The Early Childhood Education program offers professionals an opportunity to deepen their study of young children, birth through age eight. The program prepares you to work with children and families in a diverse learning environments including public schools, childcare and child development settings, social service agencies, and crisis management. Your individual Program of Study is developed with your advisor, based on your goals and experiential needs. You may select either the thesis or graduate project option.

The Family Studies program prepares individuals to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, in a wide range of employment settings, both in academia and in human services. Academically, the program takes a lifespan approach to individual and family development that is multidisciplinary, systemic, and research-based with a focus on integrating the latest developments in theory and practice into a personal and professional framework. The Program of Study is intended to be highly flexible, accommodating current practitioners who wish to enhance their skills and knowledge base, and new professionals who are considering an academic career, or work in specialized areas. Examples of these areas and special populations include gerontology, mental health, substance abuse, family development, children’s services, hospital services, advocacy for special populations, policy creation and implementation, and programs that foster the development of strong and enriching relationships over the lifespan. Together with your advisor, you will develop a Program of Study reflective of your experiences and professional goals. You may select either the thesis or graduate project option.