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Child and Adolescent Development

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Create a better, happier future

Childhood and adolescent development is about helping youth grow and thrive. At MVC, you'll learn how adolescent minds develop, how to facilitate and advocate for healthy social structures and support systems, address common youth-centric issues and struggles, and create a world where kids are more likely to grow up with the resources they need to be happy and healthy. Plus, MVC sets you up to transfer to a university to pursue further study in a related field, from social work and therapy to research and public policy.

Programs of Study

  • A
    Associate Degree
  • T
    Transfer Degree
  • C
    Credit Certificate
  • N
    Non-Credit
  • Limited Enrollment
    Limited Enrollment
  • Online Options Available
    Online Options

Child and Adolescent Development for Transfer

Associate in Arts for Transfer

  • A
  • T
  • Online Options Available

The Child and Adolescent Development degree for transfer offers lower division coursework examining classical and contemporary research that promotes positive developmental outcomes spanning conception though emerging adulthood. This option of study is intended for students who aspire to careers in developmental research, public policy, social work, school psychology, and similar fields.

This program facilitates passage to the California State University System by satisfying the lower division requirements for a baccalaureate degree in Child and Adolescent Development; Human Development (Adolescent Option, Childhood Option, Children’s Services); or a major deemed similar at a CSU campus.

Program Code

MAA885/MAA886

Units

18 - 21 Units

View Required Classes

Why study child and adolescent development?

Pursuing studies in child and adolescent development offers a profound opportunity to understand and shape the future of society's most precious resource—our youth. You'll be able to make a positive impact on education, mental health, and social policy, and you'll learn the skills necessary to nurture healthier, happier generations to come.

What You'll Learn

  • An understanding of the perspectives, theories, research methods, and core concepts of child development as an area of scientific inquiry.

  • How socialization and culture impact the lives of children and families.

  • Understanding of contemporary childhood issues in a global context.

Career Options

Child and adolescent development leads to a diverse set of careers based on your education level and area of specialization. Possible fields include:

  • Social work
  • Teaching and educational administration
  • Developmental research
  • Public policy
  • School, youth and family psychology
  • Pediatric healthcare
  • Non-profit advocacy

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