Certificate of Achievement (Transcripted): STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) for Early Childhood Educators

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Certificate in a timely manner. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

The purpose of the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) for Early Childhood Educators is to empower teachers to employ a project-based learning approach that crosses all of these disciplines in solving everyday problems. This approach aligns with the California Preschool/Transitional Kindergarten Learning Foundations (PTKLF) and the Common Core Standards and has been shown to engage students and allow them to use both left and right-brained thinking in the same exercise. This certificate provides a strong research-based curricular foundation with immediate practical classroom applications. Additionally, the STEAM certificate can be used towards earning professional growth hours for the child development permit.

Demonstrate a knowledge basis of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) within early childhood.

Recognize current knowledge, skills, and resources related to STEAM and apply those skills in a classroom setting.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

Comprehensive Education Plan: You are required to meet with a counselor for a comprehensive educational plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor in your first semester.

First Semester

9 units
CDEV 229
Brain Development and Learning
This class explores the development of the brain for children from birth through adolescence, and how behavior and learning are affected. Brain-based learning strategies will be used to teach new ways of approaching learning, including how to understand diverse learning styles. This course is designed for educators, parents, and students who are interested in knowing more about how the brain operates and how the environment affects the brain.
    CDEV 200
    Introduction to Technology in Early Childhood Education
    This course provides students with knowledge about and experience with technological tools used in early childhood settings. Students will have the opportunity to evaluate technology's impact on children's growth and development and developmentally appropriate practices. Emphasis will be on basic knowledge and practice within a wide variety of current and emerging technologies and will focus on how to integrate them into the learning environment.
      CDEV 231
      Developing Language and Literacy in Young Children
      Designed to introduce students to basic concepts of first and second language acquisition and literacy in young children, including classroom applications.
      • Recommended Preparation: By the 1st week of the semester, verification of the state-mandated Tdap vaccination, MMR immunization, and negative TB test may be required.

      Second Semester

      8 units
      CDEV 210
      Creative Music Experiences for Young Children
      Explores musical expression through songs and ballads, the elements of music, and diverse types of instruments as used in the early childhood curriculum. Includes the study of musical growth and development in young children and the use of music as a classroom management tool.
        CDEV 214
        Creative Art Experiences for Children
        Emphasizes the child's (ages 2 through 8 years) ability to represent and expressively use art media. Includes theoretical as well as practical application and the role of adult in fostering creativity.
          CDEV 232
          Math and Science Methods for Early Learning Environments
          Introduces early learning teachers to basic math and science principles and the standards established by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, National Science Content Standards for early learning environments and Next Generation Science Standards. This course includes theoretical and practical applications for problem-solving and critical thinking that are common to math and science. Students will develop a personal file of appropriate math/science activities for early learning.