The University of La Verne’s Undergraduate Child Development Program provides candidates with the confidence, education, knowledge, and skills needed to succeed. Continued education is essential in assuming leadership roles in curriculum planning, staff development, and administrative assignments.

The Child Development Major is designed for students planning careers in early childhood education in public or private schools, and/or social service agencies working with infants through age 8.  It focuses on studies of the growth and development of children in relation to the family, school, and community. Continued education is essential in assuming leadership roles in curriculum planning, staff development, and administrative assignments.

To provide maximum convenience and flexibility, the program is available online in addition to our La Verne and Santa Clarita campuses.

La Verne’s Child Development Program is a leader in educating students in the dynamic integration of theory, research, and practice in early childhood education. Our Program Learning Outcomes align with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards. Faculty and students are committed to the following core concepts as the basis of excellence in the field of child development:

• caring relationships are the foundation of healthy human development;
• lifelong learning is the cornerstone of excellence in teaching; and
• celebrating diversity enriches and strengthens individuals, families, and communities.

Benefits of La Verne’s Bachelor’s in Child Development

This program focuses on studies of the growth and development of children in relation to the family, school and community. The University of La Verne’s Child Development Major complements community college programs in Early Childhood Education.

• Ideal for candidates interested in teaching preschool through second grade, or working with infants and toddlers in other professional settings, such as community and social service agencies pertaining to children and families (e.g., adoption, child abuse prevention, licensing, foster care, parks and recreation, and developmental services)
• Associate’s Degree not required to enter our program
• Accelerated program (10-week terms)
• Small classes ensure personal attention
• Evening/Weekend classes delivered at various venues (agencies, community colleges, and La Verne regional campuses)
• Pre-planned course schedule through graduation
• Graduates are eligible for the Child Development Site Supervisor Permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
• Graduates with a 3.0 GPA or better meet the initial admission criteria for La Verne’s Master of Science in Child Development Program
• Graduates with a 2.75 GPA or better meet initial admission criteria for La Verne’s Teaching Credential/Master of Education Program