BA in Applied Psychology of Child Advocacy Studies in Jefferson City United States | University of Missouri-St. Louis

Our applied psychology program specializing in children's advocacy is among only four nationwide to earn approval from the Zero Abuse Project. At UMSL, you'll gain access to:
Instruction from leading child advocacy professionals. Our faculty hold advanced degrees and bring real-world experience as trauma specialists, forensic interviewers, child welfare attorneys, grant administrators, and Child Advocacy Center leaders.
Hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities. As a child advocacy major, you'll apply your knowledge in our simulated home environment, conducting investigative interviews with trained actors (virtual simulations are available for online students).
Experiential learning opportunities. Beyond classroom simulations involving evidence collection and safety evaluations, we facilitate internships and service-learning programs, including initiatives with the Cheyenne River Lakota Sioux community, to refine your advocacy skills.
Our child advocacy psychology program equips you to become a trauma-informed practitioner across multiple disciplines including psychology, social services, education, healthcare, and law enforcement. You'll develop crucial competencies like analytical reasoning and solution-focused approaches applicable to diverse professional paths.
Program alumni pursue careers in various settings, from child welfare organizations to police departments. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 9% growth in social work positions through 2031, creating numerous annual job openings.
For those continuing their education, UMSL graduates have excelled in advanced programs for social work, mental health counseling, educational psychology, communication disorders, and legal studies.