The program focuses on the behavioral, psychological, biological and contextual processes that promote positive developmental outcomes in infants and young children. Key contexts of development emphasized in the program include family, early childhood educational settings, and culture. Courses are available in areas such as development across cultures, infant development, language and literacy research and practices, social-emotional development, observational methods for home or the classroom, approaches to early education, intervention and prevention programs, and parenting. Laboratory experiences in early childhood education are available in the Child Development Laboratories, and research experiences are available through work with faculty mentors. Both a thesis (Plan A) and non-thesis (Plan B) option are offered. Those pursuing Plan A are prepared for doctoral study in a variety of related fields.

Admission

Students must have:

1. A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university. 
2. A grade-point average of 3.00 or better during the last two full years of undergraduate study. Those between 2.5 and 3.0 must take the General Record Examination (GRE).
3. A favorable evaluation by at least three professional references. 
4. Academic records, references, and experiences that reflect strong qualifications for graduate study. 
5. Satisfactory verbal ability and quantitative ability scores on the Aptitude Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for Plan A (Thesis). This option is for those wishing to pursue a research focus and potential doctoral degree. 

International applicants must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam: 1) Paper-based version: minimum average score of 550, no subscore below 52; 2) Computer-based version: minimum average score of 213, no subscore below 19; 3) Internet-based version: minimum average score of 80; no subscore below 19 for reading, listening, and speaking; no writing subscore below 22.

Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Child Development

The Master of Science Degree in Child Development is available under Plan A (with thesis) or Plan B (without thesis). A total of 30 credits is required for Plan A and a total of 32 credits is required for Plan B.