The Bachelor of Science in Child Development focuses on the important developmental milestones for children from birth through adolescence, focusing on the family, cultural, peer, school, and community contexts in which children live and grow. The goal of the Child Development program is to assist students in developing the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for a career working with children, including teaching, childcare, and community and social services. Coursework includes infant, child, and adolescent development; family and community partnerships; observation and assessment; childrens health and safety; and educating young children. The Bachelor of Science in Child Development reflects the professional standards of the National Association for the Education of the Young Child (NAEYC) as well as the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The degree is designed to provide much of the coursework required for early childhood and elementary certification in the state of Missouri.Columbia College offers students the opportunity to complete the Bachelor of Science in Child Development with coursework required for elementary or early childhood certification. Students may choose to complete their certification coursework as an undergraduate or as a Post-Baccalaureate Master of Arts in Teaching student. Post-baccalaureate students who complete the prescribed coursework, including student teaching, will have the option of taking the remaining hours of MAT coursework to complete the Master of Arts in Teaching degree. Students who wish to complete certification post-baccalaureate should speak with their advisor to develop a plan.