CHILD DEVELOPMENT
College of Education
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Child Development is the study of the physical, socio-emotional, and cognitive growth and development of the child from conception through adolescence. The purposes of this major are to provide a sound academic program in Child Development and prepare students to work with children and families in a variety of school and community settings.
Child Development students pursue careers in elementary school teaching; preschool teaching and administration; child-care and after-school employment; parent education; community college teaching; or work with a variety of counseling, social service and community agencies. The undergraduate major also prepares students for graduate studies in child development, elementary or special education, human development, social work or counseling.
Specializations
•Bachelor of Arts in Child DevelopmentStudents working toward the Bachelor of Arts degree may select one of five concentrations:
• Early Development, Care, and Education (EDCE)The Child Development Concentration in EDCE prepares students to work in child care settings with children from infancy through pre-kindergarten. The program consists of the core child development academic program and 14–15 units of electives with a focus of study on developmental theory, systematic observation and assessment, and pre-school curriculum development. Students have opportunities for first-hand experience working with infants and children, and can complete most of the ECE requirements for a child development permit. Students planning to obtain the California Child Development permit for preschool/day care teaching or administration should consult a faculty advisor for information about specific course and field-work requirements and application process.
In collaboration with the College of Continuing Education, a mixed-media hybrid distance education version is currently offered. The coursework consists of 41-51 course units to meet EDCE requirements and 9 units of upper division coursework to meet the CSU general education and writing requirements.
•Individualized ConcentrationChild Development Individualized concentration is an interdisciplinary program made up of the core academic child development courses and 14–15 units of electives, from a wide variety of fields, such as education, art, public policy, nursing, or criminal justice, just to name a few. This major is flexible to allow students to design their program to closely align with personal and career objectives. The program handbook and Web site include a current list of approved electives. However, the students should select their electives in consultation with a major advisor.
•Elementary Pre-CredentialThe Child Development Concentration in Elementary Pre-credential is an academic child development program with an emphasis on preparing the student to enter an elementary school (multiple-subjects) teaching credential program. It consists of the core academic child development courses, 11 units of credential prerequisite courses, and 3 units of electives, chosen in coordination with a major advisor. Students who intend to pursue an elementary school (multiple subjects) teaching credential must take the CBEST exam and the CSET subject matter exam as a part of the admission requirements for the credential program. Child Development students planning to pursue the credential should work with a faculty advisor to select general education courses recommended as preparation for the CSET exam.
•Social and Community SettingsChild Development Concentration in Social and Community settings is appropriate for students interested in working with children and families in community, government, and social or therapeutic settings. Students complete the child development core academic courses, and choose 14–15 units of electives. These electives should be chosen in coordination with a major advisor to select courses and field-work in specific settings, or courses to prepare for application to a program for graduate study.
•Integrated Pre-Credential Subject Matter ProgramChild Development Integrated Pre-credential Subject Matter Program combines state-approved courses in the subject matter areas with the coursework of the Child Development academic major. This concentration is most appropriate for students who intend to pursue an elementary school (multiple subjects) teaching credential. Students who follow this option obtain an academic major in child development and also take subject matter coursework in six categories: Language and Literature; Mathematics; Natural and Physical Sciences; Social Sciences and Humanities; the Arts; and Physical Education. The coursework is aligned with the subject matter frameworks on which the CSET subject matter examinations are based. It is essential that students considering this concentration seek early and frequent advising within the major because the general university requirements are built into the required coursework. Students do not follow the general education pattern outlined in the catalog.
•Minor in Child DevelopmentA 20-unit minor in Child Development is available to students majoring in another area who wish to supplement their knowledge with a developmental background.
•Minor in CounselingThe Counseling minor is housed and administered by the Child Development Department in conjunction with the Counselor Education Department. The coursework for the minor consists of 10 upper division units in Child Development and 10 upper division units in Counselor Education. Students will critically examine the theory and research on social and emotional development, and specifically explore the role of the family context in developmental processes, with specific attention to dynamic family processes within the larger society. Students will explore the career of counseling, and the cultural, social, and emotional factors that contribute to unhealthy psychological adjustment and abnormal behavior within developmental and social contexts.
•Masters of Arts in – Child DevelopmentThe Child Development master's program has two concentrations—one that focuses on developmental theory and research, and one that focuses on applied and educational settings. Both programs require 33 units of academic work, and a culminating thesis, project, or examination.
