Childhood Studies
(M.A. | Ph.D.)
Welcome to the Rutgers University-Camden Childhood Studies master and doctoral program, where we engage in a comprehensive exploration of children and childhood across diverse historical, multicultural, national, and global contexts. Our program adopts a multidisciplinary approach, allowing us to both theorize and contextualize the concept of the Child while examining the study of children and childhoods within present-day cultural and global frameworks.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Rutgers-Camden’s Department of Childhood Studies is dedicated to centering the study of children and childhoods in its research and teaching missions. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, it seeks to both theorize and historicize the concept of childhood while also contextualizing the study of children and childhood within contemporary cultural and global settings.
The Master of Arts in Childhood Studies equips practitioners and beginning scholars with the skills and knowledge to understand and address the challenges which confront children throughout the world. The program prepares its graduates to conduct research with and about children, formulate social policy on behalf of children and their families, and work effectively with diverse populations of children. Graduates pursue careers in public policy, social services, youth programming, and education.
The Rutgers University-Camden Doctor of Philosophy in Childhood Studies program provides an interdisciplinary curriculum immersing students in conceptual, theoretical, and methodological knowledge central to the field. Through coursework and a comprehensive dissertation, students investigate critical problems, nurturing expertise as scholars. Graduates conduct research, contribute to social policy formulation, and engage effectively with diverse groups of children.
Upon completion of the M.A. or Ph.D. programs, graduates embark on diverse career paths. They pursue roles as tenure-track academic professors, educators, administrators in secondary education, consultants, and positions within non-governmental organizations dedicated to children’s rights and welfare. The programs provide a strong foundation for meaningful contributions in academia, policy-making, and various professional settings where expertise in childhood studies is highly valued.
Program Overview
DETAIL | M.A. | PH.D. |
|---|---|---|
| DEGREE | Master of Arts (M.A.) Accelerated option available | Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) |
| CREDITS | 30 credits | 60 Credits |
| FORMAT | Full-time or part-time, on-campus | Full-time or part-time, on-campus |
| DURATION | 4 semesters | 10 semesters |
| FUNDING | University and Graduate School Funding Available (Partial Funding Only) | University and Graduate School Funding Available (Full funding available for select students) |
Program in Action
read the Latest program news
Stay informed with news, student and faculty research, publications, and presentations. Engage with the community for connections and knowledge sharing.
Black Childhood Speaker Series
The first Black Childhoods Speakers Series, “Centering Black Childhoods,” sparked global dialogue, uniting participants from India, the UK, and Rutgers-Camden.
The Moral Project of Childhood
Professor Dan Cook delves into “The Moral Project of Childhood,” unveiling maternal influence on children’s morality and consumerism in 19th-century America.
Featured Courses
View the list of Course Descriptions.
CHILDREN’S RIGHTS
(56:163:521)
This course explores children’s rights from theoretical, historical, cultural, and global perspectives, addressing challenges, changes, and practical implementation, empowering students.
HISTORY OF CHILDHOOD (56:163:531)
This course investigates the historical shift in children’s perception, from unsaved souls to innocent beings, addressing attitudes on various topics.
GIRLHOOD STUDIES
(56:163:581)
This course scrutinizes girlhood studies, dissecting historical, cultural, and social dynamics shaping girlhood experiences, while reevaluating perceptions of girlhood.
KID’S MEDIA CULTURES
(56:163:640 )
This course examines childhood, media, and their interplay through historical, cultural, social, political, and psychological lenses, emphasizing various media forms.
YOUTH AND SPORTS
(56:163:671)
This course studies youth sports, analyzing the roles of athletes, fans, coaches, parents, and their impact on social patterns, norms, and differences.
CHILD HEALTH AND DISPARITIES (56:163:560)
Scientific evidence reveals childhood origins of health disparities. This course uses a socio-ecological approach to equip students to address child and adolescent health disparities.
Admissions Requirements
DETAIL | M.A. | PH.D. |
|---|---|---|
| TRANSCRIPTS | Transcripts from all post-secondary education, including completion of an undergraduate degree (and graduate, if applicable) with a minimum GPA of 3.0 | Transcripts from all post-secondary education, including completion of an undergraduate degree (and graduate, if applicable) with a minimum GPA of 3.2 |
| LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION | One, preferably two, letters of reference | Three letters of recommendation that indicate the potential for success in the Ph.D. program, with at least two from persons familiar with your work in an academic setting |
| PERSONAL STATEMENT | A statement of personal, professional, and academic goals | Personal statement indicating your motivation to earn a Ph.D., assets you will bring to the class, a description of your background and experience, and how a Ph.D. will benefit your future |
| WRITING SAMPLE | Not required | A writing sample of 10+ pages |
| STANDARDIZED TEST | Not required | Not required |
Application Deadlines
Preference is given to those submitted before the deadline for both decisions and funding opportunities. Applications received after the deadlines will be considered based on available space and budgetary constraints.
Fall
Ph.D. -JAN 17
M.A. – MAY 15
Spring
OCT 15
Summer
Not Offered
Reach Out to Us
Let’s begin a conversation about your academic and professional goals. If you have questions regarding the curriculum, faculty, admission criteria, or committee, please feel free to contact the Graduate Program Director. For administrative inquiries concerning the application process, campus tuition, and fees, reach out to the Graduate School. We are dedicated to assisting you from application to graduation day.
GRADUATE SCHOOL CONTACT
Erick E. Watt-Udogu
Assistant Dean, Graduate School-Camden
erick.watt-udogu@rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6149
Take the Next Step.
We invite you to explore the boundless opportunities that await you here, where a world-class faculty, diverse community, and innovative curriculum converge to nurture your intellect and foster your professional growth. Your future starts with a simple yet significant act – learning more about the exceptional programs we offer. So, why wait? Start your application journey with us, and together, we’ll unlock a future filled with possibilities and endless success.