Child Development

Career Description
The Child Development Program prepares individuals to independently provide a healthy, safe, developmentally appropriate learning environment in support of families and children. The program meets current hiring standards of center-based childcare programs, Head Start, family childcare and paraprofessional job positions.

Program Information
Subjects covered in this program include child guidance, health, safety, nutrition, child development, parent relations, introduction to special education and professional leadership.

Program Learning Outcomes
Students will integrate developmental theory with appropriate practice in early care and education settings.

Students will demonstrate written communication skills.

Students will demonstrate oral communication skills.

Admissions
Child development courses are scheduled during the day with at least one additional course offered in the evening each semester. Some courses are offered online. This program is a member of E-LECT (e-learning for early childhood teachers), which offers an associate in applied science (A.A.S.) degree online. Talk with an advisor or admissions counselor for more details.

Transfer Opportunities
The Associate of Science (A.S.) degree in Young Child Education transfers to Bemidji State University. The Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree with a Child Development Certificate transfers to any MnSCU institution.

Employment Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared to work at childcare centers, Head Start programs, school districts, preschools, family childcare and after school programs.

Career Titles
This program will help students prepare for a wide range of careers, including the following: school-age caregiver, early care and education assistant teacher, childcare giver, family childcare provider, Head Start teacher, nanny, and elementary school paraprofessional.

Selected Employers of Recent Graduates
Tri-County Head Start in Brainerd, Precious Years Childcare Center, Pillager Family Fun Stop, Step-in-Go Childcare in Crosby and Emily Charter School

Selected Job Titles of Recent Graduates
Assistant teacher in childcare centers, family childcare provider, Head Start teacher, elementary school paraprofessional, school-age care provider, school district, private preschool teacher

Child Development, Certificate - Program Planning Form (pdf)

Child Development Assistant, Diploma - Program Planning Form (pdf)

Child Development, Care & Guidance, AAS - Program Planning Form (pdf)

Young Child Education, A.S. Degree - Program Planning Form (pdf)

Child Development - American Sign Language, AAS - Program Planning Form (pdf)