Note: Child Development students should check the department Web site (http://edweb.csus.edu/chdv/) for updates to degree requirements and current issues related to child development. To plan for a timely graduation, students should meet with an advisor each semester. Students who wish to pursue an elementary school (multiple subjects) teaching credential should make an appointment with a child development faculty advisor in the Center for Teaching Majors (currently in Lassen Hall 2008). For information about teaching credential programs, go to Eureka Hall 216 or call (916) 278-6403. Students can also access information through the Web sites of the College of Education (http://edweb.csus.edu/) and Child Development Department (http://edweb.csus.edu/chdv).
Special Features
- The University's location in the State's capital city provides a variety of unique fieldwork, internship, cooperative learning, and part-time employment opportunities.
- The quality of instruction and the varying educational and professional backgrounds of the faculty provide a program which meets the diverse demands of the many career options available in this field.
- Students are given opportunities to observe and participate with children in a variety of settings in the community and on campus. Please contact the Department office for information about the service-learning, cooperative education, and other field-based experiences available.
- In addition, the program has at its disposal an excellent selection of books and journals in the Library and many films, video and audio tapes, and other media to implement and support instruction.
Requirements - Bachelor of Arts Degree - Child Development: Concentration - Early Development, Care, and Education (EDCE)
Units required for Major: 49-50
Minimum total units required for BA: 120
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
A. Required Foundation Courses (12 units)
(3) |
Human Development OR |
|
|
Child and Adolescent Development |
|
(3) |
Methods of Observation and Assessment in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
The Family and Social Issues |
B. Required Upper Division Core Courses (23 units)
Note: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in CHDV 123 or CHDV 133 is required for registration in required upper division core courses.
(3) |
Language Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Fieldwork in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently; for CHDV-Integrated, CHDV-Pre-credential, or Liberal Studies majors only CHDV 35F) |
|
(3) |
Crosscultural Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Developmental Experiences, Methods and Curriculum (Junior standing; CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently) OR |
|
| Family Communication (COMS 8, FACS 50, SOC 166, or instructor permission) | ||
(3) |
Cognitive Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137L) |
|
(1) |
Cognitive Development Research Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite; CHDV 137) |
|
(3) |
Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138L) |
|
(1) |
Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
|
(3) |
Issues in Parenting (CHDV 30, CHDV 35, or FACS 52 or instructor permission) |
*CHDV 137/L or CHDV 138/L should not be taken in the same semester.
C. Electives (14-15 units)
Students are required to select an additional 14-15 units of coursework from the appropriate list (List A) of approved electives. It is suggested that students work with a faculty advisor to select these courses.
Requirements - Bachelor of Arts Degree - Child Development: Concentration - Individualized
Units required for Major: 49-50
Minimum total units required for BA: 120
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
A. Required Foundation Courses (12 units)
| (3) |
Human Development OR |
|
|
Child and Adolescent Development |
|
(3) |
Methods of Observation and Assessment in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
The Family and Social Issues |
B. Required Upper Division Core Courses (23 units)
Note: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in CHDV 123 and CHDV 133 is required for registration in required upper division core courses.
(3) |
Language Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Fieldwork in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently; for CHDV-Integrated, CHDV-Pre-credential, or Liberal Studies majors only CHDV 35F) |
|
(3) |
Crosscultural Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Developmental Experiences, Methods and Curriculum (Junior standing; CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently) OR |
|
| Family Communication (COMS 8, FACS 50, SOC 166, or instructor permission) | ||
(3) |
Cognitive Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137L) |
|
(1) |
Cognitive Development Research Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137) |
|
(3) |
Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138L) |
|
(1) |
Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
|
(3) |
Issues in Parenting (CHDV 30, CHDV 35, or FACS 52 or instructor permission) |
*CHDV 137/L or CHDV 138/L should not be taken in the same semester.
C. Electives (14-15 units)
Electives must be chosen from all Electives Lists A, B, and C. It is suggested that students work with a faculty advisor to select these courses.
Requirements - Bachelor of Arts Degree - Child Development: Concentration - Elementary Pre-Credential
Units required for Major: 48
Minimum total units required for BA: 120
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
A. Required Foundation Courses (14 units)
(3) |
Child and Adolescent Development |
|
(2) |
Human Development and Elementary Field Experience (Completion of or concurrent enrollment in CHDV 35) |
|
(3) |
Methods of Observation and Assessment in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
The Family and Social Issues |
B. Required Upper Division Core Courses (20 units)
Note: Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in CHDV 123 or CHDV 133 is required for registration in required upper division core courses.
