CDL Information for Students

Experiential Learning Pathways

Build your knowledge and competence through hands-on experiences that complement your academic studies and professional preparation.

Tour the CDL

Training Opportunities

Students interested in training with the Child Development Lab (CDL) have multiple opportunities to learn through observation and hands‑on experiences in a high‑quality, evidence‑based early childhood setting. These experiences support the development of skills, competence, and confidence needed to work effectively with young children and families throughout students’ professional careers.

Students can tour the CDL to explore the classrooms and learning environment up close. Tours can help connect academic learning to real-world experiences, highlight opportunities for research and observation, and familiarize students with the space before beginning practicums or projects. Students interested in touring the CDL should complete the complete a Tour Request form to get started.

Tour Request Form
A preschool aged child wearing a black shirt with a cartoon style tiger is sliding down a yellow double-sided slide at the Child Development Lab.

Translating Learning into Discovery

Student Perspectives

Saralee Renick

“During my time at the CDL, I have had the opportunity to witness the development I learn about in the classroom first-hand, which allows me to connect theoretical ideas to real life. This experience helped to inspire my thesis research question. Additionally, I was able to work with the CDL teachers to collect my data.”

A woman with red hair sits in a chair and reads a book at the Child Development Lab.

Discovery in action

Student Research

Students from a variety of disciplines across campus may conduct research projects at the CDL. The Lab supports studies that advance knowledge in child development, education, health, and related fields, while maintaining a strong commitment to the well-being of the children and families in our program.

Students interested in pursuing research at the CDL should complete the Student Project Request form or contact Miranda Clines, CDL Director, to discuss opportunities and the process for getting started.

Student Project Request Form Email Miranda
A young boy wearing a red shirt writes with a red marker at a table with other children at the Child Development Lab.

Bringing theory to practice

Student Practicum

Practicum placements offer students the opportunity to apply theory in a real‑world setting, develop professional skills, and collaborate with experienced early childhood educators. Students interested in enrolling in a Human Development and Family Science practicum course (HDFS 3500 or 3700) should contact Dr. Michelle Mathews to learn more.

Email Dr. Mathews
An early childhood professional assists a preschool age child with a learning activity while seated at a table.

Pathways for every academic journey

Academic Programs

Mizzou’s Human Development and Family Science department offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, both on campus and online. Click the links below to learn more about available undergraduate programs, on‑campus graduate programs, and online graduate options.
Programming Options:
A Human Development and Family Science faculty helps college students at a table during a class session.