Early Childhood, Youth, and Family Studies

J. Walls, Chairperson

The Department of Early Childhood, Youth, and Family Studies includes programs that promote the development, education, and well-being of children from birth through adolescence and that foster healthy family functioning. Our impactful programs provide students with valuable training for real-world application, be it in the classroom, community, or the home.

The Teaching Major in Early Childhood Education focuses on the preparation of teachers for preschool and K-3 classrooms (including those that require a teaching license), with an emphasis on engaging with families and community. 

The Major in Family and Child includes four interrelated concentrations: child life, early childhood education (birth to pre-K, no teaching license; can be completed online for students who transfer in an Associate’s degree), early intervention, and family studies (click here for more information on the professions these concentrations lead to).  Students graduate equipped to work in a variety of settings—from child care centers to hospitals to family service agencies—or primed to pursue graduate or doctoral studies. Minors and a certificate are available that add supplemental preparation for non-major students who will work with children or families.