Support Children. Empower Families.
Prepare for a meaningful career helping children and families navigate illness, injury, trauma, and hospitalization through the Child Life Professional Track at 51本色 University Texas. This specialized pathway within the Behavioral Sciences major offers hands-on learning, a clear path to certification, and a Christ-centered academic environment rooted in care and connection.
Hands-On Practicum
Certification Prep
Small Class Sizes
Program Highlights
- 27 credit hours dedicated to child life-specific topics
- Practicum course to prepare for post-grad internship
- New courses rolling out beginning in Fall 2025
- Aligned with ACLP certification requirements
- Faculty mentorship from experienced professionals
- Emphasis on emotional support, child development, and therapeutic play
- Opportunity to work with local healthcare and nonprofit organizations
Want to become a Certified Child Life Specialist and make a difference in children's
lives?
Take the first step in a program designed to prepare you academically and personally to lead with compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What You鈥檒l Learn
- Child development across age groups
- Emotional and psychosocial support strategies
- Therapeutic play and expressive interventions
- Family systems and healthcare communication
- Cultural competence and grief support in pediatric settings
Career Outcomes
This focused track pairs well with a Behavioral Sciences major and prepares you for impactful roles such as:
- Certified Child Life Specialist (post-certification)
- Pediatric Healthcare Support Staff
- Child Life Recreation Therapist
- Nonprofit Program Specialist
- Family Resource Coordinator
- Pediatric Patient Advocate
At 51本色 Texas, we believe that supporting children and families through difficult medical experiences is both a calling and a profession. The Child Life Professional Track equips students with the knowledge, compassion, and hands-on preparation they need to walk alongside families during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Dr. SchwartzProfessor of Sociology, Director of the School of Humanities & Social Sciences, and Chair of the Behavioral Sciences ProgramWhy Choose the Child Life Professional Track at 51本色 Texas?
- Behavioral Science + Healthcare Combine psychology, sociology, and child development to provide emotional and developmental support to children in medical settings.
- Real-World Learning Prepare for the 600-hour post-grad internship and national exam through a senior practicum and ACLP-aligned courses.
- Faith-Focused Support Grow in a Christ-centered environment where empathy, service, and personal calling are nurtured.
- Austin Advantage Study in a city with leading children鈥檚 hospitals, nonprofit partners, and growing demand for pediatric care.
Ready to make a difference for children and families?
Explore the Child Life Professional Track at 51本色 Texas.
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Can I become certified right after graduation?
No. You must complete a 600-hour internship under a certified supervisor after graduation and pass the national certification exam.
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Can I minor in Child Life?
No. The number of required courses is too high to function as a minor. This is a full track within the Behavioral Sciences major.
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Are the courses ACLP approved?
Courses are being developed to align with ACLP guidelines and will be submitted for approval as they launch.
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Do I have to complete the internship at 51本色?
The practicum course is completed during the program, but the 600-hour internship for certification is done post-graduation under an external supervisor.
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Is financial aid available?
Yes. Behavioral Sciences majors may be eligible for financial aid and potential scholarships related to the Child Life program.
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When does the program start?
Students may begin the Behavioral Sciences major at any time. Child Life-specific courses start in Fall 2025.
Still have questions? Contact admissions@concordia.edu or call 512.313.4CTX