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The child development degree program primarily focuses on child development and family studies. It also the highlights the areas of special education and early childhood educational practices. This program considers the life experiences and contexts that influence the development of children, including culture, education, family, community and biology.

This major is perfect for students who would like to work with young children, from birth through kindergarten. You'll gain practical experience working directly with children and families from diverse backgrounds. This firsthand learning is conducted at MSU Child Development Laboratories and other community-based early childhood settings, including home visit programs.

Completing the child development degree leads to teacher certification for children from birth to kindergarten in the state of Michigan. You also have the option to complete requirements for an additional teaching certification for children from birth to third grade.

With this major, you will have the knowledge and skills to promote the comprehensive well-being of children and families.

Alumni Pursuits

Child development degree graduates excel at working with young children, including infants and children with special needs, in a variety of settings.

Alumni work at:

Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children

Head Start

Great Start Readiness

Elementary schools and preschools

Child development centers

Non-profit agencies

Hospitals and health care agencies

Alumni work as:

Applied behavior analysts

Behavior treatment specialists

College advisors

Family support workers

Preschool teachers

Research assistants

Resident advocates

Youth care workers