The minor in children’s studies is an interdisciplinary program of study inspired by the work of Fred Rogers, a scholar of child development, an ordained minister, and a pioneer in children’s media. Drawing from his work, the Fred Rogers Institute Archive, and contemporary psychology, communication, and humanities, students in this minor will apply fundamental research of childhood to their studies and future careers. The goals of the children’s studies minor are to explore Fred Rogers’ legacy, understand childhood and adolescence through multiple disciplines, and prepare students to serve children, youth, and families.
The children’s studies minor is suitable for students from a variety of majors who have an interest in childhood, whether it is part of their professional plans, is an academic interest, or a personal interest. Alumni who have completed this minor have gone on to professions in education, family law, pediatric medicine, social work, and more.
Students often pair this minor with a major in:
Communication and media studies
The children’s studies minor is part of the School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences and supported by our core curriculum, where students delve into diverse academic subjects at both foundational and advanced levels to explore how different disciplines connect, fostering deeper self-understanding and proficiency in their chosen field of study.
Requirements for Minor in Children’s Studies - 18 credits
Study of Fred Rogers - Choose one of the following:
Developmental - Choose one of the following:
Elective courses - Choose three of the following:
Students may count any course from the blocks above as an elective instead. For example, a student could take both PY 212 and PY 214, taking one to fulfill the developmental block and counting the other as an elective. Other courses on the topics of youth development and/or Fred Rogers may be accepted for elective credit with approval of the director of the minor.
The Fred Rogers Institute at Saint Vincent College advances Fred Rogers’ legacy by supporting students studying child development. The Institute houses the Fred Rogers Archive with over 22,000 of his personal artifacts, including speeches, scripts, videos, and puppets. Students can also conduct research in the 143 Incubator, engaging in collaborative, values-driven projects that promote child well-being and community care.
