Child Advocacy and Policy

BAMajor, Minor

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There is an increasing demand for trained professionals who understand the complex challenges faced by today’s children and their families, many of whom lack adequate access to education, healthcare, and other basic services. The BA in Child Advocacy and Policy at Montclair State University prepares you to make a real difference in the lives of children and families.

Through this 42-credit program, you will study child protection, family systems, policy, and practice, drawing from fields such as psychology, law, and social work. In your senior year, you will complete a practicum with an advocacy organization and participate in a capstone seminar, applying what you’ve learned in real-world settings and gaining critical experience in the field.

Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in many different fields, including:

  • Child protective services
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • School systems
  • Social service agencies
  • Legal advocacy groups

The Bachelor of Arts in Child Advocacy and Policy also offers students the requisite knowledge to prepare graduates for advanced studies in law, social work, or public administration.
If your goal is to create safer communities, stronger families and fairer systems, this program will give you the knowledge and experience to turn that commitment into a career. See the curriculum.

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Career Opportunities for Child Advocacy and Policy Majors

Minor in Child Advocacy and Policy

The Minor in Child Advocacy and Policy is relevant to students who intend to pursue careers working with children and families. The curriculum complements many majors including psychology, sociology, family science and human development, justice studies, and medical humanities. Through the perspectives of social work, psychology and law, students gain foundational knowledge of child advocacy and child protection, with a particular focus on policy and practice issues relevant to vulnerable children and families. The minor consists of 6 courses (18 credit hours).

See the curriculum.

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Social Work and Child Advocacy

The Department of Social Work and Child Advocacy at Montclair State University offers undergraduate and graduate academic programs that specialize in service and advocacy to children, youth, and families. The department’s distinguished faculty include professionals from the disciplines that define public child welfare including social work, psychology, and law.

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