COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Child & Youth Studies at Trent University is a structured academic program focused on understanding the development, learning, and lived experiences of children and youth. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from psychology, sociology, and education to explore how young people grow and interact within families, schools, and broader communities. Students in the single-major Honours stream complete a 20.0-credit degree with a strong core of Child & Youth Studies (CHYS) courses that build foundational and advanced knowledge in areas such as child development, youth engagement, and social contexts of learning. As students progress, they take increasingly advanced 3000- and 4000-level courses that deepen analytical thinking and applied understanding of issues affecting children and adolescents. The curriculum also includes supporting coursework in sociology and psychology, ensuring students gain insight into social systems and human behaviour. The program encourages critical thinking about policy, equity, and well-being, preparing students to work effectively in diverse educational and community settings. In joint-major pathways, the program maintains flexibility while ensuring core competencies are met through required CHYS coursework and complementary disciplines. Graduates are well prepared for careers in education, social services, child and youth advocacy, and community development, as well as for further studies such as a Bachelor of Education or other professional programs.