The Masters of Arts in Child Development is designed for students interested in research, theory and practice related to the study of individuals and families across diverse populations and settings. Students may coordinate degree requirements for the Elementary Subject Matter Credential, Special Education Credentials, or the Early Childhood Special Education Credential Program.

Admission to the Program

In addition to the University requirements for admission to graduate study, applicants must satisfy specific departmental requirements before admission to the program. These include:

• Baccalaureate in child development or a closely related academic field from a fully accredited college or university.
• Minimum grade point average of 2.85 in the last 90 quarter units.
• Two letters of recommendation and a written statement of intent.
• Completion of the department application form, including a writing sample.

Students without a baccalaureate in child development or a closely related field must complete a 27-unit prerequisite program before being admitted to the child development master’s degree program. Further information is available in the Child and Family Studies office.

Admission to the Master’s program in Child Development is a two tier process. Students must apply to both the University and the Department of Child and Family Studies. The department only admits students once a year during the fall quarter. Students interested in being considered for the graduate program must submit departmental applications by March 1st for subsequent fall admission. Departmental applications are available through the department office.