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If you love children, consider turning your passion into a profession with one of the best bachelor’s degrees in child development.
In these programs, you’ll build expertise on the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, moral, and language development of children. You’ll also learn about working with children with special needs and from diverse backgrounds. This knowledge allows you to reach and teach the whole child. You’ll become a professional who focuses not just on academics, but on social and emotional development too.
After graduating from these programs, you will have the ability to conduct research, design programs, and provide services that positively impact child development. This can lead to a career in education, public policy, social services, counseling, and more.
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What kind of Bachelor’s in Child Development degree should you get?
Many child development programs offer concentrations or specializations. If you want to direct a daycare or preschool program, become an educator, or work in social services, there’s most likely a concentration for you. If you aren’t sure about your career goals, you can pursue a more general child development degree.
Another factor to consider is if you want to attend classes on campus or online. There are benefits to each delivery method. The on-campus programs on this list offer face-to-face interaction and a more traditional college experience.
However, online coursework provides flexibility and convenience. While earning an online degree, you can work at your own pace, on your own time. If online classes appeal to you, check out our list of the Best Online Child Development Degrees.
How much money do people make with a Bachelor’s in Child Development degree?
Your salary will depend on what career you choose to pursue. Below, we’ll look at the median salary for several potential child development careers. All salary data is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Preschool/Childcare Center Director- $46,890
Social Worker- $47,980
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers- $56,900
Child Life Specialist- $60,380
These careers are all projected to grow as fast or faster than average in the next 10 years. Social worker jobs, for example, are expected to grow by 16 percent, which is much faster than average.
With a master’s degree, you can qualify for higher level positions with higher salaries. Of course, earning your bachelor’s degree is a required first step.
What can you do with a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development?
A bachelor’s degree in Child Development can prepare you to work as a teacher, childcare worker, preschool director, child life specialist, behavioral health specialist, or social worker. You can work in private, public, or even government positions interacting with children. You may also develop community and family programs that benefit child development.
In addition, you can pursue graduate work in human development, psychology, education, or public policy. A bachelor’s degree in Child Development can open a wide variety of possibilities.
What are the requirements for a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development?
To apply for a child development bachelor’s degree program, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs will require a certain GPA or test scores. You may be expected to submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement or essay.
Like other bachelor’s degree programs, these programs require at least 120 credit hours. In most cases, students must complete hands-on experience in the field. This can include an internship or practicum, and you may be expected to complete independent research.
What are the best Bachelor’s in Child Development degrees?
This guide is a list of the best bachelor’s degrees in Child Development. To determine which programs are the best, we evaluate factors including school reputation, tuition, and overall return on investment. The programs on this list will provide high-quality education at reasonable prices, setting you up for career success.
To inform our rankings, we gather data only from trusted sources like:
Princeton Review
U.S. News and World Report
Bureau of Labor Statistics
PayScale
Official college and university websites
If you’re seeking a rewarding career in child development, these programs will help you achieve your goals.
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt is a private research university founded in 1873. Sometimes called “the Harvard of the South,” Vanderbilt is ranked one of the top 15 colleges in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. And according to Princeton Review, Vanderbilt is home to the nation’s happiest students. 12,592 students are enrolled in Vanderbilt’s ten schools. Vandy offers a major in child development.
Program Features
Vanderbilt’s child development major provides a solid background in the behavioral and social sciences relevant to child development. Students examine research methods and major research findings in the field of child development. They also complete independent research and choose an area of focus or expertise in the field. Courses include:
Developmental Psychology
Cognitive Aspects of Human Development
Social and Personality Development
Children in Families and Schools
Ethics for Human Development Professionals
Notables
Students who complete their sophomore year with at least a 3.2 GPA are eligible for the Child Development Honors program. Vanderbilt’s child development major is excellent preparation for graduate work or education, psychology, medicine, nursing, and public policy. It can also complement a major in special education, early childhood or elementary education, human and organizational development, or cognitive studies.
Tufts is a private research university in Medford, Massachusetts. Founded in 1852, the university offers a unique combination of liberal arts education and research. Tufts enrolls 11,449 students across four campuses. The highly selective university is ranked among the top 30 in the nation. Students choose from over 90 undergraduate majors, including a major in Child Study and Human Development.
