The Child Development Program is an academic and vocational training program that prepares students for future work as early childhood educators in diverse early childhood settings. Courses and certificates are designed to meet entry-level requirements for the level of work chosen and/or meet the requirements needed to obtain a California Child Development Permit to become an Assistant Teacher, Associate Teacher, Teacher, Master Teacher and/or Site Supervisor in state-licensed, publicly funded, center-based child care and development programs. Students planning to transfer to a four-year university as child development or related major may be able to apply some child development units toward the lower division major preparation requirements or qualify for the AS-T in Early Childhood Education. Please see a Foothill counselor for more information.

Learn more about the program on the Child Development and Education website.

Program Learning Outcomes

- Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the needs and characteristics of children from birth through middle childhood, and the multiple influences on their development as related to the high-quality care and education of young children.

- Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of ethical standards and professional behaviors that deepen knowledge and commitment to the field of early care and education as related to the National Association for the Education of Young Children Code of Ethical Conduct.

Career Opportunities

The Child Development program is an academic and vocational training program that prepares students for future work as early childhood educators in diverse early childhood settings. Coursework and certificates meet professional requirements for work in early childhood programs. Students wishing to pursue careers in related fields such as human development, child psychology, social work, and primary education should see a counselor determine the transfer requirements of specific four-year universities.