The Master of Arts Program in Child Development (MACD) is a 2–3-year, 38–40-unit evening program that strives to foster an understanding of the major theories and empirical research in child development from infancy through adolescence. This includes an understanding of the core psychological domains of cognition, language, physiology, emotions, personality and social behavior, along with an understanding of developmental methods. An emphasis will be placed on understanding development in the contexts in which children live their lives including family, school, and peer groups.
Why Choose the MA CAFS Program?
- The Child Development Program provides research and professional opportunities with a diverse population.
- We have an award-winning faculty who are highly involved in research and community projects.
- This degree leads to a Program Director Child Development Permit, which is the highest early education teaching permit offered by the State of California.
- Externships in the community are available with our many community partners.
- Applied experiences are abundant: teaching undergraduate courses and serving as research/project assistants on grant funded projects at local child and family agencies.
- There are opportunities for involvement with the CSUSB Institute for Child Development and Family Relations.
- Faculty encourage involvement in their research which often leads to conference presentations and publications.
- We have 2 NAEYC accredited centers on campus: the Infant-Toddler Laboratory, which serves children aged 0-2 and the Children’s Center, which serves children aged 3-5. Employment opportunities for students are available.
- We emphasize community and collaboration and employ a cohort model where incoming students take classes together supporting one another academically and personally throughout their graduate journey. The cohort model encourages lasting connections, professional development, and opportunities for peer mentorship. Each year, a diverse group of students joins the MA CAFS program, bringing unique perspectives, experiences, and areas of interest.
- Collaboration: Cohort members may work together on projects, research, and professional development activities. These collaborations help deepen your understanding of the field and broaden your perspectives.
- Peer Support: From study groups to social events, your cohort will be an invaluable resource for navigating the challenges of graduate school.
- Networking: The connections you form with your cohort extend beyond the classroom and can lead to valuable professional relationships throughout your career.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Second-year students and beyond frequently provide mentorship to incoming students, sharing insights and advice based on their experiences in the program.
Fall 2025 Cohort Fall 2024 Cohort
What can I do with this degree?
This program will provide students with an in-depth background in child growth and development and in contexts of developments such as families. As such there is a growing need for highly educated adults to work with children and their families.
We have a strong track record of preparing students who plan to pursue doctoral-level studies in related fields.
Jobs MA CAFS graduates are qualified for:
- Child and Family Advocate for non-profits
- Community College Professor
- Parent Educator
- Adjunct instructor at 4-year institutions
- Child Development Coordinator
- Director of Early childhood programs (single and multiple sites)
- Early Interventionist/Child Development Specialist
- Early Childhood Educator
Graduates from our program have been employed with:
- Research Institutions
- Child and Family non-profits
- San Bernardino County Schools
- City and State positions
- Community College Professor
Our MA CAFS graduates are highly sought after, following graduation!
Attend an Information Session Through Zoom!
We strongly encourage you to attend one of our MACF Info sessions. In each session, you will learn about the program, opportunities, application process, and potential careers in child, adolescent, and family studies and have an opportunity to ask questions.
Upcoming Information sessions:
25/26 Information Session Dates Coming Soon
Link to Join: https://csusb.zoom.us/j/84357870015
Admission Requirements
View the current Catalog.
To apply to the MA Child Development program, please visit our Graduate Admission webpage for deadlines and step-by-step instructions.
For more information contact the director of the Child Development program, Dr. Stacy Morris via telephone at (909) 537-3047; via e-mail at stacy.morris@csusb.edu or in person in her office (SB-510) by appointment.