# Associate Teacher (Certificate of Proficiency)

Merritt College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Child Development

Source: https://mc.curriqunet.com/catalog/iq/48441/48769/49120/49121/49128/49243/49245

##### Program Description

The Associate Teacher certificate of proficiency program is designed to prepare students for entry-level work in public or private childcare facilities. The Child Development program includes diverse topics covering family diversity, multicultural education, special education, infants/toddlers, home-based care, and family child care. This option under the Child Development program focuses on introductory skills needed to work in early childhood education settings, including preschool education theory and application, child growth and development, and the child and his/her place in the family and community.

The program course requirements match the course requirements on the Child Development Permit Matrix for Associate Teacher. A Certificate of Proficiency will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the courses specified below. The Certificate of Proficiency is not indicated on the student's transcript.

##### Career Opportunities

The Child Development Associate Teacher Certificate provides students with the minimal level of education to work with children in a group setting. Includes required classes in the core areas (development; child, family, and community; curriculum). Allows students to qualify for Assistant Teacher and Associate Teacher\* permits. \*Associate Teacher Permit: Associate Teacher Certificate of Proficiency requirements plus experience requirement of 50 days of 3+ hours per day within 2 years. It can be used to: Enhance career opportunities such as: Child Care Center Assistant Teacher Child Care Center Associate Teacher Elementary School Classroom Assistant Preschool Teacher Child Care Worker

##### Learning Outcome(s)

1.  Identify developmentally and culturally appropriate practices in the physical, temporal and interpersonal environments
2.  Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
3.  Identify the major developmental theories in Early Childhood Education practices.
4.  Apply the concepts of socialization to early care and education practices.

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Required Courses:** | | 12 |
| **Core Courses:** | | 9 |
| CHDEV 051 | Child Growth and Development | 3 |
| CHDEV 53 | The Child, the Family and the Community | 3 |
| CHDEV 54B | Introduction to Curriculum | 3 |
| **Choose One:** | | 3 |
| CHDEV 50 | Principles and Practices of Teaching Young Children | 3 |
| CHDEV 54A | Social Emotional Foundations for Early Learning | 3 |