Child development – degrees, programs and career options

Introduction to child development

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for professions in the child development field is expected to grow as fast, or faster than the national average. A degree in child development can open up many career options in a variety of work environments. Whether you want to get an associate’s degree to become a teaching assistant, a bachelor’s to become a teacher, a master’s degree to become a social worker, or a doctorate to become a college professor, there are many different paths you can take to achieve your academic goals. This major will teach you how to better understand your students, clients, and community.

Online degrees in child development

At every academic level, there are online options for degrees in child development. Online education gives you the freedom and flexibility to choose when to study rather than the rigidity of a traditional in-person program.

There are many programs that are being offered online due to the current health pandemic, which gives more options to those who prefer online education. Before applying to an online child development program, make sure the program is accredited so your units can be transferred to future academic programs, be applicable for a certificate and credential program, or be accepted by a future employer.

Doctorate programs are also available online, just keep in mind that doctorate programs can take up to 8 years to complete depending on the program.

Why is accreditation important?

Whether you are applying for an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate program, your university needs to be accredited. The good news is that most community colleges, especially state-funded colleges, are accredited. For you, this means that your community college credits will likely transfer to other institutions. When graduating from a university to work in the field of child development, future employers, licensing agencies, and other universities are only going to accept candidates from accredited universities. This shows them that you have the knowledge and skills to prepare you for the next level of academia, or employment.

Associate’s degree in child development

An associate’s degree in child development can help provide you with access to entry-level career options such as a preschool teacher or teaching assistant. This 2-year program will introduce developmental domains, including how to apply this knowledge to a work environment. It will also enhance your understanding of specific behaviors and developmental needs. Earning an associate’s degree in child development can help you stand out when applying for these careers.

What will I learn?

An associate’s program will introduce you to the field of child development with introductory courses. You will take courses that shape your understanding of human development, how a child’s surroundings impact behavior and development, the importance of art, health, and safety. In addition, you can learn how to create a stable, safe, and educational environment to create positive, lasting effects in a child’s life.

Cost of an associate’s degree

The cost of a 2-year associate’s degree program ranges from around $3,000 per year for in-state tuition in an online program to upwards of $36,000 for out-of-state tuition. This does not, however, factor in the cost of books, lab fees, or campus-related costs such as parking permits, which can add up fast.

» Read: What is the Federal Pell Grant?

Bachelor’s degree in child development

This program studies the development of a child cognitively, physically, socially, emotionally, and linguistically. It takes a deep look into how childhood experiences influence and directly affect adulthood. You will strengthen your understanding of child development through coursework and fieldwork.

I’m interested, what do I need before applying?

Applying with no college credits

If you are applying to a bachelor’s program after graduating high school, you will need transcripts showing your grades, and test scores from recognized assessment exams like the SAT or ACT. To get into a 4-year university, you need at least a 2.0 GPA, but again, to remain competitive with other applicants, a higher score around 3.5 GPA, will improve your chances considerably. Some schools may require a personal statement or essay showcasing your ambitions, experience, and achievements.

Applying with 60 or more transferrable credits

When applying for a bachelor’s program from a community college, the university recognizes that you have already fulfilled the general education requirement. You need a minimum of a 2.0 GPA to apply, but again to remain competitive with other applicants a higher score, around 3.5 GPA, will improve your chances considerably. Most universities insist on the prior completion of prerequisite courses in child development. These classes could include, Introduction to Child Development, The Family and the Community, Assessment and Observation, and acceptable elective courses.

» Read: How to manage stress during the admissions process

Cost of a bachelor’s degree

The cost of an online bachelor’s degree in child development range widely from around $4,500 per year at the far-low end, up to $40,000 per year or higher. State residency, private or public school status, and accreditation can all affect tuition rates. Tuition costs can be lower overall for students transferring from a 2-year college.

Master’s degree in child development

A master’s degree in child development can expand your career options, and add new knowledge to what you have already learned in your undergraduate program. In addition, you can further develop your research, communication, and assessment skills. Master’s degree courses may differ in focus because of the programs they offer, for example, some programs are based on specific age groups, or on counseling.

» Read: Is a master’s degree worth it?

What do I need to apply?

If you are applying to a master’s program in child development, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in child development or a related field. Your grade point average should be at least 2.5 to 3.5 to remain competitive with other applicants. You will also need academic references from professors or tutors and a personal statement. A personal statement is an important part of a master’s application. It is how you highlight your education, experience, and why you are a perfect candidate for the program.

Cost of a master’s degree

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of an on-campus master’s program is $16,435 per year. A typical master’s program takes about 2 years, making the total program cost around $32,870. An online course may cost significantly less.

» Read: Budgeting tips for college students

Doctorate in child development

A Ph.D. program will give you the opportunity to conduct your own original research under the supervision and guidance of a child development faculty member. You will attend lectures and conduct the research essential for you to complete your dissertation. Ph.D. programs can take anywhere from 2 to 8 years to complete.

Applying to a doctorate program

A common misconception is that you need a master’s degree before applying to a doctorate program. This is not necessarily true. Some universities offer doctorate programs to potential applicants who seek entry to the program directly after completing their undergraduate degree.

A degree, academic references, test scores like the GRE, and a personal statement are required to be considered for candidacy. The personal statement should showcase your potential to do original scholarly work.

Cost of a doctoral degree

Students can expect to pay anywhere between $20,000 and $79,000 in total tuition for an online doctorate program, depending on the university. Online courses tend to be more affordable than in-person classes overall. Doctoral degree seekers can typically find funding sources through a variety of grants, loans, teaching opportunities, and scholarships.

Career options with a doctoral degree

The career options listed above are also available to Ph.D. holders. One study by the American Association for the Advancement of Science reported that Ph.D. holders find employment at higher paying establishments, compared to applicants without this academic qualification. When applying for a job, a doctorate degree can not only boost your application for positions, like a school principal or administrator, but may entitle you to a higher salary.