Cosumnes River College
Open tablet menu Close tablet menu×
Open mobile menu Close mobile menu×
Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Education/Teaching

Education/Teaching

Overview

This major provides students with principles, practices, and competencies related to teaching California’s K-12 youth. Students are immersed in practices inclusive of all children; including children who are culturally and linguistically diverse and children with special needs. Students will gain practical fieldwork experience working with and/or observing children at their site placements within Elk Grove Unified School District.

This major is especially designed for students who plan to transfer into California State University, Sacramento's Teacher Preparation Program, providing the lower division coursework necessary to gain admission to the university and the Elementary Teacher Credential Program. Students planning to transfer in this major should consult with a counselor as requirements vary among transfer universities.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

  • A.A.-T. in Elementary Teacher Education: Integrated Programs
  • A.A. in Early Childhood Education
  • A.A. in Early Childhood Education, Site Supervisor
  • A.A. in Elementary and Inclusive Education
  • Early Childhood Education - Master Teacher Certificate
  • Early Childhood Education, School Age Child Care and Education Certificate

Associate Degrees for Transfer

A.A.-T. in Elementary Teacher Education: Integrated Programs

The Associate in Arts in Elementary Teacher Education for Transfer Degree (AA-T) is designed to provide a seamless transfer pathway for students interested in pursuing at least one Elementary Teacher Education degree option in the California State University (CSU) system. The degree is comprised of lower division coursework typically required by CSU institutions. Students must complete the core curriculum (minimum grade in each course of "C" or "P" if taken pass/no-pass) and electives to meet a total of 60 transferable units, which includes the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (CalGETC) pattern, with a minimum overall GPA of 2.0. Upon successful completion of the degree requirements, students will be guaranteed admission to the CSU system with junior status and will not have to repeat lower division coursework. Students are encouraged to meet with a counselor to develop their educational plans as degree options and general education requirements vary for each university.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
ECE 312 Child Development 3
ECE 350 Introduction to Elementary Teaching with Field Experience 3
HIST 307 History of World Civilizations to 1500 3
HIST C1001 United States History to 1877 (3) 3
ENGL C1000 Academic Reading and Writing (3) 3
   or ENGL C1000H Academic Reading and Writing - Honors (3)
GEOL 305 Earth Science 3
GEOL 306 Earth Science Laboratory 1
BIOL C1001 Introduction to Biology (3) 3
BIOL C1001L Introduction to Biology Lab 1
ARTH 300 Art Appreciation (3) 3
   or MUFHL 300 Introduction to Music (3)
   or TA 300 Introduction to the Theatre (3)
COMM C1000 Introduction to Public Speaking 3
POLS C1000 American Government and Politics (3) 3
   or POLS C1000H American Government and Politics - Honors (3)
Total Units: 32

The Associate in Arts in Elementary Teacher Education: Integrated Programs for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum 2.0 GPA, including (a) the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) Requirement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge and skills gained in various disciplines to ensure transfer to a CSU campus in preparation for successful completion of upper division coursework after transfer (PSLO #1)
  • Use the scientific methods of inquiry, data collection, quantitative reasoning, and basic mathematical concepts to analyze information in appropriate disciplines
  • Apply analytical reading and writing, research, and critical thinking essential for completing assigned tasks
  • Describe the nature of American government and compare and contrast local, state and national political institutions
  • Write and speak effectively, demonstrating the ability to evaluate audience and appeal to it persuasively
  • Apply knowledge of world history and cultures to identify the values of a culture and work with others of a diverse culture
  • Compare and contrast various forms and styles of music, artworks, and theatrical performances
  • Evaluate attitudes, actions, and behaviors indicative of a professional educator (PSLO #2)
  • Apply knowledge of developmental theories to assess teaching practices and learning conditions in children and classroom situations. (PSLO #3)

Career Information

The AA-T in Elementary Teacher Education provides students with the foundational knowledge necessary for transfer to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree program, especially at a California State University (CSU). Career opportunities for students who have earned BA degrees in Elementary Teacher Education include but are not limited to: Teacher, primary grades; Teacher, intermediate grades; Teacher, private school; Instructional Assistant. Many careers require additional training beyond the Bachelor Degree. NOTE TO TRANSFER STUDENTS: The Associate Degree for Transfer program is designed for students who plan to transfer to a California State University (CSU). Other than the required core, the courses you choose to complete this degree will depend to some extent on the selected CSU for transfer. In addition, some CSU-GE Breadth or Cal-GETC requirements can also be completed using courses required for this associate degree for transfer major (known as “double-counting”). Meeting with a counselor to determine the most appropriate course choices will facilitate efficient completion of your transfer requirements. For students wishing to transfer to other universities (UC System, private, or out-of-state), the Associate Degree for Transfer may not provide adequate preparation for upper-division transfer admissions; it is critical that you meet with a CRC counselor to select and plan the courses for the major, as programs vary widely in terms of the required preparation.

