Overview

The Child and Youth Studies program at Wilfrid Laurier University offers a Bachelor of Arts degree that explores the development, experiences, and needs of children and youth from birth to age 18. It integrates perspectives from psychology, sociology, education, and social work to provide a comprehensive understanding of child and youth issues in diverse cultural and social contexts.

Objectives include fostering critical thinking about child development, family dynamics, and societal influences, while preparing students for careers supporting young people. Unique features encompass hands-on community engagement opportunities, an optional co-op program for practical experience, and interdisciplinary coursework that emphasizes equity, diversity, and inclusion in child and youth services.

Career Prospects

Graduates are equipped for roles in child welfare, education, community programming, and social services. The program emphasizes skills in advocacy, program planning, and ethical practice, leading to opportunities in non-profits, government agencies, and educational settings.

Key Faculty/Staff

Prominent faculty include experts in child development and youth policy, such as those specializing in early childhood education and adolescent mental health, though specific names are not publicly detailed in general profiles.

Unique Facilities or Partnerships

The program benefits from partnerships with local community organizations for fieldwork and internships. Access to Laurier's research centers, including those focused on family studies and social justice, supports experiential learning. The Brantford campus location enhances connections to community-based youth services in the region.