Program Features
The Child Study and Human Development program prepares students to work with diverse groups of children, adolescents, and families. It equips students with the tools to conduct research on child development and discover better methods to help children and youth. Students benefit from applied experience in a variety of settings and in courses such as:
Intellectual Development in Children
Childhood Across Cultures
Personal-Social Development
Inquiry and Analysis in Child Study and Human Development
Development of Language
Notables
Students choose from seven concentrations including Child and Family Health, Child and Family Policy, Language and Literacy, Atypical Development, and Early Childhood Education. An applied experience or research experience is required. This program can lead to careers including education, law, public policy, medicine and health, and applied research.
Founded in 1889, Clemson University is South Carolina’s second-largest university. The top-25 public university boasts some of the country’s highest retention rates. Its students have been named some of the nation’s happiest for nearly a decade. Known for its beautiful campus, Clemson sits at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The university offers more than 80 undergraduate majors. One option is a major in Early Childhood Education.
Program Features
Clemson’s Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education is primarily focused on child development. Students learn how children develop in the early years, including early literacy, scientific, and mathematical development. Through hands-on experiences, students learn to work with diverse populations and cultures. Courses include:
Family, School, and Community Relationships
Child Growth and Development
Educational Psychology
Concepts of Play and Social Development in Infants and Young Children
Early Intervention Strategies for Young Children with Special Needs
Notables
Program faculty is comprised of recognized experts in early childhood. This program is best suited for students who want to teach preschool through third grade. Students complete four practicums, followed by observation and assessment in a clinical setting.
The University of La Verne is a private, not-for-profit university based in La Verne, California. Founded in 1891, the university has expanded to nine campuses throughout Southern California. La Verne holds multiple accreditations and is considered one of the nation’s top-tier universities by U.S. News and World Report. It enrolls over 8000 traditional and adult learners. ULV offers a BS in Child Development.
Program Features
The Bachelor of Science in Child Development focuses on child development in relation to the family, school, and community. It integrates theory, research, and practice. Students gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to effectively work with and assist young children. They take courses such as:
Child Psychology and Development
Parenting Theory in Cultural Contexts
Social Emotional Learning
Early Childhood Literacy
Infant/Toddler Development
Notables
This program is designed for students planning to work in early childhood education or social services. It’s available at several locations and offers flexible scheduling, including weekend and night classes. Ten-week terms accelerate the program, and small class sizes ensure personal attention.
Based in Oakland, California, Mills College is a liberal arts women’s college. It strives to empower innovative and independent thinkers in every field. Mills emphasizes creative experimentation, student-faculty collaboration, and personalized learning. According to U.S. News and World Report, Mills is one of the West’s top regional universities. It offers a broad range of undergraduate programs, including a BA in Child Development.
Program Features
In the Bachelor of Arts in Child Development Program, students learn about research, theory, and the issues impacting children and families. Through extensive hands-on experience, they learn to design programs, conduct research, and provide services that positively influence child development. You can enroll in courses like:
Introduction to Development and Learning in Young Children
Research Methodology for Observing Children
Child Language Acquisition
Social, Emotional, and Moral Development and Learning
History and Theories of Play in Human Development, Culture, and Education
Notables
Students get two semesters of on-the-job training at the Mills College Children’s School, the West Coast’s oldest laboratory school. They also have access to the Center for Play Research, the Language Development Lab, and the Early Childhood and Family Research Lab. Students may choose to perform research off campus and co-author articles with faculty.
A public university in Miami, Florida, Florida International is one of the largest universities in the United States. FIU enrolls 57,000 students. It’s ranked one of the top public universities nationwide by U.S. News and World Report. In addition to having a large student population, FIU offers a large selection of academic programs. Among its 190 degree programs is a BS in Early Childhood Education with a Development track.
Program Features
FIU’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education: Development Track emphasizes learning and development in the early childhood years. Students examine the social/emotional, language, and cognitive development of young children within the context of families and communities. Students take courses including:
Human Growth Development
Language and Literacy Development
Educational Psychology
Social-Emotional Development
Cultural and Social Foundations of Education
Notables
Students must maintain a 2.5 GPA and complete field experiences within a school. Career opportunities include child life specialist, childcare worker, preschool director, and preschool teacher. Students may also pursue additional coursework in education, psychology, human development, or public policy.
Located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, The University of Alabama excels at more than just football. The public research university was founded in 1831 and is Alabama’s oldest and largest university. It is ranked among the nation’s top public universities and is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service. The university enrolls over 38,000 students and provides 197 degree options. One option is a BS in Child Development.
Program Features
Alabama’s Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences, Human Development and Family Studies is designed for students planning to work in Head Start agencies. Students gain the skills to guide children through one of the most important developmental stages. They learn to design, implement, and evaluate preschool programs. They study parent/child relationships and the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development of children. Courses include:
Life Span Human Development
Infancy and Toddlerhood
Preschool Development
Parent and Family Development
Child Centers and Programs
Notables
Applications to this program are accepted year-round. Students may apply for prior learning credit, which counts relevant work experience toward your degree. Those not planning to work for a Head Start agency may pursue a separate degree with a concentration in Early Child Development. The program requires a field placement in a preschool.
Michigan State is a public research university in Lansing, Michigan. With an extensive history of excellence, MSU is considered one of the world’s top research universities. Twenty-five of its degree programs are ranked in the top 20 nationally by U.S. News and World Report. More than 50,000 students form a vibrant community with over 900 student organizations. MSU offers 200 plus academic programs, including a BA in Child Development.
Program Features
Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Child Development program gain a strong foundation in early childhood development and family studies. The program is appropriate for students planning to work with children from birth through age eight. It requires experiential learning, an internship, or undergraduate research. You can expect to take courses like:
Diverse Learners in Multicultural Perspectives
Child Growth and Development
Interaction with Children in Groups
Infant Development and Program Planning
Assessment of the Young Child
Notables
Graduates work in Head Start programs, preschools, elementary schools, and in other child-related fields like health care, administration, and policy. Concentrations are available in Preschool Teaching in an Early Childhood Setting and Elementary Education Teacher Certification. The latter requires admission to the teacher preparation program.
A liberal arts college in Berea, Kentucky, Berea College provides a high-quality education with no tuition. Students also receive affordable study abroad options, work experience, a paid internship, and a laptop that is theirs to keep upon graduation. Berea has 1,600 undergraduate students and offers 32 majors. It consistently appears on U.S. News and World Report’s list of “Colleges That Pay You Back.” Berea offers a BA in Child and Family Studies Child Development.
Program Features
The Bachelor of Arts in Child and Family Studies with a concentration in Child Development emphasizes developmental theories. Students learn about the social, intellectual, moral, psychological, and physical development of children. They explore individual areas of interest like early childhood education, special needs, or methods of childhood guidance. Courses include:
Lifespan Human Development
Family Relations
Family Resource Management
The Exceptional Child
Infancy and Early Childhood
Notables
Program graduates are employed in centers for early childhood care and/or education as teachers or directors, with parks and recreation services, with community programs, in social service agencies, and as part of hospital healthcare teams as child life specialists. Others have pursued graduate studies or opened their own childcare centers.
Howard University is a private historically black university in Washington, D.C. The research university was founded in 1867 and is comprised of 13 schools and colleges. 10,000 students are enrolled in more than 120 areas of study. Howard excels in STEM fields, social work, business, and communication sciences. It emphasizes excellent teaching, research opportunities, and service. The university offers a BS in Human Development.
Program Features
Students enrolled in Howard’s Bachelor of Science in Human Development program study individuals and families from a multidisciplinary perspective. Students select a concentration in infancy, childhood, adolescence, or adult development. Coursework focuses on developmental processes within the context of relationships and environment, particularly in underserved populations. In this program, you would take courses such as:
Human Development, Family, Culture, and Society
Growth and Development
Diverse Youth of Color
Risk and Resilience in Family and Intimate Relationships
Prenatal, Infancy, and Early Childhood
Notables
Students complete an internship and conduct research in human development. They may choose a minor or select electives that reflect their personal career goals. The program offers an Honors Program and an accelerated five-year dual degree program with a BS and MSW in Human Development.
Established in 1903, Western Michigan is a public research university in Kalamazoo, Michigan. U.S. News and World Report ranks WMU among the top 100 universities nationally. The university serves over 23,200 students and prepares them for immediate success. Within three months of graduation, 91 percent of WMU graduates are employed in their field. For those planning to work with children, WMU offers a major in Child and Family Development.
Program Features
WMU’s major in Child and Family Development prepares students to work with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and their families in varied settings. Students may choose to attend classes on campus, online, or in a combination of both. Courses include:
Lifespan Development
Family Resource Management
Diverse Children, Families, and Communities
Infant and Toddler Development
Effective Parenting
Notables
WMU’s program is approved by the National Council on Family Relations, and graduates may decide to become Certified Family Life Educators. This certification enhances professional credibility and increases employment opportunities.
