Earn Your Child Psychology Degree Online
- $330/credit
- Accredited by NECHE
- Prepare to work with children and families
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- Earn a data literacy certificate
- Learn from faculty with real-world experience
Child & Adolescent Development Program Overview
Make a difference in the lives of young people with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development at Southern New Hampshire University.
This program will take you through key developmental stages, from birth through adolescence, to give you a deeper understanding of the human experience. You'll develop the knowledge, skills and techniques you'll need to work with young people of various ages in a variety of settings.
Earning your BA in child psychology at SNHU will help to equip you with the tools you'll need to set out on a fulfilling career path. With a BA in child psychology, you could work in a number of fields, including social services, education and healthcare. You'll also have the opportunity to earn a Certificate of Data Literacy in Psychology.
What You'll Learn
- Application of research methods
- Sociocultural and international awareness
- Communication and observation skills
- Developmental process of children and adolescents
- Application of ethics in real work situations
How You'll Learn
At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom, and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.
8 Types of Psychology with Real-World Perspective
The study of psychology can be personally and professionally rewarding. Among the many concentrations in the field you can find diverse opportunities to learn about how people interact with one another in relationships, in the workplace and more.
Career Outlook
By earning your BA in child and adolescent development, you could turn your passion for helping others into a successful career bettering the lives of young people. Whether you're looking to become more proficient in your current field or thinking about starting a new career, this program is designed to help you take advantage of more opportunities.
“This (child and adolescent development) concentration allows students to create, innovate, teach and become leaders in the child development field," said Dr. Heather Gianatassio, an adjunct instructor at SNHU. "They learn to use research and real-world experience to provide the best possible care to children and families in a variety of settings.”
While the bachelor's program does not lead to licensure, it prepares you to work in fields such as education, social services and health care. Potential responsibilities include:
- Working with child welfare cases
- Helping children learn in preschools
- Supporting education in K-12 schools
- Assisting parents with development of good parenting skills
- Playing a support role in the healthcare system
Earning your bachelor's degree at SNHU can also prepare you for careers beyond the field of psychology:
Market Research Analyst
Study market conditions to help companies better understand what products customers want. With analytical skills built through your program, you'll be ready to make insightful recommendations.
Social and Community Service Manager
Support the community's well-being by coordinating and supervising beneficial programs and organizations. Use your in-depth knowledge of community wellness to spearhead initiatives.
Human Resources Manager
Plan, coordinate and direct an organization's administrative functions and inform strategic planning for the company. With top-notch communication skills developed in your degree, you'll be prepared to work with people across the organization.
SNHU's psychology degree programs also set you up for the skills today's employers want. According to the American Psychological Association, organizations seek applicants that can2:
- Analyze and solve complex problems
- Be part of a team
- Communicate – possess both oral and written communication skills
- Demonstrate technology skills
- Display analytical reasoning skills
- Show ethical judgment and strong decision-making skills
"After obtaining my degree at Southern New Hampshire University, I really feel [my degree has] given me the confidence that I've always lacked."
Should you decide to pursue a graduate degree in the same field for your career, SNHU offers both an online master's in clinical mental health counseling, as well as an online master's in psychology, which has 3 concentrations – including one in child and developmental psychology.
Job Growth and Salary
Many careers require an entry-level education of a bachelor's degree. Southern New Hampshire University's online bachelor's in psychology can help prepare you for success across industries.
Job Growth
The BLS projects 13% job growth through 2032 for market research analysts, and 9% for social and community service managers – much faster than the national average of 5%.1 For human resource managers, 5% job growth is projected.1
Salary
Although salaries can vary by region and responsibility, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found the median annual wage for market research analysts to be $68,230 in 2022.1 Social and community service managers earned a median annual wage of $74,240, and $130,000 for human resource managers in 2022.1
Understanding the Numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Start Your Journey Toward an Online Child & Adolescent Degree Concentration
Why SNHU for Your Child Psychology Degree Concentration
Flexible
With no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7.
