The Associate in Arts in Child Development - Emphasis in Preschool Care and Development provides students with knowledge about the comprehensive development of young children ages 3 to 5 years old. Students will focus on understanding developmentally appropriate practice, effective learning strategies, and creating and implementing a high-quality classroom for young children. The practicum component of the program will support the students as they transfer their learning to their work with young children. The program is available for early childhood educators, parents, administrators, and health care professionals. In addition to the 30.5 units of Child Development coursework, students must also complete the general education requirements.

This degree prepares students for transfer to a 4-year university to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Refer to the Graduation Requirements or the CSU-GE and IGETC patterns in this catalog for specific courses which meet the general education requirement. Contact Career Technical Education (CTE) counselors at SAC for additional assistance in planning your early childhood profession (714-564-6254).
Students who earn this degree should apply for the Early Childhood Teacher Certificate and the California Teacher’s Permit. To qualify for the degree, certificate and permit, a student must also have work experience with young children (175 days of 3 hours per day within 4 years). See Child Development faculty members for assistance.

Learning Outcome(s):

✓ Demonstrate knowledge of early childhood curriculum, program practices, and the development of young children.