Child Development M.S.

Program Chairperson: Barbara Nicoll

This program is intended for those professionals and supervisors in the field of child development who wish to increase their understanding of the physical, intellectual, and emotional development of children. It emphasizes the study of children and the theories and issues concerned with growth and development. This degree will enable a student to qualify to teach in a California community college.

Prerequisites: A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning that Includes the following courses: Child Psychology and Development, Early Childhood Curriculum, Practicum or Field Work, and Early Childhood Program Management. Experience working in early childhood settings is also desirable. Admission Requirements: ULV's graduate admission requirements and the following:

  1. An undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or above with a preferred GPA of 3.0 or above in Early Childhood courses.
  2. A statement of purpose that includes a description of work experience related to young children, a clear statement of short term and long term professional goals, a description of why this particular M.S. is wanted, and a statement about what the student expects to do professionally after receiving the degree.
  3. An interview with the program chair.
  4. A writing assessment.

Total Program: 33 semester hours

Advancement to Candidacy requires a portfolio demonstrating an understanding of child development theory and research, an ability to relate that information effectively, and the dispositions necessary to support development in others.

Core Courses: 9 semester hours
EDUC 503 Educational Psychology (3)
EDUC 504 Methods of Research (3)
EDUC 556 Early Childhood Assessment (3)

Area of Concentration: 18 semester hours
EDUC 518 Language, Reading, and Concept Development (3)
EDUC 550 Human Development (3)
EDUC 551 Studies in Attachment (3)
EDUC 557 Teaching Adults (3)
EDUC 558 Cognition and Brain Development (3)
EDUC 559 Developmental Curriculum (3)

Electives: 3 semester hours of courses selected on the advice of the program chairperson.

Culminating Activity: 3 semester hours
EDUC 596 Graduate Seminar (3)