SNHU Spotlight: Travis Baril, BA in Psychology Grad
Social Sciences | 10min Read
Child Psychology Degree Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Concentration
Program Overview Why get a child psychology degree?
Make a difference in the lives of young people with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development at Southern New Hampshire University. This program will take you through key developmental stages, from birth through adolescence, to give you a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Skills you'll learn:
- Application of research methods
- Sociocultural and international awareness
- Communication methods
- Observation techniques
- Child and adolescent development process
- Application of ethics in real work situations
Courses & Curriculum Online psychology classes that prepare you to work with children
Gain an in-depth understanding of the unique physical, social, psychological and cognitive needs of young people. Explore how to support healthy development from birth through adolescence.
Note: The BA Psychology – Child & Adolescent Development program at SNHU will not lead directly to licensure.
Online child psychology courses
There are 12 credits in the child and adolescent concentration. While your child and adolescent courses are required, you'll have the opportunity to choose from other psychology topics that you're interested in to complete the remaining 2 courses in the concentration. These include an optional internship or an experiential learning project that you can use to build your resume and gain networking experience.
Courses may include:
Introduction to Psychology
Course ID:
PSY 108
In this course, students will explore the complexities of the human mind by examining the science behind why we think, feel, and do. Students will experience the evolution of psychology through the early schools of thought, major branches, and core theories that guide contemporary perspectives. As students consider the broad influence of psychology on their perceptions, emotions, and everyday choices, they will acknowledge the idea that, in the human experience, "psychology is everywhere."
Lifespan Development
Course ID:
PSY 211
In this course, students will explore the biological, sociological, and psychological influences that shape development between conception and death. Students will analyze traditional and emerging theories of development that increase their knowledge of human development as it relates to the field of psychology.
Research I: Statistics for Psychology
Course ID:
PSY 223
How do psychologists organize, summarize, and interpret information? Students in this course study applications of statistical methods in psychological research and practice. The emphasis of the course is on the conceptual understanding of statistics so that students can read and conduct psychological research; those skills will be applied to students' original projects in Research II: Scientific Investigations. Computation of tests will be conducted on the computer. Students will build upon statistical knowledge and develop an in-depth conceptual and practical understanding of hypothesis testing, tests of significance, standardization, correlation, and analysis of variance in a wide variety of psychological uses. Students will learn the theory of statistical decisions, practical application of statistical software, and how to analyze journal articles. This course typically should be completed during the first semester of the sophomore year.
Research II: Scientific Investigations
Course ID:
PSY 224
Students in this course will develop an understanding a variety of research methods, including experimental, survey, correlation and case-history techniques. They will become aware of the strengths and weaknesses of each method and understand when each method is best used. Writing intensive course.
Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence
Course ID:
PSY 314
This course focuses specifically on an introduction to the classification of disorders of childhood and adolescence and the treatment approaches that currently are available. Knowledge students obtain in PSY 314 is essential for understanding the etiology and manifestation of these disorders, as well as the impact on the individual, family and society. Current field research and case studies will be used.
Developmental Psychology: Childhood
Course ID:
PSY 321
Students will explore the major milestones during the preschool and school-aged years and the role that nature and nurture play in it, including widening sociocultural influences of family, friends and peers, school, community, and culture. Students also examine normative development, risk, and how to enrich their development to promote resiliency. Applications include learning to speak with and observe this age group, fostering grit and prosocial behavior, and addressing bullying.
Developmental Psychology: Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood
Course ID:
PSY 322
In this course, students will examine the physical, cognitive, and social development of adolescents and emerging adults and the varying contexts in which these changes occur. Special emphasis is given to identity development, the impacts of transitional events during adolescence and emerging adulthood, and the interplay between areas of growth during this period.
Senior Seminar in Psychology (Capstone)
Course ID:
PSY 444
This capstone course integrates previous classroom and practical experience with a focus on current issues in psychology. This course likely will include cross-cultural aspects of psychology, ethics, recent career trends in psychology and other topics dictated by current events in psychology. Coverage may change over time, but the basic focus on integrating the past and anticipating the future for psychology seniors will be the major concern. Writing Intensive Course.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BA in Psychology with a concentration in Child & Adolescent Developement curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
Cultural Awareness and Online Learning
Course ID:
IDS 105
This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.
Self, Society, and the Humanities
Course ID:
HUM 102
In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.
Foundations of Written Communication
Course ID:
ENG 130
This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.
Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving
Course ID:
MAT 126
In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.
Ethics in Global Society
Course ID:
PHL 218
In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.
STEM Principles and Problem-Solving
Course ID:
SCI 260
In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.
Social Issues and Decision-Making
Course ID:
SCS 260
In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: October 27, 2025 | January 5, 2026
Next term starts:
September 1, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Featured Faculty
Heather Gianatassio
Position
Adjunct Instructor
Joined SNHU
2014
Education
- MS in Child and Family Studies from the University of Southern Mississippi
- BA in Music and Child Life from Wheelock College
“This child and adolescent development concentration allows students to create, innovate, teach and become leaders in the child development field. They learn to use research and real-world experience to provide the best possible care to children and families in a variety of settings.”
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online undergraduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$342
$1,026
$41,040
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$250
$750
$30,000
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$10,260 $15,390 $20,520 $25,650 $30,780If 30 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $30,780
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $25,650
If 60 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $20,520
If 75 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,390
If 90 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $10,260
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of tuition discounts for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook
By earning your BA in child and adolescent development, you could turn your passion for helping others into a successful career bettering the lives of young people. Whether you're looking to become more proficient in your current field or thinking about starting a new career, this program is designed to help you take advantage of more opportunities.
