COURSE CURRICULUM

The Child and Adolescent Development (ChAD) degree is a 120-unit program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in developmental science, focusing on the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth of children and adolescents. The curriculum combines general education, lower-division preparation, upper-division core coursework, specialization options, and elective or minor requirements to create a well-rounded academic experience. Students begin with foundational courses in child development, lifespan development in a global context, introductory psychology, and quantitative analysis or statistics, which build essential knowledge in human development and research methods. The upper-division core expands this foundation through advanced study in research methods, social and emotional development, cognitive development, risk and resilience, and motivation in educational settings, along with a senior seminar that integrates learning across the program. Writing and communication skills are reinforced through a writing-in-the-discipline course focused on developmental science. Students then select a specialization in either Early Childhood or Community Focus. The Early Childhood track emphasizes language development, early childhood curriculum, infant and toddler development, practicum experiences, and program administration, preparing students for careers in early education and childcare settings. The Community Focus track emphasizes program evaluation, youth engagement, organizational management, and field-based practicum experiences, preparing students for roles in community organizations and youth services. Across both pathways, students explore critical issues in child and adolescent development, allowing deeper engagement with topics affecting young populations. The program encourages experiential learning through practicum courses that connect theory to real-world practice. With 30 units allocated to electives or a minor, students have flexibility to broaden their academic and career preparation. Overall, the degree equips graduates with theoretical knowledge, research skills, and applied experience for careers in education, community services, childcare, and related fields, as well as for graduate study in developmental psychology and education.