2024 Best Colleges with Child Development Degrees in America

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,342 reviews

Alum: I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that reputation. In retrospect, I loved the majority of my STEM classes, and I find that my education was well-rounded because of my required liberal arts classes. The campus is beautiful, the food is relatively good, and on-campus housing is average. Admittedly, I was excited to live off-campus for my last two years (but beware - living in Nashville is not cheap). Socially, I had a great time at Vandy, especially thanks to the liveliness of Nashville, but sadly not due to Vanderbilt sports - this is not their strong suit. I met lifelong friends at this school! Realistically, however, many students do come from wealthy backgrounds, which can be off-putting at times. Ultimately, while undeniably expensive, Vanderbilt is a great school that will certainly work to your advantage after graduation.... Read 1,342 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $27,553

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  2,388 reviews

Alum: It feels like a lifetime ago that I was in Cville (class of 2010), but wanted to include my thoughts if helpful! I was an out-of-state athlete and was between UVA and and Princeton when deciding on colleges. As a now 35-year-old professional I can honestly say I have ZERO regrets on my decision because I feel that UVA checked the box for literally everything I could ask for in an ideal college experience - academics, history, social life, opportunities for involvement…and in terms of athletics feel that it is often overlooked the incredible amount of National Championships that we have won over the years (special shout out to Women’s Swimming!). I also felt that the size of the student body was a perfect balance of always having the opportunity to be meeting new people while also consistently running into familiar faces around grounds. Having been in the workforce for 12+ years now I can assure you a UVA degree is incredibly well respected and will take you far. Go Hoos!... Read 2,388 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $20,401

• SAT range 1380-1500

• Medford, MA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,061 reviews

Sophomore: I am starting to find my place at Tufts. The campus is vibrant and inclusive, and I appreciate the presence of identity houses that celebrate diversity and provide a strong sense of community. The range of on-campus activities is incredible, offering endless opportunities for personal growth and connection. Thanks to these activities, I had the chance to meet individuals who, like me, were low-income first-generation students and people of color. Building this network of these individuals allowed me to form genuine friendships and find myself a support system that understood my challenge. At times, I struggled with imposter syndrome, feeling inadequate compared to the academically accomplished majority of the student body, many of whom came from privileged backgrounds both racially and economically. But now, I am determined to no longer compare myself to others. I aim to embrace my own Tufts experience!... Read 1,061 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $31,630

• SAT range 1440-1550

• East Lansing, MI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  6,165 reviews

Senior: Michigan State University has truly transformed my academic journey. As a transfer student, choosing MSU was the best decision I ever made. The warm welcome from both faculty and peers made me feel right at home. Through engaging classes, I not only gained knowledge but also forged incredible friendships. Joining a professional business fraternity was a pivotal move; the networking opportunities and mentorship have been invaluable. I'm thrilled to share that I've already secured a full-time job offer, thanks to the solid foundation MSU provided. My time here has been nothing short of extraordinary. Go Green!... Read 6,165 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $8,738

• SAT range 1100-1320

• University Park, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  7,501 reviews

Alum: I love nearly everything about this school! The sports are great, there are major entertainment events, art and religion are honored, there are over 1,000 student organizations, and I have had incredible professors consistently throughout my years (although peers in other majors did not always say this). In the area, there is hiking, skiing, several summer festivals, several thrift stores, and a high proportion of restaurants with different ethnic cuisines. Recommendation for change are prioritizing updates to dorm buildings and increasing accessibility to groceries downtown, as this is where a large number of students live (without their cars). It has many international students, but is otherwise limited in diversity. It mostly reflects the state/region, so I do not see this as something that necessarily needs to change.... Read 7,501 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $26,151

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Tempe, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  11,683 reviews

