Overview
Degree in Child Development
What children learn and experience within their first five years can shape their views of themselves, the way they perceive the world and their later successes in school, work and personal lives. Gain an understanding of early childhood education with our program which prepares graduates to facilitate and assess learning environments that are engaging and playful to promote social, emotional, cognitive and physical development in young children.
The Child Development program is designed as a career ladder with multiple entry and exit points. Students can earn a certificate, and in just one more year, an Associate of Applied Science in Child Development. Add two more years of study to earn a Bachelor of Applied Science in Child Development. The Certificate, Associate of Applied Science and the Bachelor of Applied Science in Child Development can all be completed entirely online.
The Associate of Applied Science in Child Development program also accepts transfer credits from the WV Infant & Toddler (WVIT), Apprenticeship for Child Development Specialist (ACDS) and Child Development Associate (CDA).
Child Development BAS Admission Eligibility Requirements
- Student must hold at least a 2.0 grade point average.
- A grade of C or better in all CDEV and EDUC required coursework.
- The student must pass all required background checks and receive a “no conviction” statement from the Department of Health and Human Resources; waivers will not be granted. Student must also have no substantiated claims against them through Child Protective Services.
- Files containing the above materials will be reviewed by the Child Development Department regularly.
- Students must uphold the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct. Failure to adhere to the code may result in dismissal from the program. Find the code here.
- Students must have completed at least 48 hours toward the Associate of Applied Science in Child Development. Transfer students will be considered on an individual basis or according to agreements by institution.
Programs
Certificate of Applied Science in Child Development
Our Certificate of Applied Science in Child Development degree is a total of 30-credit hours. During your studies, you will organize and prepare experiences for young children including creative play, integrating experiences in early childhood programs, address legal and ethical considerations in meeting the needs of exceptional children and more.
Associate of Applied Science in Child Development
Our Associate of Applied Science in Child Development degree is a total of 60-credit hours. During your studies, you will examine young childhood relationships, explore curriculum associated with early education programs, focus on the various tools and assessments for children ages birth through age 5 years and more.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Child Development
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Child Development is a total of 120 credit hours. With this online degree, all students, no matter where they live, receive in-state tuition!
Students will plan, implement and assess developmentally appropriate learning experiences for young children. They use a strong understanding of child development to promote social, emotional, physical, and cognitive learning and growth.
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Child Development is a non-licensing degree and will not lead to public school certification.
This is a 2+2 degree program meaning:
If you already have an Associate Degree in Child Development or a related degree from an accredited college or university, your degree will be accepted and you may begin working toward the Bachelor of Applied Science in Child Development at WVU Parkersburg.
Careers
What Can I Do With This Degree?
We will provide you with the knowledge to earn credentials in the child development field so you may create positive learning environments in child care centers, Head Start and professional positions at the local and state level for young children to learn and grow their emotional, social and cognitive skills.
Potential Careers
- Lead Teacher in Head Start or Centers
- Childcare Center Director
- Child Care Resource & Referral Specialists
- Birth to Three Specialist
- Family Support Specialist
- Classroom Aides in Public Schools
- Home-Based Service Provider
Costs
Tuition
Estimated rates for the 2024-2025 academic year. Additional course fees may apply and rates are subject to change.
*Early College fees may differ per program, for example, in Welding and Cosmetology.
| Residency | Per Credit Hour | Per Semester | Fall & Spring Semesters |
|---|
| Nationwide | $188 – $260 | $2,256 – $3,120 | $4,512 – $6,240 |
Estimated Costs Of Attendance
Estimated total costs of attendance for students, varied based on residential status and living situation.
| Category | WV & Ohio Residents Living with Parents | WV & Ohio Residents NOT Living with Parents | Non-Residents Living with Parents | Non-Residents NOT Living with Parents |
|---|
| Room & Board | $9,144 | $14,544 | $9,144 | $14,544 |
| Transportation | $2,400 | $2,400 | $2,400 | $2,400 |
| Tuition & Fees | $5,783 | $5,783 | $10,506 | $10,506 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,173 | $2,273 | $1,173 | $2,273 |
| Total | $20,000 | $26,500 | $24,723 | $31,223 |
|---|
