholarship applications for 2006 are now available! Please note the corresponding links to the left of this page. Human Ecology encompasses a variety of disciplines that utilize an integrative, synergistic, holistic approach to address basic human needs and societal issues that impact the well-being of individuals, families, consumers and communities. Content areas include: nutrition and dietetics, merchandising and consumer studies, child life, family science, applied child development, and family and consumer sciences education. Human Ecology programs have been an integral part of Louisiana Tech University since its inception in 1894. Tech was the first university in the state and the third in the south to offer programs in human ecology disciplines. Nutrition and Dietetics   Applied Child Development Merchandising Child Life Consumer Studies Family Sciences Family and Consumer Sciences Education Mission The mission of the School of Human Ecology is to improve the quality of life for individuals and families through education and applied research which emphasizes family systems and consumer sciences. Accreditation The School of Human Ecology is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences. Related areas within the School also are accredited and/or approved by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the American Dietetic Association. The Early Childhood Education Center is accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, which is the credentialing body of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).