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Early Childhood Education

This program provides a comprehensive foundation for early childhood teacher preparation through strong general education and coursework in child development, early childhood curriculum, and pedagogy. The program emphasizes developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and culturally responsive practices that support young children across diverse learning environments. Topics include an introduction to the profession, observation and documentation techniques, age-appropriate and play-based curriculum, children in the context of family and culture, supporting children with diverse abilities, and health and safety practices for early childhood educators. The program prepares students for entry into the early childhood education workforce and for continued professional growth.


Note to Transfer Students:
If you are interested in transferring to a four-year college or university to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in this major, it is critical that you meet with a CRC counselor to select and plan the courses for your major. Schools vary widely in terms of the required preparation. The courses that CRC requires for an Associate’s degree in this major may be different from the requirements needed for the Bachelor’s degree.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
ECE 300 Introduction to Principles and Practices in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 312 Child Development (3) 3
ECE 314 The Child, the Family and the Community (3) 3
ECE 415 Children's Health, Safety and Nutrition (3) 3
ECE 326 Making Learning Visible Through Observation and Documentation 3
ECE 320 Curriculum and Interactions in Early Childhood Education 4
ECE 430 Culture and Diversity in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 321 Advanced Practicum in Early Childhood Education 4
ECE 404 Children with Special Needs 3
ECE 424 Adult Supervision: Mentoring in a Collaborative Learning Setting 2
A minimum of 9 units from the following: 9
ECE 322 Promoting Children's Social Competence (3)
ECE 342 Constructive Math and Science in Early Childhood Education (3)
ECE 343 Language and Literacy Development in Early Childhood (3)
ECE 365 Creative Projects and Experiences for Young Children (3)
ECE 307 Introduction to Bilingual Education (3)
ECE 361 Introducing Young Children to Visual Arts (3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
ECE 330 Infant and Toddler Development (3)
ECE 331 Care and Education of Infants and Toddlers (3)
ECE 356 Teaching and Learning with School-Age Children (3)
ECE 402 Infants with Atypical Development (3)
Total Units: 43

The Early Childhood Education Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See CRC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: (Development and Learning) Analyze and synthesize research and theories to support development and learning. Evaluate and implement developmentally appropriate and culturally relevant approaches to teaching and learning which support the whole child including foundational skills and concepts in language and literacy, math, science, art, health and wellness, and social relationships.
  • PSLO 2: (Equity and Cultural Sustainability) Construct knowledge based on the principles of anti-bias education in order to design environments that promote justice, equity and inclusion for all children, families, and communities.
  • PSLO 3: (Professionalism) Develop competencies, professional skills, and plans for professional growth. Integrate reflective practices to support professional growth as an Early Childhood professional. Understand and integrate the NAEYC Code of Ethics to support children, families, and other educators.
  • PSLO 4: (Observation, Documentation and Assessment) Utilize authentic assessment strategies based on observation, reflection, documentation, and interpretation of children’s development to inform teaching practices.
  • PSLO 5: (Family Engagement) Incorporate strategies for building respectful and reciprocal relationships with families, children and the community in order to support children's development and learning. Develop knowledge and skills to provide a responsive curriculum and learning environment that reflects the children and the families in the program.
  • PSLO 6: (Leadership) Demonstrates growth in leadership knowledge and skills that empower and support self and others to become advocates for high-quality early care and education. Applies leadership practices that promote equity, support families, and strengthen the professional role and impact of early childhood educators.

Career Information

Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students complete coursework that prepares them for employment in private and public early care and education settings, serving infants, preschool, and school-age children, in accordance with applicable licensing and employer requirements.

A.A. in Early Childhood Education, Site Supervisor

This degree program centers on the leadership and management of early care and education programs. Coursework covers key areas such as program administration, staff supervision, and coordination within early childhood settings. It also includes the foundational academic coursework that forms the core curriculum of the early childhood education field.