The world’s largest Christian university, Grand Canyon University is located in Phoenix, Arizona. The private, rapidly-growing campus recently welcomed a record number of students. Over 19,000 students attend classes on campus, with an additional 60,000 enrolled in online courses. GCU’s degree programs are rigorous, engaging, and student-focused. The BS in Behavioral Health Science is no exception.
Program Features
GCU’s Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science offers an emphasis in Childhood and Early Adolescent Disorders. Students gain a solid foundation in childhood and adolescent development and behavior, particularly childhood/adolescent disorders. They examine the assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and best practices for behavioral health treatment through courses like:
Introduction to Counseling Theories
Introduction to Family Dynamics
Understanding Trauma
Childhood and Adolescent Disorders
Introduction to Childhood and Adolescent Physical and Behavioral Health
Notables
Students are prepared to work as behavioral health technicians or specialists in a variety of settings. Graduates also become mental health service technicians, social or community service managers, or case managers. They may work in the field of health service management or in government, public, or private agencies.
Fort Hays State University is a public university located in Hays, Kansas. The rapidly-growing university enrolls over 15,000 students and has 31 academic departments. After graduation, 95 percent of graduates find placement in graduate school or a career. FHSU is considered the Midwest’s leading forward-thinking, entrepreneurial university. Goal-oriented students choose from a variety of programs, including a Bachelor of General Studies with a concentration in Child Development.
Program Features
FHSU’s Bachelor of General Studies with a concentration in Child Development is designed for early childcare and daycare providers. It focuses on growth, development, and issues in early childhood. The program also explores effective classrooms, instructional technology, and special education. Students complete courses such as:
The Young Child
Diverse Learners
Human Growth and Development
Programs, Procedures, and Issues in Special Education
Children’s Literature
Notables
The Bachelor of General Studies is a liberal arts degree intended for students pursuing careers that do not require specific bachelor’s degrees. It provides students with a well-rounded, multidisciplinary education. However, students may select a concentration that aligns with their desired career or a field of interest. The degree also provides solid preparation for graduate school.
Founded in 1890, Post University is a private university in Waterbury, Connecticut. Post is an innovative university offering flexible undergraduate and graduate programs both on campus and online. Class sizes are small, and the university is dedicated to providing an extraordinary level of personal support for students. Courses are taught by experts in their field. You may be interested in Post University’s BS in Child Studies.
Program Features
The Bachelor of Science in Child Studies prepares students to work with children birth through age eight. Through coursework and hands-on experiences, students will acquire the skills and knowledge to support children developing typically and those with special needs. Courses also cover curriculum, assessment, and strategies that promote healthy development. Courses include:
Home, School, and Community
Health, Safety, and Nutrition
Emergent Literacy
Learning Theory
Teaching the Exceptional Learners
Notables
This program requires a practicum and capstone field experience. When students enroll, they are immediately assigned a team of personal advisors. Advisors assist with financial aid, building schedules, achieving academic success, and even finding a job after graduation.
Siena Heights University is a Roman Catholic university in Adrian, Michigan. The university was founded in the liberal arts tradition in 1919 and sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. In addition to the main campus, Siena Heights has eight degree completion centers and plentiful online offerings. The university serves 2,700 students and offers about 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. One option is a BA in Child Development.
Program Features
In the Bachelor of Arts in Child Development program, students choose between two tracks. One is for those interested in working with children in contexts like psychology, social work, clinics, recreation, and human services. The other is for future preschool and early education teachers. Students in both tracks share core courses like:
Child Growth and Development
Early Literacy: Birth to 5 Years
Programs for Young Children
Research in Child Development
Seminar in Child Development
Notables
Students must earn a C- or better in all required courses and an overall 3.0 in child development major coursework. A practicum in child development is also required. Students must submit daily journal entries/reflections, supervisor formative and summative evaluations, and curriculum resources.
Based in Pullman, Washington, Washington State is a public research university founded in 1890. The civic-minded university aims to provide higher education that is both achievable and affordable. WSU also focuses on creativity, discovery, and innovation. It is one of the top research universities in the United States. Over 30,000 Washington State students choose from more than 250 majors and degree programs, including a BA in Human Development.
