Program Format
Prepare to Become a Child Life Specialist
The master’s in child life program prepares graduates to successfully complete credentialing as child life specialists and become allied health care professionals with expertise in helping children and their families navigate traumatic and challenging experiences, particularly health crises.
For more information about the child life profession, visit the Association of Child Life Professionals website, and read the American Academy of Pediatrics Statement on Child Life Services (PDF).
Immediately Apply Learning
This is an applied/clinical program, with students required to complete a 120-hour practicum in child life followed by a 600-hour hospital internship toward eligibility to take the certification exam, in addition to rigorous coursework. The program comprises 42 units and can be completed in 18 months, with available start times in spring and fall. You will graduate ready to pursue certification as a child life specialist. Courses take place in the evenings and are held in 8-week sessions.
Advanced Standing Option
This option is available for Certified Child Life Specialists (CCLS) with a BA or BS degree, as well as individuals who have successfully completed the 600 required child life internship hours. To pursue the Advanced Standing option, you must provide proof of either a CL Certificate from the Child Life Certifying Commission (CLCC), or complete the Child Life Clinical Experience Verification Form (PDF).
To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:
Program RequirementsNote: This information is current for the 2023-24 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. Please refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.