Online Certification Program in Child Development

The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences now offers an online certification program in Child Development.  This program is designed for non-traditional students who are currently employed in the Child Care industry or for traditional students who are anxious to begin working in the very important and rewarding field of working with young children and families. The convenience of online courses enables you to still work at your respective job and, at the same time, pursue your certification. 

Each course is part of our fully accredited B.S. in Family & Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Child Development and Family Relations.  Students have the option, after completing their certification, of continuing in their studies toward an associate degree in Child Development and then move right on to a 4-year degree.  Also, check with your employer to see if they participate in Louisiana Pathways, a scholarship program for those individuals working in the child care industry and pursuing higher education.

The Child Development Certificate program at NSU develops competency in:
- FACS 1090--Introduction to Children & Families(an overview of the study of children and families; family systems theory; the interaction of children and families within their near environments).
- FACS 2000-Child Development and Guidance(focus on the development of children in the family setting with emphasis on the holistic approach to the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development with special attention to proper guidance).>
- FACS 2040-Infants and Toddlers(Study of the approach to infant learning through facilitating natural interests and urges to learn. Focus on the interaction with infants in ways that support their initiations in learning and discovery, and the importance of close and responsive relationships with parents and caregivers).
- FACS 2090-Planning and Administering Programs for Young Children.(The staff’s role and responsibility in organizing and operating a child care facility, working with parents in public and home settings, and investigating community resources).

Note: If you already have a Child Development Associate credential (CDA), you may be able to earn credit for FACS 1090-Introduction to Children & Families. Please contact the Department of Family & Consumer Sciences for more information.

To apply, you may download the following application, fill it out and mail it with the $20 application fee to NSU's registrar's office:

Child Development Certificate Application (PDF)

You may also apply online by clicking here. 

For more information, call our toll free number (800) 749-2736.  You may also e-mail Dr. Patricia Pierson or Ms. Ann Spillman.

For admissions information,please contact Admissions at (800)-327-1903.