Program Features
WSU’s Bachelor of Arts in Human Development examines the complexity of human development. Students explore physical, cognitive, social, and affective development across a variety of contexts. While in the program, students may opt to complete an Early Childhood Certificate. Courses include:
Human Development Across the Lifespan
Human Development Theories
Family Interactions
Child Development
Child Maltreatment
Notables
Students must maintain a 2.6 or better in all human development courses. Students working toward an Early Childhood Certificate must complete an early childhood practicum. Graduates are prepared to work with families, children, adolescents, and adults in public, private and government settings.
While over 3,000 students attend Southern New Hampshire University on campus, more than 90,000 are enrolled in the university’s online programs. U.S. News and World Report considers the university among the nation’s best and most innovative. A BA in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development is one of more than 200 programs at SNHU.
Program Features
In the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development, students gain an in-depth understanding of development from birth through adolescence. Courses emphasize the cognitive, psychological, social, and physical needs of young people. The highly interactive degree provides opportunities for special research projects and experiential learning. Students take courses such as:
Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence
Lifespan Development
Child Development
Adolescent Development
Introduction to Psychology
Notables
There is no application fee to apply to this program. SNHU boasts some of the lowest tuition rates in the nation. In addition, U.S. service members and spouses of those on active duty receive a 30 percent discount. With a broad liberal arts focus, this program prepares students for a variety of careers, as well as graduate programs in psychology or social services.
Eastern Kentucky University was founded in 1906 and is located in Richmond, Kentucky. EKU began as a small teacher’s college and has expanded to serve more than 14,000 students. The university emphasizes scholarship, service, and excellence in education. Students choose from a diverse range of degree programs, including a BS in Child and Family Studies.
Program Features
Through the Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Studies, students develop the skills to create, implement, and evaluate interventions that improve the quality of life for children and families. Students may choose to pursue a Child Development concentration and complete a practicum in child development. Courses include:
Child Development: Conception-8 Years
Interaction and Guidance
Introduction to Family Life Programs
Program Planning for Infants and Toddlers
Program Planning for Preschool Children
Notables
Students complete a supervised practicum in programs serving families and young children. These may include organizations in the public, private, or nonprofit sector. A minimum of 160 hours of field experience is required.
With an enrollment of more than 36,500 students, Texas Tech is a large public university in Lubbock, Texas. It was founded in 1923 and is ranked by both Forbes and PayScale for its high return on investment. TTU also regularly appears in national rankings published by U.S. News and World Report and Princeton Review. Among Texas Tech’s many rigorous and rewarding programs is a BS in Early Childhood.
Program Features
Texas Tech’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood is designed for early childhood teachers. It offers a pre-K through 6th grade teaching certification. The program gives future teachers an understanding of the whole child: social and emotional as well as academic. Students also study brain development and risk factors that impact it, in addition to child behavioral issues and the unmet needs these behaviors represent. You can expect courses such as:
Behavior Management in General and Special Populations
Programs and Services
Development During Childhood
Child/Adolescent Guidance
Designing Assessments
Notables
Students complete two semesters of lab experience. They plan and facilitate student learning experiences, create effective learning environments, and observe a child’s learning and behavior, analyzing and documenting information to share with the family. In addition, students attend weekly field experience placements in a local school.
National Louis University is one of Chicago’s oldest and most progressive universities. It was founded in 1886 and has campuses in Florida, Illinois, and Poland. Across these campuses, the private nonprofit university enrolls 8,000 students. NLU offers more than 60 degree programs. Students interested in early development and education may pursue a BA in Early Childhood Practice.
Program Features
The Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Practice is not intended for students who wish to become licensed teachers. Instead, it is for students who want to work in childcare, early childhood social services, or other settings with children. All students complete field work experience in infant/toddler and in pre-K. They complete additional field experiences related to their personal career goals. Students also take courses such as:
Early Childhood Learning, Growth, and Development
Planning for Quality Infant/Toddler Programs
Understanding Infant and Toddler Development
Professionalism and Ethical Engagement with Children, Families and the Community
Assistive and Instructional Technology
Notables
A “C” or better is required in all major coursework, and students must have a minimum 2.5 GPA by junior year. Students who complete the program are eligible to earn the Early Childhood Level 5 credential awarded by Gateways to Opportunity and the Infant/Toddler credential.
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