A.A. Degree: Child Development - Emphasis in Early Childhood and Elementary Teacher Preparation (Pre-Professional)

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Associate's Degree in two years. 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). The plan includes four semesters, each with an average course load of 15 units, and follows the Plan 1 General Education pattern. 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 Associate in Arts in Child Development - Emphasis in Early Childhood and Elementary Teacher Preparation (Pre-Professional) prepares students for transfer to a four-year university to obtain a bachelor's degree and into a PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential program and/or a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program, while providing students with knowledge about the comprehensive development of early childhood and elementary school age children.  Students will focus on understanding developmentally appropriate practice, effective learning strategies, and creating and implementing a high-quality classroom environment for children. The practicum component of the program will support the students as they transfer their learning to their work with young children. The courses are part of the curriculum that can be started at the community college and completed at the university. The curriculum is designed for students who seek the pre-professional subject matter preparation for early childhood and elementary school teaching consistent with the standards established by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Additionally, the degree curriculum may serve as preparation for paraprofessional positions in the PK-12 classroom by satisfying unit requirements established by law.

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

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

First Semester

16 units

Second Semester

16 units

Third Semester

16 units

Fourth Semester

15 units