May 22, 2026  
2026-2027 University Catalog 
    
2026-2027 University Catalog

Child and Adolescent Studies, Development in Diverse Contexts Concentration, B.S.


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(120 UNITS)

Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Studies


The Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Studies provides an integrative, interdisciplinary study of children (from prenatal through adolescence), families and the contexts that influence development. This broad background makes Child and Adolescent Studies a good foundation for a variety of professions that serve children, families and their communities.

The degree offers three concentrations that allow students to focus on the population and context in which they are interested: Early Childhood Education; Elementary Education; and Development in Diverse Contexts.

In addition to the requirements for the major, students must meet all other university requirements for a bachelor’s degree. Please consult the Graduation Requirements for the Bachelor’s Degree  section in this catalog for complete information. A “C” (2.0) or better is required in all courses applied to the major. Course prerequisites are strictly enforced.

Development in Diverse Contexts Concentration (24 units)


The Development in Diverse Contexts concentration is for students who want to support children, adolescents and their families in settings outside of early childhood education and elementary education. It prepares students to pursue careers or graduate studies in counseling, social work, healthcare, behavioral intervention, speech pathology, middle, high school or higher education, social service agencies and community organizations and research.

Courses emphasize a culturally competent approach to working with children, adolescents and their families across diverse settings and communities. The concentration has the most flexibility in requirements, and students can reference career-specific advisement guides to help them select classes that will best prepare them for their future aspirations.

Concentration-Specific Assessment Course (3 units)


Topical Development (18 units)


Select a minimum of 9 units of upper-division courses. A minimum 9 units must be CAS courses.

Areas of Additional Study (12-15 units)


Total (120 units)


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