Ruthie Davis, Division Leader

The Child and Family Studies program emphasizes individual and family well-being across the lifespan through the study of human development and family relationships. The program offers certification in Family Life Education (CFLE) through the National Council on Family Relations and the coursework preparation for certification as a Child Life Specialist through the Child Life Council. Students gain hands-on experience through the Piper Center for Family Studies and Child Development, a NAEYC-accredited lab school.

Students who wish to change their major to Child and Family Studies after completing coursework at Baylor may do so during the eligibility period, from the end of a full semester once final grades are posted through the 5th class day of the following term. Students requesting to change their major to Child and Family Studies in the Child Life or Pre-Occupational Therapy concentrations must have a cumulative GPA corresponding to the minimum requirements for their selected track. Transfer students must have a cumulative GPA corresponding to the minimum requirements for their selected track. 

Program                                         Cumulative GPA
Child Life                                       2.75 cumulative GPA
Pre-Occupational Therapy        2.75 cumulative GPA

Students whose cumulative GPA falls below the minimum requirement for their track in any semester will be placed on probation for one semester. Students whose cumulative GPA falls below the required minimum for their track for a second semester will be dismissed from the track and must select another major or alternative track for which they do have the minimum cumulative GPA. Students will not be permitted to re-enter a track once dismissed.