Freshman: Welcome to the sun-soaked wonderland of Arizona State University (ASU), where your academic adventure unfolds amidst a backdrop of innovation, collaboration, and endless opportunities! ASU's Tempe campus is not just a place to study; it's a haven of discovery. Picture yourself strolling through a futuristic landscape of sleek, sustainable buildings and lush greenery, all under the warm Arizona sun. The campus isn't just bricks and mortar; it's an ecosystem designed to nurture your dreams. As a computer science student, you'll be greeted by labs that practically hum with innovation. The state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge software are your playgrounds for exploration. The libraries are your treasure troves, offering boundless knowledge at your fingertips. And the Wi-Fi? It's like a secret power source, connecting you to the digital universe everywhere you go. ASU isn't just a university; it's a gateway to a world of possibilities.... Read 11,683 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $14,653

• SAT range 1100-1320

• Ames, IA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  3,944 reviews

Alum: I was fortunate to have a number of options for colleges to attend, and am thankful I went with Iowa State! To me, this was the Goldilocks option: big college in a small town with a good balance between academics, social life, clubs, leadership, sports, and other opportunities. The campus is beautiful, the people are nice, the tradition and college spirit are strong. The classes, student jobs, and leadership experiences I held directly prepared me for grad school and my professional career. I have nothing but positive things to say about my experience and always look forward to returning to Ames as an alum.... Read 3,944 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,422

• SAT range 1070-1330

• Lubbock, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  5,337 reviews

Junior: What I love most about going to Texas Tech are the people I've met there. I've become close friends with cancer survivors, people from halfway around the world, and people who've led protests! Almost everyone there is kind and willing to give you the time of day to just talk if you want. Classes at Tech are also excellent. The professors and instructors do an excellent job of covering material and are usually very patient with the student body. Speaking of which, Texas Tech has helped me to discover my passion for mathematics. Prior to coming here, I used to struggle and fear the topic, but after taking Calculus I've learned that It can beautiful and sometimes wonderfully simple. There's plenty to do outside of academics at Tech. A myriad of clubs and organizations are always looking for new members to join. Several facilities such as the Rec Center, the Library, and Urbanovsky park allow anyone to get out and explore campus.... Read 5,337 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $17,057

• SAT range 1110-1280

• Los Altos Hills, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  510 reviews

Junior: I have been at Foothill for almost three years now and throughout these past years I feel like I am very satisfied with my education here. To begin, the professors show that they care for their students by being flexible to meet with students one on one and they are very big on advocating for diversity within their classrooms. In every class I have taken, the professors make it a point to emphasize the importance of valuing everyone in the class. Most importantly, the professors provide students with the information of almost every resource that is available to us such as tutoring, mental health services , and financial aid resources. What I also really love about the school is the campus. The style of the campus gives me an old town vibe and I completely fell in love with it. There are so many trees and open space so it is possible to study or do homework at the tables that are spread out in the quad. Overall, this school is a good choice to keep in mind!... Read 510 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,820

• SAT range —

• Manhattan, KS•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  3,485 reviews

Sophomore: Kansas State University couldn't be more perfect for me and for what I'm majoring in. They have so many resources for students for all kinds of situations including research opportunities, on-campus jobs, tutoring, financial assistance and so much more. All of the instructors that I've had have been very open about expectations and how to succeed, and there are many advisors, instructors, etc, that you can reach out to when needing assistance or information. Though it is a very large campus it feels like home and it is easy to find your niche!... Read 3,485 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $19,874

• SAT range —

• Pullman, WA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,054 reviews

Freshman: My overall experience has been great! I feel very welcomed and accommodated on campus, and the support from staff and students is amazing! When I first arrived, I was immediatley offered help with moving into my dorm and my RA swiftly came to introduce herself to me and my family. Classes have begun this week, and my professors are all supportive of students and want to help everyone be successful in their classes. Although I am just starting out here, I can't imagine anything but great experiences in the future!... Read 4,054 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $11,877

