UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Child Development
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Multidisciplinary approachProgram Focus
- Hands-on practicum experiencePractical Training
- Prepares for diverse careersCareer Outcomes
- Foundation for doctoral studiesFurther Education
The Graduate Group in Child Development at UC Davis offers a multidisciplinary Master of Science (M.S.) degree program. This program allows students to undertake a focused course of graduate study in child development, drawing on expertise from various departments. Students will complete a practicum experience, working with children and families in community settings or within the University's Center for Child & Family Studies. This degree prepares graduates for professions that directly or indirectly involve children and families, including roles in early childhood education, social policy, teaching, or research. It also serves as a strong foundation for pursuing doctoral studies in fields such as child development, human development, or clinical psychology.
Curriculum
The program provides a coordinated course of graduate study in child development, cutting across departmental boundaries. Students complete a practicum and may engage in research.
- Year 1
- Year 2
Careers
Graduates gain sufficient background to engage in professions that directly or indirectly involve children and families.
- Preschool educator
- Social policy roles
- Teaching positions
- Research settings
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Science in Child Development program?
- Admission is competitive and requires an undergraduate degree in a relevant field. Prior research experience demonstrating aptitude and enthusiasm for research is highly recommended.
- What is the tuition and fee structure for this program?
- Tuition and fees vary for graduate programs. While an example for the MSBA program is provided, specific costs for the Child Development M.S. may differ and personalized assistance should be sought.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the Master of Science in Child Development?
- Graduates are prepared for professions involving children and families, including roles in early childhood education, social policy, teaching, and research settings.
- Does the program offer any scholarships or financial aid opportunities?
- Fellowships and financial support are available and vary. Applicants seeking consideration must submit all materials by the priority December 1 deadline.
- What is the application deadline for the Master of Science in Child Development program?
- The application period opens in September. The priority deadline is December 1, and the final deadline is March 1.
- What does the program entail in terms of practical experience?
- The program includes a mandatory practicum experience where students work with children and families in community settings or at the University's Center for Child & Family Studies.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeUndergraduate degree in a relevant field is typically required. Applicants to the related Microbiology program (M.S.) needed a B.S. or B.A. in a biological science with coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, plus upper-division courses in subjects like biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, genetics, or immunology. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required for the Microbiology program.
Admission to the Graduate Group in Child Development is competitive. Applicants should possess an aptitude and enthusiasm for research, ideally demonstrated through prior research experience.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees vary. For the MSBA program, the estimated course fee was $65,560 for 44 units for students entering in Summer 2025. Specific costs for the Child Development M.S. program may differ.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees vary. For the MSBA program, the estimated course fee was $65,560 for 44 units for students entering in Summer 2025. Specific costs for the Child Development M.S. program may differ.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified in the provided text.
For personalized assistance with costs, connect with a Graduate School of Management financial aid advisor. Note that information regarding tuition and fees may be specific to certain programs like the MSBA and may not directly apply to the Child Development M.S. program.
How to apply
1. Visit Graduate AdmissionsAccess the application portal through the Graduate Studies page under 'Apply for Graduate Admission to UC Davis'.
2. Contact Potential Faculty (if applicable)For programs like Microbiology, applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members they wish to study with to confirm lab space and mentorship availability.
3. Submit Application MaterialsComplete and submit all required application materials by the specified deadlines.
Scholarships
Fellowships/Financial SupportVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Science in Child Development program?
+
Admission is competitive and requires an undergraduate degree in a relevant field. Prior research experience demonstrating aptitude and enthusiasm for research is highly recommended.
What is the tuition and fee structure for this program?
+
Tuition and fees vary for graduate programs. While an example for the MSBA program is provided, specific costs for the Child Development M.S. may differ and personalized assistance should be sought.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the Master of Science in Child Development?
+
Graduates are prepared for professions involving children and families, including roles in early childhood education, social policy, teaching, and research settings.
Does the program offer any scholarships or financial aid opportunities?
+
Fellowships and financial support are available and vary. Applicants seeking consideration must submit all materials by the priority December 1 deadline.
What is the application deadline for the Master of Science in Child Development program?
+
The application period opens in September. The priority deadline is December 1, and the final deadline is March 1.
What does the program entail in terms of practical experience?
+
The program includes a mandatory practicum experience where students work with children and families in community settings or at the University's Center for Child & Family Studies.