M.S. in Biology
Tennessee Tech University offers an exceptional Master of Science (M.S.) in Biology pro...
B.S. in Human Ecology - Child Life
Cookeville, Tennessee
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Human Ecology with a focus on Child Life at Tennessee Tech University is designed to prepare students for careers supporting children and families in healthcare settings. This program provides a comprehensive education in human development, family dynamics, and child life services, emphasizing the application of therapeutic and supportive techniques to assist children facing medical challenges. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience, equipping students with the skills needed to promote positive coping and adaptation for children in hospital environments.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.S. in Human Ecology - Child Life includes a blend of core human ecology courses and specialized child life training. Students study topics such as child development, family systems, and medical terminology. Key courses focus on child life practices, including therapeutic play, psychosocial interventions, and the preparation and support of children undergoing medical procedures. The program also includes clinical practicum experiences, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real healthcare settings. Electives may cover areas like pediatric psychology, family counseling, and child advocacy, providing additional insights into supporting children's well-being.
Research Focus: Research within the B.S. in Human Ecology - Child Life program emphasizes the development and evaluation of interventions that support children in medical settings. Faculty and students engage in research projects that explore effective therapeutic techniques, the impact of medical environments on child development, and strategies for enhancing family support. Research activities often involve collaboration with healthcare professionals and aim to improve practices in child life services, contributing to the body of knowledge that supports children and families during medical experiences.
Industry Engagement: The program fosters strong industry engagement through partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and child life organizations. Students benefit from internships and clinical placements that provide hands-on experience in real-world settings, working alongside certified child life specialists and other healthcare professionals. Networking opportunities, guest lectures, and workshops with industry experts enhance students' understanding of current practices and career opportunities in the field. These engagements help students build professional connections and gain practical skills relevant to their future careers.
Global Perspective: The B.S. in Human Ecology - Child Life program incorporates a global perspective by addressing universal aspects of child development and healthcare. Students explore international approaches to child life services, compare practices across different healthcare systems, and consider cultural variations in child and family support. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse cultural contexts and preparing students to work in various settings, including international healthcare environments and global child welfare initiatives.
Location
Cookeville, Tennessee
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 27786
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $40
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 52 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 85.
Tennessee Tech University (TTU) recognizes the importance of financial support for international students pursuing higher education in the United States. The university offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help offset the cost of tuition and promote academic excellence.
International Transfer Scholarships: These scholarships are designed for international transfer students who are transferring from a community college or another university to Tennessee Tech. The awards are based on academic achievement and range in value.
Presidential Scholarship: The Presidential Scholarship is one of TTU's most prestigious awards. It is offered to high-achieving international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. This scholarship covers full tuition and fees.
Provost Scholarship: The Provost Scholarship is another highly competitive scholarship for outstanding international students. It provides significant financial support, including tuition and fees, to deserving recipients.
Academic Performance Scholarships: TTU offers a range of academic performance scholarships that are based on a student's GPA, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), and other academic achievements. These scholarships can vary in value.
Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at TTU offer departmental scholarships to international students who are majoring in specific fields. These scholarships are typically based on academic performance and departmental criteria.
Honors Program Scholarships: TTU's Honors Program offers scholarships to international students who have been admitted to the program. These scholarships are designed to support students pursuing an enriched academic experience.
External Scholarships: TTU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by organizations, foundations, and government agencies in their home countries. The university's international education office can assist students in identifying and applying for these scholarships.
Financial Aid and Work-Study Programs: In addition to scholarships, TTU offers financial aid options and work-study programs to help international students with their educational expenses. These opportunities can provide valuable financial support.
Renewable Scholarships: - Many of the scholarships mentioned above are renewable, meaning that students can continue to receive funding for the duration of their academic program as long as they meet specific academic and eligibility criteria.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Human Ecology - Child Life program from Tennessee Tech University are well-prepared to pursue various career paths that focus on supporting children and families in healthcare environments. The program equips students with specialized skills in child life services, therapeutic interventions, and family support.
Certified Child Life Specialist: Certified Child Life Specialists work in hospitals and healthcare facilities to support children and families facing medical challenges. They use therapeutic play, emotional support, and coping strategies to help children understand and manage their medical experiences. This role involves preparing children for procedures, providing distraction during treatments, and offering comfort and reassurance.
Pediatric Social Worker: Pediatric social workers assist children and families by providing emotional support, counseling, and resource coordination. They work in healthcare settings, schools, or community organizations to address the social and emotional needs of children with medical conditions, coordinating care with medical professionals and advocating for family needs.
Child Life Program Coordinator: Program coordinators manage and oversee child life programs within healthcare facilities. They are responsible for developing and implementing program policies, coordinating services, supervising child life staff, and ensuring that the program meets the needs of patients and families.
Hospital Family Liaison: Hospital family liaisons act as intermediaries between healthcare providers and families. They facilitate communication, provide support, and address family concerns and needs during a child’s medical treatment. This role requires strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of both medical and family dynamics.
Pediatric Psychologist: Pediatric psychologists specialize in the psychological well-being of children dealing with medical conditions. They offer therapy, conduct assessments, and provide support to help children cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of their illness or treatment.
Child Development Specialist: Child development specialists work with children to support their developmental needs, particularly in medical or therapeutic settings. They may design and implement interventions to promote healthy development, address developmental delays, or support children’s adjustment to medical conditions.
Family Support Specialist: Family support specialists provide assistance and resources to families dealing with the stress of a child’s medical condition. They offer counseling, connect families with community resources, and help them navigate the healthcare system.
Pediatric Care Coordinator: Pediatric care coordinators manage the care of children with chronic or complex medical conditions, ensuring that they receive appropriate services and support. They work closely with healthcare teams, families, and community resources to coordinate care plans and address any barriers to treatment.
Educational Consultant: Educational consultants support children with medical conditions by working with schools to ensure that educational plans are tailored to their needs. They help create individualized education plans (IEPs) and collaborate with educators to address any learning challenges related to a child’s medical situation.
Medical Liaison: Medical liaisons serve as a bridge between patients, families, and healthcare providers. They help families understand medical information, coordinate care, and provide support throughout the treatment process, ensuring that all aspects of care are addressed.
