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Child & Family Studies

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Undergraduate Program Overview

Intake(s):

Fall, Winter, Spring/Summer

Available as:

Honours Specialization, Specialization, Major, Minor

Available to:

All Students

Degree type:

Bachelor of Arts

Course load:

Full-time, Part-time

Dual Degree Option

PGWP Eligible

Make a Difference in the Lives of Children & Families

Are you passionate about supporting children, youth, and families? Nipissing University’s Child and Family Studies undergraduate program equips you with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to work in education, healthcare, social services, and community development. Through interdisciplinary coursework and real-world learning, you’ll develop the skills to advocate for children and families in a variety of professional settings.

Program Highlights

This program focuses on understanding childhood, family dynamics, and social structures through courses in:

Child Development & Psychology – Study cognitive, emotional, and social development from infancy to adolescence.
Family and Community Systems – Explore how families function and interact within society.
Social Policies and Advocacy – Learn about policies affecting children and families and how to influence change.
Research Methods in Child and Family Studies – Develop skills to analyze social issues and contribute to meaningful research.

Program Related Certificates:

Resources

Why Nipissing's Child & Family Studies Program?

Hands-On Learning

Engage in community-based placements, research projects, and case studies.

Interdisciplinary Approach

Study child development, psychology, sociology, and social policy.

Small Class Sizes

Benefit from close mentorship and personalized support from expert faculty.

Pathways to Professional Designations

Build a strong foundation for careers in education, social work, family counseling, and related fields.

Flexible Career Options

Prepare for diverse roles in child welfare, healthcare, and non-profit organizations.

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Admission Requirements

To qualify for admission, students must meet the General Admission Requirements, plus program specific prerequisites.

General Admission Requirements include:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma including six 4U/4M courses

Check admission requirements How to apply

Other Important Information

Deadlines to Apply

Required Documents

English Proficiency Requirements

Future Careers

A Child and Family Studies degree from Nipissing University prepares graduates to support the well-being, development, and success of children, youth, and families across educational, community, and social service settings. Graduates may pursue roles in:

Child & Youth Services
Child and youth workers, family support workers, early intervention assistants, or youth program coordinators.

Education & School Support
Educational assistants, student support workers, learning resource staff, or school program coordinators.

Community & Family Services
Community outreach workers, family services coordinators, parenting support workers, or recreation and family program facilitators.

Health & Wellness Support
Child development assistants, behavioural support workers, mental health support staff, or community wellness coordinators.

Graduate & Professional Studies
Graduate studies in education, social work, counselling, child and youth care, or related human service fields.

Real People, Real Impact

Discover how real students have found support, opportunity, and belonging at Nipissing.

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I love being in the Child and Family Studies concurrent program because it allows me to learn how to support children and families in meaningful, real life ways. This program helps me build both practical skills and compassion, which makes me feel confident and excited about my future career.

Hailey B.

Class of 2031

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My professors are easy to communicate with and I feel extremely supported. I’m excited to keep learning and expand my knowledge in this program!

Camille T.

Class of 2030

Program Requirements

How the Common Degree Structure Works

At Nipissing, you can choose a minor, major, specialization, or honours specialization—each offering a different level of focus and flexibility to match your goals.

Check out this breakdown of the Common Degree Structure to see how you can make your interests fit your degree.

The Common Degree Structure

Program Options & Course Requirements

Find required courses for each type of specialization using this link.

Academic Calendar for Child & Family Studies

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