M.S. in Child Development and Family Studies
Program Facts
College: College of Education
Major: Master of Science in Child Development and Family Studies
- 100% Online
Credit Hours: 30
Duration: 3-4 Semesters
How To Apply
Tuition & Fees
Estimated costs available via the calculator.
Overview
Tarleton State University’s online Master of Science degree in Child Development and Family Studies expands your career opportunities in educational and community settings. This graduate program in Child Development and Family Studies emphasizes content areas such as theories related to families and children, research methodology, and current issues impacting child development and family dynamics.
By providing an intellectually rigorous curriculum studying children, adolescents, and families across the lifespan, our online Master’s program prepares you for career advancement throughout the field of child development.
Program Benefits
- Program is 100% online and can be completed in as little as three semesters.
- This program prepares students with the comprehensive background to contribute to research and to qualify for leadership roles in the field.
- Graduates from this program experience more upward mobility and obtain leadership roles in centers and agencies working with children and families.
Courses
More About the Program
Visit our program’s page at: www.tarleton.edu/chfs
Student Testimonials
“Tarleton's Child Development and Family Studies (CHFS) has prepared me well for working with children and families in my career. I've been able to take what I've learned about child development and evolving families in class and apply them directly to my work as a mental health professional. Being enrolled in this program has honed in on my passion for caring for children and families in the community, and has opened my eyes to the endless opportunities of working as a child life specialist, child and family advocate, family life educator, marriage and family therapist, and more.
At the master's level, there is an opportunity to complete a capstone project or be enrolled in a thesis track. Choosing the thesis track has prepared me for future doctoral studies that require rigorous research experience. I've enjoyed getting the opportunity to know and learn from the professors as I develop my research skills and clinical practice. I look forward to contributing to the National Council on Family Relations in the future and plan to take the exam to become a Certified Family Life Educator. If you're looking for a program that sharpens your desire and skill to work with families, Tarleton's Child Development and Family Studies program is a great choice.”
- Sarah Nicole Bennett, Thesis Student, graduating Fall 2025
Offered Concentrations
- Professional
- Research
Video Overview
Learning Outcomes
- Provide students with a strong foundation for working with children and families in a variety of capacities, including leadership roles.
- Tailor each student’s education to their desired career.
- Enhance each student’s research, writing, and critical thinking skills.
Career Outcomes
- Education (early childhood education programs, higher education institutions, parent/family life education)
- Social / Community Services (child advocacy centers, adoption/foster agencies, behavioral health centers)
- Medical (Hospitals and health care facilities)
- Business (companies that manufacture and market children’s items)
- Communication (publishing children’s books, television shows, magazines)
- Government (early childhood intervention, military child care and family programs, legislative advocacy)
Admissions Requirements
- GPA 2.75 or higher
- Online Application
- Official Transcripts
- $50 non-refundable fee
- Submit 600-word essay
Resources
Program Flyer
Master of Science in Child Development and Family Studies Flyer
Download Program Flyer (PDF)Advising Guide
2025-2026 Child Development and Family Studies Advising Guide
View the Advising Guide (PDF)