Elementary Education Specialization

Certificate of Achievement Child Development and Education · Orange Coast College · 2026-2027 Catalog

This certificate prepares students to work with K-12 children in a before and after school care program, or mentoring program. Includes the developmental stages of the school-age child, working with diverse populations, and an introduction to the profession of teaching. Students will gain experience volunteering in an elementary school classroom so that they can explore career opportunities in education. Courses emphasize strong theoretical and practical skills needed to work with children 5-8 years. Can be employed as a Before and After school care provider, tutor, or elementary classroom aide. A grade of “C” or better is required in all courses.

Program Outcome

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Pathway for future Transitional Kindergarten and/or Elementary Teachers entering a Credential program, and satisfies the specialization unit requirement for the Child Development Permit at the Master Teacher level. If paired with Child Development Lead Teacher certificate holder can be employed as Lead Preschool Teacher or Mentor Teacher.

Requirements

Review Certificate Requirements.

CourseTitleUnits
Required Courses
CDE A102Teaching in Elementary Settings3
CDE A175The Teaching Profession3
CDE A182Middle Childhood Development and Guidance3
Restricted Electives
Select one course:3
CDE A190Family, School and Community Partnerships
CDE A210Introduction to the Exceptional Child
Total Units12

Program Sequence

These sequences at Orange Coast College are curriculum maps for students to finish all requirements for the certificate. There may be advisories, prerequisites, or time requirements that students need to consider before following these maps. Students are advised to meet with an Orange Coast College Counselor for alternate sequencing.

Year 1

Semester 1 Units
CDE A102 Teaching in Elementary Settings
CDE A175 The Teaching Profession
CDE A182 Middle Childhood Development and Guidance
CDE A190or CDE A210 Family, School and Community Partnershipsor Introduction to the Exceptional Child
Units
Total Units

View in the original catalog

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