CHILD DEVELOPMENT FAQ

1. Do I need a degree or certificate to work in the field of early childhood?

You do not need a Pierce College certificate to work in preschool. You need units. Private and Public Funded programs: California State Law (Title 22) requires that anyone working with children under the age of five years old must have a minimum of 12 units of Child Development. The recommended courses are: Child Growth & Development (CD 1), Home, School & Community Relations (CD 11), Early Childhood Principles and Practices (CD 2), and Curium (CD7). Public Funded Programs: California State Law (Title 5) requires that anyone working in a publicly funded early childhood program must hold a Child Development Permit. The Child Development Permit is required for early childhood teachers. The Permit is not issued at Pierce College. It issued through the California Department of Education, Commission on Teacher Credentialing. However, all of the courses you need to complete the requirements for a CD Permit are available at Pierce College.

2. What is the difference between the Child Development Certificates offered at Pierce College and the Child Development Permit?

Certificates: Pierce College offers several CD Certificates. Certificates document that a student has completed a particular program of study. Pierce College CD Certificates are NOT required for employment. Licensing requires units (see above). The Occupational Certificates award the student with a “Certificate of Completion.” These include Teacher (30-32 units) and Associate Teacher (24-25 units). These are intended for students who do not plan to receive an AA degree, but would like an in-depth knowledge of Child Development. Students can also receive a “Certificate of Achievement” (12 and 15 units) which include Preschool Teacher, Preschool Director, Infant Care Teacher, School Age Teacher. Please note: Private preschools do not require certificates; however, they do require Child Development/ECE units (see question #1). Certificates are a good way to enhance a resume by showing academic and professional progress and dedication; certificates are not required to work in the field. Pierce College Certificates are not linked to a teaching credential or credentials in the field. Child Development Permit: Teachers and Aides must hold a Child Development Permit to be eligible for teaching or administration positions funded by California Department of Education, Child Development Division (Title 5). Title 5 programs include public preschools such as LAUSD, Head Start, LAUP, and State preschool programs. Please refer to the Child Development Permit Matrix'' for more information.

3. Once I have completed the courses needed for a certificate, where do I apply for a certificate?

You must complete the required courses with a grade of“C” or better. To apply for a certificate, please go to the Pierce College Graduation Office located next to Admissions and Records to pick up an application.