Child life specialists support children and families during medical care, helping them cope with procedures and treatments. By understanding how children grow, how families function, and how people respond to stress and change, your knowledge will then guide people through challenging medical situations.

Faculty experts in our human development and family studies program will give you an in-depth understanding of the science of human behavior and you’ll gain practical skills by applying what you learn in real-world environments.

You’ll major in human development and family studies and follow our dedicated four-year plan for a career as a child life specialist.

Learn more and consider a career helping children and families!

Nina’s Iowa State path as a child life specialist

Nina’s very first child development class at Iowa State sparked a deep interest in helping children and families. She chose to focus on becoming a Child Life Specialist.

It’s a career path that supports the emotional and psychological well-being of children in hospitals by helping them understand what happens during their medical care. Child Life Specialists also support and guide families through the experience.

She completed two practicum programs at children’s hospitals and later earned an internship at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Today, Nina is a Child Life Specialist – hear how it all started and how Iowa State helped her achieve her goals.

Aerial view of a campus with a domed building, tree-lined walkways, and green lawns surrounded by academic buildings.

Become a Child Life Specialist at Iowa STate