Students select an area of concentration (major elective area) to complement the field as a whole. Honors Program
The Honors Program in Child Development offers qualified majors the opportunity to conduct individual research projects in collaboration with faculty members. This research experience culminates in the writing and public presentation of a senior thesis. Students who major in Child Development are eligible to apply for the Honors Program at the end of their sophomore year if they have an overall grade point average of at least 3. 3 and at least a 3. 3 in Child Development courses. Students who complete the program successfully and who have a final grade point average of at least 3. 3 will receive Honors in Child Development. The program should substantially aid those intending to do graduate work. More specific information concerning admission to and the requirements of the Honors Program is available here, from the Director of the Child Development Program, or the Department Educational Activities Coordinator.
Kate - Child Development Majors by Career Center
Students may choose to combine the child development major with the licensure requirements for either Birth through Kindergarten or K-6 to be eligible to teach in the public school setting. As a child development major, you can also pursue career options including early education and child care programs, child life, early intervention, government agencies, and other agencies offering children's programs. Equity Statement
All students have the right to an equitable and inclusive learning environment, including fair treatment, acknowledged as individuals, while being encouraged to participate fully in their educational experiences. Thus, the Child Development program will create an environment of respect, tolerance, and understanding of others as unique individuals, through safe spaces within classrooms for discussion, listening, thinking, and learning about these differences. The Child Development program acknowledges that there are many different people, identities, experiences, and perspectives, and as a program, we will address biases and challenge policies and mindset that reinforce dominance or invisibility of others inside and outside of the classroom to help students reach their full potential as students, members of Meredith College community, and society.
Consider taking interpersonal communication and public speaking classes. Earn a business minor or supplement program with courses such as accounting, management, finance, etc. to increase understanding of business theory. Obtain sales/retail experience with companies catering to children's needs. Join business or retail student organizations and secure leadership positions. Communications
Curriculum/Resource Development
Journalism
Writing
Editing
Organizations geared toward children and families including:
Book publishers
Radio and TV stations
Newspapers
Magazines
Manufacturers
Professional associations
Develop excellent grammar and writing skills. Learn to think critically and research effectively. Take elective courses in the communications field such as journalism, broadcasting, public relations and advertising, or earn a minor in one area of interest. Obtain experience with a college newspaper, yearbook, alumni publication or with local radio or television stations. Compile a portfolio of writing samples, ad campaigns and other relevant work, especially those that have been published.
Here are a few examples of jobs available to graduates with a bachelor's in child development:
Child Life Specialist
Special Education Paraprofessional
Parent Educator
Early Childhood Education Consultant
Early Childhood Education Regulator
Social Worker
Students who love working with children and who are interested in becoming children's advocates may be a good fit for the Bachelor of Arts in Child Development degree. This degree has the potential to open doors to advanced positions in various organizations. One of the most attractive qualities of a degree in child development is that relevant careers in education and social work are available in all job markets. Career Growth and Salary Potential
As in any other field, salaries vary based on the career chosen. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn a median salary of $54, 550 annually, with 6 percent job growth by 2024. Preschool teachers earn a median annual salary of $28, 570, with 7 percent job growth by 2024.
There are multiple scholarships specific to the College of Education and Professional Studies. View Scholarships
Experience Family Life Education - Child Development at UCO for Yourself
What Can You Do With a Child Development Degree?
Many students choose Child Development because they are interested in becoming educators, and with this major you'll be getting a lot of hands-on experience working with children.
Tracy Waters, '06, completed her Ph. D. at Clemson University.
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