The Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies Program (CAFS) at California State University, Bakersfield offers a major leading to a Bachelor of Arts Degree. The CAFS program provides students with an undergraduate level of knowledge within Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies. This program highlights diverse theories, milestones across developmental domains, family systems, ethics, and developmental research methods.

The CAFS major focuses on the biological, cognitive, psychological, and sociological foundations of child behavior and development. Students will acquire knowledge and gain understanding through exposure to relevant literature, current research topics, selected service, fieldwork, and development of their own research. Students will gain an intensive, as well as global, understanding of the developmental needs, behavioral patterns, and problems of children and their families. Through a variety of courses, students obtain knowledge and refine skills in observing, assessing, interpreting, and implementing programs for children and families; working with and supervising child-centered programs; participating in supportive structures for children and adolescents; and understanding families from diverse backgrounds.

Please browse through our webpage for links to the faculty and staff, Child Development Student Club, community and professional resources, and advising resources.