College of Education and Professional Studies
Child Life
Bachelor of Science | Major
Child Development and Family Science, BS—Child Life Specialization
This program focuses on the emotional and developmental needs of children and families during stressful and challenging times.
Our Child Life Specialization will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue certification as a child life specialist and work in various healthcare settings. You will build skills through hands-on activities in courses and practicum opportunities in the community. You will be prepared to pursue a child life internship and certification as a child life specialist or pursue graduate studies.
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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 Life Specialization
Required Courses
- 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 416 - Child Life I: Child Life Scope of Practice
- CDFS 417 - Pediatric Diagnoses and Medical Terminology
- CDFS 418 - Child Life II: Impact of Child Hospitalization
- CDFS 432 - Theories in Child Development
- CDFS 438 - Attachment Theory and Practice
Department-Approved Electives
- ANTH 353 - Childhood and Culture
- 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 237 - Human Sexuality
- CDFS 403 - Family Communication
- CDFS 435 - Adult Development, Aging, and Family Life
- CDFS 439 - Families and Public Policy
- CDFS 440 - Teaching for Child Development and Family Science
- PHIL 308 - Medical Ethics
- SOC 320 - Death and Dying
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 program maintains great relationships with regional hospitals so there is a high placement rate for child life practicums and internships.
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.
Healthcare, Physical and Mental
Explore topics including medical terminology, childhood disorders, diagnoses and treatment, and skills to prepare children for procedures in the hospital.
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Endorsed
The Child Life program at CWU is endorsed by the Association of Child Life Professionals and includes all required courses for certification.
Starting Salary
Starting salaries range from $55,000-$80,000 per year.
and Only
We are the only endorsed program in Washington State and one of only two child life programs in the northwest.
Why Child Life at Central?
- Grow emotionally as you learn to interact with children in stressful situations.
- 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.
- Learn to work as a team as you collaborate on group projects with your classmates.
Career Pathways
Children's hospital child life specialist
Grief counseling/support services
Non-profit work that supports children with medical conditions/disabilities
Disability services organizations