(3) |
Language Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Fieldwork in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently; for CHDV-Integrated, CHDV-Pre-credential, or Liberal Studies majors only CHDV 35F) |
|
(3) |
Crosscultural Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Developmental Experiences, Methods and Curriculum (Junior standing; CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Cognitive Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137L) |
|
(1) |
Cognitive Development Research Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137) |
|
(3) |
Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138L) |
|
(1) |
Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
|
| *CHDV 137/L or CHDV 138/L should not be taken in the same semester. | ||
C. Credential Requirements (11 units)
(3) |
Bilingual Education: Introduction to Educating English Learners |
|
(3) |
Education of Exceptional Children/Youth & Lab |
|
(2) |
School Health Education (CPR training; may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Movement Education |
D. Elective (3 units)
Students in the elementary pre-credential emphasis are required to select one course from the approved list of pre-credential electives (List B). It is suggested that students work with a faculty advisor to select this course and are strongly urged to select courses that will assist in preparation for the CSET examination.
Requirements - Bachelor of Arts Degree - Child Development: Concentration - Social and Community Settings
Units required for Major: 49-50
Minimum total units required for BA: 120
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
A. Required Foundation Courses (12 units)
(3) |
Human Development OR |
|
Child and Adolescent Development |
||
(3) |
Methods of Observation and Assessment in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
The Family and Social Issues |
B. Required Upper Division Core Courses (23 units)
Note: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in CHDV 123 or CHDV 133 is required for registration in required upper division core courses.
(3) |
Language Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Fieldwork in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently; for CHDV-Integrated, CHDV-Pre-credential, or Liberal Studies majors only CHDV 35F) |
|
(3) |
Crosscultural Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Developmental Experiences, Methods and Curriculum (Junior standing; CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently) OR |
|
| Family Communication (COMS 8, FACS 50, SOC 166, or instructor permission) | ||
(3) |
Cognitive Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137L) |
|
(1) |
Cognitive Development Research Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137) |
|
(3) |
Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite CHDV 138L) |
|
(1) |
Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
|
(3) |
Issues in Parenting (CHDV 30, CHDV 35, or FACS 52 or instructor permisison) |
*CHDV 137/L or CHDV 138/L should not be taken in the same semester.
C. Electives (14-15 units)
Students are required to select an additional 14-15 units of coursework from the appropriate list of approved electives (List C). It is suggested that students work with a faculty advisor to select these courses.
Requirements - Bachelor of Arts - Child Development: Concentration - Integrated Pre-Credential Subject Matter Program
Units required for Major: 111-114
Minimum total units required for BA: 120
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
Students transferring credit from other institutions must submit unofficial copies of all transcripts to the Child Development Office in Brighton Hall 135, or mail to: Child Development Department, California State University, Sacramento, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6139. Please see a Child Development Advisor for a review of transcripts and transfer credit evaluation.
A. Core Requirements/Child Development (34 units)
(3) |
Child and Adolescent Development |
|
(2) |
Human Development and Elementary Field Experience (Completion of or concurrent enrollment in CHDV 35) |
|
(3) |
Methods of Observation and Assessment in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Language Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Fieldwork in Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently; for CHDV-Integrated, CHDV-Pre-credential, or Liberal Studies majors CHDV 35F) |
|
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Crosscultural Child Development (CHVD 30 or CHVD 35 and CHVD 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Developmental Experiences, Methods and Curriculum (Junior standing; CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 123; CHDV 123 may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Cognitive Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137L) |
|
(1) |
Cognitive Development Research Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137) |
|
(3) |
Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138L) |
|
(1) |
Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
|
| (3) Select one of the following: | ||
American Indigenous Families: Issues and Perspectives |
||
Asian American Families: Issues and Perspectives |
||
The Black Family in the U.S. |
||
The Family and Social Issues |
||
*CHDV 137/L or CHDV 138/L should not be taken in the same semester.
