Overview

The B.Sc. in Child Life at Harding University provides a comprehensive academic foundation for students dedicated to supporting children and families facing stressful life events. This undergraduate programme integrates theoretical knowledge of human development with practical applications in therapeutic play and family advocacy. Students gain the skills necessary to promote effective coping mechanisms through education and self-expression activities.

Why Child Life at Harding University?

Harding University offers the only programme in Arkansas officially endorsed by the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP). This prestigious recognition ensures the curriculum meets the highest national standards for academic and clinical preparation. Students benefit from a supportive community through the Family and Consumer Sciences Student Association and may qualify for the Nu Delta chapter of the Kappa Omicron Nu national honor society. The department also provides several dedicated scholarship opportunities, such as the Sharen Crockett and Cheryl Helms endowed funds, specifically for students in this field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 25590 per year
National fee: USD 28200 per year
Local fee: USD 28200 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum covers a broad range of subjects designed to prepare students for professional certification and clinical practice. Modules may include:

Child Development
Family Systems
Therapeutic Play
Bereavement Support Services
Trauma Systems
Clinical Hospital Applications
Family Advocacy

Careers with Child Life

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles across healthcare and community sectors. Many pursue careers as Certified Child Life Specialists, working in pediatric hospitals, emergency rooms, and rehabilitation centres to help families navigate illness or injury. Other professional paths include:

Pediatric Patient Advocate
Family Services Coordinator
Child Life Assistant
Foster Care System Consultant
Bereavement Support Specialist
Community Family Advocate

The increasing recognition of child life services in pediatric clinics and trauma teams continues to drive demand for qualified professionals nationwide. Graduates use their expertise to assist families in making informed decisions regarding their well-being and resources in both medical and social service environments.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Early Childhood Educare
Child Growth and Development
Family Relationships
Field Experience
Literacy and Language Arts for Early Childhood
Parenting

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-17 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Searcy, United States

Disciplines

Childhood Studies View 174 other Bachelors in Childhood Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Send us your transcript(s)
Send your TOEFL or IELTS scores
Send a copy of your passport
Pay international student deposit

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

25590 USD / year

≈ 25590 USD / year
Out-of-State

28200 USD / year

≈ 28200 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

28200 USD / year

≈ 28200 USD / year

Living costs

Searcy

United States

870 - 1263 USD / month

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

Funding

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Scholarships Information

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

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

Searcy

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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