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.
Associated Major Sheet (PDF)
Major/Program Requirements
Required Courses:
| CD 105 | Child Growth and Development | 3.00 |
| CD 112 | Principles and Practices in Early Childhood Education | 3.00 |
| CD 115 | Health, Safety and Nutrition | 3.00 |
| CD 126 | Child, Family and Community | 3.00 |
| CD 132 | Introduction to Curriculum | 3.00 |
| CD 182 | Teaching in a Diverse Society | 3.00 |
| CD 205 | Child Development Practicum | 4.00 |
| CD 212 | Observation and Methods in Early Child Development | 3.00 |
Recommended Courses:
| CD 100 | Introduction to Child Development | 3.00 |
| CD 101 | Family Interactions | 3.00 |
| CD 130 | Music and Movement for Children | 3.00 |
| CD 131 | Developmental Art for Children | 3.00 |
| CD 133 | Creative Science and Math Activities for Children | 3.00 |
| CD 134 | Language and Listening, Literacy and Literature for Children | 3.00 |
| CD 136 | Creative Art Activities for Children | 3.00 |
| CD 137 | Play and Materials in Early Learning | 3.00 |
| CD 185 | Infant/Toddler Growth and Development | 3.00 |
| CD 186 | Infant/Toddler Activities | 3.00 |
| CD 211 | Observation and Methods in School-Age Development | 3.00 |
| CD 244 | Children with Special Needs | 3.00 |
| CD 250 | Child Guidance and Early Learning | 3.00 |
| CD 270 | Mentor Teacher/Adult Supervision | 2.00 |
| CD 271 | Administration: Management and Organization of Child Development Program | 3.00 |
| CD 272 | Administration: Human Relations in Child Development Programs | 3.00 |
Total Credit Hours: 25.00
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
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.