缅因大学

Why study Child Development and Family Relations at the University of Maine?

• We are the only Child Development and Family Relations program in the University of Maine system. The purpose of the program is to help students understand how people develop physically, emotionally and intellectually throughout their lives. We train our graduates to examine how relationships form in society and how they can help families in need.
• We focus on diversity, teaching students to work with children and families from marginalized groups and many walks of life. Our work aligns with state and federal priorities to assist our nation’s most vulnerable members: Infants and young children, at-risk youth, families in poverty, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and cultural minorities.
• We have a broad degree program to appeal to a variety of interests. Students who are interested in helping others, advocating for social change, and contributing to stronger and healthier communities will find the program to be an excellent path to a fulfilling career, whatever direction they choose.
• We focus on lifespan, from cradle to grave. From conception to adolescence to adult development and aging—we cover broad issues of family relationships, public policy, diversity and cross-cultural perspectives.

What can I do with a degree in child development and family relations?
Possible career paths include:

• Daycare staff/owner
• Family support professional
• Crisis worker
• Child life specialist
• Parent educator
• Family/child advocate
• Preschool teacher
• Family resource coordinator
• Youth counselor
• Family respite worker
• Family Life Educator
• Early Intervention
• Case/care manager
• Activity/recreation director
• Cooperative Extension Staff

Many students go on to obtain graduate degrees in areas of study, including:

• Marriage and Family Therapy
• Law
• Occupational Therapy
• Public Administration/Nonprofit Leadership
• Psychology/Certified Professional Counselor
• Social Work
• Medicine
• Physical Therapy
• School Counseling
• Speech Pathology
• Reading/Literacy Specialist

The state-approved Early Childhood Education concentration in the Child Development and Family Relations major focuses on preparing professionals to work with children ages 0-8 and their families. Students graduating with this concentration will be recommended for K-3 certification and will be eligible to apply to the State for the 081 (birth-age 5 endorsement).

Emphasizing the latest research and instructional strategies, Early Childhood Education is integrated with other teacher education programs in the College of Education and Human Development. Students apply for candidacy and prepare professional portfolios demonstrating competency in state and national standards.

Graduates leave the program with understanding of how children learn, how teachers can best promote learning, the crucial role of the family and how teachers and parents can work together for the best interests of children. In addition to teaching children from ages birth to third grade, Early Childhood Education graduates enjoy careers in areas such as museums, recreation, publishing, early intervention, and a variety of social services and community programs.