加州州立大学贝克斯菲尔德分校

The CAFS program provides students with an undergraduate level of knowledge within Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies. This program highlights diverse theories, milestones across developmental research methods. The CAFS major focuses on the biological, cognitive, psychological, and sociological foundations of child behavior and development. Students will acquire knowledge and gain understanding through exposure to relevant literature, current research topics, selected service, fieldwork, and development of student research. Through a variety of courses, students obtain knowledge and refine skills in observing, assessing, interpreting, and implementing programs for children and families; working with and supervising child-centered programs; participating in supportive structures for children and adolescents; and understanding families from diverse backgrounds.

Careers in Early Care and Education

Many new early care and education positions are being added to our local work force. These jobs are on all levels – from center director to site supervisor to teacher to teacher’s aide to family-based childcare entrepreneur. Early care and education graduates work in school districts, Head Start Programs, private and state-funded child development centers, and community-based organizations.

Sorting through the education and certification requirements for these early care and education career options can be confusing. This brochure aims to explain the requirements for each position and where you can find the courses needed to fulfill those requirements.

The Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies Program (CAFS) at California State University, Bakersfield offers a major leading to a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. The CAFS major focuses on the biological, cognitive, psychological, and sociological foundations of child behavior and development. Individuals majoring in the CAFS program are interested in working firsthand with children and their families.