The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Child Development provides students with the opportunity to explore the relationship between theory, research and practice. The curriculum reflects an interdisciplinary approach to the study of children and families and the social contexts that influence development. A variety of opportunities for practicum experiences in school settings, community and recreational agencies, hospitals, and parent and family life education programs are available. These experiences provide students with direct contact with consumers and the organizations and professionals who work with children and families within the region. Opportunities for original research are available as well. The BA degree in Child Development also provides an excellent pathway to graduate programs in a number of fields.
The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Child Development includes a choice of two Degree Options: Option I, General Option, prepares students to work as administrators in preschools, day care centers or youth agencies or to gain entry into careers with children and families in early education, health, pediatric or community based settings. Graduates of the program are prepared for employment as early childhood educators/administrators, parent educators, Certified Family Life Educators, Child Life Specialists, youth agency workers, or case managers. Option IIis the Elementary Subject Matter Teacher Preparation Program for the California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. Courses prepare students for the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). Students may elect to use Option II to complete the undergraduate degree program simultaneously with requirements for either a California Multiple Subject Teaching or Special Education Internship Credential.
The total number of units required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development, Option I, General Option, is 120, which includes 72 units in the major and 48 units in the General Education Program. The total number of units required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development, Option II, Elementary Subject Matter Teacher Preparation, is 120 units, which includes 45 units in the major, 48 units in the General Education program and 27 elective units.
For Major Specific Admissions Criteria go to http://www.calstatela.edu/admissions/major-specific-criteria
Departmental Honors Program
The child development major includes an honors program for students who have completed at least 12 upper division units in the Child Development core, maintained a minimum 3.5 grade point average, passed the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement, and are recommended and approved by the Child and Family Studies advisors. Applications are available in the Child and Family Studies office E & T 535.