The Bachelor of Science Degree in Child Development offers an overview of scholarship and research in the study of children. The core courses in this degree are intended to focus on knowledge about children in their environments, such as home, school, and community. Emphasis is given to the application of scholarly knowledge with the goal of helping children and their families to develop and thrive regardless of circumstances of birth or environment. Practicum and internships are built into the core curriculum to give practical knowledge and hands-on experience in working with children, families, and agencies that serve children and families.

Students pursuing this degree have many career options, but the degree is primarily designed for those who desire to work with children and their families in community or government agencies. Students should consult with their advisor about possible academic and career options such as
(1) A focus on agencies or organizations that serve young children and their families.
(2) A focus on agencies or organizations that serve adolescents and their families.
(3) A focus on a scholarly understanding of children and families.
(4) Preparation for graduate study in the field of child development or early childhood education.

 

Careers in Child Care

Day care worker

Day care director

Child care, home based

Developmental specialist

Careers in Early Childhood Education

Preschool teacher or director

Kindergarten teacher

Headstart

Early Childhood Special Education

Careers in Secondary Education

Home Economics Educator

Family Life Educator

High School Counselor

School Psychologist

 

Careers in Community Family Life Education

Extension Agent - Family Life Specialist

Child Development Specialist - Government

Careers in Higher Education

Family Science

Child/Human Development

Family Relations

Family Health

Gerontology

Marriage & Family

Parenting

 

Careers in Community Service

Transitional Housing

Homless Shelters

Homestart

Adoption Agencies

Religious Social Services

Drug Treatment Centers

Runaway Centers

Family Crisis Centers

Health and Welfare

 

Careers in Clinical/Therapeutic/Medical Settings

Marriage and Family Therapist

Social Worker

CLinical Psychologist, speacializing in families

Family life educator associated with above clinics

Health Education

Child development Specialist - hospitals

Therapy Technician, Early Intervention

 

Careers in Research

Family Demographer

University research, all family related subjects

Government research worker

 

Careers in Dissemination of Family Life Information

Planned Parenthood

Writer

Lecturer

 

Careers Related to the Aged

Senior Citizen centers worker, director

Long-term care facilities worker, director

Adult day care centers worker, director

Retirement communities recreational/educational director

 

Careers in Public Policy Making

Advocate for families / lobbyist

 

Careers in Law

Lawyer sepacializing in Family Law

Divorce mediation