When combined with verified professional experience, this certificate qualifies individuals for the Site Supervisor Permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and is required for those who oversee publicly funded early childhood education programs.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
ECE 300 Introduction to Principles and Practices in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 312 Child Development (3) 3
ECE 314 The Child, the Family and the Community (3) 3
ECE 415 Children's Health, Safety and Nutrition 3
ECE 326 Making Learning Visible Through Observation and Documentation 3
ECE 320 Curriculum and Interactions in Early Childhood Education 4
ECE 430 Culture and Diversity in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 404 Children with Special Needs 3
ECE 321 Advanced Practicum in Early Childhood Education 4
ECE 420 Administration I: Programs in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 422 Administration II: Personnel and Leadership in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 424 Adult Supervision: Mentoring in a Collaborative Learning Setting 2
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
ECE 322 Promoting Children's Social Competence (3)
ECE 342 Constructive Math and Science in Early Childhood Education (3)
ECE 343 Language and Literacy Development in Early Childhood (3)
ECE 365 Creative Projects and Experiences for Young Children (3)
ECE 307 Introduction to Bilingual Education (3)
ECE 361 Introducing Young Children to Visual Arts (3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following: 3
ECE 330 Infant and Toddler Development (3)
ECE 331 Care and Education of Infants and Toddlers (3)
ECE 402 Infants with Atypical Development (3)
Total Units: 43

The Early Childhood Education, Site Supervisor Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See CRC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: (Development and Learning) Analyze and synthesize research and theories to support development and learning.
  • Evaluate and implement developmentally appropriate and culturally relevant approaches to teaching and learning which support the whole child including foundational skills and concepts in language and literacy, math, science, art, health and wellness, and social relationships.
  • PSLO 2: (Implement and design inclusive environments)
  • Understand the importance and practice in desiging environments that promote justice, equity and inclusion for all children, families, and communities.
  • PSLO 3: (Professionalism)
  • Develop competencies, professional skills, and plans for professional growth. Integrate reflective practices to support professional growth as an Early Childhood professional. Understand and integrate the NAEYC Code of Ethics to support children, families, and other educators.
  • PSLO 4: (Observation, Documentation and Assessment)
  • Utilize authentic assessment strategies based on observation, reflection, documentation, and interpretation of children’s development to inform teaching practices.
  • PSLO 5: (Family Engagement)
  • Incorporate strategies for building respectful and reciprocal relationships with families, children and the community in order to support children's development and learning. Develop knowledge and skills to provide a responsive curriculum and learning environment that reflects the children and the families in the program.
  • PSLO 6: (Leadership)
  • Understanding and commitment to leadership development that empowers, encourages, cultivates, and supports self and others to become agents of change and advocate for high-quality early care and education experiences for all children, support for families, and professional stature of educators.

Career Information

After completing this certificate, students will have the minimum qualifications needed to serve as a director or site supervisor in a privately funded early care and education program. With verified experience supervising staff, they also meet the eligibility requirements for a director or site supervisor position in a publicly funded early care and education program. Earning the Associate of Arts degree fulfills the coursework requirement for the Site Supervisor Permit. Additional documented days of experience in a qualifying program may be necessary. Students are encouraged to consult the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for the most current permit requirements.

A.A. in Elementary and Inclusive Education

This degree prepares students for careers and transfer pathways in education, with an emphasis on teaching and learning in diverse and inclusive classroom settings. Coursework integrates foundational education theory, child development, culturally responsive pedagogy, and strategies for supporting students with diverse learning needs, including students with disabilities, multilingual learners, and students requiring additional academic or behavioral support.

This program supports students pursuing roles as paraeducators, instructional aides, and future teachers in early learning, elementary, and inclusive educational settings, while maintaining strong preparation for transfer to teacher preparation programs.

Note to Transfer Students: Courses beyond the associate degree may be required to fulfill some career options or to prepare for transfer to a university program. Additional university-level coursework and credential requirements are required to teach in California public schools.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
ECE 312 Child Development (3) 3
ECE 350 Introduction to Elementary Teaching with Field Experience 3
ECE 404 Children with Special Needs 3
A minimum of 6 units from the following: 6
ECE 356 Teaching and Learning with School-Age Children (3)
ECE 430 Culture and Diversity in Early Childhood Education (3)
ECE 307 Introduction to Bilingual Education (3)
ENGED 320 Tutoring Elementary Students in Reading (3)
BIOL C1001 Introduction to Biology 3
BIOL C1001L Introduction to Biology Lab 1
COMM C1000 Introduction to Public Speaking 3
ENGED 305 Structure of English 3
ENGL C1000 Academic Reading and Writing (3) 3
   or ENGL C1000H Academic Reading and Writing - Honors (3)
ENGL C1001 Critical Thinking and Writing 3
GEOL 305 Earth Science 3
GEOL 306 Earth Science Laboratory 1
HIST 307 History of World Civilizations to 1500 3
HIST C1001 United States History to 1877 3
MATH 311 Mathematical Concepts for Elementary School Teachers - Number Systems 3
POLS C1000 American Government and Politics (3) 3
   or POLS C1000H American Government and Politics - Honors (3)
SOC 321 Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3) 3
   or COMM 325 Intercultural Communication (3)
   or ENGLT 336 Race and Ethnicity in Contemporary American Literature (3)
ARTH 300 Art Appreciation (3) 3
   or TA 300 Introduction to the Theatre (3)
   or MUFHL 300 Introduction to Music (3)
Total Units: 53

