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CLA Undergraduate Major: Child Psychology

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Child psychology deals with behavioral development from the prenatal period to maturity in the areas of cognition, ethology, genetics, language, learning, perception, and social behavior.

The Institute of Child Development, housed in the College of Education and Human Development, offers a bachelor of arts, a bachelor of science, and a minor in child psychology through the College of Liberal Arts. All undergraduate child psychology courses are considered CLA courses and they count toward the CLA graduation requirements.

Both the B.A. and B.S. degrees prepare students for graduate study in psychology, education, medicine, law, sociology, and other behavioral sciences. In addition, with its combination of intensive training in developmental psychology and in-depth field experience, the B.S. prepares students for careers and additional training in such areas as early childhood education, counseling, and human service programs. However, both the BA and BS degrees are equally appropriate for admission to graduate programs and further study.

"The Institute is entirely deserving of its outstanding reputation as the pre-eminent center for research and training of students in child development. The faculty is distinguished and productive. There is wonderful esprit in the Institute based on a close working relationship and a shared commitment to excellence among students and faculty. The Institute is not only a resource for the University of Minnesota, but also a national resource for those interested in the study and welfare of children."

—Report of External Review Committee on ICD

Helpful links outside ICD


| Institute of Child Development | 51 E. River Parkway | Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA | Tel: 612-624-0526 | Fax: 612-624-6373

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Last modified on July 05, 2011.