• SAT range 1020-1210

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,459 reviews

Alum: I had an amazing time at SCU and am proud to be a BRONCO! There are tons of job opportunities in the Bay Area because there are thousands of successful companies in the area, classes are small, education is impressive, the campus is beautiful, and people are so friendly. Santa Clara is not only a great university; the statistical information speaks for itself, but it is more than the numbers. Everyone is happy and proud to study here. The numbers are just getting better each year.... Read 1,459 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $48,469

• SAT range 1330-1490

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,032 reviews

Graduate Student: Point Loma Nazarene University excels in both academics and personal connection. Not only with students be able to find like-minded people, they will also have continuous support from professors and faculty throughout their college journey. The small class sizes allow for students to become close with their professors and classmates, which helps in building their network. My professors have helped me drastically in finding jobs, connecting me with others in the field, and by giving me personal advice and guidance in life. From my time at Point Loma Nazarene University, I feel as though I have grown personally, academically, and spiritually. I contribute a great amount of being who I am today because of my experiences at Point Loma Nazarene University. I enjoyed my time so much that I chose to return for my master's degree as well!... Read 1,032 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,851

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Searcy, AR•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,066 reviews

Sophomore: Harding University staffs their faculty with professional teachers that genuinely care about you and your academic outcome. They advertise the community found within the student body; in a honest documentation of observation, they’re completely right! Harding’s campus community, safety, and faculty are welcoming, caring, and make a difference in my life. I know they could make a difference in yours too!... Read 1,066 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $20,533

• SAT range 1050-1300

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,947 reviews

Sophomore: Mt. SAC has given me a sense of belonging in college, a newfound appreciation for education, and guidance for the rest of my life. The support programs and clubs gave me a community in higher education. The teachers, counselors, and fellow students gave me a newfound appreciation for education. And my guidance for the rest of my life came from the Mt SAC. events, counselors, student programs, and courses. I couldn't be more grateful!... Read 1,947 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,774

• SAT range —

• Athens, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  3,859 reviews

Alum: After graduating from Ohio University, I cannot express how influential and memorable my time as a Bobcat student truly was, each and every year. I spent all four years at OU as a full-time student. I was heavily involved in extracurriculars, from student government to intramural sports. Taking full advantage of both the friendly, family-based community and culture led to immense growth, leadership development, and life long memories. Athens, Ohio is truly one of the most magical and incredible places! The people, the community, the staff and faculty, and the students are passionate about their Bobcat family and each other. The social and party culture is awesome, but there is SO much more to OU and to Athens to love and explore. I highly recommend OU if you're looking for a hOUme away from home.... Read 3,859 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $20,496

• SAT range 1070-1290

• Morgantown, WV•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  3,131 reviews

Freshman: Overall, WVU is a very good school, they have something for every type of person. There are resources available for any and all students seeking academic, physical, emotional, or social support. There are so many activities every day of the week that are totally free to students (hiking, exercise classes, games, etc.) and there is always something going on on campus. Though WVU is a big school, it certainly doesn't feel like it. Campus is also surrounded by many shops and restaurants which are walkable from downtown or Evansdale. Everyone from the custodial to the residential to the dining hall staff goes out of their way to make any and all students feel welcomed and valued. Most of the people here you will meet are very nice and always willing to talk or help you. WVU is known to be a huge party school - while nightlife certainly is a part of our weekends there's also countless other activities (such as UpAllNight) as an alternative activity. There really is something for anyone!... Read 3,131 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $13,422

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Lake Jackson, TX•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  243 reviews

Sophomore: Brazosport College is an easy place campus to remember where everything is at. The college is not so spread out, so that means it takes less time to get from one place to another. I enjoyed the campus; it has a friendly and peaceful environment with many helpful people. There is plenty of parking all around the campus, which is a plus, so you will not be far from your vehicle. The campus will also have these mini celebrations with free food and some little prizes for students. Brazosport College is also very close to Lake Jackson with many restaurants and stores just in case you need to stop by and grab a few things. I would just like to see Brazosport College have a few more widespread courses for different fields.... Read 243 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,891

• SAT range —

• Asheboro, NC•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  188 reviews

