Bachelor of Arts - Child and Adolescent Development - Educational Context

Child and Adolescent Development is the study of the biological, physical, socio-emotional, and cognitive growth and development of the child from conception through emerging adulthood. Using theory, empirical research, and practice, this rigorous academic program prepares students to work as agents of social change with diverse populations of children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families in a variety of areas, including education, advocacy, research, policy, counseling, and/or other settings.

The Child and Adolescent Development concentration in Educational Contexts seeks to prepare students to understand and apply developmental perspectives and engage in ethical and reflective practices within the educational context. Recognizing that a developmental perspective is essential to effective teaching, the concentration prepares students to consider the diverse physical, cognitive, cultural, linguistic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs of children and their families in the teaching and learning process.

Students will be able to utilize developmental research and theory in their teaching practices to support student learning in various educational contexts. This concentration is appropriate for students interested in working with individuals from birth to emerging adulthood, including early care, preschool, elementary school, and special education, and/or for advanced degree and professional programs. Depending on the career trajectory chosen, additional professional training and/or exams may be required (e.g., Child Development Permit, Teaching Credential, CBEST, CSET).