Child Development
Program Length
2 years
64 credit hours
Degrees Offered
Associate’s Degree
Learning Experiences
Hybrid
Associate of Arts in Child Development
Our A.A. in Liberal Arts and Sciences degree curriculum* with a Child Development concentration gives you a strong base of knowledge in English, mathematics, science, and history while also providing key bilingual courses that are designed for students who are interested in professions involving children, giving you the experience of a liberal arts education with the technical skills of a child development associate degree, all within a curriculum that works for traditional and nontraditional students alike.
The major provides the scientific base for understanding development from birth through adolescence. The Child Development concentration is an excellent foundation for continuing your studies, especially if you are a student who is also working full-time, with a Bachelor’s Degree in education and/or human services. By pursuing a child development concentrated degree with a dual language education you can help human development in early childhood.
*The general education core for this degree complies with the guidelines of the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI)
Road to Working in the Chicago Public School System
Earning your Associate of Arts in Child Development from St. Íøºì±¬ÁÏ could be your gateway to an enriching career within the Chicago Public School System (CPS), one of the nation’s largest and most dynamic school districts. With CPS encompassing over 500 public elementary and secondary schools and more than 100 charter schools, the opportunities for making a significant impact in education are vast.
While the Associate’s degree in Child Development provides a foundational understanding of child development principles and educational practices, it also positions you well for the next steps should you decide to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. This progression is critical for those aspiring to become qualified teachers within CPS. Upon completing your bachelor’s degree, you’ll be equipped to navigate the teacher preparation program and fulfill the requirements to demonstrate your skills and subject matter knowledge.
The journey from an A.A. in Child Development to a career in the Chicago Public Schools involves further education and certification, but it starts with the education you receive at St. Íøºì±¬ÁÏ. Graduates interested in this path will find valuable resources and application portals through the , streamlining the transition from education to employment in this esteemed school district.
Choose Your Path in Child Development
Our Associate’s degree in Child Development within the Associates of Arts (A.A.) program provides a curriculum that paves the way to a variety of child development jobs. This program equips you with a deep understanding of child development theories and practical skills necessary for roles in various settings, including private or federally-funded preschools, child-care centers, home-based programs, family child-care homes, or nursery schools.
Amid the growing demand for child development jobs across the country, our Child Development Associate degree program offers you the flexibility to carve out a career that aligns with your aspirations.
How to ApplyÂ
To apply, follow these steps:Â
- Complete the online application through our Admissions Portal.Â
- Submit your transcripts from high school or previous colleges attended.Â
- Provide proof of residency or citizenship, if applicable.Â
- Meet with an academic advisor to discuss your goals and create your educational plan.Â
Once your application is complete, an advisor will contact you to finalize enrollment and prepare you for orientation. Whether you’re pursuing your Child Development Associate certification or continuing toward a full associate degree, St. Augustine makes the process clear, supportive, and designed for your success.Â
Certifications and CredentialingÂ
A core credential in early childhood education is the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. It is one of the most widely recognized credentials in the U.S. and validates that educators possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for high-quality care of children from birth to age five.Â
To earn a CDA, candidates must complete 120 hours of formal ECE training, accumulate 480 hours of supervised experience, compile a professional portfolio, undergo a verification visit, and pass an exam. The St. Augustine Child Development program aligns its curriculum with CDA core competency standards, helping students meet these benchmarks as they progress toward certification.Â
Impact and Community Partnerships
St. Íøºì±¬ÁÏ maintains deep roots in the Chicago area through a network of institutional and community partnerships designed to support students and neighborhoods. These include collaborations with organizations such as ASPIRA, the Alternative School Network (ASN), Metropolitan Family Services, and other local nonprofit entities. Through these alliances, students in the Child Development program often engage in field placements, community workshops, or service learning in nearby early education centers and family support programs.Â
Beyond training, these partnerships amplify impact: St. Augustine leads initiatives like the Connecting Minority Communities Pilot Program, a $2.6 million grant project aimed at reducing digital inequities and building durable community support systems. This kind of work allows students to gain real-world experience while making tangible contributions to Chicago neighborhoods.
Empowered for Success
By completing the A.A. in Child Development concentration*, you are set to:
- Master the essential principles of childhood development.
- Recognize the importance of collaborative relationships with children’s families and communities for effective early childhood education.
- Acquire skills to observe, document, and assess young children and their families accurately.
- Implement developmentally appropriate teaching strategies and tools.
*This program’s general education core adheres to the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) guidelines, ensuring a recognized and respected education foundation.
Learn More
What Can You Do With A Child Development Degree?
Earning an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences with a concentration in Child Development from St. Íøºì±¬ÁÏ can provide a stable and fulfilling career path in early childhood education. The program equips students with a deep understanding of child development theories and practical skills necessary for roles in various settings, including private or federally-funded preschools, child-care centers, home-based programs, family child-care homes, or nursery schools. With the growing demand for child development professionals across the country, this degree offers the flexibility to carve out a career that aligns with individual aspirations. Graduates are prepared to master essential principles of childhood development, recognize the importance of collaborative relationships with children’s families and communities, and implement developmentally appropriate teaching strategies. This strong foundation not only opens doors to immediate employment opportunities but also serves as a stepping stone for further education and career advancement in the field of early childhood education.
Daycare Provider
Providing supervision for children, a daycare provider is responsible for the safety and well-being of young children. Using the skills and knowledge of a child development major, a daycare provider sets up lesson plans, prepares meals, and might even help children with their homework.
Youth Sports Coach
Teaching sports to children, a youth sports coach ensures students are learning valuable skills, such as coordination, communication, and getting along with others, both from your team and the opposition. A youth sports coach helps set up crucial lessons they’ll take throughout their life, like teamwork, cooperation, and sportsmanship.
Occupational Therapist
With the foundation of SAC’s child development associate degree, students can go on to get a graduate school degree and become an occupational therapists. Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who treat injured patients through the therapeutic use of everyday activities.
Reading Specialist
With a child development associate degree, a reading specialist can help children struggling with reading comprehension. As a specialized teacher, a reading specialist can teach children from K-12 with advanced reading techniques to give students the attention they need to succeed.
Special Education Paraprofessional
An educational worker works individually with students who have special needs or in group settings. While they don’t need a teacher’s license, a special education paraprofessional is an essential part of the school, helping both teachers and students.
Afterschool Director
Responsible for program planning throughout the school year and during the summer break, the after-school director coordinates with teachers and parents to plan activities and curate a curriculum that helps pursue human development in early childhood.
