Bachelor of Arts - Child and Adolescent Development - Social and Community Contexts

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 concentration in Social and Community Contexts seeks to prepare students to support developmental trajectories of children, adolescents, and emerging adults through application of theory and research into practice with diverse community settings. This concentration fosters students’ abilities to apply ecological perspectives and engage in ethical and reflective practices within the local and professional community. Graduates will be able to communicate developmental research to various audiences and collaborate with community stakeholders that provide resources to support the strengths of diverse individuals.

The concentration is appropriate for students interested in working with diverse groups of children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families in community, social, government or counseling settings and/or for advanced degree and professional programs.