This degree program is offered in cooperation with vocational schools (Berufsfachschulen). It therefore combines academic study with vocational training leading to the qualification as a state-certified child/youth care worker.

Objectives and career prospects

It qualifies graduates to work in various fields of childhood development, education, and health, for example:

• In kindergartens, day care, and after school care (children 0-12 years)
• As experts advising in development and educational establishments
• Leading child care establishments and overall direction of umbrella organisations for child care establishments
• Childhood counselling
• Implementing profiling for church-based child care establishments and competencies in religious education
• Social work in schools
• Teaching in professional/vocational schools or academies for social education and continuous learning or professional development

Curriculum includes

• Analysis and examination of theories, research, and application in practice
• Analysis and development of education and developmental processes as well as preventive approaches for children aged 0 to 12 years using current scientific knowledge and within social contexts
• Examination of questions related to needs-based planning as well as with institutions, service providers, and organisational structures
• Practical evaluation and development in developmental and educational processes
• Community networking and social orientation
• Development of competencies in counselling, organisation, leadership, and team development
• Evaluation and analysis of central issues in Christian ethics and theology