Overview
Turn your passion for child development into a rewarding clinical career The master's degree in family and consumer sciences (child life track) at Western Michigan University is designed for future leaders dedicated to supporting children and families through life's most challenging medical journeys. This program prepares you to serve as a vital advocate for children and families facing the stress of illness, injury, and hospitalization.
Our curriculum is expertly designed to align with the professional requirements of the Association of Child Life Professionals. Through a combination of advanced classroom theory and hands-on field experiences, you will build the specialized skills necessary to succeed as a child life professional. You will learn to utilize evidence-based interventions such as therapeutic play, medical education, and procedural support to help families embrace positive coping practices.
Upon graduation, you will be fully eligible to sit for the national certification exam to become a Certified Child Life Specialist. By joining this program, you are taking the first step toward a career dedicated to helping children face life’s most challenging events with resilience and hope.
Meet Maggie
A recent family and consumer sciences graduate, Maggie had the opportunity to complete her child life practicum at the John Hopkins All Children's Hospital.
Our faculty
More about the WMU experience
