MS in Child Life

Earn your master's in Child Life in 18-24 months for less than $17,0001. The MS in Child Life is designed for students seeking certification as a child life specialist to work in healthcare or a community setting. 

3 students and a young child in a ball pit.

The Child Life program is offered 100% online for those who are seeking a graduate degree and need to meet the necessary academic requirements for certification in Child Life.

For more information about the Child Life profession or the certification process, please visit the Association of Child Life Professionals.

1 Cost based on full-time, in-state tuition. Out-of-state tuition for full-time, online students is approximately $22,500 (Fall 2023 rates).

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Program Features

*Individual requirements may vary

Program Information

ACLP Endorsed Academic Program

The master’s degree in Child Life covers child growth and development from infancy through adolescence, including cognitive, social, emotional and physical development with an emphasis on how health and hospitalization can impact development in all domains, as well as family dynamics and relationships.

Students explore major theories and empirical research on child development and child life and how it applies to work with children and families in a healthcare or community setting.

Gain marketable skills:

  • Practical application of child development and child life knowledge in work with children and families, particularly in areas where families are experiencing stress or crisis
  • Ability to critically consume research literature and evidence-based practice literature
  • Ability to apply research evidence to professional practice
  • Developmental assessment skills
  • Developmentally appropriate intervention planning
  • Written communication skills
  • Critical thinking skills

Courses offered by semester

Career Opportunities

  • Certified Child Life Specialist*
  • Child and family advocacy
  • Early childhood intervention
  • Community outreach
  • Parent education

*Requires certification through the Association of Child Life Professionals

Admission Requirements

Catalog information for the M.S. in Child Life

Contact

Elizabeth McCarroll, PhD, CCLS
Professor, Child Life Program Coordinator
emccarroll@twu.edu

Page last updated 8:21 AM, October 3, 2024