Child development
Certificate, undergraduate
Overview
- In-state: $491
- Out-of-state: $1,465
Related Topics
Supporting healthy development from the start
The child development undergraduate certificate provides contemporary knowledge and practical skills for those interested in early childhood care and education. The program introduces key concepts in early brain development and helps you understand both typical and atypical patterns of growth in young children.
Through coursework focused on infancy, early childhood and middle childhood, you’ll learn to observe, assess and support children’s physical, cognitive, social and emotional development. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based, developmentally appropriate practices used in real-world early-learning and care settings.
This certificate prepares you for entry-level childcare and youth-focused roles and supports further academic study in early childhood education, special education, social work and related fields. Graduates are also equipped to advocate for the health, well-being and success of young children and their families.
This certificate could be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in working with young children in care, education or community settings
- Want a foundational understanding of child development from birth through middle childhood
- Enjoy observing, supporting and advocating for children and families
- Plan to pursue further study in education, social work, or youth-focused fields
Understanding how children grow and learn
Curriculum
The child development undergraduate certificate is a 12-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
Explore program courses in the University Catalog
Learning objectives
- Apply developmental theories and practices to tailor activities to children’s specific needs
- Create safe, healthy and responsive spaces that encourage positive play and active learning
- Apply guidance and interaction strategies to build self-esteem and social skills
- Develop strategies to communicate effectively with families
- Analyze the physical, cognitive, linguistic, social and emotional development of children
Hands-on learning
- Volunteer at a local school, childcare center or Head Start program
- Work closely with faculty members on child development research topics
Career outcomes
Current job openings
4,533 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Neuropsychologists • Clinical Neuropsychologists
$95,555 - Postsecondary Home Economics Teachers
$87,482 - Preschool Teachers
$44,098 - Farm and Home Management Educator
$66,575 - Teaching Assistants • Special Education Teaching Assistants
$43,615
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Clubs
- Child Development student club
- Collegiate Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)
- Phi Upsilon Omicron
Financial aid and scholarships
Financial aid
U of I’s certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships on their own. However, students enrolled in a bachelor's or associate degree program may apply their financial aid and scholarships toward a certificate if they are pursuing both simultaneously.
For more information or to explore funding options, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@uidaho.edu or call 208-885-6312.
Application instructions
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements to learn more.
Undergraduate certificate application process
Students interested in adding a certificate to their bachelor’s or associate degree program should speak with their academic advisor.
Students interested in earning an undergraduate certificate as a standalone program should contact the Admissions Office at 208-885-6326 for information on how to apply.
Overview
- In-state: $491
- Out-of-state: $1,465
Related Topics
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty