TCU Students

Answering your calling starts here

TCU students
The Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development is not only the creator of the internationally renowned Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) – we are a part of the TCU Department of Psychology in the College of Science and Engineering.

We offer a variety of degree programs equipping TCU students to work with children, especially children who’ve experienced trauma. Built on the TBRI model, our curriculum is backed by neuroscience, attachment theory and more. 

Your studies will include:

  • The physical, social and cognitive development of children 
  • Professional conduct in working with children 
  • Global issues involving children

Experiential Learning

Our programs prioritize real-world experience before you graduate, with opportunities in research, study abroad programs and internships at therapeutic camps, local schools and organizations.

Undergraduate Degrees in Child Development

Pursue a minor or major within a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science program. Our multidisciplinary curriculum draws on the strengths of four colleges and nine disciplines: Child Development, Communication Sciences & Disorders, Sociology, Criminal Justice & Anthropology, Education, Nutritional Sciences, Nursing, Psychology, and Social Work.

Master of Science in Developmental Trauma

The Master of Science in Developmental Trauma (DETR) is a two year, online, asynchronous, master’s program designed for future practitioners and researchers. You’ll be immersed in the latest theories and discoveries related to complex developmental trauma, attachment, neuroscience and evidence-based interventions.

Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology

Our most advanced program serves future university professors and researchers, as well as applied positions in hospitals, government and more. If accepted, you’ll start in the fall, with four years for coursework and a master’s thesis to advance to doctoral candidacy, followed by up to six years to complete and defend your dissertation.

Career opportunities in the field

These programs are ideal for those who have a heart for working with children. Common career paths include counseling, speech and language pathology, psychology, public health, occupational therapy, education and more. Our alumni have gone on to work in places such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Catholic Charities, Child Protective Services, and ACH Child and Family Services.