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 & 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.

Units, Certificates, and Permits Explained

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 classes for our Associate Teacher Certificate. Please watch the Advising Video and access the Associate Teacher Certificate worksheet below.
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.
  - Here is specific information on the qualifications for the various Child Development Permits

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

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.

Palomar College Find Your Pathway Printable

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!