The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Child Development provides students with the opportunity to explore the relationship between theory, research, and practice. The curriculum reflects an interdisciplinary approach to the study of children and families, and the social contexts that influence development. A variety of opportunities for practicum experiences in school settings, community and recreational agencies, hospitals, and parent and family life education programs are available. These experiences provide students with direct contact with consumers and the organizations and professionals who work with children and families within the region. Opportunities for original research are available as well.

The BA degree in Child Development also provides an excellent pathway to graduate programs in a number of fields. The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Child Development includes a choice of two Degree Options:

• Option I, General Option, prepares students to work as administrators in preschools, day care centers or youth agencies or to gain entry into careers with children and families in early education, health, pediatric or community based settings. Graduates of the program are prepared for employment as early childhood educators/administrators, parent educators, Certified Family Life Educators, Child Life Specialists, youth agency workers, or case managers.
• Option II, a California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC)-approved Elementary Subject Matter Teacher Preparation Program, provides students a broad-based education in multiple subjects that provides a waiver of the California Subject Examinations For Teachers: Multiple Subjects (CSET:MS).