Administration in Early Childhood Education
Certificate School of Education · Merced College · 2026-2027 Catalog
The Merced College Child Development Department offers students classes and training to meet California requirements for credentials and licenses, as well as an Associate of Arts in Child Development (AA) degree and an Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education for Transfer (AS-T in ECE) degree. Preparation includes transfer level courses with several that meet general education requirements and Certificates of Achievement. Throughout all courses, students are trained culturally sensitive and family-focused perspectives that emphasize the value of individual differences in your children. The Child Development Department works closely with many community programs to meet the specific needs of the early care and education workforce.
Students are strongly encouraged to transfer to a 4-year college or university. In several courses, students are given information about pursuing their bachelor, masters, and doctorate degrees. In particular classes, information, materials, and workshops on the California Teaching Credential Child Development Permit Matrix are shared. The permit matrix covers entry level positions through a master’s degree option. To increase the likelihood that students will transfer, students are required to develop an education plan with a counselor. Increasing numbers of our students are transferring to pursue degrees in child development, liberal studies, and other related fields.
Students must take the following classes designated below to complete a 32 unit certificate of Achievement.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
A. Demonstrate knowledge of high quality developmentally appropriate practices.
B. Identify the various theoretical frameworks and domains associated with typical and atypical development.
C. Formulate effective strategies that empower families and community.
D. Construct personal philosophy regarding professionalism and best practices in child development.
Program Requirements:
Program Core: (32 Units)
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| CLDV-01 | Child Growth and Development | 3 |
| CLDV-02 | Child, Family and Community | 3 |
| CLDV-03 | Principles and Practices of Teaching Young Children | 3 |
| CLDV-04L | Observation and Assessment Practicum | 3 |
| CLDV-05 | Health, Safety and Nutrition | 3 |
| CLDV-06 | Embracing Diversity in Education | 3 |
| CLDV-07 | Introduction to Curriculum for the Young Child | 3 |
| CLDV-07L | Practicum | 3 |
| CLDV-34A | Administration I: Programs in Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| CLDV-34B | Administration and Supervision of ECE Programs: Part B | 3 |
| CLDV-37 | Adult Supervision and Mentoring in Early Care and Education | 2 |
| Total | 32 | |
Early Childhood Education (AS-T)
Elementary Teacher Education (AA-T)
Child Development (AA)
Early Intervention Assistant Specialization (CT)
Families In Crisis Specialization (CT)
Infant/Toddler Care (CT)
School-Age Care Specialization (CT)