What degree do you need to become a child development specialist?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

The degree you need to become a child development specialist is a four-year bachelor's degree in Applied Psychology with a concentration in Child Advocacy. Some child development specialists earn master's degrees or even doctorate degrees, which may be required for more advanced positions.

While in school, a future child development specialist will learn critical theories related to child development.

The main concepts covered in an Applied Psychology with a concentration in Child Advocacy program includes:

Child Psychology Theories - covers the basic principles of modern child psychology
Typical Versus Atypical Child Development - learn what specific child development looks like versus atypical.
Challenges for Children and Their Families - covers the unique challenges their siblings, parents, and other family members face.
Family Psychology - learn about the various types of family dynamics and how families' obstacles often vary depending upon demographic factors such as race, geography, and income.
Behavioral Disorders in Children - covers the spectrums and symptoms of each and how one disorder can affect another.
Child Neuropsychology - covers how neurological factors in a child's developing brain can affect their ability to manage emotions, socialize, speak, and acquire new skills.
Child Neglect, Abuse, and Intervention - how to recognize and intervene in the various forms of mistreatment and neglect in children who may not be capable of communicating those abuses.
Gender and Age - cover the major role throughout other important developmental stages such as preadolescence, puberty, and even post-adolescence.
Human Anatomy and Physiology - covers how to evaluate children's physical health and growth and how it can affect their developing cognition and motor skills.