The undergraduate program in Child Development and Families Studies consists of a B.S. of which students can choose from two curriculum options:
This option focuses on the social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development of children. Students are trained to plan programs, perform developmental assessments, and interact with young children in developmentally appropriate ways. Settings for internship experiences include the West Virginia University Child Development Laboratory (Nursery School) for preschool children and placements in community childcare centers to work with infants and toddlers. Upon graduation, students may apply for the WV State Department of Education Certification in Birth through Pre-Kindergarten Education.
Program provides skills and knowledge to enrich individual and family life. It includes knowledge about how families work; the interrelationship of families and society; human growth and development throughout the life span; the physiological and psychological aspects of human sexuality; the impact of money and time management on daily family life; the importance and value of parent education; the effects of policy and legislation on families; ethical considerations in professional conduct; and a solid understanding and knowledge of how to teach and/or develop curriculum for what are often sensitive and personal issues.
The purpose of this minor is to better prepare individuals to work with children in a variety of settings. Students will concentrate on courses that address topics such as the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children as facilitated by families, educators, child care professionals, and others. These classes are taught by instructors in the Child Development and Families Studies Program. Upon completion of Six courses the student will be better prepared for career opportunities in a variety of settings including nursery schools, pre-school, Early Start, Head Start, child care centers, juvenile care centers, and human service agencies. because the Child Development and Families Studies minor is offered through Extended Learning (online), it is ideal for non-traditional students and working professionals, as well as non-CDFS undergraduates pursuing a variety of academic options.
The Child Development and Family Studies graduate program is a major option within the Educational Psychology EDP program. The major provides students with opportunities for conducting research and working with families and children in both educational and clinical settings. Courses in child development, family studies, parenting strategies, and interpersonal communication skills are supplemented with field experiences in a variety of settings. Students also are prepared for continuing study in doctoral programs in Child Development and Family Studies, Sociology, Special Education, Psychology, and Counseling.
The West Virginia University Child Development Laboratory (The Nursery School), a unit of Technology, Learning and Culture, is designed to provide observational opportunities and practicum experience for West Virginia University students majoring in child development and family studies, curriculum and instruction, and other related areas.