Master of Science in Child Life Online

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Our online programs are designed to fit your schedule. Find your ideal start date below.

16-Week Format

We offer rolling admission. Applications for Fall 2024 enrollment will be reviewed on two dates, February 1 and April 15, provided seats are still open.

Please review the necessary criteria into the master’s in child life program

To be considered for admissions, applicants must provide all of the following items. Only completed applications will be reviewed by the Child Life Program for admissions consideration:

1. Provide evidence of a baccalaureate degree with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The cumulative grade point average is computed on the highest degree held at the time of application to the Edgewood College graduate program.
2. Complete and submit graduate application.
3. Request that official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate academic credits received from any post-secondary institutions be sent directly to Edgewood College Graduate and Professional Studies.
4. Two letters of recommendation speaking to applicant success within a masters level program and the field of Child Life. One letter must be from a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) or a Child Life department member (including but not limited to volunteer coordinators and child life assistants).
5. 25 hours of work with well children (paid or non-paid) Clinical Experience Hours Verification Form
6. 75 hours of volunteer work in a child life setting – Please provide a brief description of how your preparation or experiences may have been impacted by COVID and what you have done to remain engaged with the child life community.
7. One college course in child development or lifespan development strongly preferred.
8. A written statement is required when applying to the Child Life Program. This essay should include the following:
   1. Interests and motivation for wanting to be a Child Life Specialist
   2. Ability to succeed in graduate school
   3. What preparation, or accomplishments to date that impact your success as a future Child Life Specialist
9. An interview with the Program Director and an admissions team is mandatory. This interview can occur online or face to face prior to acceptance.
10. Additional evidence may be reviewed by the School of Education. This could include information in such areas of the candidate’s background as:
    1. General intelligence
    2. Emotional stability and maturity
    3. Academic achievement
    4. Physical stamina and health
    5. Moral and ethical fitness
    6. Demonstrated competence in speech
11. Knowledge of correct spoken and written English
12. Demonstrated ability to work with children, youth, and others in child life settings
13. Conduct and competency background checks and practicum evaluations

These criteria reflect the policy recommendations and professional expectations of various national and state organizations related to the preparation of child life professionals. Edgewood College considers these criteria to be significant and appropriate guidelines for judging the professional merit of candidates in child life. Students who have successfully pursued their academic work, have been actively involved in planning their programs with appropriate advisors, and who responsibly and reflectively participate in activities related to their professional preparation for child life should have no difficulty in meeting the criteria for admission to the child life program.

Our child life courses are both theoretical and practical

To complete the MS in Child Life online program, students must complete 38 credit hours of coursework. Plus, 600 practicum hours under a qualified supervisor.

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