Child Development & Family Science

Undergraduate Programs and Admission Requirements

Major in Child Development and Family Science

The Child Development and Family Science (CDFS) major includes three specializations. All CDFS students complete the core courses that cover basics in child development, romantic relationships, family dynamics, therapeutic skills, and parenting. And, all CDFS students have the opportunity to participate in a 360-hour practicum experience and engage in a two-term research project.

Students choose a major specialization in Family Science, Child Development, or Child Life to dive deeper into an area of CDFS in preparation for a career in the field. 

Admission Requirements

Specialize in Family Science or Child Development

Students wishing to declare a CDFS major with a specialization in Family Science or Child Development must be incoming first-year or transfer students or have a cumulative CWU GPA of 2.8. 

Specialize in Child Life

Students wishing to declare a CDFS major with a specialization in Child Life must be incoming first-year or transfer students or have a cumulative CWU GPA of 3.0. 

GPA Requirements

All Child Development and Family Science majors must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher to remain in the major and must earn a “C” or higher in all courses used to satisfy the major.

Minor in Family Science or Child Development

Students may also choose to minor in Family Science or Child Development. Both minors complement a variety of majors and prepare students to work with children and families across career sectors.

Students wishing to declare a minor in Family Science or Child Development must be incoming first-year or transfer students or have a cumulative CWU GPA of 2.5.

How to Apply

Whether you want to enroll in a major or minor program in CDFS, complete the application form and email to Dr. Amy Claridge to complete the declaration process and be assigned an advisor. 

If you're not sure which program is the best fit for you, please reach out to Dr. Amy Claridge to schedule a time to meet and discuss your options.

Graduate Program

The Child Development and Family Science master's degree includes an advanced interdisciplinary study of interpersonal and family relationships. The graduate program has a strong emphasis on community involvement, practical application, and research.

All of our graduate students develop skills to work with families from diverse backgrounds, promote healthy family relationships, and advocate for policies that support family well-being. Graduates are prepared for advanced career opportunities in children’s hospitals, family social service agencies, parent education programs, and other family life education settings or doctoral study in family relations.

We offer graduate specializations in Child Life and Family Science.

Specialize in Child Life

Our graduate Child Life specialization provides a comprehensive understanding of child development, family dynamics, and healthcare systems so students gain skills in therapeutic interventions, psychosocial assessments, and support for families facing medical challenges. Our program emphasizes compassionate care and evidence-based practices to improve the lives of children and families. Using medical teaching dolls, medical supplies, and therapeutic play materials, students practice procedural preparation, nonpharmacological pain management strategies, diagnostic teaching, and therapeutic play facilitation. Graduates of the Child Life program are well-prepared to apply for child life internships after completion of the required ACLP coursework, a child life practicum at Seattle Children's Hospital, and over 200 additional hours of practicum experiences with children in a variety of settings.

Specialize in Family Science

Our graduate Family Science specialization is a comprehensive program designed to provide you with an in-depth understanding of family dynamics, child development, and the social and cultural factors that affect individual and family functioning. We emphasize a practical approach, with a strong foundation in theory and research. An advanced degree in Family Science prepares students with the expertise to better understand, strengthen, and empower families — skills that can be used in many roles including teaching, policy work, professional practice, and research.

How to Apply

Students should apply for the CDFS master's program through the Graduate Studies website. Applications are due by February 1 to be considered for the Summer/Fall graduate cohort.

For additional information about the CDFS graduate program, contact Dr. Amy Claridge.