The certificate program in early childhood development is designed for students who wish to pursue concentrated study in the area of child development and to gain practical experience working with young children.
Please note that this certificate does not provide teacher licensure. To enhance employment opportunities, students are advised to combine the certificate with an undergraduate degree.
The curriculum consists of four courses (16 credits total). Through this coursework, students are provided with broad exposure to important areas of study in general and child psychology. The practicum offers hands-on experience in working with young children at the Purchase College Children’s Center.
Individual courses may be taken without commitment to the entire program. Day and evening courses are available; however, because the Children’s Center offers daytime child care, PSY 3850 is offered only during the day. Some courses may be offered during summer session, but not every course is offered every year. At least two semesters are required for completion of the program.
Required Courses
PSY 1530/Introduction to Psychology
PSY 2650/Child Development or PSY 3350/Developmental Psychology
PSY 3850/Practicum in Child Development*
One elective in the field of child development, chosen from the following:
PSY 3330/Social Development*
PSY 3345/Cognitive Development*
PSY 3440/Social Issues in Developmental Psychology*
PSY 3490/Development of Language*
PSY 3725/Developmental Psychopathology*
PSY 3845/Gender Development*
PSY 3855/Seminar in Early Childhood Development*
*These courses have prerequisites. To earn the certificate, students must be high school graduates and earn a grade of C or higher in certificate courses.
Students must also complete an application for the certificate: