Degrees for Education

Students who major in Child Development want to work directly with children and families or they want to work indirectly for children in administrative, advocacy, or researcher roles. All majors acquire a comprehensive understanding of how children grow and develop from conception through adolescence. Our six emphases include: foundations of child development, child assessment and study, programs for children and families, professional qualities, critical thinking skills, and developmental context. Students know from the beginning what learning areas will be addressed and what skills they can expect to have upon graduation.

Foundations of Child Development Students will understand the theoretical, empirical, and philosophical foundations of the discipline. In addition, students will apply their knowledge while working with children, families, and professionals.

Child Assessment and Study Students will understand, perform, and appreciate multiple forms of child assessment. Students will be able to use qualitative and quantitative methods of assessing children. They will be able to use the information to help identify a child’s strengths and develop, implement, and evaluate plans of intervention to resolve areas of need.

Programs for Children and Families Students will understand model programs for both children and families and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum activities. Students will evaluate the impact and efficacy of these programs for children, families, and communities.