Affordable
As part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. In fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
Prior coursework could also help you save time and money. SNHU’s transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree and 45 credits for an associate degree from your previous institutions—that means you could save up to 75% off the cost of tuition. You could also save time and money by getting college credit for previous work experience, or by taking advantage of military discounts and employer tuition assistance if available to you.
Respected
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report named SNHU the 2021 Most Innovative University in the North and one of the nation's "Best Regional Universities"
- Awarded the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology by The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
- A $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Network
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
93.6% of online students would recommend SNHU (according to a 2022 survey with 17,000+ respondents). Discover why SNHU may be right for you.
Admission Requirements
Expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials:
- Completed free undergraduate application
- Prior transcripts, which we can retrieve at no cost to you
- Test scores are not required as part of your application
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going:
- Complete a free undergraduate application
- Submit any additional documents required
- Work with an admission counselor to explore financial options and walk through the application process
If you have questions or need help filling out your application, call 1.888.387.0861 or email enroll@snhu.edu.
Life Through A New Lens
"This program has taught me how to think outside of the box and to look at everything around me through multiple perspectives. I also gained a deeper understanding of people in terms of what makes them behave the way they do."
Courses & Curriculum
By completing your child psychology courses online, you can gain an in-depth understanding of the unique physical, social, psychological and cognitive needs of young people. You'll explore how to support healthy development from birth through adolescence. Each course takes a closer look at a variety of topics, from normal development to disorders that can affect a child’s life and education.
“By encouraging our learners to develop their critical-thinking skills, understand the importance of empirical data and apply key principles, we prepare them to be ready to work with children and adolescents in a variety of settings,” said Dr. Jill Tschikof, an adjunct instructor at SNHU
Another benefit of the program is working with instructors who have real-world experience, are passionate about psychology and want to help you succeed in the field.
“As instructors, we are committed to equipping our students with a broad set of educational skills that they can use to tackle evolving challenges faced by today’s youth,” Tschikof said.
For Jovella Browne '21, the support of her instructors was a factor that set SNHU apart from other universities.
"Throughout my journey, I’ve had the privilege of learning from some great people. They all had different teaching styles and they all knew how to engage the class with rich discussions."
There's also a great deal of flexibility built into SNHU's online degree programs. With 24/7 online access, you can complete your coursework on your schedule.
With 39 free elective credits available, this is a very transfer-friendly degree, so you can apply as much of your previous coursework as possible.
"I just feel like I have to celebrate not only obtaining my degree, but Southern New Hampshire University for being there and being the type of school and institution that it is to allow people like myself that are mothers, wives and career people to complete school," says Latisha Aguilar '21.
Curriculum Requirements & Resources
Degree-Specific Courses
There are 12 credits in the child and adolescent concentration. While your child and adolescent courses are required, you'll have the opportunity to choose from a number of other psychology topics that you're interested in to complete the remaining 2 courses in the concentration – including an optional internship or an experiential learning project that you can use to build your resume and gain networking experience.
The embedded certificate in Data Literacy in Psychology, provided to all eligible students in the program, helps you develop the knowledge and skills needed to synthesize data and communicate your findings.
Earn Math Credits
Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Depending on your scores, you could earn up to 12 math credits – the equivalent of 4 courses – toward your degree for less than $50 per assessment. For additional information, or to register for a Pathways to Math Success assessment, contact your admission counselor or academic advisor today.
General Education
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Technology Resources
We provide cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to give you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments.
