Degree Requirements | Getting Started | Institution and Advisor | FAQs
The Bachelor of Arts in Child and Family Studies degree completion program is designed to provide a sound academic foundation for persons planning to work with and/or study children and families in various contexts. The Learning and Development Track focuses on: the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children; issues that involve relationships among families with children; and atypical development of children. Many students in this track also seek teacher certification. It should be noted, however, that the majority of courses associated with teacher certification are not available online.
This major is designed to facilitate a seamless transition to the University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB) for the community college student who has completed Texas Early Childhood Articulate (TECA) courses or the education courses that are part of the Associate of Arts in Teaching degree. Certification in teaching may require educational courses outside of this major.
Degree Requirements
The BA in Child and Family Studies - Learning Development Track degree requires completion of 120 credits*, which includes the following:
- UTPB General Education Requirements (42 credits)
- Computer Use (3 credits)
- Child and Family Studies coursework (minimum of 37 credits)
- Minor coursework (18 credits - students may not minor in psychology or sociology)
Refer to the UTPB Undergraduate Catalog for a detailed listing of degree requirements.
*Many online General Education Curriculum, Child and Family Studies and Elective courses are open to cross-campus enrollment. Check with your program advisor prior to registering for any of cross-campus courses to ensure they apply toward your degree program.
To view program courses currently open for cross-campus enrollment, open the Student Portal Course Schedule and select Child and Family Studies (BA) from the Finish@UT Program menu, or search for a specific course name/number. UTPB students should refer to the UTPB Course Schedule and register directly through your home campus.
Getting Started
To participate in the program, students must apply to and be accepted by UTPB. Complete an application for admission to UTPB by mail or online using the ApplyTexas website, and request official college transcripts be sent and evaluated by the admissions office.
Admitted students will be assigned a departmental advisor, who will assist in finalizing the appropriate degree plan.
Refer to the Student Support section of our website for additional information on admissions, registration and course access.
Participating Institution and Advisor
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Arts in Child and Family Studies
Program Advisor:
Ruth Ann McQuitty, Lecturer
(432) 552-2134 | mcquitty_r@utpb.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Child and Family Studies?
Child and Family Studies is the study of children and families in our society and other societies of the world. A major in Child and Family Studies acquires an understanding of how information is gained about children and families and how this information can be used to teach, raise, and improve lives of children and families in our societies.
Why study Child and Family Studies?
The BA in Child and Family Studies - Learning Development Track student gains insight into how children develop. By studying children and their families, we know how they interact and can have optimal development. Those conditions that are not fostering optimal development can be investigated to explore ways in which to help children and families overcome difficulties.
What can I do with a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Family Studies degree
Students have several options. Many students use their training to support their desire to obtain a meaningful teacher certification. Although certification is not online through UTPB, students have a strong foundation to obtain teacher certification through face-to-face education classes or post-baccalaureate programs. In addition, graduates can work with local and state agencies that deal with child and family issues in communities, Head Start programs, parent training programs, hospital settings, and infant simulation programs. Graduates may also want to start their own preschools and childcare centers. A degree in Child and Family Studies also qualifies students to apply for post-graduate degree programs in psychology, education, human development, and family studies. An added bonus is the opportunity to be better parents and citizens of the community.
What are the objectives of this program?
The goal of the Child and Family Studies major is to provide a sound academic foundation for persons planning to work with and/or study children and their families in various contexts, including their own lives. In support of this goal, students will:
- differentiate between typical and atypical development of children,
- examine the roles children play in our overall society,
- analyze the diverse relationships within families,
- value the multicultural perspectives of the family,
- inspect methods used to research issues related to children and families, and
- integrate theory and research through the design, implementation, and evaluation of a basic or applied social research project.
How much will it cost?
Students are billed by UTPB for courses. Links to estimated tuition and fees, and campus tuition and fee information can be found on the Tuition, Payments & Financial Aid page. Textbooks, supplemental readings and required software are additional costs.
How can I find more information?
For additional information about the program, you may refer to the program advisor above.