Child Development BS
Central Methodist University Campus, United States
Bachelor of Science in Child Development
Central Methodist University
Child Development
Bachelor of Science in Child Development at Central Methodist University
The Bachelor of Science in Child Development at Central Methodist University prepares you for a rewarding career working with children in a variety of settings, from childcare centers to therapy environments. You will learn how to approach, analyze, teach, and care for children while building an in-demand skill set sought by employers in social work, home care, counseling, teaching, and mentoring.
This program focuses on general education and early childhood courses that equip you with the abilities to establish and maintain your own childcare programs, as well as pursue careers in commercial and non-profit childcare initiatives, including Head Start Programs. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through projects, capstone experiences in preschool settings, and professional internships.
Central Methodist University, a private institution founded in 1854 and located in Fayette, Missouri, offers a close-knit campus community with a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring your degree meets recognized standards of academic quality.
Program Highlights
- Hands-on capstone experiences in preschool settings and professional internships integrated into the curriculum
- Two emphasis tracks available: Early Childhood or School-Aged Children, allowing you to tailor your studies
- Preparation for careers in social work, childcare administration, counseling, teaching, and mentoring
- Small class sizes with a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio for personalized attention and mentorship
Curriculum and Modules
The BS in Child Development curriculum combines core child development coursework with emphasis-specific modules and general education requirements, totaling a minimum of 120 credit hours. The program offers two emphasis tracks — Early Childhood and School-Aged Children — allowing you to specialize your studies based on your career goals.
Child Development
2 Credit HoursFoundational study of child growth, cognitive milestones, and developmental theories from infancy through adolescence. This course provides the essential framework for understanding how children learn and develop.
Infant Toddler Curriculum and Practicum
4 Credit HoursExplores curriculum design and instructional methods for infant and toddler care settings. Includes a practicum component providing direct hands-on experience working with very young children.
Child Health
2 Credit HoursCovers essential topics in pediatric health, nutrition, safety, and wellness relevant to childcare professionals. Students learn to identify health concerns and promote healthy development in young children.
Children's Literature
3 Credit HoursExamines a wide range of children's literary works and their role in early literacy development. Students learn strategies for selecting and using literature to support language acquisition and cognitive growth.
Creative Arts
3 Credit HoursFocuses on integrating visual arts, music, drama, and movement into early childhood education settings. Students develop skills to use creative expression as a tool for child development and learning.
Curriculum Methods and Practicum (Capstone)
3 Credit HoursA capstone course combining curriculum design theory with practical application in an early childhood setting. Students develop, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate lesson plans under faculty supervision.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to Central Methodist University is selective, with each application reviewed and evaluated on an individual basis. To begin your application for the BS in Child Development, reach out to Uni4Edu for personalized guidance through the entire admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- High School GPAMinimum 2.75 GPA with college preparatory curriculum for unconditional admission
- Standardized TestsACT or SAT scores considered; test-optional policy available
- High School DiplomaCompletion of an accredited secondary education program or equivalent
- Alternative Pathway2.5-2.74 GPA with 21 ACT or committee approval
- Transfer StudentsOfficial transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities required
English Language Requirements
- TOEFLMinimum 77 (Internet-based) or 213 (Computer-based)
- IELTSMinimum score of 5.5
- Duolingo English TestMinimum score of 95
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Central Methodist University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their education. Contact Uni4Edu for detailed information on available funding opportunities and assistance with your scholarship applications.
CMU Academic Merit Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships awarded to incoming students based on high school GPA and standardized test scores. These renewable awards recognize strong academic achievement and potential.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the BS in Child Development program are well-prepared for careers across a range of child-focused settings. The program equips you with practical skills and theoretical knowledge valued by employers in education, social services, healthcare, and community organizations.
Potential Career Paths
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Central Methodist University is a private institution founded in 1854, accredited through the Higher Learning Commission. The university has earned recognition in national rankings for its commitment to student success and social mobility in the Midwest region.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Colleges Midwest | U.S. News & World Report | #18 out of 89 |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #16 |
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #1342 (US) |
| Education Programs | Missouri DESE Accredited | State Approved |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Child Development
Arel University, Büyükçekmece, Turkey
Earliest Intake
December 2026
Gross Tuition
3100 $
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Child Development
Mudanya University, Mudanya, Turkey
Earliest Intake
May 2027
Gross Tuition
6000 $
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Child Development (Tur)
Istinye University, Zeytinburnu, Turkey
Earliest Intake
March 2026
Gross Tuition
8000 $
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Early Childhood Education BA
UCL University College London, , United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2027
Gross Tuition
35400 £
Certificate & Diploma
24 months
Child and Youth Care Diploma
Great Plains College, Warman, Canada
Earliest Intake
October 2026
Gross Tuition
16800 C$
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