| View Full Curriculum in the Catalog |
|---|
| BA in Psychology - Child & Adolescent Development |
| Courses May Include | ||
|---|---|---|
| BA in Psychology Child and Adolescent Development | ||
| PSY 108 | Introduction to Psychology | In this course, students will explore the complexities of the human mind by examining the science behind why we think, feel, and do. Students will experience the evolution of psychology through the early schools of thought, major branches, and core theories that guide contemporary perspectives. As students consider the broad influence of psychology on their perceptions, emotions, and everyday choices, they will acknowledge the idea that, in the human experience, "psychology is everywhere." |
| PSY 211 | Lifespan Development | In this course, students will explore the biological, sociological, and psychological influences that shape development between conception and death. Students will analyze traditional and emerging theories of development that increase their knowledge of human development as it relates to the field of psychology. |
| PSY 223 | Research I: Statistics for Psychology | How do psychologists organize, summarize, and interpret information? Students in this course study applications of statistical methods in psychological research and practice. The emphasis of the course is on the conceptual understanding of statistics so that students can read and conduct psychological research; those skills will be applied to students' original projects in Research II: Scientific Investigations. Computation of tests will be conducted on the computer. Students will build upon statistical knowledge and develop an in-depth conceptual and practical understanding of hypothesis testing, tests of significance, standardization, correlation, and analysis of variance in a wide variety of psychological uses. Students will learn the theory of statistical decisions, practical application of statistical software, and how to analyze journal articles. This course typically should be completed during the first semester of the sophomore year. |
| PSY 224 | Research II: Scientific Investigations | Students in this course will develop an understanding a variety of research methods, including experimental, survey, correlation and case-history techniques. They will become aware of the strengths and weaknesses of each method and understand when each method is best used. Writing intensive course. |
| PSY 314 | Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence | This course focuses specifically on an introduction to the classification of disorders of childhood and adolescence and the treatment approaches that currently are available. Knowledge students obtain in PSY 314 is essential for understanding the etiology and manifestation of these disorders, as well as the impact on the individual, family and society. Current field research and case studies will be used. |
| PSY 321 | Developmental Psychology: Childhood | Students will explore the major milestones during the preschool and school-aged years and the role that nature and nurture play in it, including widening sociocultural influences of family, friends and peers, school, community, and culture. Students also examine normative development, risk, and how to enrich their development to promote resiliency. Applications include learning to speak with and observe this age group, fostering grit and prosocial behavior, and addressing bullying. |
| PSY 322 | Developmental Psychology: Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood | In this course, students will examine the physical, cognitive, and social development of adolescents and emerging adults and the varying contexts in which these changes occur. Special emphasis is given to identity development, the impacts of transitional events during adolescence and emerging adulthood, and the interplay between areas of growth during this period. |
| PSY 444 | Senior Seminar in Psychology (Capstone) | This capstone course integrates previous classroom and practical experience with a focus on current issues in psychology. This course likely will include cross-cultural aspects of psychology, ethics, recent career trends in psychology and other topics dictated by current events in psychology. Coverage may change over time, but the basic focus on integrating the past and anticipating the future for psychology seniors will be the major concern. Writing Intensive Course. |
| Total Credits: 120 | ||
Minimum Hardware Requirements
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Component Type |
PC (Windows OS) |
Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|---|
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Operating System |
Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
|
Memory (RAM) |
8GB or higher |
8GB or higher |
|
Hard Drive |
100GB or higher |
100GB or higher |
|
Antivirus Software |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
|
SNHU Purchase Programs |
||
|
Internet/ Bandwidth |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
Notes:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
University Accreditation
Tuition & Fees
As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
| Online Undergraduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 30 credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree/Certificates | $990 | $330 | $9,900 |
| Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty)* | $693 | $231 | $6,930 |
Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs No Application Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is child and adolescent development?
Child and adolescent development explores how humans grow and adapt at different life stages between birth and adolescence. According to the American Psychological Association (APA),2 child developmental psychologists can work with parents, doctors and educators to help children experience healthy physical and psychological development.
"This area (of psychology) promotes research and the application of scientific knowledge to educational, childcare, policy and related areas,” said Dr. Jay Greiner, SNHU adjunct professor of psychology.
Can I take child development classes online?
Of course! SNHU's BA in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development is an online degree program. That means all of your coursework will be completed online giving you the flexibility to work towards your degree on your schedule.
Throughout the program, you'll have 24/7 access to learning resources and course materials, so you can attend class when it’s convenient for you. And with six 8-week terms each year, you can earn your degree at your own pace.
Even though this is an online program, our dedicated faculty and staff aim to facilitate a learning environment that helps you connect with other classmates and gain real world experience. That was something Latisha Aguilar '21 wasn't expecting when she started her program.
