Child Development and Family Relations

We are the only Child Development and Family Relations program in the University of Maine system. The purpose of the program is to help students understand how people develop physically, emotionally and intellectually throughout their lives. We train our graduates to examine how relationships form in society and how they can help families in need. We focus on diversity, teaching students to work with children and families from marginalized groups and many walks of life. Our work aligns with state and federal priorities to assist our nation's most vulnerable members: Infants and young children, at-risk youth, families in poverty, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and cultural minorities. We have a broad degree program to appeal to a variety of interests. Students who are interested in helping others, advocating for social change, and contributing to stronger and healthier communities will find the program to be an excellent path to a fulfilling career, whatever direction they choose. We focus on lifespan, from cradle to grave. From conception to adolescence to adult development and aging-we cover broad issues of family relationships, public policy, diversity and cross-cultural perspectives.

Clear, legible copy of Tawjihi [General Secondary Education Certificate]

• Complete one of our applications – the Common Application or the ApplyMaine Application.
• Submit transcripts of all previous secondary/high school or university work (submission requirements by country). In addition, if the document is not in English, submit a certified English translation.
  • We can accept copies of transcripts and test scores submitted by the student to [email protected]. Once admitted, the student will be required to submit official documents to our office before class registration is possible.
• Submit English language proficiency test score. See our test waiver policy lower on this page.
• Pay the $50 nonrefundable application fee. 
• Submit a Declaration of Finances along with supporting documents via e-mail to [email protected].
  • If submitted with the application, this form expedites the issuing of the I-20 (immigration document).
• Submit a copy of passport ID page via e-mail to [email protected].