College of Charleston Introduces Master of Science in Child Life

The Graduate School at the College of Charleston will offer a Master of Science in Child Life (MSCL) degree beginning in August 2014. Seven excellent students from throughout South Carolina and the U.S. comprise the inaugural class. The College received final approval to incorporate the Child Life program in June 2014.

Dr. Susan Simonian, interim director of the Program, looks forward to preparing graduate students in and outside of the classroom for the highest caliber patient care. “The Master of Science in Child Life program will provide students with quality graduate-level academic and practical training in child life,” Simonian said. “It will allow the College to facilitate the highest quality education and training for our students so that they may promote the gold-standard of family-centered care for children and families facing acute, chronic, or terminal illness.”

Those interested in the Child Life Program for the fall 2015 term can apply beginning in November 2014, with applications due by February 1, 2015. The program will accept 10-12 students each fall, and interested students are encouraged to review program admission information listed on the Graduate School at the College of Charleston’s website. Students admitted to the Program will take classes at the College and complete practicum work at the Medical University of South Carolina.

“The program involves a comprehensive curriculum reflecting both theory and application to ensure the most effective program training for work with children and families,” Simonian explained. “Students will learn to educate children and families about their illnesses, minimize stress and anxiety about medical conditions and procedures, and promote optimal growth and development for pediatric patients.”

The full-time program spans two years, including a summer term between the first and second year. The program was approved by the College’s president, board of trustees and faculty senate, the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.