Marion, Ind., (Oct. 8, 2026) — Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is expanding its Fast Forward degree offerings with a new 90-credit-hour bachelor’s degree in human services leadership with a specialization in infant and early childhood mental health. The fully online program equips students to support the social and emotional well-being of young children and their families while developing the leadership skills needed to serve in human service agencies, government organizations, and nonprofits with Kingdom impact.
Early childhood represents a critical period of development, with experiences during a child’s earliest years shaping social, emotional, and mental health outcomes. IWU’s new program combines specialized study in infant and early childhood mental health with a foundation in human services and organizational leadership, preparing graduates to advocate for children and families and strengthen the programs and organizations that serve them.
Students will study topics including human development, attachment theory, family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and intervention strategies. The curriculum also develops practical leadership competencies in financial and grant management, legal and ethical standards, program planning and evaluation, and resource management. The program is designed both for individuals entering the human services field and professionals already working in child and family serving agencies (such as childcare, family services, or early intervention) who want to expand their leadership and specialized knowledge.
“Infant and early childhood mental health is one of the most meaningful places we can invest in the future of children, families, and communities,” said Program Director Sharon Loza, Ph.D., IMHM-P©. “This program prepares leaders who understand what young children need to thrive and how to build organizations that deliver on that promise to families.”
The degree is part of IWU’s Fast Forward portfolio of 90-credit bachelor’s degrees, an innovative alternative to the traditional 120-credit model. Rather than compressing a traditional degree into a heavier schedule, Fast Forward programs use intentionally designed curricula focused on essential learning outcomes, career preparation, and applied experience. The streamlined structure allows students to complete their bachelor’s degree sooner at a lower total tuition cost without requiring transfer credits or summer courses.
Delivered 100% online, Fast Forward programs are designed to provide flexibility for students balancing education with work, family, and other commitments. Programs incorporate career-ready experiences, stackable credentials, applied projects, and evolving technology while integrating leadership, ethics, and communications within a Christ-centered educational experience.
Through the Bachelor in Human Services Leadership program, students will also learn to integrate biblical perspectives into care for oppressed or disadvantaged populations, assess and evaluate social services, advocate for positive social change, and develop management plans that use organizational resources to the benefit of the communities they serve.
“By combining human services leadership with specialized preparation in early childhood mental health,” said Loza, “IWU is equipping students to advocate, lead, and create lasting Kingdom impact in agencies, nonprofits, ministries, and community-based organizations.”
