Degrees and Programs

undergrad student working in Child Development Center

Discover what you can learn and where a child development major can take you.

Child development is a diversified, multidisciplinary field. The main focus is on the changes in physical-motor, cognitive, language and social-emotional development of the child from birth to adolescence. Child development encompasses both the study of scientific principles of development and the application of these principles to children’s education and welfare.

Interests

  • Working with children
  • Early and middle childhood development
  • Curriculum planning
  • Social services
  • Owning and administering an early childhood center

Learn

  • Developmental theories and domains
  • Contemporary issues
  • Research methods
  • Legal/ethical issues
  • Developmentally appropriate practices
  • Focus on early childhood, middle childhood or social services

Go!

  • Infant/toddler and preschool teachers and administrators 
  • Curriculum specialists 
  • After-school program coordinators
  • Early intervention specialists
  • Foster care and adoption caseworkers

"True inspiration is experiencing a child’s enthusiasm after an accomplishment and realizing you helped make the difference."

Lesli Fragoso
Child Development Student


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Career Opportunities

Child development majors can pursue careers in areas such as:

  • Infant, toddler, or preschool centers
  • Elementary schools
  • School districts
  • County offices of education
  • Social service agencies
  • Child and family community programs
  • Hospitals 

Updated: February 28, 2024