Occupations
While the bachelor's program does not lead to licensure, it prepares you to work in fields such as education, social services and health care. Earning your bachelor's degree at SNHU can also prepare you for careers beyond the field of psychology, like:
Market Research Analyst
Study market conditions to help companies better understand what products customers want.
Social & Community Service Manager
Support the community's well-being by coordinating and supervising beneficial programs and organizations.
Human Resources Manager
Plan, coordinate and direct an organization's administrative functions and inform strategic planning for the company.
15%
Increase nationally in employment of marriage and family therapists, projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
After obtaining my degree at Southern New Hampshire University, I really feel my degree has given me the confidence that I've always lacked.
Child & Adolescent Development
Frequently Asked Questions
What is child and adolescent development?
Child and adolescent development explores how humans grow and adapt at different life stages between birth and adolescence. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), child developmental psychologists can work with parents, doctors and educators to help children experience healthy physical and psychological development.2
With a psychology degree in child and adolescent development, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to work with young people in a variety of settings, including day care centers, schools, clinics, social service agencies and hospitals.
"This area of psychology promotes research and the application of scientific knowledge to educational, childcare, policy and related areas,” said Dr. Jay Greiner, SNHU adjunct professor of psychology.
Can I take child development classes online?
Of course! SNHU's BA in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development is an online degree program. That means all of your coursework will be completed online, giving you the flexibility to work towards your degree on your schedule.
Throughout the program, you'll have 24/7 access to learning resources and course materials, so you can attend class when it’s convenient for you. And with six 8-week terms each year, you can earn your degree at your own pace.
Even though this is an online program, our dedicated faculty and staff aim to facilitate a learning environment that helps you connect with other classmates and gain real-world experience. That was something Latisha Aguilar '21 wasn't expecting when she started her program.
"Making connections with other online students was very surprising. At a certain point in time, it becomes fun to interact with your classmates," said Aguilar. "It wasn't isolating at all."
No matter how you decide to earn your degree, rest assured that each course at Southern New Hampshire University is taught by a committed instructor with real-world experience. Whether you're taking courses online or on campus, they're dedicated to helping you earn your degree.
What jobs can you get with a child psychology degree?
A child psychology bachelor's degree can prepare you to work with young people in different environments, including childcare facilities, schools, social service agencies and medical institutions.
While working as a psychologist requires an advanced degree and state licensure, this child development degree concentration can give you the knowledge you need to start working with young people right away. It also provides an excellent foundation for graduate programs in psychology, counseling or social work.
Possible jobs for child development majors include:1
- Childcare worker: Monitor the safety and well-being of children in your care, organizing activities, mealtimes and sleep schedules and watching for signs of emotional or developmental problems in children.
- Preschool teacher: Educate and care for children who have not yet entered kindergarten, teaching language, motor and social skills and keeping records of the children’s learning progress and development.
- Teacher assistant: Support the learning of students from kindergarten through high school, working with a licensed teacher to give students additional attention and track students’ development.
- Social services assistant: Provide support for families and help clients find benefits and community services in a wide variety of fields, including psychology, rehabilitation and social work.
- Market research analyst: Design methods of gathering data on consumers, competitors and market conditions and use the findings to examine potential sales of a product or service.
Can I be a child psychologist with a bachelor's degree?
A child development bachelor’s degree can be a great first step toward working as a child psychologist, but you’ll need more advanced education to pursue psychology licensure and begin practicing.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)1, most psychologists need either a PhD in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree before working in a clinical setting. Earning an online BA in psychology with a concentration in child development can prepare you for admission to these advanced degree programs.
You can also use your bachelor’s degree to start working in child development and psychology right away, gaining more experience while you continue your education.
The knowledge you gain from your online psychology courses can set you up for success in a number of career paths. You could work as a social and community services manager, which should see 9% job growth through 2032, according to the BLS.1 Other careers include market research analyst, which should see 13% job growth through 2032, and preschool teachers – with 3% projected growth – in the same time period.1
You could also choose to pursue a career in healthcare as a community health worker, which has a projected job growth rate of 14% through 2032 according to the BLS.1
What is the best online college for psychology?
The best online college for psychology is the one that prepares you for the career you want and provides the necessary support for you to succeed.
A good online psychology degree in child development will ensure you have a strong understanding of the way that children grow and evolve - physically and psychologically. You’ll prepare to work with young people in multiple ways and also prepare to enter a graduate program in psychology or a related field.
At SNHU, a psychology bachelor’s degree with a concentration in child development will teach you how to use research skills and real-world experience to provide the best possible care to children and families. And with 24/7 access to your online courses, dedicated instructors and a full range of advising and tutoring services, SNHU is designed to help you succeed.
How many years of college do you need to be a child psychologist?
It depends. A doctoral degree is typically required to gain licensure and work as a child psychologist, according to BLS.1 But how you earn this degree – and the degrees you earn leading up to it – can vary.
Students must earn a 4-year psychology bachelor’s degree before moving on to a more advanced degree. Some students go on to earn a master’s degree in psychology, which is typically a 2-year degree.
But it is possible to move straight into a research-based PhD or clinical-based PsyD degree program after receiving your bachelor's degree. According to the APA, a psychology doctoral degree takes an average of 7 years to complete.2
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm (viewed Feb. 27, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/market-research-analysts.htm (viewed Feb. 27, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm (viewed Feb. 27, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm (viewed Feb. 27, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/human-resources-managers.htm (viewed Feb. 27, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/preschool-teachers.htm (viewed Feb. 27, 2024)
2American Psychological Association, on the internet, at:
- https://www.apa.org/education-career/guide/bachelors (viewed Jan. 13, 2023)
- https://www.apa.org/action/science/developmental/education-training (viewed Jan. 13, 2023)
- https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/02/datapoint (viewed Jan. 13, 2023)