Child Development and Family Relations

Requirements for Child Development and Family Relations Major:
CHF 200 and CHF 201 are required and each course must be passed with a grade of “C” or better.  Students in the Early Childhood Education option must also pass CHF 203 with a grade of “C” or better.  Students earning less than a “C” in anyof these courses must re-take that course before taking upper level courses for which these are prerequisites.

Students are not restricted in their choice of electives to complete the 120 credits needed for graduation, but rather should consult with their advisor to select courses which best suit their professional goals.

Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education Program was granted state approval in 2004 for a certification program that will allow students to teach grades K-3. This program will prepare individuals to work with childcare and families from birth to age 8.

In their second year of study students apply for teacher candidacy by submitting a portfolio that includes a transcript of their academic work to date which reflects a grade point average of at least 2.5, an analysis of one school field experience with children or adolescents, documentation of technological competence, an essay reflecting upon an educational topic and documentation of passing the state required PRAXIS I examination.  Students must also pass PRAXIS II to be recommended for state certification. 

Transfer Policy
Students at the University of Maine wishing to transfer to this major should have a GPA of 2.5 and submit an application consisting of a current complete transcript of their college work, a resume, and an essay identifying their professional goals.  A faculty committee will review applications. Application packets should be submitted to 118 Merrill Hall.  All other students need to apply through the Admissions Office.