Education and youth development
Education has the power to change lives, and the people who work with children and young adults play an important role in their growth and success. Careers in education and youth development focus on helping young people learn, build relationships and reach their potential in classrooms, community programs and other learning environments.
A background in sociology or family and human development can help you understand how family relationships, social environments and individual experiences influence learning and development. Explore careers that allow you to support students, strengthen educational programs and make a lasting difference in young people's lives.
Recommended courses:
- CDE 337 - Early Childhood Intervention
- CDE 430 - Infant and Toddler Development in the Family
- FAS 301 - Introduction to Parenting
- CDE 338 - Child Development Practicum
Typical salary: $72,650 (BLS, 2025)
Typical education and qualifications:
- Associate degree or higher in early childhood education or a related field. Public school positions generally require a bachelor's degree and state teaching certification. Requirements vary by setting.
Recommended courses:
- CDE/SOC 312 - Adolescence
- SOC 241 - Modern Social Problems
- FAS 370 - Family Ethnic and Cultural Diversity
Typical salary: $45,930.00 (BLS, 2025)
Typical education and qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in family and human development, sociology, education or a related field often preferred. Experience working with children or adolescents is valuable. Background checks may be required.
Recommended courses:
- CDE 232 - Human Development
- SOC 421 - Education and Society
- FAS 101 - Personal Growth and Relationships
- SOC 350 - Inequality and Diversity in Education
Typical salary: $64,330.00 (BLS, 2025)
Typical education and qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree often accepted for some college advising positions; a master's degree may be preferred or required. Strong communication skills and experience supporting students are valuable.
Recommended courses:
- SOC 421 - Education and Society
- FAS 324 - Sociology of Work and Organizations
- FAS 361 - Applied Research Methods
- SOC 415 - Families and Social Policy
Typical salary: $77,000.00 (BLS, 2025)
Typical education and qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in education, social science or a related field, plus experience coordinating educational programs. Leadership positions may require a master's degree.
Diana Nguyen
“I have learned a lot while working at the Child Development Lab. Getting that experience firsthand has really impacted how I apply what I learn in classes about appropriate practices.”