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Faculty of Health Sciences

Masters in Child Life & Pediatric Psychosocial Care

Program Overview

Stream 2 – Advanced Skills in Pediatric Psychosocial Care is intended for those health care professionals who are looking to upgrade their skills and knowledge in pediatric care with a psychosocial focus. This stream can be taken part-time or full-time and is open to healthcare professionals from a variety of backgrounds (child life specialists, pediatricians, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, social workers, etc.).

**Individuals interested in becoming a certified child life specialist (CCLS) should apply to our ACLP endorsed Stream 1 program. Stream 2 does not provide all requirements needed to certify.**

Expandable List

Upon completion of the MSc in Child Life and Pediatric Psychosocial Care, both streams of students will be able to:
  • Demonstrate comprehension of research methods and the ability to critically evaluate the validity of key assumptions and evidence
  • Demonstrate ability to apply theoretical knowledge and patient and family-centered care principles to diverse pediatric health and community settings
  • Apply concepts of pediatric psychosocial assessment incorporating child, family and healthcare variables
  • Utilize effective communication strategies and documentation of pediatric psychosocial assessment and interventions to advocate for the diverse needs of infants, children, youth and families

Stream 2 students will additionally be able to:

  • Demonstrate critical analysis and advanced practice skills through exposure to specialized topics
  • Exhibit the ability to evaluate and recommend systems to improve delivery of quality psychosocial care in pediatric settings

*** Individuals interested in becoming a certified child life specialist (CCLS) should apply to our ACLP endorsed Stream 1 program. Stream 2 does not provide all requirements needed to certify ***

The Child Life and Pediatric Psychosocial Care Program has a facilitated admission process for Indigenous applicants. In accordance with the Self-Identification policy of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit and Métis) applicants who wish to apply through this process must complete the supplementary Self-identification Application. For information on the policy, application requirements and the online application please refer to the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge. Indigenous applicants will be prioritized within this stream.