Certificates and Degrees

Pathways to Graduation

We strongly recommend that ALL child development (CHDV) students receive individual department advising with one of our full-time CHDV professors. 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.

Definitions: Units, Certificates, and Permits

Units: Some jobs will require 12 or 24 ECE (Early Childhood Education) units. All of our CHDV courses can be used to gain ECE units. We recommend starting with the four classes for one of our age-specific certificates.
Certificates: Issued by Palomar College as proof of education.
- Students finishing a certificate and/or degree must complete the Petition for Graduation Form.
- View this short 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.
  - Please visit our Permit Information page for more details on the types of permits and how to apply.

We have NEW CHDV certificates and degrees! Please read about our new options!

Please view our list of Palomar’s Child Development Courses.
You may also view our Catalog List of CHDV Classes to learn the names and read a description for each of our courses.

Career Pathways

We have created a variety of pathways that meet the needs of the Child Development & Education Department and student pathways. Where do you see yourself in your journey?

Child development and education career paths from preschool to elementary teaching at Palomar College. — Finding Your Path

Flyer for Palomar College's Child Development & Education Department detailing certificates, degrees, and course requirements. — Finding Your Path

The following resources may be viewed and/or printed. The best results are opening them in a new tab.

Palomar College Find Your Pathway Printable

Child Development & Education Courses For Degrees & Transfer [PDF]

Advising 101

Please watch the following informative video on how to navigate the Child Development & Education certificates, degrees, and permit process. For additional information, please check in with the department for specific advising qustions. We know that plans can change, and we want to help you achieve your goals!