Child Development Lead Teacher
Associate in Science Degree Child Development and Education · Orange Coast College · 2026-2027 Catalog
This degree provides students with knowledge, competencies and practical experiences that promote comprehensive development of young children ages 3 to 5 years old. Students will focus on understanding developmentally appropriate practice, effective learning strategies, and how to create and implement a high-quality classroom for young children. The practicum component of the program will support the student as they transfer theoretical knowledge of learning to work with young children in early care and education programs. The program is available for early childhood educators, parents, administrators, and health care professionals.
A grade “C” or higher is required in all courses. This degree includes 34.5 units of emphasis.
This degree aligns with the 24 units required for a Master Teacher level Child Development Permit, issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This degree option would also benefit students who aspire to enter the workforce in a career pathway. The degree meets Title 22 licensing requirements for employment in an early care and education program.
Program Outcome
Program Learning Outcomes
- Meets the child development course requirements of the Child Development Permit at the Master Teacher level and provides enhanced employability, the holder can be employed as a Lead Teacher or as a supervising team member. It meets the needs of transitional kindergarten teachers who are required to have 24 units ofchild development or early childhood education in addition to their bachelor’s degree and multiple subjects teaching credential.
Requirements
Review Graduation Requirements and General Education.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| CDE A126 | Teaching in a Diverse Society | 3 |
| CDE A127 | Health, Safety, and Nutrition | 3 |
| CDE A131 | Creativity for Children | 3 |
| CDE A155 | Principles and Practices of Teaching Young Children | 3 |
| CDE A156 | Early Childhood Lab: Interactions with Young Children | 2 |
| CDE A157 | Guidance for Young Children | 3 |
| CDE A165 | Observing and Recording Child Behavior | 3 |
| CDE A180 | Child, Growth and Development | 3 |
| CDE A190 | Family, School and Community Partnerships | 3 |
| CDE A200 | ECE Program - The Curriculum | 3 |
| CDE A201 | Early Childhood Practicum - Field Experience | 3.5 |
| CDE A277 | Adult Supervision in Early Childhood Programs | 2 |
| Restricted Electives | ||
| Complete a specialization certificate listed below: | 9-12 | |
| Total Major Units | 43.5 - 46.5 | |
| OCC AS General Education | up to 21 | |
| Transferable electives as needed to satisfy unit requirements | varies | |
| Total Minimum Degree Units - OCC AS GE | 61.5-64.5 | |
Specialization Certificates
Child Development Administration Specialization, Certificate of Achievement
Child Development Curriculum Specialization, Certificate of Achievement
Elementary Education Specialization, Certificate of Achievement
Infant and Toddler Specialization, Certificate of Achievement
Working with Exceptional Children Specialization, Certificate of Achievement
- Some program major units may also meet GE requirements.
- Cal-GETC pattern (up to 34 units) may be substituted.
Program Sequence
These sequences at Orange Coast College are general course curriculum maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. The course sequence may include course prerequisites and other placement requirements. Students are advised to meet with an Orange Coast College Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.
Year 1
| Semester 1 | Units |
|---|---|
| CDE A126 | Teaching in a Diverse Society |
| CDE A131 | Creativity for Children |
| CDE A180 | Child, Growth and Development 1 |
| CDE A155 | Principles and Practices of Teaching Young Children |
| OCC AS GE AREA 1A- CHOOSE ONE | 3 |
| Units |
| Semester 2 |
|---|
| CDE A156 |
| CDE A127 |
| CDE A190 |
| Complete One Course from Specialization Certificate 2 |
| OCC AS GE AREA 2 - CHOOSE ONE |
| Summer |
|---|
| OCC AS GE AREA 6 - CHOOSE ONE |
Year 2
| Semester 1 |
|---|
| CDE A157 |
| CDE A165 |
| CDE A200 |
| OCC AS GE AREA 1B - CHOOSE ONE |
| Complete One Course from Specialization Certificate 2 |
| Semester 2 |
|---|
| CDE A201 |
| CDE A277 |
| OCC AS GE AREA 3 - CHOOSE ONE |
| OCC AS GE AREA 5 - CHOOSE ONE |
| Complete One Course from Specialization Certificate 2 |
- OCC AS GE Area D
- 9-12 units required from One Specialization Certificate