Child Life Concentration
A major in HDFS with a concentration in child life is for students who wish to pursue the career of a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). The curriculum consists of a comprehensive foundation of courses related to child development, family systems, and play, as well as coursework specific to children in the healthcare setting. Laboratory and practicum experiences, along with the conceptual information, provides the foundation necessary to support children and their families experiencing stressful life events such as hospitalization. CCLS’s provide developmentally appropriate information and support to help children and families navigate stressful life events, while also supporting development. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification exam administered by the Child Life Certification Commission. This concentration requires completion of an internship in a child life clinical setting, under the supervision of a CCLS. A minimum GPA of 3.0, 100 practicum and volunteer hours, competent interviewing skills, and the resources to relocate are basic requirements for students to enter the national competition for a child life internship.
Additional information about Child Life