Certificate in Child Development Master Teacher

This certificate is designed for the early childhood professional who is seeking career advancement and the educational requirements for the lead teacher or “Master Teacher” job or employment category.

The certificate program prepares the employed child development teacher to function as a lead or mentor teacher to students in training or other adults working in the same environment. Student may be eligible to participate in the Mentor Teacher Program, which includes a stipend for professional development and for supervising identified students in training.

Certificate of Achievement Level Student Learning Outcomes

Students completing the Child Development – Master Teacher Certificate of Achievement will:

1. Acquire knowledge and foundational skills necessary to work in the teaching profession.
2. Demonstrate global consciousness in order to be an effective professional in working with children and families from diverse cultural backgrounds.
3. Apply ethical standards and professional behaviors that demonstrate an understanding and a deepening commitment to the child development profession and early childhood education.
4. Apply effective guidance and teaching strategies that support social growth, learning, and identity development and promote self-confidence.

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The six “area of specialization” units are above and beyond the child development unit requirements for the Teacher Certificate, may not be counted twice, and should focus on one specific area of service, instruction, or curriculum.

Examples of specializations include:

• infant/toddler,
• teacher/family relations,
• music/movement experiences,
• children with special needs,
• speech and language development,
• health and safety,
• art and creative experiences,
• multicultural/bilingual curriculum,
• child abuse/children at risk,
• literacy/children’s literature.

Administration and core courses are NOT acceptable specializations, therefore CHLD 110, CHLD 111, CHLD 114, CHLD 190, CHLD 191, CHLD 194, and PSY 206 cannot be used for the “area of specialization”.

Permit Information

This certificate meets the educational requirements for the Master Teacher Permit through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. All coursework must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to meet permit requirements. In order to apply for the State Permit, students must complete 350 days of three or more hours per day of qualifying work experience with young children within four years. See California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for details.

1.5-Year Curriculum Map Example
This map represents one possible pathway through the program and is only for reference.

*It is highly recommended that you make an appointment to create a customized education plan that fits your needs.

Note: Additional 16 units of General Education (GE) required: one course minimum in each of the following categories - English/language arts, math or science, social sciences, humanities and/or fine arts, any general education elective excluding kinesiology (KIN). These GE courses must qualify for graduation credit. Please see an academic counselor or adviser.

Career Opportunities

There are a variety of careers you can do with this major.

To explore more about this major, schedule an appointment with a career counselor.