The Institute of Family Studies, established in 2014, became the twelfth addition to the Faculty of Philosophy, marking its entry as the latest institution within the faculty. This introduction heralded the Faculty of Philosophy's leading role in the specialized exploration of family dynamics, offering the Balkans' first authentic program dedicated to family studies. Inspired by the rich educational traditions of faculties across Europe, America, Canada, and Australia, a team of visionary professors crafted this innovative program. The academic journey of family studies students commenced in the 2014/15 academic year.
Tasked with a comprehensive examination of familial structures, the Institute of Family Studies aims to scrutinize every facet influencing family life. Its core mission encompasses the training of skilled professionals poised to enhance life quality by engaging in the study, integration, and dissemination of knowledge concerning life cycles, human development, interpersonal relations, families, and communities within a broader societal framework.
Family studies delve into the welfare and holistic development of individuals and families across their lifespan, focusing on the intricate dynamics within families and their interactions with wider societal institutions. This field examines the influence of various social facets on family life. At the undergraduate level, the curriculum encompasses theoretical knowledge, research methodologies, and practical applications aimed at fostering individual growth within the family unit and broader social systems. Essentially adopting a multidisciplinary approach, family studies draw upon sociology, psychology, human rights, health, economics, and other areas. While it acknowledges its foundational disciplines, family studies distinctively explores the family as a unit that is biological, social, economic, legal, and political, emphasizing its evolution and adaptability to societal changes.