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Children's Literature

  • Minor
Children's Literature Program Teacher Reviewing Materials with children

Explore the Power of Storytelling for Young Minds

Logo showcasing the "Best Colleges of Distinction" award for Education for the years 2025-2026.The children’s literature minor invites students to dive into the rich world of literature written for and about children. Through engaging coursework, you'll examine how stories shape childhood, reflect societal values, and give voice to young perspectives.

This interdisciplinary minor encourages critical analysis of picture books, novels, and folktales while exploring themes of identity, imagination, morality, and cultural influence. Ideal for students interested in education, psychology, communication, and the arts, this program deepens your understanding of how literature can inspire, educate, and empower young readers.

Related education majors include:

Early Childhood
Middle Grades

Undergraduate Programs

Program Highlights

Museum exhibit interior with wooden walls and display cases. A quote by Fred Rogers in blue text on the right wall reads: 'Discovering the truth about ourselves is a lifetime's work, but it's worth the effort.' The left side features photographs and informational panels, including one with an elderly person's image.

Partnerships with the Fred Rogers Institute

The Fred Rogers Institute and the SVC Department of Education collaborate to enrich student and faculty experiences through shared values of child-centered learning, compassion, and early development. This partnership grants education students access to resources like archival materials, workshops, and expert seminars, integrating Fred Rogers’ philosophy into their training.

An adult seated on a chair reads aloud from an open book to a group of children sitting on the floor in front. The setting appears to be a library or classroom. Several adults stand in the background, observing as the children listen attentively.

Collaborations with Education Majors or Art Students

Students have opportunities to collaborate with early childhood education majors or art students on cross-disciplinary projects, such as illustrated storybooks, classroom read-aloud guides, or book-themed service activities

Group of children in orange and white shirts seated on the floor, facing an adult presenter in front of three large colorful tapestries in the Foster and Muriel McCarl Coverlet Gallery. Some children have their hands raised. The setting includes benches along the walls and a small table beside the presenter.

The Foster and Muriel McCarl Coverlet Gallery Storytime Series

Students minoring in children’s literature have the unique opportunity to participate in the Storytime Series at Saint Vincent’s McCarl Coverlet Gallery. This hands-on program invites college students to read aloud to local children, lead themed crafts and activities, and bring stories to life in a colorful, interactive museum setting. It’s a fun and meaningful way to gain experience in early literacy, creative expression, and engaging young audiences—perfect preparation for careers in education, writing, library science, and beyond.

Careers and Outcomes

A minor in children’s literature enhances a wide range of majors by equipping students to engage young readers through story, imagination, and meaningful content. Ideal for future teachers, librarians, curriculum designers, or professionals in publishing, museum education, or literacy nonprofits, the program emphasizes literature as a tool for learning and development. Students gain skills in critical thinking, communication, and child-focused content creation—valuable in both educational and community settings. Graduates often pursue careers in education, writing, library science, or advanced studies in literacy and child development.

Alumni will go on to successful careers as...
  • Preschool or early childhood educators
  • Reading specialists (with additional certification)
  • Literacy coaches
  • Children’s librarians
  • Museum or cultural program educators
  • Children’s program coordinators (at nonprofits, after-school programs, or family literacy centers)
  • Early literacy outreach specialists
  • Youth services coordinators

Our students have secured jobs at a variety of places including:

  • School districts across the Commonwealth and U.S.
  • Catholic schools across the Commonwealth and U.S.
  • Independent schools such as The Valley School of Ligonier
  • Museums
  • Libraries
  • Fred Rogers Institute
  • Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve

Curriculum Requirements

The children’s literature minor, housed within the School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, allows students to explore storytelling, literacy, and childhood development through an interdisciplinary lens. Through both foundational and advanced coursework, students gain a deeper understanding of how literature shapes young minds while strengthening their skills in communication, critical thinking, and creative expression.

  • Required Courses

    • CL 129 or 130 Adolescent Literature or Children’s Literature
      CL 206 Techniques and Classroom Approaches

    Plus, choose 4 of the following courses (12 credits total):

    • CL 129 or 130 Adolescent Literature or Children’s Literature
    • CL 221 Historic Literature for Children
    • CL 259 Critical Approaches to Children’s Literature
    • CL 272 Special Topics in Children’s Literature
    • CL 295 Writing for Children and Young Adults
    • CL 312 Nonfiction and Informational Books for Children

  • Key Courses

    Children’s Literature: Explore the evolution of children’s literature through picture books, fantasy, historical fiction, and more, featuring works by at least 12 different authors. Along the way, you’ll discover how stories shape childhood, reflect culture, and spark imagination across generations.

    Writing for Children and Young Adults: Get ready to unleash your creativity! This course invites you to explore the art of writing for young readers—whether you're crafting adventurous picture books, heartfelt poetry, or page-turning young adult novels. You'll read inspiring examples and try your hand at bringing your own stories to life.

Resources and Facilities

Dale P. Latimer Library

Students minoring in children’s literature can use the Dale P. Latimer Library to access a rich collection of children’s books, scholarly texts on literacy and child development, and educational journals. The library supports research, lesson planning, and creative projects with resources in literature, pedagogy, and media. Its quiet study spaces and research support services also provide an ideal environment for developing child-centered content and preparing for careers in education, publishing, or literacy advocacy.

Fred Rogers Institute

The Fred Rogers Institute and the Education Department at Saint Vincent College have partnered to enrich education for students and faculty. This collaboration, rooted in fostering child development, early learning, and the values championed by Fred Rogers himself, gives students access to the Institute’s resources, workshops, and expert staff.

Click here for a virtual tour of the Fred Rogers Institute.

Foster and Muriel McCarl Coverlet Gallery

The McCarl Coverlet Gallery, located at Saint Vincent College, houses one of the nation's largest collections of 19th-century American jacquard coverlets. Dedicated to preserving and interpreting this unique textile art, the gallery showcases the cultural, historical, and artistic significance of woven coverlets. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, the gallery offers a vibrant space where history, craftsmanship, and storytelling intersect.

Program Distinctives

Pennsylvania Department of Education Accreditation

Saint Vincent College’s teacher preparation programs are fully accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), ensuring that our curriculum, faculty, and field experiences meet the highest standards of educational excellence. This accreditation means that our programs have been rigorously evaluated and align with state requirements, preparing graduates to be highly qualified, effective educators ready to enter the teaching profession. Through PDE accreditation, students in our education programs are eligible for certification in Pennsylvania upon graduation, enabling them to teach in their specific areas of study. The accreditation process also reflects our commitment to continuous improvement, as we regularly assess and enhance our programs to stay current with educational best practices and evolving standards in the field.

NASDTEC Interstate Agreement

Through the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, Pennsylvania allows individuals who have completed a teacher preparation program or are already certified teachers in other states to receive Pennsylvania teaching certification through reciprocity. Pennsylvania-certified teachers can also transfer their certification to other states. Each state may have different testing and application requirements, so candidates should check the NASDTEC website for specific information on transferring their certification.

Undergraduate Programs
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