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Child Development and Family Studies, B.S.

College of Applied Human Sciences

Children gather with their teacher during class

Make a meaningful difference in the lives of preschool children with the WVU College of Applied Human Sciences' online B.S. in Child Development and Family Studies. This online undergraduate program equips you with the essential knowledge and skills to support the academic, social, and cognitive development of children, empowering you to become a catalyst for positive change in early childhood education.

Cost:

$503 / Cost per credit hour *

Courses and Credits:

40 Courses / 120 Credits

Duration:

About four years

Dates:

Next Start: August 20, 2025 Admission Terms: Fall, Spring Summer

Learning Format:

Online asynchronous

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Program Overview

Make a Lasting Impact on Young Children and Families

    The Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Studies (CDFS) from WVU prepares you to become a leader and advocate in early childhood education. With a focus on development from birth through age eight, this flexible program blends theory, hands-on experience, and the latest best practices to help you make a lasting impact on children and families.

    • Developmental Expertise: Study both typical and atypical development in children from birth to age eight.
    • Leadership & Advocacy: Gain the skills to lead in early childhood settings and advocate for children and families.
    • Real-World Experience: Complete field experiences and internships in early learning environments.
    • Supportive Learning: Learn how to create enriching, inclusive environments that foster growth and learning.
    • Career-Ready Training: Prepare for roles such as Head Start teacher, family support worker, parent educator, and more.
    I’ve always wanted to help and teach young children and this degree and all the knowledge I’m learning has only fueled that desire.

    Ashton Frame

    Child Development and Family Studies B.S.

    Ashton Frame headshot

    Curriculum

    The curriculum of the B.S. in Child Development and Family Studies is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of early childhood development. Students will learn best practices for supporting the academic, social, and cognitive growth of young children. The program emphasizes advocacy and leadership in early education, incorporating the West Virginia Core Knowledge and Core Competencies and the West Virginia Early Standards Framework. Additionally, the curriculum follows the standards set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Through online coursework and supervised field experiences, you will gain the skills needed to create positive and enriching environments for young learners.

    Learning Outcomes

    As a student in the Birth through 5/Pre-Kindergarten option of Child Development and Family Studies you will be able to:

    • Describe and apply knowledge in human growth and development, family issues and interaction, youth concerns and issues, cultural and societal contexts, and related topics.
    • Explain, interpret, and appraise the various social contextual influences on development and family functioning and the interactive relationships between families and other societal institutions.
    • Identify, describe, design, and appraise strategies for working with children, adolescents, and families in various social service and community-based context.
    Meet the Faculty

    University Requirements
    • General Education Foundations (GEF) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 (31-37 Credits)
    • Outstanding GEF Requirements 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7, 24 credits
    •  CAHS 191: First-Year Seminar, 2 credit hours
    • General Electives, 43 credit hours
    Total: 69 Credit Hours

    Child Development and Family Studies Major Requirements
    A minimum grade of C- is required in all Child Development and Family Studies Major Coursework. 

    • CDFS 110: Families Across the Life Span (GEF 4), 3 credit hours
    • CDFS 112: Introduction to Family Processes and Dynamics, 3 credit hours
    • CDFS 210: Introduction to Parenting, 3 credit hours
    • CDFS 211: Infant Development, 3 credit hours
      • or CDFS 212: Development in Early and Middle Childhood, 3 credit hours
    • CDFS 250: Research Methods, 3 credit hours
    • CAHS 300: Career Exploration in Applied Human Sciences, 3 credit hours
    • ECSE 311: Developmental Assessment for Young Children with Special Needs, 3 credit hours
      • or ESCE 315: Home-Based Programs for Early Intervention, 3 credit hours
    • CDFS 413: Stress in Families, 3 credit hours
      • or CDFS 415: Family Interaction and Communication, 3 credit hours
    • CDFS 416: Trauma, Resiliency, and Children, 3 credit hours
    • CAHS 489: Capstone Experience in AHS, 3 credit hours
    • CDFS 417: Families and Health, 3 credit hours
    • Upper Level Developmental Specialization - Select one of the following:
      • CDFS 410: The Science of Positive Youth Development, 3 credit hours
      • CDFS 412: Adolescent Development, 3 credit hours
      • CDFS 432: Early Socio-Emotional Development, 3 credit hours
      • Required Minor, 15 credit hours
    Total: 51 credit hours
    Grand Total: 120 credit hours

    This information is from WVU's 2025-2026 Academic Catalog.

    Admissions Process and How to Apply

    • Pay undergraduate application fee
    • Request official transcripts from all institutions attended (other than WVU), or high school transcripts if fewer than 24 college credits be sent to:
      WVU Office of Admissions
      P.O. Box 6009Morgantown, WV 26506-6009
      or Email: WVUadmissions@mail.wvu.edu
    • Minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale

    For additional requirements specific to first time freshman, online students, and internal/external transfer students, please connect with the admissions coach.

    How to Apply

    Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid

    The University provides a comprehensive approach to helping you finance your education. Learn more on the WVU Financial Aid Website.

    Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies, and living expenses. Visit the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

    Students are encouraged to:
    • File the application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the June deadline to determine eligibility for funding and scholarships.
    • Inquire with your employer about potential financial support for continuing your education.
    Tuition per credit hour is listed on the page of your program of interest. Please note, tuition and fees are reviewed and subject to change at the start of each academic year.

    Connect with Our Team

    Ann Clayton Online Admissions Coach

    (304) 293-0915 Ann.Clayton@mail.wvu.edu

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    Careers and Employment

    A career in the area of child development and family studies provides opportunities to support children, families, and communities to meet their greatest potential. This type of career allows for individuals to work with people to build better communities.

    Career Paths

    • Child, Family and School Social Worker
    • Child Care Director
    • Curriculum Coordinator
    • Social and Community Service Managers
    • Developmental Specialist
    • Parent Educator
    • Early Childhood Resiliency Specialist

    Get in Touch

    The WVU Online team is here for you during your online learning journey. We can help you navigate the curriculum of your program of interest, understand the application process, and keep you posted on upcoming events and deadlines.

    Request Information

    Connect with Admissions Coach