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FAQ

Child Development Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

What is the difference between the two Child Development major options (New revised Major A or CHSM)?

The Child Development new revised Major Aa includes 48 units of coursework designed to prepare students interested in a broad range of careers that serve children and their families. This major has five concentrations of coursework in Child Development.   These five concentrations include: Elementary Pre-Credential; Early Development, Care and Education (EDCE); Social and Community Settings; Individualized; and Integrated Pre-Credential Subject Matter Program.  The Child Development new revised Major A requires students interested in the Multiple Subject Credential to pass the CSET.
Child Development Subject Matter (CHSM) is most appropriate for those who are interested in teaching public elementary school.  Students who follow this option receive a strong foundation in child development and meet subject matter competence in the seven categories identified by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing: Language and Literature, Mathematics, Natural and Physical Sciences, Social Sciences and Humanities, The Arts, Physical Education, and Human Development.  This major prepares prospective elementary school teachers for entrance into a Multiple Subject Credential Program. This major has 120 units of subject matter coursework including general education.

What is the difference between the Liberal Studies Major and the Child Development Subject Matter (CHSM) option?

  • Both of these options are approved subject-matter programs. The CHSM option offers the student the following benefits:
  • An opportunity to major in a discipline-based academic program.  
  • A thorough grounding in child and adolescent development, an understanding that is central to effective teaching, in addition to a concentration of courses in the arts and sciences.
  • An opportunity to choose courses with different levels of complexity in many of the seven designated academic disciplines in order to accommodate diverse experiential backgrounds and interests.

Which Major is the shortest route to the Bachelor of Arts Degree?

No major provides a route that is “shorter” than the other majors. The Child Development revised new Major A and CHSM, and the Liberal Studies Major, require 120 units of coursework to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. The University has designated specific requirements for graduating students, no matter what the major. They are included within the 120 units of coursework needed to graduate.
However, in terms of time Child Development revised new Major A may be shorter for many transfer students due to the fact that the courses that may be taken to fulfill the general education requirements are more flexible.

 Am I automatically accepted into the Teaching Credential Program upon successful completion of this major?

No. All candidates, no matter which major, are required to follow the credential application process. The credential program is a competitive program; candidates are considered on their individual merit.

 How can I find an advisor for my Child Development Major/Minor?

The Child Development office does not assign advisors to Child Development Majors and Minors.  All advisors see students on a drop in basis only, unless arrangements are made with the advisor.  To obtain a Child Development Major/Minor advisor please go to the Child Development office. Outside the door there will be a list of all Child Development advisors for both revised new Major A and CHSM.

  • Revised new Major A: choose his/her advisor from the list and go to their office hours.
  • CHSM: call the phone number listed for Major B and make an appointment to see an advisor.

 Why can't I take CHDV 137 and CHDV138 at the same time?

Both the CHDV 137 and CHDV 138 classes have an extensive observation component to them. Because of this, there are many extra hours that are not listed in the course catalog. Historically faculty has found that when students take the above classes in different semesters, they tend to be more successful.

What are the seven academic disciplines that are required for the Child Development Subject Matter?

The seven academic disciplines are:

  • Language and Literature
  • Mathematics
  • Natural and Physical Sciences
  • Social Sciences and Humanities
  • The Arts
  • Physical Education
  • Human Development

Is a grade of "D" acceptable in the Child Development either the Child Development revised new Major A or CHSM options?

A grade of “D” in coursework toward the Major is not acceptable. All students must pass their major course work with at least a C-. For minimum grades acceptable for general education please see the general education section of your course catalog.

What can I do with a Degree in Child Development?

A variety of careers are possible, including:

With a Bachelors Degree:

  • Teacher
  • Preschool Teacher/Director
  • Before and after school Child Care
  • Children’s Mental Health
  • Children’s Protective Services
  • Juvenile Justice System
  • Park & Recreation Children’s Programs
  • Parent Education Instructor
  • Resource and Referral Coordinator
  • Family Resource Center Worker
  • Child Life Specialist
  • Social Work
  • Research Assistant
  • Private Non-Profit
  • Child Welfare Case Management

With a Masters Degree or higher:

  • Counseling
  • Social Work
  • Community College Instructor
  • Pediatric Psychologist
  • Research Assistant
  • Private Non-Profit
  • Work Children with Special Needs and Families