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HOME SCIENCE & HOME ECONOMICS
The study of Home Science deals with the most vital aspects of modern house keeping. It aims at the weilbeing of the members of the family in accordance with the changing patterns and styles in the society. It includes not only the nutritional needs of the family members but also planning expenditure and budgeting the resources available to the family as well. It is in fact a multi-disciplinary study comprising biochemistry, biology, physics, human physiology, hygiene, economics, rural development, child development, home management, tailoring, textile, food and nutrition, cookery, community living, general household skills, housekeeping, family relationship, etc. Home Science aims at developing an individual, its knowledge, attitudes, values and skills which guide one to meet the personal needs and aspirations of an individual to become a well adjusted member of the family.

On the other hand, study of application of economic principles in relation to income, expenses and consumption comes under the purview of a home economist. Home scientists are generally known as home economists. Their main functions include improving products, services etc.

Home Economists are generally employed by business firms and trade associations to promote sale of specific home products and are required to prepare instructional material for this purpose. Of course, the above mentioned courses are popular among female candidates.

What are the special characteristics required to enter this field? Those who aspire to take up Home Science or Home Economics as theii subject of study should possess analytical ability and a scientific approach, be able to organise things, have aesthetic and creative ability, good communication skills, aptitude for doing practical work related to household affairs, and, of course, common sense.

As far as career opportunities in the field of Home Science are concerned one can take up jobs related to dress making, hospitality, catering, food, textile, designing, fashion designing, dress manufacturing which are labelled as production jobs.

Secondly, there are teaching jobs at various levels like primary school, Sr. Secondary school, college or at postgraduate level. They may be appointed as lecturers in colleges after meeting the necessary requirements like qualifying the U.G.C./NET examination.

Thirdly, there are a number of technical jobs comprising of food analysts, food scientists, research assistants, demonstrators etc. These jobs are mostly available in the industries related to manufacturing of products. Fourthly, one can take up private consultancy service also.

Fifthly, in the sales field, you can find a lucrative job for promoting or marketing food items including baby foods, or garments etc. Job opportunities also exist in various hotels as catering agents, in tourist resorts etc. At times Home Science professionals also specialise in specific fields like textiles, food and nutrition, child development etc. They can also be employed as dietitians in hospitals, maternity homes, slimming centres and even boarding schools. They plan nutritious diets for people who suffer from different ailments or obesity. In boarding schools they plan meals keeping in mind the dietary requirements of different age groups.