Child Development and Family Studies, A.A.S.

Shape Futures. Support Families.

If you’re passionate about working with young children and supporting families, this program will help you turn that passion into a career. The Child Development and Family Studies A.A.S. degree prepares you for direct work in early learning environments, family support programs, and school settings. 

You'll explore how children grow, learn, and thrive—while gaining hands-on experience through observation and fieldwork. Whether you're preparing for immediate employment or planning to continue toward a bachelor's degree, this program lays the foundation for meaningful work in early childhood care and education. 

Reading time with children

 

What You'll Learn

  • Understand child development from birth through early childhood 
  • Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences 
  • Observe and assess children’s behavior in learning settings 
  • Explore family dynamics and how to build inclusive partnerships 
  • Promote safe, healthy, and supportive environments for young children 

Program Requirements

This associate degree includes 60–61 credits and can be completed in four semesters of full-time study. You’ll take courses in psychology, early childhood education, language and literacy, diversity, and family systems. 

Visit the academic catalog for a full list of required courses by semester:

View Curriculum

Job Market Outlook

View real-time career data and explore where this program can take you. You can change the region or salary level to match your goals. 

Where This Degree Can Take You

This program prepares you for early childhood roles in preschool and daycare settings, and it’s a great first step toward careers in education, social work, or family support services with further study. 

Graduates are prepared for roles such as: 

  • Preschool or daycare teacher 
  • Teacher assistant or paraprofessional 
  • Childcare center staff member 
  • Family support aide

With continued education, you could become a: 

  • Caseworker 
  • School psychologist 
  • Family therapist 
  • Residential counselor 

  • Early learning centers and preschools 
  • Private and public schools 
  • Head Start or pre-K programs 
  • Family support or community service agencies 
  • Residential or therapeutic youth programs 

 

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