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 II, a California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC)-approved Elementary Subject Matter Teacher Preparation Program, provides students a broad-based education in multiple subjects that provides a waiver of the California Subject Examinations For Teachers: Multiple Subjects (CSET:MS).

The total number of units required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development, Option I, General Option, is 120, which includes 81-83 units in the major and 48 units in the General Education Program; because of overlap between major and General Education requirements, 0-12 free electives may be required to reach the degree total of 120 units. The total number of units required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development, Option II, Elementary Subject Matter Teacher Preparation option, is 120 units. Option II requires 48 units in the Child Development Core, 6 units of Required Courses, 50 units of general education requirements, and 84 units of Elementary Subject Matter courses. Because Elementary Subject matter courses overlap with both the Child Development Core and General Education requirements, the total number of units required for the degree is 120.

For Major Specific Admissions Criteria go to http://www.calstatela.edu/admissions/major-specific-criteria

Advisement

All students who intend to major in Child Development should meet with an advisor before the end of the second semester in residence to discuss program options and select a degree program. Students must receive a grade of “C” or better in all courses in the major program.  Information about the major and Department policies and procedures is available in the Child and Family Studies Department office and on the Department’s website.

Students seeking a credential should also consult the Charter College of Education to review the regulations and policies governing teaching credential programs.

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. Applications are available in the Child and Family Studies office E & T A-535.