Child Development

Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip you with the skills needed to work with children in a variety of settings, from classrooms to community programs. With the added benefit of hands-on experience at our Child Development Center Lab, all students gain valuable training while providing childcare services for faculty, staff, students, and the community.

Top Benefits

Career-Ready Skills – Develop the practical skills needed to work effectively with children in diverse educational and developmental settings.
Hands-On Experience – Gain valuable, real-world training at our Child Development Center Lab, where you can apply your knowledge while serving the community.
Experienced Faculty – Learn from dedicated instructors with extensive experience in child development and early childhood education.
Industry Connections – Build connections through internships and networking opportunities with local schools, childcare centers, and community organizations.

Skills Gained

Child Observation and Assessment – Learn how to observe and assess children’s developmental stages and behaviors to provide tailored learning experiences.
Curriculum Planning and Implementation – Gain expertise in designing and implementing age-appropriate curriculum that fosters children's cognitive, emotional, and social development.
Family and Community Engagement – Develop the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with families and community partners to support children's growth and well-being.
Child-Centered Problem Solving – Master the skills needed to address challenges in the classroom and create solutions that prioritize the individual needs of each child.
Early Childhood Advocacy – Cultivate a deep understanding of advocacy strategies to promote policies and practices that benefit children and families in early education settings.

Degrees

Early Childhood Education, Associate in Science (AS)

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Early Childhood Education, Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T)

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Child and Adolescent Development AAT

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Certificates

Associate Teacher, Certificate of Achievement (CA)

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Early Intervention Assistant, Certificate of Achievement (CA)

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Master Teacher Child Development, Certificate of Achievement (CA)

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Classes

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Career Opportunities

Child Development Center

The Child Development Center at Misison College offers an environment of respect and understanding that supports the development of the whole child. They accomplish this through low adult-child ratios, highly educated teachers, play-based developmentally appropriate learning, and a focus on diversity. Currently enrolled students may be eligible for free childcare at Mission College. It’s part of our District’s commitment to supporting student success by removing financial barriers to high-quality education.

Child Development Center

CDC Student Worker Application

Early Learning Apprenticeship Program

If you’re interested in working with young children, apply for our apprenticeship program and earn your Associate Teacher Permit (12 units) at no cost. This opportunity includes free college courses, textbooks, mentoring, tutoring, and professional development - all offered in a supportive, community-based setting. Classes are scheduled on weekday evenings or Saturday mornings for your convenience.

Apprentices take four key courses together: Child Growth and Development, Child, Family and Community, Introduction to Curriculum, and Infant Toddler Development.

To be eligible, you must be at least 18, authorized to work in the U.S., able to work 20 hours per week, and meet health and background requirements. You cannot currently hold an Associate Teacher Permit or have completed any of the program’s courses. English coursework support is available.