This degree prepares students for applied careers in the fields of Human Development and Community Engagement. Coursework in the academic major provides students with a solid foundation in child development, intercultural communication, research methods, urban education, and organization/leadership.

The program culminates with a two semester practicum/internship, which will give students hands-on experience in their field of choice. Many students want to make a difference in children’s lives in other ways besides being a teacher; this program provides the training needed to understand the factors that impede or facilitate the cognitive, social, and physical development of children, particularly in urban communities.

This knowledge prepares students to influence the programs, policies, and practices of agencies and governmental bodies with child-focused initiatives. Graduates with this major will also be well equipped to land jobs as workers in non-profit advocacy organizations, childcare directors, personal care aides, museum education coordinators, and the like, or to work in other fields that require application of developmental knowledge.