Child Development - Associate of Arts Degree
The Associate of Arts degree in Child Development is designed to prepare professionals to teach in an early learning environment such as preschool. This degree can also assist in preparation to teach in primary and intermediate grades.
Length of completion:24 months total (4 semesters / 2 academic years, full-time at 12 units per semester)
Major/Program Requirements
Required Courses:
| CDEV C1000 or CDEV C1000H | Child Growth and Development | 3.00 |
| CDEV 112 | Principles and Practices in Early Childhood Education | 3.00 |
| CDEV 115 | Health, Safety and Nutrition | 3.00 |
| CDEV 126 | Child, Family and Community | 3.00 |
| CDEV 132 | Introduction to Curriculum | 3.00 |
| CDEV 182 | Diversity and Child Development | 3.00 |
| CDEV 205 | Child Development Practicum | 4.00 |
| CDEV 212 | Observation and Assessment in Early Childhood Education | 3.00 |
Recommended Courses:
| CDEV 100 | Introduction to Child Development | 3.00 |
| CDEV 133 | STEM for Young Children | 3.00 |
| CDEV 134 | Language and Literacy in Early Childhood | 3.00 |
| CDEV 137 | Play and Materials in Early Learning | 3.00 |
| CDEV 185 | Infant/Toddler Growth and Development | 3.00 |
| CDEV 186 | Infant and Toddler Curriculum | 3.00 |
| CDEV 211 | Observation and Assessment in Middle Childhood | 3.00 |
| CDEV 244 | Equity and Accessibility for Children | 3.00 |
| CDEV 250 | Guidance of Young Children | 3.00 |
| CDEV 270 | Mentor Teacher/Adult Supervision | 2.00 |
| CDEV 271 | Administration I: Programs in Early Childhood Education | 3.00 |
| CDEV 272 | Administration: Human Relations in Child Development Programs | 3.00 |
Total Credit Hours: 25.00
Lower division requirements for students interested in transferring to a four-year institution in this field may differ from associate degree requirements. Prospective transfer students should complete the general education and lower division requirements of the school to which they will be transferring. See a counselor for details. Information is also available at www.assist.org.
A student receiving a degree in this field will be able to:
- Integrate understanding of the needs, the characteristics and multiple influences on development of children birth to age eight as related to high-quality care and education of young children
- Design, implement and evaluate environments and activities that support positive, development all play and learning outcomes for all young children
- Apply effective guidance and interaction strategies that support all children's' social learning, identity and self-confidence
- Develop strategies that promote partnerships between programs, teachers, families and their communities
- Demonstrate ethical standards and professional behaviors that deepen understanding, knowledge and commitment to the EC/CD profession