Master of Arts In Child Development

The Master program offers an opportunity for the advanced study of developmental theory and research in preparation for a wide range of professional objectives. Although our two emphases focus students in slightly different directions (i.e., Theory and Research vs. Applied Settings), both programs emphasize scholarly reflection on developmental issues and academic excellence in oral and written communication. The program faculty values academic scholarship and research, and regards their application in professional settings as central to the mission of the MA program. Graduates of the program are expected to be well educated, lifelong learners, with excellent preparation in research, theory, and practice in diverse, multicultural settings.

The MA program prepares graduates for professional employment in a variety of settings, including working directly with infants, children, and their families, teaching at the community college level, and preparing for additional study toward a doctoral degree in child development or a related field. The program incorporates the following areas of study: educational and developmental research and theory; cognitive, linguistic, social and emotional development of children; social, cultural, and familial influences on development; children with behavioral, social, cognitive and academic special needs; programming and curricula development; principles and practices involved in organizing, administering, and evaluating programs for children.