At-Risk Child & Youth Care program
Undergrad minorDo you want to help improve the lives of young people?
Prepare for a career that supports the growth and development of at-risk youth with a minor in At-Risk Child and Youth Care (CYC).
UW-La Crosse's At-Risk Child and Youth Care (CYC) minor is a multidisciplinary program that provides students with knowledge and skills to promote the well being of all children and adolescents.The program focuses on vulnerable/at-risk populations within the context of the family, the community, and the life span.
Jobs working with at-risk-youth
Specific careers that many students obtain after acceptance and completion of related graduate programs include: School psychology; school guidance; social work; mental health counseling; child life, speech/language therapist; physical therapy; and occupational therapy.
The minor assists students who may go on to work within a wide variety of settings. Some areas require an advanced degree.
Work settings
- Early child care and education
- Community-based and youth development programs
- Parent education and family support
- School-based programs
- Community mental health
- Group homes
- Residential centers
- Day and residential treatment
- Early intervention
- Home-based care and treatment
- Psychiatric centers
- Rehabilitation programs
- Pediatric health care
- Juvenile justice programs
What will I learn in the At-Risk-Child and Youth Care minor?
Students who complete the minor are expected to:
- Identify the role of individual and family factors associated with at-risk children
- Differentiate typical from atypical human development
- Apply theories, concepts and research findings to promote child well-being
- Identify the purpose and structure of community and government systems in promoting and advocating for child well-being
What distinguishes the At-Risk-Child and Youth Care Program?
All students in program are required to complete a three-credit, 120-hour internship prior to completion of the minor. Internships are related in some way to at-risk youth populations and offer practical experiences in the field. Examples of internship locations include school guidance counselor offices, YMCAs, children's centers and summer camps for at-risk youth.
Students engage in an extensive service learning experience in the community in the Child and Youth Care Capstone class as a program requirement.
Students in the minor are well prepared for graduate work. The program has a high acceptance rate into graduate programs in related fields.
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