Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Psychology Degree Programs

A bachelor’s degree in child psychology examines child development, behavior, and mental health, with the goal of preparing graduates for careers working with children.

Upon graduating with a child psychology degree, you might take any number of jobs working with children. Graduates become child advocates, behavior therapists, caseworkers, and early childhood educators, among other positions. These jobs are with governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.

In any of these capacities, you can expect to help children facing a range of potential challenges. You might help children experiencing mental health challenges, emotional health challenges, social anxiety, developmental disabilities, or other difficulties. Most work is in close collaboration with the child, their family, and other professionals (e.g. social worker).

There are many options available to those who would like to start a career in child psychology. To find out what the application process is like, or to know the graduation requirements, continue reading below.

What Will I Learn in an Online Child Psychology Degree Program?

Online bachelor's degrees in child psychology are widely available, and there also are bachelor's in psychology with concentrations in child psychology. Both types of degrees are four-year programs that consist of 120-130 credits.

While online degree programs won’t typically offer classroom time, they will offer opportunities to practice what's being learned. Students may work with children in a variety of supervised settings, usually as part of a practical class or internship within the individual student’s community.

Coursework includes the standard general education classes that bachelor's degrees typically have. There are also many courses in child psychology, such as the following:

• Child Development

• Abnormal Child Psychology

• Psychological Assessment of Children

• Brain and Behavior

• Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy

• Family Systems and Child Development

• Culture and Child Development

• Social and Emotional Development

• Child and Adolescent Neuropsychology

• Research Methods in Child Psychology

The courses and requirements of a bachelor’s in child psychology program may differ depending on the specific institution.

Admissions Requirements for a Bachelor's in Child Psychology

The admissions requirements for bachelor’s in child psychology degrees may vary by school, but typically include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent

• An acceptable transcript

• A minimum GPA requirement (e.g. 2.5-3.0)

• Standardized test scores (such as the ACT or SAT)

• Letters of recommendation

• An essay or personal statement

• An in-person or virtual interview

Many colleges use the Common App, but more competitive schools might request additional materials. Some schools still have their own application (e.g. see Liberty University's application).

To make your application as competitive as possible, tailor the application for child psychology when possible. You might write a statement or essay that's somehow related to the field. You also may be able to request letters of recommendation from professionals in related fields, in addition to your high school teachers.

List of Child Psychology Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based bachelor’s program in child psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.