Essential Information
Students studying child development take classes and receive hands-on experience in speech development, early learning, nutrition and safety regulations. Students in a year-long diploma or certificate program in the field typically continue on to associate's and bachelor's degree programs. Two-year associate's degree programs cover topics in learning disability assessment, behavioral development, and language development.
All programs will require students to have a high school diploma before enrolling. Current immunization records will need to be provided, as well as submitting to a TB test. Character references will likely be requested, and students must pass a background check. Internships and/or practicums are usually a part of these programs.
Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate
This certificate, available at technical schools and community colleges, prepares students for the CDA licensing process in 49 states (excluding Idaho) and the District of Columbia. Students attending these programs learn how to provide safe and healthy learning environments for young children. Techniques in guiding children through physical and intellectual development, social behavior, and positive relationships with their families and communities are fostered throughout the program coursework. Some programs offer specific study areas such as early childhood education, group leader, childcare center director, great beginnings, infant/toddler, and preschool.
Coursework for specializations can provide more than the basic CDA certificate requirements, expanding knowledge and skills within core competencies. Many programs include fieldwork and labs where they learn methods for developing and teaching the curriculum. Candidates demonstrate competencies at basic levels by testing or other forms of evaluation. Some common courses within the program include:
- Human behavior
- Child developmental psychology
- First aid and safety
- Early learning experiences
- Curriculum: a plan to teach
- Successful learning strategies
Child Development Diplomas
CDA diplomas in early childhood and infant-toddler specializations are also offered, in addition to the certificate programs. Some advanced diploma certificates require completion of another program or equivalent occupational experience. In programs where students have the option of earning a non-degree diploma or a degree, schools note the award choices for each major and students can usually advance through diploma programs to an A.A.S. degree if they wish. Diploma programs train students through classroom theory and lab experiences. Technical and general education courses normally range from 30- to 72-semester credits in CDA diploma programs, with courses including:
- Early learning and childhood development
- Infant-toddler learning and development
- Teach to lead
- Developing early speech
- Promoting good nutrition
- Administrative issues
Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
Students in early childhood education associate's degree programs study childcare and guidance, growth, and development, and the physical and nutritional needs of children. Proficiency in communicating with parents, as well as children, is emphasized. Graduates foster development of cognition and language, physical and motor skills, and emotional, social, and creative abilities appropriate to each child. A.A.S. programs prepare graduates to plan and implement developmentally suitable curricula for early childhood settings. Core courses cover communication, composition, math, computers, science, and general psychology. Additionally, they include:
- Child, family and the community
- Development, guidance and success
- Behavioral development
- Normal days with the exceptional child
- Prompt attention to developmental delays
- Language and literacy
Popular Career Options
The growing demand for quality childcare has created specialized fields for working with young children and their families. CDAs and A.A.S. graduates work in preschools, childcare and child development centers, Head Start and before- and after-school programs, summer camps, infant nurseries, and family home-based programs. Entry-level positions include:
- Nanny
- Teacher's assistant
- Childcare worker
Employment Outlook and Salary Info
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job opportunities in the childcare industry to grow about 2% from 2018-2028. The BLS noted that the increasing development of early childhood education programs would support an uptick of employment opportunities in this area. The median annual salary for childcare workers in 2018 was $23,240, according to the BLS. During the same year, the BLS reported that the median annual salaries for the positions below ranged as follows:
- Teacher assistants, $18,670-$41,020
- Preschool teachers, $20,610-$55,350
- Kindergarten teachers, $35,680-$86,310
- Child, family, and school social workers, $29,550-$76,750
- Elementary and secondary education administrators, $61,490-$144,950
Continuing Education
Bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. degree programs in child development and other related areas (such as early childhood education and child and family studies) can advance students beyond initial aspirations. Graduates with these degrees can pursue the following career paths:
- Early childhood and parent educators
- Social workers
- Family and juvenile justice advocates
- Public administrators
Certificate, diploma, and associate's programs are available to help students prepare for child development credentialing, allowing them to work a number of jobs in the field. Bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs are available to graduates, which can provide them with the training needed for additional job opportunities.