B. Credential Requirements/Prerequisites (11 units)
(3) |
Bilingual Education: Introduction to Educating English Learners |
|
(3) |
Education of Exceptional Children/Youth & Lab |
|
(2) |
School Health Education (CPR training; may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Movement Education |
C. Language and Literature (12-15 units)
(3) |
The Communication Experience |
|
(3) |
College Composition (EPT score of 148+ or above, or completion of ENGL 1) |
|
(3) |
College Composition II (ENGL 1A or ENGL 2 or equivalent with a grade C- or better; sophomore standing) |
|
(3) |
Children's Literary Classics (GWAR Certification before Fall 09, or WPJ score of 70+, or at least a C- in ENGL 109M/W) OR |
|
(3) |
Literature for Children (Must have Junior or higher standing to enroll in this course) |
|
| (3) Select one of the following: | ||
|
Argumentation |
|
|
Critical Thinking and Writing (Grade of C- or better in ENGL 1A) |
|
Environmental Issues and Critical Thinking |
||
|
Mass Media and Critical Thinking |
|
|
Critical Thinking |
|
|
Scientific Thinking in Psychology |
|
|
Sense and Nonsense in Social Issues and Research |
|
*ENGL 20 may be satisfied with an ENGL 1C course, or its equivalent, if transferred from an approved community college.
D. Mathematics (9 units)
(3) |
An Introduction to Exploration, Conjecture and Proof in Mathematics (MATH 9 or three years high school math including two years algebra and one year geometry; completion of ELM requirement and Intermediate Algebra diagnostic test) |
|
(3) |
Fundamental Mathematical Concepts (MATH 17 and passing score on the Intermediate Algebra Diagnostic Test) |
|
(3) |
Fundamental Mathematical Concepts (MATH 107A) |
E. Natural and Physical Sciences (15 units)
(4) |
Introduction to the Science of Biology |
|
(3) |
Chemical Concepts (GEOL 8 or BIO 7, ENGL 20 or an equivalent second semester composition course) |
|
(3) |
GEOL 8 | Earth Science |
(1) |
Earth Science Lab for Teachers (GEOL 8; may be taken concurrently) |
|
(4) |
Conceptual Physics and Scientific Inquiry (BIO 7, CHEM 106, GEOL 8, MATH 17) |
F. Social Sciences and Humanities (21 units)
(3) |
Ethnic America (GWAR Certification before Fall 09, or WPJ score of 80+, or C or higher grade in ENGL 109M/W, or C- grade in ENGL 109M/W or WPJ score 70/71 and ENGL 109X co-requisite) |
|
(3) |
Themes in World Geography |
|
(3) |
Essentials of Government |
|
(3) |
United States History, 1607-1877 |
|
(3) |
World Civilizations, Beginnings -1600 |
|
(3) |
Topics in World History (HIST 50) |
|
(3) |
Topics in United States History 1600-1900 (HIST 17A) OR |
|
Introduction to the United States Economy |
*Satisfies the Writing Intensive course requirement for graduation.
G. Visual/Performing Arts (9 units)
(3) |
Understanding and Creating Art (Upper division status; declared major in Child Development, Liberal Studies, or Blended Liberal Studies) |
|
(3) |
Experiences in Music |
|
| (3) | Children's Theatre |
- A grade of "C-" or higher is required for all coursework in Child Development courses.
- Students are strongly recommended to see an advisor early in the program and continuously throughout the program.
- Biology Requirement - as a program requisite, all Child Development majors are required to complete a general biology course as part of their General Education Area B2 prior to completion of the degree.
Requirements - Minor - Child Development
Total units required for Minor: 20
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
Specific course requirements are:
(3) |
Human Development OR |
|
Child and Adolescent Development |
||
(3) |
Language Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be may be taken concurrently) |
|
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Cognitive Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137L) |
|
(1) |
Cognitive Development Research Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137) |
|
(3) |
Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138L) |
|
(1) |
Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
(3) Elective - Selected from list of
approved electives in the Child Development Handbook available from
Child Development advisors.
*CHDV 137/L and CHDV 138/L may not be taken in the same semester.
Requirements - Minor - Counseling
Total units required for Minor: 20
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
Specific course requirements are:
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
| (3) | CHDV 135 | Crosscultural Child Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; CHDV 133 may be taken concurrently) |
(3) |
Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138L) |
|
(1) |
Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
|
(3) |
Introduction to Counseling |
|
(4) |
Power, Privilege and Self Identity in Counseling |
|
(3) |
Child and Family Psychopathology (CHDV 30, CHDV 35, or PSYC 2) |
Note: Students majoring in Childhood Development and in the Counseling minor may overlap a maximum of 10 units (including electives) between the minor and major. Consult with a Child Development advisor for more information.
