Department website: https://www.cerritos.edu/child-development/

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE FOR TRANSFER (AS-T)

Early Childhood Education transferable degree will enable our diverse student population to participate and reflect in the learning process of children and teachers by developing skills in observing and recording, planning experiences based on children’s interests, and documenting the thinking and learning of young children.   Through an understanding of the principles and practices of Early Childhood Education, the theories of child development and the importance of family, culture, and individual differences, in the process of learning, ECE students will build skills and competency in a continuous cycle of reflection, reflecting on theory and practice. The required course work will also encourage students to deepen their understanding of different curriculum areas and approaches, current assessment tools used in the field, positive guidance techniques, and how to set up a safe, healthy, comfortable and inviting learning environment for young children.  Students will develop portfolios that document the learning process of young children and of their own reflective learning process, as co-constructors of knowledge, learning with children. This visual evidence of their learning will continue to be built upon when ECE students transfer to four-year institutions and pursue their careers in their specialized field of Early Childhood Education. 

Program Student Learning Outcomes

• Students create highly engaging, stimulating, and safe learning environments which promote the healthy development of young children.
• Students examine children's individual differences and plan intentional learning experiences based on the unique developmental abilities and interests of the children in their care.
• Students explain early childhood and child development theories to inform their teaching principles and practices.
• Students observe, analyze and document children's learning and development.
• Students value positive relationships with others and demonstrate an inclusive approach in their interactions with children, families, colleagues, and staff.

Program Requirements

Course List

Code Number	Course Title	Units
Required Courses
CD 110	Child Development	3.0
CD 124	Teaching in a Diverse Society	3.0
CD 139	Observation, Assessment, and Positive Guidance of Childhood Behavior	3.0
CDEC 111	Principles and Practices in Early Childhood Education	3.0
CDEC 112	Introduction to Curriculum	3.0
CDEC 113	The Child, Family, and Community	3.0
CDEC 161	Health, Safety, and Nutrition	3.0
CDEC 164	Practicum Field Experience	3.0
Total Units		24

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE FOR TRANSFER DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

1. Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of degree-applicable courses,
2. Minimum overall grade point average of 2.0,
3. Minimum grade of “C” (or “P”) for each course in the major, and
4. Completion of IGETC and/or CSU GE-Breadth.

Successful completion of all levels of coursework is necessary for completion of, and graduation from, the program of study. In order to complete the program, the student must maintain a grade of “C” or higher whether enrolled in combined lecture/lab courses, practicums, or clinical experiences. When content is tiered, each level must be completed according to identified criteria.

All courses not completed at Cerritos College must be comparable in content, units, and granted by a college or university accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Equivalencies must be determined by the Child Development Department Chairperson.

Teacher TRAC Early Childhood Education (ECE) Pathway

The Cerritos College Teacher TRAC Early Childhood Education Pathway focuses on students interested in teaching in early childhood programs. Future ECE teachers attending Cerritos College have the opportunity to complete certificates, permits, an A.A. degree and/or AS-T degree.

Students can prepare for the workforce and/or transfer to the institution of their choice for a bachelor’s degree.

Opportunities Offered through the Teacher TRAC Program

1. Specialized Counseling with dedicated Teacher TRAC Counselors
2. Eligibility to Apply for Scholarships
3. Targeted Courses for and with other future teachers
4. Internships
5. Teaching Conferences and Workshops
6. Curriculum Pathways leading to partner universities

For more information about The Early Childhood Education Pathway visit the following link: https://www.cerritos.edu/teachertrac/ECE_Pathway.htm or visit any full-time child development faculty member.

Child Development Permit Options

The Child Development Permit – The Child Development Permit is granted by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and entitles the holder to teach in state and federally-funded programs. This is an expanded career choice and has levels of advancement. The Child Development Department recommends that all Child Development students aspire to the Child Development Permit. Application for the permit is made through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. (Please refer to the attached Child Development Permit Matrix.)

• Assistant Teacher
• Associate Teacher
• Teacher
• Master Teacher
• Site Supervisor
• Program Director

For more information about The Child Development Permit visit the following link: https://www.cerritos.edu/teachertrac/_includes/docs/ECE_Permits_Reference_ua.pdf or visit any full-time child development faculty member.