College of Education and Professional Studies
Child Development
Bachelor of Science | Major
Child Development and Family Science, BS—Child Development Specialization
Gain a comprehensive understanding of child development theories, research methods, and the practical skills needed for working with children and families.
Our Child Development Specialization is built upon a strong foundation in the study of children's growth and development from infancy through emerging adulthood. We emphasize social, cultural, and environmental factors that shape child development.
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Child Development and Family Science
Michaelsen 100
You Belong Here
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Child Development and Family Science Website
Core Requirements
- CDFS 101 - Skills for Marriage and Intimate Relationships
- CDFS 232 - Child Development
- CDFS 234 - Contemporary Families
- CDFS 235 - Relationships and Personal Development
- CDFS 236 - Parent Education and Guidance
- CDFS 344 - Foundations of Marriage and Family Therapy
- CDFS 405 - Professional Obligations and Responsibilities
- CDFS 419 - Research in Child Development and Family Science
- CDFS 436 - Diversity in Families
- CDFS 492 - Child Development and Family Science Practicum
- CDFS 495 - Undergraduate Research
Child Development Specialization
Required Courses
- CDFS 332 - Trauma and Resilience in Children and Adolescents
- CDFS 339 - Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood
- CDFS 340 - Supporting Families with Children with Disabilities
- CDFS 345 - Advanced Concepts in Child Development
- CDFS 414 - Coping with Grief and Loss
- CDFS 415 - Therapeutic Play
- CDFS 432 - Theories in Child Development
- CDFS 438 - Attachment Theory and Practice
Department-Approved Electives
- CDFS 237 - Human Sexuality
- CDFS 310 - Family Issues in the 21st Century
- CDFS 333 - Culture and Marriage
- CDFS 334 - Family Problems and Mediation
- CDFS 335 - Relationship Dissolution and Repartnering
- CDFS 403 - Family Communication
- CDFS 417 - Pediatric Diagnoses and Medical Terminology
- CDFS 433 - Family Life Education
- CDFS 435 - Adult Development, Aging, and Family Life
- CDFS 439 - Families and Public Policy
- CDFS 440 - Teaching for Child Development and Family Science
Experiential Learning
All students complete a multi-quarter practicum experience where they gain experience working with children and families, along with providing needed services to the community.
Career-Focused
Our graduates have found success in the Pacific Northwest working as: • Adult and youth grief specialist, Chaplaincy Health Care • Preschool teacher, Early Childhood Learning Center • Site coordinator, Dylan Jude Harrell Community Center
Original Research
All students complete a two-quarter research methods course where they work with faculty and other students to develop an original research study, collect data from human subjects, analyze their findings, and present their research in the program.
The Greater Good
Explore classes including Trauma and Resilience or Working with Children with Disabilities and their Families.
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Financial Aid
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Student Life
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Visit
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Class Sizes
Find connection in our program with small class sizes that foster a supportive community and allow faculty to get to know you personally, ensuring a more tailored and engaging educational experience.
Starting Salary
Starting salaries range from $40,000-$70,000 per year.
Fulfillment
Learn and grow as an individual as you master methods that can make a real difference in a child’s life.
Why Child Development and Family Science at Central?
- Grow emotionally as you learn to interact with families in crisis and child welfare.
- Pursue a meaningful career that creates positive changes for children and families.
- Learn from experienced professionals dedicated to helping students achieve their goals and succeed in the field.
- Develop foundational research skills, from analysis to findings and recommendations.
Career Pathways
Early intervention programs
Child welfare system case manager
Paraprofessionals in schools
Preschool/early childhood education
Youth programs/camps