Department of Child and Adolescent Development

Child and Adolescent Development Department

Empowering Children, Families, Youth, and Communities.

Our programs prepare students with the knowledge and hands-on experience they need to work directly with children, youth, and families. Classes connect research, real-world practice, and community impact so students don’t just learn theories — they see how those ideas shape everyday work. Students gain a strong understanding of how people grow and develop, how different family and community experiences shape that growth, and how to use this knowledge to support others. Along the way, they build the skills to become leaders and advocates for children, families, and schools. Graduates go on to careers in early childhood and K–12 education, youth programs, non-profit work, advocacy, research, and policy — turning what they’ve learned into meaningful impact in their communities.

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BA, Child and Adolescent Development

Our BA in Child and Adolescent Development (ChAD) equips students with a solid foundation in theory and research while preparing them for graduate studies and/or careers in early childhood education settings or with children and their families in community settings.

Interested? Fill out this form and we’ll be in touch!

BA, Child and Adolescent Development, Preparation for Teaching

Our BA in Child and Adolescent Development – Preparation for Teaching provides a strong foundation in theory and research, while preparing students to earn a teaching credential for elementary or middle school. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) recognizes this program as meeting subject matter requirements for the CSET for Multiple Subjects.

Interested? Fill out this form and we’ll be in touch!

ChAD students engaged in group work during class

Child and Adolescent Development, Undergraduate Minor(s)

Our ChAD undergraduate minors offer students the opportunity to explore human development, with a focus on infancy through adolescence. It’s an excellent complement for those pursuing careers in education, social work, nursing, child care, or other human services fields.

Interested? Fill out this form and we’ll be in touch!

ChAD graduate students at a tabling event posing for a picture

MA, Child and Adolescent Development

Our MA in Child and Adolescent Development (ChAD) is designed for students who are passionate about studying development, from early childhood through emerging adulthood.

Interested? Fill out this form and we’ll be in touch!

Preschool Indoor Photo of the reading corner

ChAD Lab Preschool

At the Child Development Laboratory Preschool at San José State University, we foster young children’s intellectual, emotional, and social growth in a safe, engaging, and respectful environment. The preschool also provides SJSU child development students with hands-on learning and professional growth opportunities.