Child Development
Child Development Program Learning Outcomes
College of Health, Human Services, and Nursing
Department of Child Development
Bachelor of Science
Degree Roadmaps
General Elective Concentration
Early Development and Learning Concentration
Counseling and Family Services Concentration
Juvenile Delinquency Concentration
Management and Administration Concentration
Faculty
Kaitlyn Breiner, Field Experience Coordinator
Cornelia Brentano, Anupama Joshi, Megumi Kuwabara, Kimberley Radmacher, Ju-Hyun Song
Program Office: WH 320, (310) 243-2029
Program Description
The field of Child Development is dedicated to understanding how individuals change over time from conception through adolescence. The knowledge of developmental processes, of what changes and what stays constant, and of what influences change is essential for making sound decisions regarding children's welfare and individual success. The program in Child Development includes in-class and field experiences to prepare students to become knowledgeable and effective child and family professionals. Initially, students master the basics of development in different developmental periods. As they advance through the program, they focus on specific areas with the goal of developing a deeper understanding of issues related to development, its study, and its application.
Features
The Child Development major is a single-field major. A minor is not required. The program offers students the opportunity to work in the field as well as receive rigorous scientific training. The curriculum spans the period of infancy through adolescence, thus preparing students for working with any age group. Special courses such as the one on immigrants set the relevant context for students, especially those from Southern California.
Academic Advisement
New students are required to see an academic advisor prior to enrolling in the classes. Students may call the Student Services Center at (310) 243-2120 or (800) 344-5484, WH A-300.
Preparation
High school students are encouraged to take as many courses in English, mathematics, and social and behavioral sciences as possible. Courses in biology and life sciences are also recommended.
Transfer students should take equivalents of CDV 150, and MAT 131 or PSY 230.
Career Possibilities
Students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Child Development can work as parent educators, preschool teachers, youth counselors, program planners, school-age program professionals and child development consultants. Child development majors work in settings such as schools, children's courts, pediatric wards in hospitals, recreation programs for children and youth, and for companies that manufacture products for children such as toys, books and software.
Graduation With Honors
An undergraduate student may graduate with Honors in Child Development provided that the following criteria are met:
- A minimum of 36 units in residence at CSU Dominguez Hills;
- A minimum grade point average of at least 3.5 in all courses used to satisfy the upper division requirements in Child Development;
- Recommendation by the faculty in the department or program in which the honors are to be awarded.