Overview

The Child Development programme at San Diego State University provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary foundation for students aiming to support the growth and well-being of children and families.

This Bachelor of Science degree emphasises the importance of social-emotional development as the cornerstone for lifelong learning and effective communication. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, the curriculum ensures that graduates are prepared to make a meaningful impact in various educational and community environments.

Why Child Development at San Diego State University?

This programme distinguishes itself through a strong focus on prevention-oriented approaches, equipping students with tools to address developmental challenges before they arise. A key feature is the extensive community-based learning, which includes supervised work in local school districts and community agencies. Students also have the unique opportunity to observe and engage with the renowned SDSU Children's Center, gaining insights into high-quality early childhood practices. The curriculum is designed to foster cultural responsiveness and high-level communication skills, ensuring graduates can navigate diverse professional landscapes effectively.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14130 per year
National fee: USD 14130 per year
Local fee: USD 6838 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers physical, psychological, and social development across the lifespan, with a specific focus on infancy through adolescence. Modules may include:

Child and Family Development
Social-Emotional Development
Atypical Development
Family Violence and Child Maltreatment
Adulthood and Aging
Parent-Child and Peer Relationships
Early Intervention Skills
Advocacy and Public Policy
Research Methods

Careers with Child Development

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of professional roles in both public and private sectors. Many alumni pursue careers in early care and education settings, schools, and hospitals. The degree also provides a pathway to roles in counseling and mental health centres, family service agencies, and community programmes. Additionally, the programme serves as a robust foundation for those intending to enter teaching credential programmes for elementary or special education. For students looking toward further academic specialisation, it offers excellent preparation for graduate studies in social work, marriage and family therapy, school psychology, or law.

Programme Structure

Principles of Family Development

Human Development across the Lifespan

Principles of Child Development Lab

Children, Families and Communities

Developmentally Appropriate Practices

Interactions in Families

Parenting the Young Child

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Early Childhood Education Childhood Studies View 175 other Bachelors in Childhood Studies in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)

A nonrefundable fee of $70

Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Out-of-State

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6838 USD / year

≈ 6838 USD / year

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Child Development.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

San Diego

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners