For students interested in exploring historical and contemporary U.S. policy and how it impacts children, young people, and families, the Schubert Center offers a unique curriculum through the Child Policy Pathway. The specialization begins with Public Policy in Child Development (CHST 301), a foundational course that introduces students to the central issues in public policy, basic principles of policy research, policy analysis, research-informed policy development, and advocacy.
Policy areas of focus include:
- Child poverty and family economic asset-building
- Educational disparities and student supports
- Physical, mental, and social determinants of health
- Child welfare and Well-being
- Legal systems and juvenile justice
Building on this introductory policy course, advanced options include an experiential learning course (CHST 302) which provides students with a deep dive into state and federal policy-making with a trip to Washington, D.C. over spring break to meet with various policymakers and influencers.
The Mann Child Policy Externship (CHST 398) in a local public or nonprofit organization is another advanced option that gives students a hands-on opportunity to work directly with professionals who design and implement policies that impact the lives of children and their families.
Each of these policy courses is 3-credit hours, and some are cross-listed with other departments. Depending on a student's major, the child policy externship may also count toward a capstone.
For more information about the Child Policy Pathway, contact the Schubert Center office at schubertcenter@case.edu or Gabriella Celeste, the Schubert Center Policy Director, who serves as the instructor for the Pathway courses.
