Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Services
In contemporary society, the definition of family is evolving and the traditional nuclear family has many variations. If you’re interested in learning about optimal human development and relationships from infancy through adulthood, a Bachelor of Science degree in Child and Family Services might appeal to you. Through it you will be trained to strengthen the lives of children, adults and families by promoting healthy development and relationships. These skills prepare graduates to work in healthcare, therapeutic and social service professions.
Why Child and Family Services at ACU?
ACU’s Child and Family Services program is approved by the National Council on Family Relations and offers courses that are pre-approved courses through the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP). Taught from a Christian perspective, our degree program prepares people-oriented students for a variety of careers serving children and families. You will examine current research and theory, and learn to design, implement and evaluate family life education plans.
Hollie Young (’05) is among the first on the scene for children.
Read MoreAfter Graduation
With a bachelor's degree in Child and Family Services, career options are many, including:
- Certified Child Life Specialist
- Adoption counselor
- Hospice/funeral services
- Childcare director
- Youth services coordinator
- Youth camp director
- Aging services/ombudsman
- Group home worker
- Family resource coordinator
- Marriage and Family Therapist (master's degree required)
- Family intervention/community-based services (abuse, protection, prevention)
Clubs and Activities
Child and Family Services majors gain practical experience through co-curriculars such as:
- Service-learning
- Internships
- Community-based research
- Study abroad
Certified Child Life Specialist
In both healthcare and community settings, Certified Child Life Specialists help infants, children, youth and families cope with the stress and uncertainty of acute and chronic illness, injury, trauma, disability, loss and bereavement. They provide evidence-based, developmentally and psychologically appropriate interventions, including therapeutic play, preparation for procedures, and education to reduce fear, anxiety and pain.
Degree Details
Required Hours
Requirements: 45 credit hours + Electives: 27 credit hours
Example Coursework
Department
Marriage and Family Studies
Application Deadlines
Early Action: November 1st
Regular: February 1st
National Candidates: May 1st
