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.

Major/Program Requirements

Required Courses:

CD 105Child Growth and Development

3.00

CD 112Programs and Practices in Child Development

3.00

CD 115Health, Welfare and Nutrition for Children

3.00

CD 126Child, Family and Community

3.00

CD 132Creative Experiences for Children Across the Curriculum

3.00

CD 182Teaching in a Diverse Society

3.00

CD 205Child Growth and Development Laboratory

4.00

CD 212Observation and Methods in Early Child Development

3.00

Recommended Courses:

CD 100Introduction to Child Development

3.00

CD 101Family Interactions

3.00

CD 130Music and Movement for Children

3.00

CD 131Developmental Art for Children

3.00

CD 133Creative Science and Math Activities for Children

3.00

CD 134Language and Listening, Literacy and Literature for Children

3.00

CD 136Creative Art Activities for Children

3.00

CD 137Play and Materials in Early Learning

3.00

CD 185Infant/Toddler Growth and Development

3.00

CD 186Infant/Toddler Activities

3.00

CD 211Observation and Methods in School-Age Development

3.00

CD 244Children with Special Needs

3.00

CD 250Child Guidance and Early Learning

3.00

CD 270Mentor Teacher/Adult Supervision

2.00

CD 271Administration: Management and Organization of Child Development Program

3.00

CD 272Administration: 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