Child Development, A.A.S.
This degree program is designed for individuals who want to work directly with young children and their families in early care and education programs, human service organizations, or professional development services. The program provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Child Development?
With this degree, you can work as a preschool or childcare teacher, developmental
support specialist, or early childhood program manager. You will be involved in planning
and implementing educational activities, supporting children's social and emotional
development, and fostering a safe, nurturing environment. This degree provides a strong
foundation for a fulfilling career dedicated to promoting healthy childhood development.
The demand for qualified child development professionals is steadily increasing as
families and communities emphasize the importance of early childhood support. Graduates
with an A.A.S. in Child Development can pursue careers as preschool teachers, childcare
center directors, family support specialists, or early intervention providers. The
field offers diverse opportunities to contribute to children's well-being and future
success.
Suggested Curriculum
The Child and Family Studies Associate in Applied Science degree program is designed
for individuals who want to work directly with young children and their families in
early care and education programs, human service organizations, or professional development
services. The program provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Area A: Communication (6 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (3 credits)
Select one course from Area B
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (4 credits)
Select one laboratory science course from the courses for Area D
Area E: Social and Behavioral Science (3 credits)
- PSYCH 101 Introduction to Psychology (S6 900)
- ECED 103 Health, Safety, and Nutrition
- ECED 104 Introduction to Early Childhood Education
- ECED 115 Observation and Assessment of Young Children
- ECED 108 Math for the Young Child
- ECED 120 Child, Family, and Community
- ECED 130 Guidance and Classroom Management
- ECED 205 Language Arts for Children
- ECED 213 Multicultural Education
- ECED 251 Curriculum Design for Early Childhood Programs
- ECED 299 Early Childhood Education Internship
- ED 101 Child Growth and Development
- ED 212 Exceptional Child
- ED 220 Children’s Literature
Select 6 credit hours from the following courses after consultation with program coordinator:
- ECED 105 Creative Activities for Children
- ECED 110 Care and Education: Infants, Toddlers, Two Year Olds
- ECED 150 Introduction to Early Childhood Center Administration - Legal Requirements
- ECED 151 Introduction to Early Childhood Center Administration - Program Operations
- ECED 152 Introduction to Early Childhood Center Administration - Facilities Management
- ECED 217 Administration of Early Childhood Education Centers - Personnel, Families and Children
- ECED 218 Administration of Early Childhood Education Centers - Practices and Procedures
- ECED 219 Applied Early Childhood Center Administration
- ECED 298 Administration of an Early Childhood Center Internship
As an Illinois Gateways to Opportunity entitled institution, completion of course requirements for the A.A.S. degree can lead to an Illinois Early Childhood Teacher Credential 2, 3, or 4. Students who pursue an Illinois Infant-Toddler Teacher Credential 1 or an Illinois Director Credential 1 can complete the requirements for those credentials through Early Childhood Education elective choices. Students should seek more information from the Early Childhood Education/Child and Family Studies Coordinator.
Please note: Students interested in teaching in the elementary schools in Illinois should enroll in the Associate in Arts Degree in pre-elementary or pre-early childhood education. Consult a counselor or advisor for further information. Students interested in pursuing the Level 1 Illinois Director Credential from the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (INCCRA) have up to two years following graduation to document 1200 hours of early childhood/school age management experience. Either while earning their A.A.S. degree or following its completion, students must demonstrate that they have made contributions to the profession in one of the areas described in the program brochure.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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