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
The Master of Arts in Child Development option offers an opportunity for the advanced study of developmental theory and research in preparation for a wide range of professional objectives. The MA in Child Development option emphasizes scholarly reflection on developmental issues, and academic excellence in oral and written communication. The program faculty values academic scholarship and research, and regards their application in professional settings as central to the mission of the MA program. Graduates of the program are expected to be well educated, lifelong learners, with excellent preparation in research, theory and practice in diverse, multicultural settings.
The MA program prepares graduates for professional employment in a variety of settings, including working directly with infants, children and their families, teaching at the community college level, and preparing for additional study toward a doctoral degree in child development or a related field. The program incorporates the following areas of study: educational developmental research and theory; cognitive, linguistic and social, and emotional development of children; social, and cultural and familial influences on development; children with behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and academic special needs and their families; programming and curricula development; principles and practices involved in organizing, administering, and evaluating child development programs.
Two different concentrations are offered in the MA in Child Development option program: Theory and Research and Applied Settings. The concentration in Theory and Research is designed to provide an in-depth study of theories of child development, how they inform our research, and how new research informs our theories. This concentration is intended for students interested in pursuing careers in research or teaching or a higher degree in child development or a related discipline. The concentration in Applied Settings is designed to provide background in theory and research regarding child development, with a focus on how this information applies to real-world settings (e.g., education, social work, policy development). This concentration is intended for students interested in pursuing careers working with children or programs that serve children and families.
For further information please see the Graduate Handbook available in the Child Development Office, Brighton Hall 135, or check the Child Development Web site (http://edweb.csus.edu/chdv).
Admission Requirements
Admission as a classified graduate student in the Master of Arts in Child Development option requires:
- Child/Human Development BA or a closely related field, Liberal Studies BA, or teaching credential. Some applicants may be admitted with the condition that certain specified foundation courses be completed before beginning the requirements for the ECE program;
- minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 units completed;
- experience in programs serving children from infancy through primary grades;
- passed the Writing Placement for Juniors (WPJ) or secured approval for a WPJ waiver;
- well-written, clearly articulated, statement of the applicant's educational and professional background and an explanation of how graduate study will advance the applicant's professional goals.
Opportunity exists for conditional classification of applicants with an undergraduate major and experiences different from those listed above. Students who do not meet the minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 semester units completed may request special consideration by the faculty program committee. This requires that students demonstrate convincingly that they are competent to pursue the degree. Coursework in Child Development may be a condition of admission.
Admission Procedures
Applications are accepted as long as room for new students exists. However, students are required to apply by March 1 for the following fall enrollment or October 1 for the following spring enrollment. These are firm deadlines. Applications received after March 1 for fall enrollment or October 1 for spring enrollment will be returned to applicant.
All prospective graduate students, including Sacramento State graduates, must file a University application and a separate supplemental application. Both applications must be submitted to their respective locations and completed by the deadlines stated above. Specifically, the University application, available from the Child Development Department, must be filed with the Sacramento State Office of Graduate Studies, River Front Center 206, (916) 278-6470, and includes:
- an online application for admission; and
- two sets of official transcripts from all college and universities attended, other than Sacramento State.
The supplemental application, available from the Child Development Department and Web site, must be submitted to the Graduate Coordinator, Brighton Hall 135, (916) 278-7192, and includes:
- a supplemental application for admission;
- two letters of reference;
- copies of transcripts; and
- a personal statement.
Details about each of the components of the supplemental application can be found on the application.
Approximately six weeks after receipt of all items listed above, a decision regarding admission will be mailed to the applicant. Application forms and information can be obtained in the Child Development Department Office.
Advancement to Candidacy Procedures
Each student must file an application for Advancement to Candidacy indicating a proposed program of graduate study. This procedure should begin as soon as the classified graduate student has:
- removed any deficiencies in admission requirements;
- completed at least 12 units of courses in the graduate program (see Requirements) with a minimum 3.0 GPA; and
-
taken the Writing Placement for Graduate Students (WPG) or taken a Graduate Writing Intensive (GWI) course in their discipline within the first two semesters of coursework at California State University, Sacramento or secured approval for a WPG waiver.
Advancement to Candidacy forms are available in the Office of Graduate Studies or the department office. The student fills out the form after planning a degree program in consultation with a program faculty advisor. The form must be submitted to the Child Development Department office and the Office of Graduate Studies for approval.
Project/Thesis or Examination Registration
The approved Master's Thesis/Project format guide is the American Psychological Association (APA) - latest edition. Enrollment in CHDV 504 Project/Thesis course or CHDV 505 Culminating Experience: CHDV Exam require that the student file an Intent to Register form at least one full semester in advance of registration in these courses. The Intent to Register form must be signed by the student's faculty sponsor, and is due by March 15 for fall semester enrollment and by October 15 for spring semester enrollment. For students intending to complete a project or thesis, a petition must be approved prior to beginning the project or thesis. The petition requires approval from the thesis/project sponsor and from the Child Development Department Chair. Please see your list of deadlines or consult with a program advisor.
Check in the Department office for the policies regarding Report in Progress ("RP") grades and continuous enrollment.
Graduation
Prior to graduation, an application for graduation must be filed in the Office of Graduate Studies. In addition, all coursework leading to the Master's degree must be completed within a seven-year period.
Requirements - Master of Arts in: Child Development - Concentration - Applied Settings
Units required for the MA: 33
Minimum required GPA: 3.0
No units with a grade lower than "C" may apply toward the degree.
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
Pre or Corequisites (7 units)
|
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35; completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Cognitive Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137L) |
|
(1) |
Cognitive Development Research Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137) OR |
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Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138L) |
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Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
*CHDV 137/L and CHDV 138/L should not be taken in the same semester.
A. Required Foundation Courses (12 units)
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(2) |
Proseminar in Child Development (Admission to Child Development MA program or instructor permission; Corequisite: CHDV 200B) |
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(1) |
Analytical Strategies (Admission to Child Development MA program or instructor permission; Corequisite: CHDV 200A) |
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(3) |
Theoretical Approaches to Child Development (Graduate standing or instructor permission) |
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(3) |
Theoretical and Applied Perspectives on Cross-cultural Development (CHDV 242; graduate standing or instructor permission) |
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(3) |
Research Methods (CHDV 200A and CHDV 200B; admission to the MA program or instructor permission) |
B. Core Course Requirements (9 units)
(9) Select three of the following: |
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Seminar in Social Development |
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Seminar in Cognitive Development (Admission to MA program or instructor permission) |
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Selected Topics in Applied and Community Settings (Admission to MA program or instructor permission) |
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Motivation and Learning in Children (Graduate standing or instructor permission) |
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Curriculum and Instruction (Graduate standing or instructor permission) |
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Language Processes in Development (Admission to MA program or instructor permission) |
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Apprenticeship in Advanced Child Development (Instructor permission) |
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Qualitative Research Methods (CHDV 133, graduate standing, or instructor permission) |
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Practicum in Child Development (Graduate standing or instructor permission) |
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Issues in Early Childhood Education for Children with Disabilities |
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C. Elective (6 units)
(6) Choose 6 units in consultation with an advisor.
D. Culminating Requirement (6 units)
Thesis or Project (6 units): CHDV 290* Seminar for Culminating Experience (Advancement to candidacy, completion of at least 20 units of coursework toward the Master of Arts; instructor permission); AND CHDV 504: Culminating Experience: CHDV Thesis or Project (Admission to MA, Child Development program or instructor permission).
Exam (6 units): CHDV 292 Culminating Seminar for Exam (Completion of all foundation course requirements for MA program CHDV 200A, CHDV 200B, CHDV 242, CHDV 247, CHDV 250, advancement to candidacy or instructor permission); AND CHDV 505 Culminating Experience: CHDV Exam (Admission to and completion of all course requirements for the MA, Child Development program, CHDV 292 or instructor permission).
Note: Credit for CHDV 504 is given upon completion of a thesis, project, or other approved culminating experience. Open only to the graduate student who has been advanced to candidacy for the master's degree and has secured the permission of his/her faculty advisor and the Department Chair one full semester prior to registration. All forms may be obtained in the Department office.
*May be fulfilled by enrollment in the equivalent course offered through another department in the College of Education. However, students are advised to enroll in the Child Development sections if possible.
Requirements - Master of Arts in: Child Development - Concentration - Theory And Research
Units required for the MA: 33
Minimum required GPA: 3.0
No units with a grade lower than "C" may apply toward the degree.
Courses in parentheses are prerequisites.
