Child Development & Education Certificates and Degrees
We have created a variety of pathways that meet the needs of the Child Development & Education Department and student pathways. Here are a few options.
- Child Development
- 8 certificates
- 6 Associate of Science degrees
- 1Associate of Science Transfer Degree
- 1 Associate of Art Transfer Degree.
- Elementary Education
- The University Studies: Elementary Education Preparation Associate of Arts Degree
We strongly recommend that ALL child development (CHDV) students receive individual department advising with one of our full-time CHDV & EDUC faculty members. During this time, we can answer your questions, determine if you have equivalencies for courses taken at other colleges, ensure you take the appropriate courses in order to complete the necessary coursework, and review certificates, degrees, and permits in the most efficient manner possible.
- Certificates: Issued by Palomar College as proof of education.
- Students finishing a certificate and/or degree must complete the Petition for Graduation Form.
- Check out this quick video that explains the Petition for Graduation Process.
- Permits: Issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for employment purposes.
- Teaching permits prove qualifications for employment. Many early education centers require specific permits for job placement.
- Here is specific information on the qualifications for the various Child Development Permits.
- Teaching permits prove qualifications for employment. Many early education centers require specific permits for job placement.
Advising 101
Please take a minute to watch the following advising video on how to navigate the certificate, degree, and permit process. For additional information, please check in with the department for advising during any semester throughout your time at Palomar. We know that plans can change, and we want to help you achieve your goals!
CHDV Stackable Certificate & Degree Options

Planning Worksheets Effective Fall 2023:
- Child Development Associate Teacher Certificate
- Child Development Teacher
- Child Development Infant Toddler Master Teacher
- Child Development Preschool Master Teacher
- Child Development Early Inclusion Master Teacher
- Child Development Early Childhood Administration
- Child and Family Services, A.S. Degree
CHDV Non-Stackable Certificate & Degree Options

Non-Stackable Child Development Planning Worksheets:
- Child Adolescent AA-T Transfer Degree
- Child Development/Early Childhood AS-T Transfer Degree
- Child Development School Age Assistant
Elementary Education Preparation Degree
- Foundations of Elementary Education Certificate
- University Studies Elementary Education Preparation Advising Sheet (Updated 2.2024)