Child Development Certificate


Gain a strong foundation in child development, enabling you to make a positive impact on children's lives.

The Child Development Certificate program covers various stages of childhood, from infancy to emerging adulthood, and explores how environmental, cultural, and familial factors impact a child's development. You will learn about various theories of child development and practical applications of developmental concepts in diverse settings. This program is ideal for individuals interested in enhancing their skills to work with children and families in careers in education, counseling, public health, psychology, social services, healthcare, or other fields. 

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Child Development and Family Science

Michaelsen 100

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What You'll Study

Academic Catalog | Child Development and Family Science Website

  

Required Courses


  • CDFS 232 - Child Development
  • CDFS 236 - Parent Education and Guidance
  • CDFS 339 - Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood 
  • CDFS 415 - Therapeutic Play
  • CDFS 432 - Theories in Child Development
  • CDFS 438 - Attachment Theory and Practice

 

 

Small Class Sizes

Find connection in our program with small class sizes that foster a supportive community and allow faculty to get to know you personally, ensuring a more tailored and engaging educational experience.

Career-Focused

From psychology to law and justice, understanding child development can be helpful in a wide range of careers, providing insights into the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children.

Job Fulfillment

Learn and grow as an individual as you master methods that can make a real difference in a child’s life.

Relevant

You'll learn from cutting-edge research about how children develop in multiple domains, with a focus on how development occurs in the context of family, community, and culture.

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Student Life

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Why Child Development at Central?


  • Grow emotionally as you learn about all phases of a child's life.
  • Hands-on learning gives you valuable experiences in the classroom and the community.
  • Pursue a meaningful career that creates positive changes for children and families.
  • Develop foundational research skills, from analysis to findings and recommendations.
Student listening intently to a small child.