Pre or Corequisites (7 units)|
(3) |
Research in Human Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35, completion of 45 total units) |
|
(3) |
Cognitive Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137L) |
|
(1) |
Cognitive Development Research Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 137) OR |
|
Social and Emotional Development (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138L) |
||
Social and Emotional Development Lab (CHDV 30 or CHDV 35 and CHDV 133; Corequisite: CHDV 138) |
*CHDV 137/L and CHDV 138/L should not be taken in the same semester.
A. Required Foundation Courses (12 units)
(2) |
Proseminar in Child Development (Admission to Child Development MA program or instructor permission; Corequisite: CHDV 200B) |
|
(1) |
Analytical Strategies (Admission to Child Development MA program or instructor permission; Corequisite: CHDV 200A) |
|
(3) |
Theoretical Approaches to Child Development (Graduate standing or instructor permission) |
|
(3) |
Theoretical and Applied Perspectives on Cross-cultural Development (CHDV 242; graduate standing or instructor permission) |
|
(3) |
Research Methods (CHDV 200A and CHDV 200B, admission to the MA program or instructor permission) |
B. Core Course Requirements (9 units)
| (9) Select three of the following: | ||
Seminar in Social Development |
||
Seminar in Cognitive Development (Admission to MA program or instructor permission) |
||
Selected Topics in Developmental Theory (Admission to MA program or instructor permission) |
||
Motivation and Learning in Children (Graduate standing or instructor permission) |
||
Language Processes In Development (Admission to MA program or instructor permission) |
||
Apprenticeship in Advanced Child Development (Instructor permission) |
||
Qualitative Research Methods (CHDV 133, graduate standing, or instructor permission) |
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Special Problems (Open only to upper division and graduate students with consent of faculty advisor and Department Chair) |
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C. Elective (6 units) | ||
(6) |
Choose 6 units in consultation with an advisor. |
|
D. Culminating Requirement (6 units)
Thesis or Project (6 units): CHDV 290* Seminar for Culminating Experience (Advancement to candidacy, completion of at least 20 units of coursework toward the Master of Arts; instructor permission); AND CHDV 504: Culminating Experience: CHDV Thesis or Project (Admission to MA, Child Development program or instructor permission).
Exam (6 units): CHDV 292 Culminating Seminar for Exam Option (CHDV 200A, CHDV 200B, CHDV 242, CHDV 247, CHDV 250 advancement to candidacy, or instructor permission) AND CHDV 505 Culminating Experience: CHDV Exam (Admission to and completion of all course requirements for the MA, Child Development program, CHDV 292 or instructor permission).
Note: Credit for CHDV 504 is given upon completion of a thesis, project, or other approved culminating experience. Open only to the graduate student who has been advanced to candidacy for the master's degree and has secured the permission of his/her faculty advisor and the Department Chair one full semester prior to registration. All forms may be obtained in the Department office.
*May be fulfilled by enrollment in the equivalent course offered through another department in the College of Education. However, students are advised to enroll in the Child Development sections if possible.
Career Possibilities
Please note that many of the career possibilities listed below require additional education beyond the baccalaureate degree.
Adoption Counselor · Before and After School Teacher/Director · Child Life Specialist · Community College Instructor · Counselor with a choice of specializations - Career, Community, Marriage, Family and Child, or School – with the addition of MS in Counseling · Early Childhood Special Education Specialist – with addition of ECSE Credential · Elementary School Teacher – with addition of Multiple Subjects Credential · Employer-Sponsored Child Care Teacher/Director · Infant Day Care Teacher / Director · Parent Education Instructor · Pediatric Psychologist · Preschool Teacher or Administrator – with Child Development Permit · Resource and Referral Coordinator · Social Worker
Faculty
Kristen Weede Alexander, Melina Bersamin, Christi Cervantes, Karen Davis-O'Hara, Ana Garcia-Nevarez, Susan Gomez, Kimberly Gordon-Biddle, Sheri Hembree, Karen Horobin, Juliana Raskauskas, Lynda Stone, Li-Ling Sun
Contact Information
Karen Davis O'Hara, Department Chair
Vacant, Administrative Support Coordinator
(916) 278-3788
CeCe Krek, Administrative Support Assistant
Brighton Hall 137
(916) 278-7192; FAX: (916) 278-3348
edweb.csus.edu/chdv/
Teacher Preparation
Eureka Hall 216
(916) 278-6403
edweb.csus.edu/tpac