COMMUNITY EDUCATION MAJOR

This major is based on the premise that strong communities are built and sustained when organizations align strategies to support the needs of children, youth, and families.  Community organizations need leaders who are passionate about being a part of finding solutions to community problems through education, advocacy, and action. 

Leadership in child, youth, and family-based community agencies and organizations requires knowledge grounded in a deep understanding of child and youth development, family systems, and a skill set for working with others to address community needs.  

Overview:

A. Choose a focus area: 

Education   

Work in agencies and organizations that provide direct service and support to children, families, and youth including:  Local & national agencies and organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Museums, The Arc, and Milton Early Childhood Alliance. 

Mentorship of youth in community-based programs or residential settings, after school and youth development programs, community recreation programs, programs supporting at-risk youth, independence and life skills programs, group homes, and transition into the workplace and job training programs.  

Advocacy and Action  

Work in agencies and organizations which provide education, support, and/or advocacy for children, youth and families in community-based settings including: 

Local & national advocacy – focused agencies and organizations:   

  Policy Organizations 

     (Children’s Trust, Coalition for the  Homeless, Easter Seals, Massachusetts Strategies for Children) 

Advocacy and Education Organizations 

(Norfolk County Sheriff’s Child Advocacy Office, Norfolk   Advocates for Children, Make a   Wish Foundation, Brockton Area Multi-Service Agency, Massachusetts Strategies for Children, MA Department of Youth Services, Mass Advocates for Children, Special Olympics, Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition, Greater Boston PFLAG, Youth on Fire)  

B. Choose a minor, concentration, or dual major. 

Pair your education major with a minor, concentration, or pursue a dual major to deepen knowledge and skills which support career goals.  Minors and concentrations can be chosen from within the Education department offerings or from another discipline or major at the college.  

Students must minor in a related area that supports their career goals and aspirations.