The Elementary and Inclusive Education Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See CRC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Apply child development and learning theories to analyze teaching practices, learning environments, and educational experiences in early learning and elementary classroom settings, including inclusive and special education contexts.
  • PSLO 2: Demonstrate culturally responsive, anti-bias, and equity-centered approaches to teaching and learning that support the academic, social, and emotional development of children from diverse cultural, linguistic, and ability backgrounds.
  • PSLO 3: Analyze and apply inclusive educational practices that support children with diverse learning needs, including students with disabilities, multilingual learners, and students requiring additional academic or behavioral supports.
  • Integrate interdisciplinary content knowledge across general education subject areas to support instruction and learning in multiple-subject elementary classrooms.
  • Use critical reading, writing, research, and reflective practices to evaluate educational theories, policies, and classroom practices related to teaching, learning, and child development.
  • PSLO 4: Identify and articulate professional roles, expectations, and pathways within the education field, including instructional support roles (such as paraeducators), transfer preparation, and California teaching credential options.

Career Information

Paraeducator or Instructional Assistant (elementary or middle school settings) Before- and After-School Program Staff Tutor or Academic Support Staff Expanded Learning or Educational Support Roles in community-based settings With completion of additional university coursework and credential requirements, students may pursue employment as: Elementary School Teacher (Multiple Subject or PK–3 Credential) Middle School Teacher (with appropriate subject matter preparation)

Certificates of Achievement

Early Childhood Education - Master Teacher Certificate

This certificate meets the requirements for teaching in a publicly funded early care and education program. It requires an additional 6 units of specialized study beyond the teacher level certificate, allowing the student to select a particular focus of study (i.e., infant/toddler; culture and diversity; health and nutrition; children’s literature; and art or music for young children). Applicants must verify required experience teaching children and supervising staff to be recommended to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for issuance of the Master Teacher Child Development Permit.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
ECE 300 Introduction to Principles and Practices in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 312 Child Development (3) 3
ECE 314 The Child, the Family and the Community (3) 3
ECE 326 Making Learning Visible Through Observation and Documentation 3
ECE 404 Children with Special Needs (3) 3
ECE 320 Curriculum and Interactions in Early Childhood Education 4
ECE 430 Culture and Diversity in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 321 Advanced Practicum in Early Childhood Education 4
ECE 415 Children's Health, Safety and Nutrition 3
ECE 424 Adult Supervision: Mentoring in a Collaborative Learning Setting 2
A minimum of 16 units from the following: 16
ENGL C1000 Academic Reading and Writing (3)
MATH 310 Mathematical Discovery (3)
   or MATH 300 Introduction to Mathematical Ideas (3)
FCS 324 Human Development: A Life Span (3)
   or PSYC 371 Life Span Developmental Psychology (3)
HUM 300 Classical Humanities (3)
   or PHIL 310 Introduction to Ethics (3)
   or PHOTO 420 History of Photography (3)
SPAN 401 Elementary Spanish I (4)
   or VIET 401 Elementary Vietnamese (4)
   or DEAF 310 American Sign Language I (4)
To be eligible for the Child Development Permit (Master Teacher Level) through California Commission on Teacher Credentialing students must complete, "sixteen diversified semester units in general education (i.e., at least one course in each of the following areas: English Communication, Mathematical Concepts/Natural Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Arts and Humanities."[5 CCR § 80113, 5 CA ADC § 80113] General education units must be transferable.
Students will select a Master Teacher "Specialization" consisting of six (6) units of focused content (see below). Contact ECE Instructional Faculty for information on experience and supervised experience requirements all Child Development Permits.
Subtotal Units: 47
Curriculum, Specialization Option
Course Code Course Title Units
A minimum of 6 units from the following: 6
ECE 342 Constructive Math and Science in Early Childhood Education (3)
ECE 343 Language and Literacy Development in Early Childhood (3)
ECE 365 Creative Projects and Experiences for Young Children (3)
ECE 322 Promoting Children's Social Competence (3)
ECE 307 Introduction to Bilingual Education (3)
ECE 361 Introducing Young Children to Visual Arts (3)
Curriculum, Specialization Option Units: 6
Total Units: 53
Infant and Toddler Care, Specialization Option
Course Code Course Title Units
A minimum of 6 units from the following: 6
ECE 331 Care and Education of Infants and Toddlers (3)
ECE 330 Infant and Toddler Development (3)
ECE 402 Infants with Atypical Development (3)
Infant and Toddler Care, Specialization Option Units: 6
Total Units: 53
School-Age Care, Specialization Option
Course Code Course Title Units
ECE 356 Programs for the School-Age Child 3
ECE 350 Introduction to Elementary Teaching with Field Experience 3
School-Age Care, Specialization Option Units: 6
Total Units: 53

