Best Bachelor’s in Child Psychology Degree Programs

A bachelor’s degree in child psychology examines child development, behavior, and mental health, with the goal of preparing graduates for careers working with children.

Upon graduating with a child psychology degree, you might take any number of jobs working with children. Graduates become child advocates, behavior therapists, caseworkers, and early childhood educators, among other positions. These jobs are with governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.

In any of these capacities, you can expect to help children facing a range of potential challenges. You might help children experiencing mental health challenges, emotional health challenges, social anxiety, developmental disabilities, or other difficulties. Most work is in close collaboration with the child, their family, and other professionals (e.g. social worker).

There are many options available to those who would like to start a career in child psychology. To find out what the application process is like, or to know the graduation requirements, continue reading below.

2025 Best Online Bachelor's in Child Psychology Programs

Finding the best online bachelor's in child psychology programs is key for students who need flexibility. At counselingpsychology.org, we rank these programs to help you choose. Online learning lets you study from anywhere, making it easier to balance school with life. Distance learning options are great for those who can't attend in person. Our rankings look at quality, cost, and more to guide your decision. Learn how we rank programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu

Bachelor's - Psychology

Concentration: Child and Family Psychology - Online Learning - Visit Website

Eastern Kentucky University's online Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Concentration in Child and Family Psychology is tailored for those eager to delve into the complexities of child development and family relationships. This program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum, including courses on infant and child development, adolescent and adult development, and child psychopathology, all designed to foster critical thinking and professional competencies. Ideal for both working professionals and traditional students, the program offers flexibility without sacrificing depth. Admission prerequisites include a high school diploma or equivalent, with a 'C' grade or better required in major courses. Notably, this program does not mandate ACT or SAT scores for entry, making it accessible to a broader range of students. Graduates are well-prepared for impactful careers in child and family services, education, and beyond, supported by the program's focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge.

• Online program format
• Focus on child and family
• Requires 'C' in major courses
• Prepares for diverse careers
• Flexible for all students

#2

East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN - Public 4-Year - etsu.edu

Bachelor's - Psychology Major

Concentration: Child Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University's hybrid Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Child Psychology concentration merges online flexibility with campus-based learning, ideal for students aiming to specialize in child development and mental health. This 120-credit program delves into child psychopathology, cognitive and language development, preparing graduates for diverse careers in child psychology. Admission is open to those with a high school diploma or equivalent, without specifying ACT or SAT requirements, making it accessible. The program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum, financial aid availability, and adaptability to students' varying life stages, ensuring a robust foundation in child psychology principles and practices.

• Hybrid learning format
• 120 credit program
• Child Psychology concentration
• Covers child psychopathology
• Includes language development
• Financial aid available
• High school diploma required
• Flexible for various life stages
• Comprehensive child psychology training
• Prepares for mental health careers

#3

University of Massachusetts Global

Irvine, CA - Public 4-Year - umassglobal.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Concentration: Child Psychology - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Massachusetts Global offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Child Psychology, designed for students aiming to specialize in understanding and supporting child development. This program stands out for its fully online format, making it accessible to students nationwide. It requires no ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on preparing students for careers or further study in child psychology through a curriculum rich in psychological theory, research methods, and developmental psychology. Highlights include a senior capstone project, emphasis on scientific writing, and a cross-cultural psychology focus, equipping graduates with the skills needed for diverse professional settings.

• Fully online psychology degree
• Multiple concentration options
• Core courses in psychological science
• Senior capstone research project
• Prepares for graduate study
• Comprehensive human behavior curriculum
• Upper-division psychology courses
• Scientific writing emphasis
• Critical thinking development
• Cross-cultural psychology focus

*IPEDS 2023 institutional statistics, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

What Will I Learn in an Online Child Psychology Degree Program?

Online bachelor's degrees in child psychology are widely available, and there also are bachelor's in psychology with concentrations in child psychology. Both types of degrees are four-year programs that consist of 120-130 credits.

While online degree programs won’t typically offer classroom time, they will offer opportunities to practice what's being learned. Students may work with children in a variety of supervised settings, usually as part of a practical class or internship within the individual student’s community.

Coursework includes the standard general education classes that bachelor's degrees typically have. There are also many courses in child psychology, such as the following:

• Child Development

• Abnormal Child Psychology

• Psychological Assessment of Children

• Brain and Behavior

• Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy

• Family Systems and Child Development

• Culture and Child Development

• Social and Emotional Development

• Child and Adolescent Neuropsychology

• Research Methods in Child Psychology

The courses and requirements of a bachelor’s in child psychology program may differ depending on the specific institution.

Admissions Requirements for a Bachelor's in Child Psychology

The admissions requirements for bachelor’s in child psychology degrees may vary by school, but typically include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent

• An acceptable transcript

• A minimum GPA requirement (e.g. 2.5-3.0)

• Standardized test scores (such as the ACT or SAT)

• Letters of recommendation

• An essay or personal statement

• An in-person or virtual interview

Many colleges use the Common App, but more competitive schools might request additional materials. Some schools still have their own application (e.g. see Liberty University's application).

To make your application as competitive as possible, tailor the application for child psychology when possible. You might write a statement or essay that's somehow related to the field. You also may be able to request letters of recommendation from professionals in related fields, in addition to your high school teachers.

List of Child Psychology Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based bachelor’s program in child psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.