Child Development - Counseling and Family Services | Bachelor's degree | Health & Well-Being | On Campus | California State University, Dominguez Hills | USA

The field of Child Development is dedicated to understanding how individuals change over time from conception through adolescence. The knowledge of developmental processes, of what changes and what stays constant, and of what influences change is essential for making sound decisions regarding children's welfare and individual success. The program in Child Development includes in-class and field experiences to prepare students to become knowledgeable and effective child and family professionals. Initially, students master the basics of development in different developmental periods. As they advance through the program, they focus on specific areas with the goal of developing a deeper understanding of issues related to development, its study, and its application. The courses recommended for Counseling & Family Services Concentration are designed for students who may work in a variety of career settings serving families and children and/or counseling. Students will gain knowledge and skills pertaining to working with families, cultural diversity in child and family services, and common problems in families and communities. Students will further gain knowledge and skills to prepare them for entry into graduate programs such as marriage and family therapy, social work, counseling, and clinical psychology. Students interested in careers in family and child services, social work, counseling, child life, or parent education would benefit from taking courses in this area.