The Child and Family Studies program is the largest within the department with almost 1,000 majors and minors. We are certified by the National Council on Family Relations, as well as, accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). 

Mission Statement

The mission of Child and Family Studies is to improve the lives of all children and families by strengthening communities and building strong connections across research, policy, and practice. We strive to prepare Child and Family Studies professionals for an increasingly diverse  society by providing a range of experiences and opportunities that support their understanding of child and family development within context.

Alumni Spotlight

CDFS alumni wearing a graduation gown posing against a brick wall

Yailin Garcia

Master's of Social Work (MSW) Student

My name is Yailin Garcia, and I graduated 91ÖÆƬ³§ in 2024 with a Bachelor's Degree in Child Development and Family Studies. After completing my CDFS studies, I knew I was passionate about working with underserved populations, specifically those in the justice system. I was fortunate enough to land a job that focused on rehabilitating individuals coming out of incarceration all while providing court case management services, and I ended up loving it! The more time I spend in this field, the more committed I become to the social work cause, as I see the real-life impact of our established systems. At the moment, I'm currently working towards getting my Master’s in Social Work. 
 


 

CDFS alumni wearing a graduation banner and posing on campus

Emily Altagracia Guzman

ECM Lead Care Manager 

My name is Emily Altagracia Guzman, I graduated in 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Family Life Education (degree option name recently updated to Family Science and Community Services). I currently work as an ECM Lead Care Manager withShields for Families, a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families and communities within underserved populations throughout South Los Angeles. Prior to this role, I served as a Children’s Social Worker with the LA County Department of Children and Family Services, where I supported child safety, family stabilization, and access to essential community resources. My passion for Family Life Education has continued to grow through my ability to support individuals and families within the same community in which I was raised. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to do such meaningful and rewarding work that positively impacts the lives of children and families in my community.