"Making connections with other online students was very surprising. At a certain point in time, it becomes fun to interact with your classmates," said Aguilar. "It wasn't isolating at all."
No matter how you decide to earn your degree, rest assured that each course at Southern New Hampshire University is taught by a committed instructor with real-world experience. Whether you're taking courses online or on campus, they're dedicated to helping you earn your degree.
What jobs can you get with a child psychology degree?
A child psychology bachelor's degree can prepare you to work with young people in different environments, including childcare facilities, schools, social service agencies and medical institutions.
While working as a psychologist requires an advanced degree and state licensure, this child development degree concentration can give you the knowledge you need to start working with young people right away. It also provides an excellent foundation for graduate programs in psychology, counseling or social work.
Possible jobs for child development majors include:2
- Childcare worker: Monitor the safety and well-being of children in your care, organizing activities, mealtimes and sleep schedules and watching for signs of emotional or developmental problems in children.
- Preschool teacher: Educate and care for children who have not yet entered kindergarten, teaching language, motor and social skills and keeping records of the children’s learning progress and development.
- Teacher assistant: Support the learning of students from kindergarten through high school, working with a licensed teacher to give students additional attention and track students’ development.
- Social services assistant: Provide support for families and help clients find benefits and community services in a wide variety of fields, including psychology, rehabilitation and social work.
- Market research analyst: Design methods of gathering data on consumers, competitors and market conditions and use the findings to examine potential sales of a product or service.
Can I be a child psychologist with a bachelor's degree?
A child development bachelor’s degree can be a great first step toward working as a child psychologist, but you’ll need more advanced education to pursue psychology licensure and begin practicing.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)1, most psychologists need either a PhD in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree before working in a clinical setting. Earning an online BA in psychology with a concentration in child development can prepare you for admission to these advanced degree programs.
You can also use your bachelor’s degree to start working in child development and psychology right away, gaining more experience while you continue your education.
The knowledge you gain from your online psychology courses can set you up for success in a number of career paths. You could work as a social and community services manager, which should see 9% job growth through 2032, according to BLS.1 Other careers include market research analyst, which should see 13% job growth through 2032 and preschool teachers – with 3% projected growth – in the same time period.1
You could also choose to pursue a career in healthcare as a community health worker, which has a projected job growth rate of 14% through 2032 according to the BLS.1
What is the best online college for psychology?
The best online college for psychology is the one that prepares you for the career you want and provides the necessary support for you to succeed.
A good online psychology degree in child development will ensure you have a strong understanding of the way that children grow and evolve - physically and psychologically. You’ll prepare to work with young people in multiple ways and also prepare to enter a graduate program in psychology or a related field.
At SNHU, a psychology bachelor’s degree with a concentration in child development will teach you how to use research skills and real-world experience to provide the best possible care to children and families. And with 24/7 access to your online courses, dedicated instructors and a full range of advising and tutoring services, SNHU is designed to help you succeed.
How many years of college do you need to be a child psychologist?
It depends. A doctoral degree is typically required to gain licensure and work as a child psychologist, according to BLS.1 But how you earn this degree – and the degrees you earn leading up to it – can vary.
Students must earn a 4-year psychology bachelor’s degree before moving on to a more advanced degree. Some students go on to earn a master’s degree in psychology, which is typically a 2-year degree.
But it is possible to move straight into a research-based PhD or clinical-based PsyD degree program after receiving your bachelor's degree. According to the APA, a psychology doctoral degree takes an average of 7 years to complete.2
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References
Sources & Citations (1, 2)
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/market-research-analysts.htm#tab-1 (viewed Oct. 30, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm (viewed Oct. 30, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm (viewed Oct. 30, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/human-resources-managers.htm#tab-1 (viewed Oct. 30, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/preschool-teachers.htm (viewed Oct. 30, 2023)
2 American Psychological Association, on the internet, at:
- https://www.apa.org/education-career/guide/bachelors (viewed Jan. 13, 2023)
- https://www.apa.org/action/science/developmental/education-training (viewed Jan. 13, 2023)
- https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/02/datapoint (viewed Jan. 13, 2023)