Child Development Careers Associate of Applied Science Degree

Program Overview

Major ID: 053A

Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

This program is designed to prepare individuals for employment as a teacher in a variety of early childhood settings. Students will learn how to promote and communicate knowledge of child development; create healthy, respectful and challenging learning environments; create and maintain respectful and supportive relationships with children, families, staff, and community members; use observation skills to enhance teaching; and design and implement developmentally and culturally appropriate activities and curriculum. Lab and Practicum opportunities are provided which allow students to apply their skills and knowledge in a practical experience. All students must meet all reading and writing program entry requirements prior to entering courses beyond the Certificate.

Students must have a high school diploma, or GED, and pass a criminal background study. Respect for cultural differences is essential. Good judgment and absolute integrity are also necessary for success in the field of child development.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Child Development AAS program will qualify to teach at a child care center, preschool program, before/after-school program, a family child care home or nanny, as well as a Lead Teacher in a Head Start program, a teacher assistant or education assistant (paraprofessional) in the public schools, Early Childhood Family Education, Early Childhood Special Education, or Child Life Assistant (in a hospital setting). The AAS degree meets Minnesota Department of Human Services educational requirements for child care providers. The demand for trained child development professionals continues to increase as more parents seek quality care and educational programs for their children. Our job placement rate is well over 95% and the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the employment outlook will grow faster than average through 2026.

Program Outcomes

1. Create appropriate learning environments for each child.
2. Demonstrate effective collaboration to support families.
3. Apply evidence-based, developmentally effective strategies to positively influence children’s behavior and learning.
4. Plan and implement developmentally effective curriculum to address developmental and learning outcomes of young children.
5. Utilize authentic assessment tools and approaches to support young children, families and inform practice.
6. Create effective lessons for a variety of early care and education settings.
7. Reflect on their own teaching practices as members of the early childhood profession.
8. Advocate for young children, families, and the profession.

Program Faculty

Students should consult with the Program Faculty each semester.

Kelly McKown
kelly.mckown@saintpaul.edu

Transfer Opportunities

Saint Paul College has transfer agreements & partnerships between many post-secondary institutions. For more information please go to saintpaul.edu/Transfer.

Part-time/Full-time Options

Part-time and full-time options are available. Evening, Saturday, and online courses are also available.