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: (Development and Learning) Analyze and synthesize research and theories to support development and learning. Evaluate and implement developmentally appropriate and culturally relevant approaches to teaching and learning which support the whole child including foundational skills and concepts in language and literacy, math, science, art, health and wellness, and social relationships.
  • PSLO 2: (Equity and Cultural Sustainability) Construct knowledge based on the principles of anti-bias education in order to design environments that promote justice, equity and inclusion for all children, families, and communities.
  • PSLO 3: (Professionalism) Develop competencies, professional skills, and plans for professional growth. Integrate reflective practices to support professional growth as an Early Childhood professional. Understand and integrate the NAEYC Code of Ethics to support children, families, and other educators.
  • PSLO 4: (Observation, Documentation and Assessment) Utilize authentic assessment strategies based on observation, reflection, documentation, and interpretation of children’s development to inform teaching practices.
  • PSLO 5: (Family Engagement) Incorporate strategies for building respectful and reciprocal relationships with families, children and the community in order to support children's development and learning. Develop knowledge and skills to provide a responsive curriculum and learning environment that reflects the children and the families in the program.
  • PSLO 6: (Leadership) Understanding and commitment to leadership development that empowers, encourages, cultivates, and supports self and others to become agents of change and advocate for high-quality early care and education experiences for all children, support for families, and professional stature of educators.

Career Information

This certificate qualifies students to be a master teacher or a supervising teacher in early care and education programs. Upon completion of this certificate and with documented related experience, the individual is eligible to be a lead teacher and/or mentor teacher in both publicly and privately funded programs serving young children and their families. Some career options may require more than two years of college study. Meet with a counselor and an ECE faculty to determine these options.

Early Childhood Education, School Age Child Care and Education Certificate

Upon completion of one of the following certificates, and with appropriate documented experience, the student meets the minimum requirements for employment in a privately funded child care program or family day care program. Certificates are designed to meet varying employment levels and focused training with infants and school-age children. These requirements are outlined in Title 22 (Department of Social Services) regulations for child care licensing.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
ECE 300 Introduction to Principles and Practices in Early Childhood Education 3
ECE 312 Child Development (3) 3
ECE 314 The Child, the Family and the Community (3) 3
ECE 326 Making Learning Visible Through Observation and Documentation 3
ECE 307 Introduction to Bilingual Education (3) 3
ECE 404 Children with Special Needs 3
ECE 320 Curriculum and Interactions in Early Childhood Education 4
ECE 321 Advanced Practicum in Early Childhood Education 4
Total Units: 26

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: (Development and Learning) Analyze and synthesize research and theories to support development and learning. Evaluate and implement developmentally appropriate and culturally relevant approaches to teaching and learning which support the whole child including foundational skills and concepts in language and literacy, math, science, art, health and wellness, and social relationships.
  • PSLO 2: (Professionalism) Develop competencies, professional skills, and plans for professional growth. Integrate reflective practices to support professional growth as an Early Childhood professional. Understand and integrate the NAEYC Code of Ethics to support children, families, and other educators.
  • PSLO 3: (Observation, Documentation and Assessment) Utilize authentic assessment strategies based on observation, reflection, documentation, and interpretation of children’s development to inform teaching practices.
  • PSLO 4: (Family Engagement) Incorporate strategies for building respectful and reciprocal relationships with families, children and the community in order to support children's development and learning. Develop knowledge and skills to provide a responsive curriculum and learning environment that reflects the children and the families in the program.

Career Information

Upon completion of this certificate and with appropriate documented experience, the student exceeds the minimum requirements for employment as a teacher in privately funded before-and-after school child care programs. These requirements are outlined in Title 22 (Department of Social Services) regulations for child care licensing.

Catalog