The Child and Family Development program prepares students for a variety of careers and is aligned with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Standards for Early Childhood Professional Preparation.
The program courses include interactive experiences with infants and children through age eight. Instruction, lab experiences, internships, and service-learning opportunities provide skills for leadership, entry-level positions, and professional development in related careers. Students transferring must earn at least a "C" in courses.
Degree Options
Hear from our students
Student Spotlight - Kendra Smith
Required Documentation for Lab Classes:
- An annual negative result of a tuberculin skin test
- Registration in the family care safety registry
- Medical examination report for childcare providers
- Background check through the MO Highway Patrol MACHS system
- MOVECHS Waiver Statement
- Professional Liability Insurance (free through Student MSTA)
Submit required documentation for lab classes (CFD 160, CFD 255, CFD 260, CFD 297) to the Program Coordinator. Findings from screenings that prevent a student from participating in a licensed and accredited child care center will disqualify the student from completing laboratory classes.
Sample Careers and Salary Outlook
- Preschool Teacher: $29,820-$48,210
- Preschool and Daycare Administrator: $38,690 - $44,860
- Nanny: $21,630 - $29,810
- Substitute Teachers
- Community Service Workers
- Youth Development Program Workers
- Managers or Directors in Early Childhood Settings
- Childcare Worker (e.g, head start, nanny, daycare) : $24,360
- Other
Helpful Links:
- National Association for the Education of Young Children
- Child Care Aware of Missouri-T.E.A.C.H. Associate Degree Scholarship
For More Information, Contact:
For more information about the degree or certificates and how to apply contact:
Dr. Brenda Smith
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator
BrendaSmith@MissouriState.edu
(417) 255-7736