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Bachelor of Science
in Child Development and Child Care



  • Program Description
    The Bachelor of Science Program in Child Development and Child Care began in 1970. The goal of the program is to prepare the graduate to give high-quality developmental service to children, youth, and families and to undertake programming responsibility as developmental specialists (child and youth care specialists) in a variety of settings: preschools, day-care centers, child/youth development programs (community centers and church programs), day and residential treatment programs, community mental health agencies, detention centers, psychiatric centers, pediatric centers, pediatric health care programs, and home-based care and treatment.

    The curriculum is organized into four terms of upper-division (junior and senior year) study. The curriculum encompasses developmental theory and research from birth through adolescence, family dynamics, cultural distinction, developmental disabilities, psychopathology, program planning, clinical skills, and an introduction to management. Internship is considered an essential part of preparation for professional work with children and youth. Students spend about 500 hours in internship placements. During the junior year, the two-term internship focuses on normal infants, toddlers, or pre-schoolers. This experience provides the opportunity for developing competence in work with young children and provides a laboratory for developing skills in communication, child management, and program implementation which are essential for successful work with older children and youth and with special-needs populations. During the senior year, the two-term internship studies special needs children and/or youth. Flexibility in the curriculum is provided through elective options and internship placements.


  • Endorsement
    The Bachelor of Science Program in Child Development and Child Care of the University of Pittsburgh is endorsed as an academic program by the National Organization of Child Care Worker Associations (NOCCWA) and listed as an academic program to prepare child life specialists by the Child Life Council.


  • Educational Objectives
    To prepare students as generalists in developmental (child and youth care) practice by:

  • providing knowledge in child and youth development;

  • combining classroom and practical work to provide the theory and research base with opportunity for observation, direct application, and guided skill development;

  • developing skills in use of relationships, activity media, environmental design, and program planning to foster developmental and therapeutic goals;

  • emphasizing the role of the practitioner in advancing the field of child and youth care as a profession and as an essential component of human services.

  • General Admission Information

  • Admissions Criteria
    Admission is available for the Fall Term only (full and part-time). A total of 60 credits with a minimum QPA of 2.50 on a 4.00 scale (scheduled to be completed by the beginning of study in the Program) is necessary for acceptance. Credits awarded from the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) by the College of General Studies and Life and Work Experience credits awarded by the New Careers Program of the College of Arts and Sciences are acceptable for inclusion in the 60 credits. The deadline for application for fall admission is May 15th.

    NOTE: THE PROGRAM IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND CHILD CARE USES A "ROLLING" ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE. ALL APPLICATIONS RECEIVED PRIOR TO MAY 15TH WILL BE ACTED UPON AS SOON AS ALL THE NECESSARY PARTS OF THE APPLICATION PACKAGE ARE RECEIVED.

    In reviewing applications for admission, the Admissions Committee considers the following factors:

    1. academic skill as evident in grade point average (minimum acceptable QPA is 2.50) with a C grade or better in the specified prerequisite courses;

    2. some experience in working with children/youth (experience may include volunteer work or employment);

    3. references, preferably from professionals familiar with the student's experience with children/youth, maturity, work habits, and academic ability.

  • Admission of Students from Other Countries
    The program in Child Development and Child Care welcomes applications from students from countries whose credentials meet the requirements and standards of the Program, the School of Social Work, and the Office of International Services of the University of Pittsburgh. Interested students should contact the Office of International Services, William Pitt Union, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260. (412) 624-7125.

  • Prerequisites
    English Composition 3 crs.
    (equivalent to University of Pittsburgh Composition requirement)

    Developmental Psychology (or equivalent) 3 crs.

    Other courses broadly distributed in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences

    (Students with other academic backgrounds should consult the Program Director for evaluation.)


  • Application Process

  • Preparing the Application

    The Application Packet can be obtained from:

    School Of Social Work, Office Of Admissions,
    Room 2104, Cathedral Of Learning,
    University Of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pa 15260,
    (412) 624-6348;
    or
    Child Development And Child Care Program Office,
    Room 1717, Cathedral Of Learning,
    University Of Pittsburgh,
    Pittsburgh, Pa 15260, (412) 624-2909;
    or
    via E-Mail at narr+@pitt.edu.

    Follow the directions in the packet to complete and submit your application. Information regarding the Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Child Care Program is available online at:
    http://www.pitt.edu/~mattgly/CD-CC."

  • Written Statement
    Each applicant is required to include with the application a four-part written statement discussing the following concerns in depth (typewritten and not to exceed eight pages):

    1. influences in your life that led you to choose study in Child Development and Child Care;

    2. your special skills and abilities that will facilitate your work with children, youth, and families;

    3. how study in Child Development and Child Care will help you achieve your career goals;

    4. a contemporary social issue of concern to you.

  • Transcripts
    It is the responsibility of the applicant to request the registrar of each college attended to send a complete transcript to the Office of Admissions, School of Social Work. These arrangements should be made immediately. If work is still in progress at the time of filing an application, the student should request a supplemental transcript at the end of each term. While a decision for acceptance may be made while academic work is still in progress, an up-to-date transcript must be received before the applicant can register for course work. Credentials submitted in support of an application are not returned.

    Persons seeking a transfer to the University of Pittsburgh from another college or university must also submit a high school transcript or its equivalent.

  • References
    The application materials include four letter-of-reference forms. Required references include college advisers, an instructor at the college level, and current (or last) employer/volunteer supervisor. The other references might include persons who can testify to your aptitude for working with children and youth. The applicant takes the responsibility of providing these references. A blank reference form should be sent to each of the reference persons.

    Please note that you should write your name on top of the reference form prior to forwarding the form to the reference person. Also, read the top section (relative to Public Law 90-247) and respond according to your wishes. Your signature in this section means that you waive your right (as specified in the law) to access to the content of the reference letter. If you do not sign, you maintain your right to access as specified in the law.

    The Admissions Office of the School of Social Work will periodically notify applicants of the status of the application materials, and the applicant will be expected to follow through with each reference to insure receipt of the letter. Reference persons should mail the completed form directly to the Office of Admissions, School of Social Work, 2104 Cathedral of Learning, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260.

  • Other Supporting Materials
    The School of Social Work does not require the submission of scores from an examination for admission consideration. However, applicants wishing to submit such exam scores or other materials (publications, major papers, etc.) in support of their application may do so. In no instance will an applicant not submitting these be penalized in determining acceptance for the program.

    Special circumstances surrounding individual applicants may indicate the need for additional materials (references, etc.) to be submitted in support of the application. The School reserves the right to require selected additional materials as it deems appropriate.

    Applications are reviewed upon receipt of ALL required materials.

  • Admission Interviews
    Interviews may be initiated by the admissions personnel of the School of Social Work. Usually, decisions on applications for admission are made without an interview.

    All applicants are welcome to seek information-sharing interviews.

  • Application Fee
    University of Pittsburgh students currently enrolled at any one of the five campuses are NOT required to submit an application fee. A $30.00 application fee is required for all other applicants to the program (this includes former University of Pittsburgh students who are not currently enrolled in the University).


  • Submitting the Application
    The application forms, transcripts, references, the application fee, and any additional materials must be received by May 15:

    For new students:


    Office of Admissions and Financial Aid
    Bruce Hall
    University of Pittsburgh
    Pittsburgh, PA 15260

    For students currently enrolled in the University of Pittsburgh system:


    Office of Admissions
    School of Social Work
    University of Pittsburgh
    2104 Cathedral of Learning
    Pittsburgh, PA 15260



  • Degree Requirements
    The Bachelor of Science Program in Child Development and Child Care requires a minimum of 120 credits with 46 credits required in Child Development and Child Care courses.

  • A. Child Development and Child Care courses (required):

    CHLDDV 1007 METHODS OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1012 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1013 DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND COUNSELING SKILLS3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1016 DEVELOPMENTAL CURRICULUM AND ACTIVITIES 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1024 FAMILY DYNAMICS 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1025 PROFESSIONAL SEMINAR 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1026 CHILD AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT I 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1027 CHILD AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT II 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1028 DEVELOPMENTAL PRACTICE SEMINAR 1 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1029 DEVELOPMENTAL PRACTICE SEMINAR 2 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1031 SENIOR PROJECT 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1036 DEVELOPMENTAL MEANING OF CULTURAL DISTINCTION 3 crs.
    CHLDDV 1042 CHILD AND YOUTH WORK PRACTICE 1 3-6 crs.
    CHLDDV 1043 CHILD AND YOUTH WORK PRACTICE 2 3-6 crs.
    CHLDDV 1050 SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION IN CHILD CARE SETTINGS 3 crs.

  • B. Electives
    Students are encouraged to avail themselves of the many enriching courses offered throughout the University. Directed studies may also be arranged with Child Development and Child Care faculty for one, two, or three credits.

  • Schedule of Classes

    1. The minimum full-time schedule is 12 credits. Students may register for fewer than 12 credits on a part-time basis.

    2. Most of the classes are scheduled to meet once a week. Students must allow time in their schedules for internships each term.

    3. Generally, there will be no Child Development and Child Care courses (including internships) available during the Summer Term.


  • Academic Standing
    All students must obtain a grade of C- or better in all required courses in their major, must maintain an average of 2.5 overall in their major, and must perform successfully in the internships according to prevailing standards in order to remain in good standing in the program.

    Students will be notified when they have fallen below the expected standards of the program and will be given one term in which to improve academic performance. The student on probation will not be given an internship assignment until the probationary status has been successfully eliminated. Change of probationary status must be noted by the adviser in writing and such notification sent to the student, the Director, and filed in the student's folder.

  • Honors
    The program honors those students whose academic performance (cumulative QPA) places them in the upper two percent of their graduating class. These students are considered for Honors Recognition at the Annual Honors Convocation conducted by the University in the Spring of each year.


  • Course Descriptions

  • Required Courses
    CHLDDV 1007 METHODS OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE (3 crs.)
    This course focuses on methods of data gathering common to qualitative research and clinical assessment with particular attention on methods of observation and interviewing. Selected practice methods are also included. Prerequisite: CHLDDV 1026; must be taken concurrently with 1027, or permission of instructor.

    CHLDDV 1012 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES (3 crs.)
    A study of developmental disabilities and their impact on child/family development. Includes discussion of philosophy of service, legislation, and service systems. Prerequisites: CHLDDV 1026,1027 or equivalent.

    CHLDDV 1013 DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND COUNSELING SKILLS (3 crs.)
    Examines the traditional medical-model view of psychopathology in children and youth, presents alternative ways of looking at this behavior, and gives an introduction to the interpersonal skills needed for therapeutic intervention. Prerequisite: CHLDDV 1024 or permission of instructor.

    CHLDDV 1016 DEVELOPMENTAL CURRICULUM AND ACTIVITIES (3 crs.)
    Study of the theoretical rationale for activity and environmental programming; its relationship to the development of children and youth; and practical applications in media selection, use, and environmental design for various populations. Prerequisites: Admission to BS Program in Child Development and Child Care or permission of instructor.

    CHLDDV 1024 FAMILY DYNAMICS (3 crs.)
    Study of different family types in the American culture and an in-depth analysis of how each family structure contributes to the development (both functionally and dysfunctionally) of all family members, especially the children and youth of the family. Family intervention skills are stressed in relation to dysfunctional families. Prerequisite: Senior standing in Child Development and Child Care or permission of instructor.

    CHLDDV 1025 PROFESSIONAL SEMINAR (3 crs.)
    An introduction to the scope, organization, and current issues in the child development and child care field as related to both normal and special-needs populations. Field experiences include site visits to agencies for both normal and special-needs populations. Prerequisite: Admission to BS Program in Child Development and Child Care.

    CHLDDV 1026 CHILD AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT I (3 crs.)
    Course focuses on theories of child and youth development as they are applied in practice. The course covers the theories of Piaget, Freud, Erikson, Gibson; social learning, information processing; and ethology. Students learn the fundamental tenets of the theories as well as new directions of theory and practice. They are required to synthesize the different theoretical perspectives into coherent, well-informed perspectives guiding their practice. Prerequisite: developmental psychology (or equivalent).

    CHLDDV 1027 CHILD AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT II (3 crs.)
    Course focuses on the "ecology" of childhood and youth from infancy through adolescence. Students will be oriented with an ecological, life-span perspective and study descriptive accounts of children's/youth's lives in families, neighborhoods, and schools, including developmental changes in play, peer relations, and family patterns. Students will integrate the course content with actual observations of children's/youth's everyday behavior. Prerequisite: CHLDDV 1026 or permission of instructor.

    CHLDDV 1028 DEVELOPMENTAL PRACTICE SEMINAR 1 (3 crs.)
    A seminar for the integration of theory, research, practice skills, and experience related to developmentally focused child and youth care practice. The seminar is particularly focused on the internship experience and the related knowledge base. Prerequisite: Senior standing in Child Development and Child Care; must be taken concurrently with CHLDDV 1042. Open only to CD&CC majors.

    CHLDDV 1029 DEVELOPMENTAL PRACTICE SEMINAR 2 (3 crs.)
    A continuation of Developmental Practice Seminar 1 for the integration of theory, research, practice skills, and experience related to developmentally focused child and youth care practice. The seminar is particularly focused on the internship experience and the related knowledge base. Prerequisite: CHLDDV 1028; must be taken concurrently with CHLDDV 1043. Open only to CD&CC majors.

    CHLDDV 1031 SENIOR PROJECT (2 crs.)
    An introduction to the philosophy of science and basic tools of methodology and evaluation in the field of child development, culminating in a written report of a project designed by each student according to his or her individual interests and goals. Prerequisite: Senior status in Child Development and Child Care.

    CHLDDV 1036 DEVELOPMENTAL MEANING OF CULTURAL DISTINCTION (3 crs.)
    An exploration of major dimensions and issues of cultural diversity with a particular emphasis on their impact on the developing child and their implications for programs for children and youth. Prerequisites: CHLDDV 1026, 1027 (1027 may be concurrent).

    CHLDDV 1042 CHILD AND YOUTH WORK PRACTICE 1 (3-6 crs.)
    A study of applied theory, research and developmental/interventive practice relevant to children and youth with special needs. Supervised internships with children and/or youth. Prerequisite: CHLDDV 1041 or CHLDDV 1061, CHLDDV 1015 (may be concurrent).

    CHLDDV 1043 CHILD AND YOUTH WORK PRACTICE 2 (3-6 crs.)
    Further study of applied theory, research, and developmental/interventive practice relevant to children and youth with special needs. Supervised internships with children and/or youth. Prerequisite: CHLDDV 1012, 1023 (may be concurrent), 1024, 1036, 1042.

    CHLDDV 1050 SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION IN
    CHILD AND YOUTH WORK SETTINGS    		 (3 crs.)
    Course focuses on issues and skill development in areas related to management and supervision in child and youth care programs. A modular format will cover the functions of supervision and administration in child care, communication skills, supervisory functions and skills, program development and management, and current issues in child care administration. Prerequisite: Senior status in a human service field.
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