COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies is a 38-unit program designed to provide advanced, graduate-level training in child development and family studies. The core curriculum includes nine courses covering effective, inclusive, and equitable practices with children, advanced theories of child development, developmental neuroscience, social-emotional and cognitive development, childhood assessment, families and parenting, and advanced research methods. Students then complete a 14-unit culminating experience, which can be fulfilled through one of three options: a comprehensive examination, a graduate project, or a thesis. The comprehensive examination option emphasizes familiarity with relevant literature, completion of six units of advanced coursework, an externship, advanced academic writing, and the comprehensive exam itself. The project option requires students to develop specialized knowledge in research methodologies, complete six units of advanced courses, an independent study, and a graduate project. The thesis option focuses on advanced research methods and data analysis, with coursework in quantitative and qualitative methods, an independent study, and a thesis. This program is particularly suited for professionals working with children and families, early childhood educators, special educators, counselors, social service practitioners, or those planning doctoral-level study. The program integrates applied research with theoretical understanding, enabling students to develop skills in assessment, intervention, program design, and family engagement. By combining rigorous coursework with a flexible culminating experience, the program ensures that graduates are equipped with both the practical and analytical skills necessary to advance in careers involving child and family development or pursue further academic research. The program’s emphasis on evidence-based practices and applied learning ensures that graduates are prepared to meet the diverse needs of children and families in educational, social service, and research contexts. Overall, the curriculum fosters professional competence, research proficiency, and a thorough understanding of developmental and family dynamics in applied settings.