An online bachelor’s degree in child development psychology may equip individuals with the skills and training required to understand the theories of child and adolescent growth. In this four-year program, students may gain an in-depth understanding on the mental, emotional, and behavioral development in children. Program coursework may include general education requirements and major coursework including issues in childhood development, counseling processes, and lifespan development.

Upon graduation from the program, students may either seek entry-level employment or continue their education by enrolling in a graduate degree program. Baccalaureate-level graduates may seek employment in education, healthcare, juvenile corrections, and mental healthcare.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 19% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for baccalaureate-level child development psychology degree programs may include a combination of general education classes, electives, and major coursework. These courses may teach students how to recognize childhood emotional disorders, examine issues central to childhood development, and understand behavior formation. Core child development psychology courses may include the following:

• Introduction to Psychology
• Lifespan Development
• Social Psychology
• Psychology of Personality
• Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence
• Issues in Childhood Development
• Counseling Process and Techniques

Career Options

Baccalaureate-level graduates may seek career opportunities in schools, juvenile corrections, clinics, mental health centers, and hospitals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in school and career counseling are projected to increase by 19% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Elementary School Counselor
• Mental Health Counselor
• Middle School Counselor
• Research Coordinator
• Psychologist Assistant

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a bachelor’s degree program may have the opportunity to continue their studies by enrolling in a graduate program. A graduate degree in child development psychology may provide students with a deeper understanding in child psychology research methods, social disorders, and child development.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook