By earning a degree as a child development specialist, you will elevate children’s learning and sense of self in today’s world. If you seek a rewarding career working with children in schools or child-care facilities, our program will equip you with the communication skills, developmental knowledge, and confidence to succeed in this field.
Our program carries an apprenticeship requirement, which integrates into the formal higher education curriculum of academically sound “registered apprenticeship programs” (RAPs), which are recommended by the United States Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (BAT). For guidance completing the apprenticeship portion of the program, contact the local United States Bureau of Apprenticeship Coordinator and refer them to the Apprenticeship for Child Development Specialist website at www.wvacds.org.
Program Overview
The Associate of Applied Science degree in Occupational Development—Child Care Specialist is designed to provide special career training for those individuals who have completed a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) in Child Development through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship.
There is a growing need in the United States for childcare at daycare centers. Some employers are making a collaborative effort to provide dependent care for their employees by establishing centers or expanding existing ones. The demand for child care career will increase in the future as more young mothers pursue employment outside the home. Job opportunities for this degree include employment in community childcare facilities, and in individual homes.
Students in the Occupational Development Program are subject to the Community and Technical College’s requirements for admissions, basic skills testing, and appropriate course placement, including mandated developmental courses, which are not counted toward completion of the program. Blue Ridge CTC Catalog requirements regarding academic standards, student conduct, and graduation procedures also apply.
Career Opportunities
Upon degree completion, you will enjoy increased wages and solid job security. You will be qualified to seek a fulfilling career in child care facilities as a director or as a classroom aide in an elementary school.
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