A.A. Degree: Child Development - Emphasis in Early Childhood Education Teacher Preparation

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 Education Teacher Preparation is for students interested in teaching at the Early Childhood Education level (infants, toddlers and preschool-age children). Students will engage in coursework as well as fieldwork and clinical practice at a Rancho Santiago Community College Laboratory School that will prepare them to teach young 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.  Upon completion of this program, students are eligible to apply for the Child Development Teacher Permit, the early childhood education credential issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing which is required to teach in Title 5 programs. This includes federally funded programs (Head Start) as well as state-funded programs (school districts). The curriculum is designed for students who seek subject matter preparation for early childhood education teaching consistent with the standards established by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. 

This program also prepares students for transfer to a four-year university to obtain a bachelor's degree and pursue a PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential program and/or an Early Childhood Special Education Specialist Instruction Credential program, while providing  students with knowledge about the comprehensive development of infants, toddlers and preschool-age children.  The courses are part of the curriculum that can be started at the community college and completed at the university.  Additionally, the degree electives count towards additional certificates offered by the Child Development and Education Studies department. 

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

15 units

Fourth Semester

14 units