Child Development
Departmental Affiliation: Education
The Child Development major provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding young children as individuals and as members of families, schools, and society. Coursework draws from the fields of education, psychology, sociology, and English, with a focus on child development from infancy through middle childhood. The major emphasizes developmentally appropriate practice, inclusive and culturally responsive pedagogy, family engagement, and the application of theory to real-world educational and community contexts.
The Child Development major is designed for students pursuing careers working with children and families in early childhood education, elementary education, childcare, social services, community-based programs, and related child-centered professions. Graduates are eligible to qualify for the Child Development Teacher Permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC), depending on completed coursework and field experience.
Students who are interested in teaching in transitional kindergarten through grade three (PK–3) may pursue the B.A. in Child Development with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education in conjunction with the Preliminary PK–3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction Credential. This integrated pathway allows students to complete academic degree requirements and professional credential preparation concurrently.
Students considering the PK–3 credential pathway should consult the Preliminary PK–3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction Credential section of the catalog for detailed information regarding admission requirements, professional preparation coursework, fieldwork expectations, supervised teaching, and additional state requirements.
Students who plan to complete the Child Development major at the outset of their university careers may elect to take early coursework in the Early Childhood Education program at the Doheny Campus during their first two years of study.