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Child Development

Discover how you can help change the world for children.

A teacher and young student show evidence of their painting activity, palms coated in finger paint

In our child development program, you’ll learn about issues involving physical, social and cognitive development of children as well as professional conduct and global issues. Our multidisciplinary curriculum includes the disciplines of education, nutritional sciences, nursing, psychology, sociology, criminal justice and anthropology.

You’ll have opportunities for unique internships and independent study giving you practical experience in child development and child advocacy.

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Sample Courses


  • Children in the Global Community
  • Language Development in Children
  • Case Studies in Child Development
  • Vulnerable Child I: (Theory)
View Courses & Degree Requirements

Special Admission Requirements


Students wishing to major in child development must have either a minor or a second major. Program requirements include sophomore standing, a 2.5 minimum GPA, a criminal background check, and a completed application. For more information email child@tcu.edu.

Our Faculty


With focused expertise in early childhood development and infancy, our faculty has strong connections with research scientists and other staff members at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, housed on our campus.

What Sets Us Apart


Our program in child development is closely associated with the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, committed to improving the lives of children who have experienced abuse, neglect and/or trauma.

Career Prospects


With your degree, you can go to graduate school for clinical or counseling psychology or a child life degree program to obtain licensure as a child life specialist. In addition you may go on to work in occupations involving child mental health, public policy, education, health care, social work or other human services careers at companies such as:

  • Arizona Autism United
  • ACH Child and Family Services
  • PhysAssist Scribes, Inc.