Freshman: I liked having the option of doing my prerequisite classes online while in high school. Signing up for my prerequisite courses will help me have a less stressful college semester when I start in the Fall. I recommend getting ahead of the game to avoid as much stress and the possibility of having a semester off. I have taken eight prerequisite classes and all of the professors I have had were understanding, passionate, courteous, inspiring, and motivating. The only thing I would like to change, based on my experience, is how the different departments communicate with one another.... Read 188 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,279

• SAT range —

• Denton, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  6,108 reviews

Junior: UNT has been the most inclusive and beneficial school for me. I have been introduced to so many wonderful peers and professors, all who are rooting for my success as a future educator. The courses I have taken have been beyond informational and inspiring with my dream career being so close! I have been educated on so many parts of our educational history that have never been mentioned to me prior, such as the Native American Boarding Schools, and the Lemon Grove Incident. I have found myself welcomed into the Mean Green community immediately upon arrival, and I recommend the University of North Texas to everyone considering!... Read 6,108 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $11,915

• SAT range 1010-1240

• San Antonio, TX•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  802 reviews

Sophomore: St. Philip’s is an amazing college. With its roots, as a historically black and hispanic college, they make all students feel welcomed and appreciated. As a veteran, I was nervous to step foot on a college campus as I was just familiar with my ship-life in the Navy. Although, with their incredible veteran advisors, amongst other resources, my education experience has been nothing but phenomenal. I would recommend this college to anyone pursuing a 2-year degree and/or looking to transfer. Their staff will do everything they can to ensure your goals are understood and catered to!... Read 802 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,334

• SAT range —

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  749 reviews

Freshman: As a newly admitted student to the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), I am thrilled and eager to embark on this exciting academic journey. From the moment I received my acceptance letter, I could sense that UHCL is a university that truly cares about its students' success and overall well-being. As I prepare to start my journey at UHCL, I am filled with anticipation and confidence that this university will provide me with the tools and support necessary to thrive academically and personally. I can't wait to embrace all the opportunities that await me at UHCL!... Read 749 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $16,737

• SAT range 990-1170

• Boone, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  2,767 reviews

Senior: App State can be a great school depending on what your major is! I started as Choral Music Education and switched to Vocal Performance, and I've learned that all degree programs within the Hayes School of Music are incredibly difficult and time consuming. Do not choose to be a music major unless you are very passionate about and dedicated to classical music, since you will be spending all of your time in a practice room. I'm officially changing my major to Gender, Women's and Sexuality Studies with a minor in Music, which seems like the better fit for me. There's a decently sized queer population on campus, but there's hardly any racial diversity at all. I love the mountains and the campus in general, but it's important to note that because of the mountains and hills the town of Boone and App State's campus are not very accessible for students/people with physical disabilities. I've had a fairly negative experience as a music major, but I love Appalachian State University as a whole!... Read 2,767 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $12,735

• SAT range 1130-1300

• Goldsboro, NC•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  256 reviews

Sophomore: I’ve been at Wayne community college since about 2008. I went to high school there and I got my associates in liberal arts. Now in 2023, I have went back to get my two degree in early childhood. I can say they offered evening classes in 2008-2012 but not for every class. They have come so far because now they have evening classes for trucking, early childhood, nursing and anything else you need. The staff is helpful in almost every way. If they try something new and they don’t see the results they are looking for, they’ll try something else. Wayne community college has come a long way compared when I started out and that’s why I was going back.... Read 256 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,795

• SAT range —

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  368 reviews

Junior: I enjoyed my experience at mission college. I met professors that became my mentors and helped me when applying to internships by writing letters of recommendation. I’m grateful to be in a campus that here I feel supported by the staff and peers. The counselors also aided me when I was applying for universities and always answered my many questions. I would like to see the textbook requirement fee change since some students such as myself could not afford the textbook and I had to resort to borrowing from my classmates.... Read 368 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,727

• SAT range —