Associate Degree: Child Development Degree and Programs

An associate's degree in child development can prepare you to work in school settings, for family agencies, and other community organizations. Career training can involve learning about the care of infants and school-age children. You can take courses through online education or campus-based programs and can include learning about nutrition for children, music and movement, special needs children, and child abuse.

Career Opportunities in Child Development

Career training can prepare you to work as a childcare specialist, preschool director, or preschool teacher. Earning college degrees at the bachelor's or master's level can help you obtain a job as an adoption counselor, child psychologist, development specialist, or educational consultant. You can gain additional skills through online while continuing to work.

Job Growth for Child Development

Job growth in the field is expected to be average. The top paying states for preschool teachers are New Jersey, Michigan, Minnesota, and New York. Preschool teachers had median income of $23,130 and childcare workers earned a median income of $18,350 in 2007, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.