Child & Youth Studies
The Child & Youth Studies program focuses on the different ways children learn and develop. Knowledge gained from lively and interactive in-class discussions are complemented and enhanced by opportunities to gain hands- on work experience with community partners. You’ll gain essential expertise in understanding the child and youth experience through exploration in emotional and cognitive development, relationships and social interaction, diversity and social justice, laws and rights, and teaching and programming. This interdisciplinary approach to learning helps prepare you for a variety of careers connecting you with your future goals.
Degrees Offered:
- B.A. (Honours)
Locations:
- Durham GTA
Resume Boosters:
- Complete a community placement, working with health centres, cultural centres, community agencies, group homes, or youth programs
- Take part in workshops that explore important topics like the importance of imagination as portrayed through the cultural environment of children
- Expand your learning through courses that encompass a wide range of disciplines – this breadth of knowledge will help you find a meaningful and impactful career
- Undertake an undergraduate independent research thesis or research practicum and work one-on-one with award-winning faculty – this translates into solid references for grad school or your jobs after graduation

"I can take knowledge I’ve learned and apply it to the classroom to try to optimize learning, and help with development."
Career Paths:
Featured
Child & Youth Counsellor
Family, marriage and other related counsellors assist individuals and groups of clients to identify, understand and overcome personal problems and achieve personal objectives. They are employed by counselling centres, social service agencies, group homes, government agencies, family therapy centres, and health care and rehabilitation facilities, or they may work in private practice.
Career Opportunities
- Child Protection Worker
- Teacher
- Autism Specialist
- Youth Outreach Worker
- Counsellor
- Social Worker
- Administrator
- Youth Program Developer
- Researcher
- Children's Rights Activist
- Policy Analyst
- Music/Play-based Therapist
Popular Courses:
- Child and Youth Theory and Voice
- Playful Pedagogy
- Child and Youth Rights and Legal Issues
- Learning Through Arts
- Imagination and Youth Culture
- Indigenous Knowledge for Children and Youth
- Children and Youth’s Perceptions of and Experiences with Legalized Substances

Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
Program Requirements:
- A minimum 70% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
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