CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE CREDENTIAL (CDA)
CDA Credential Courses Currently Unavailable.
Program Description
The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is the most widely recognized credential in the Early Childhood Education field and is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. Students at NPRC can choose a CDA age level for Infant-Toddler, Preschool, Family Child Care, or Home Visitor.
To earn a CDA, students must
- complete 120 hours of professional education;
- complete 480 hours of work experience within the last three years at a licensed early childhood facility;
- compile a professional portfolio;
- pass the CDA exam; and
- have a satisfactory verification visit.
Students can complete the CDA Preparation course offered by NPRC Workforce Development. This option breaks the 120 hours into three parts, which may be taken in any order to allow the student flexibility and choice. Students who earn their CDA credential with this option may request up to 9 Prior Learning Credits (PLC) towards NPRC’s Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education.
Bringing Affordable Education to You
Program Start Date
No Current Courses
Program Completion Date
No Current Courses
Program Cost
No Current Courses
What You'll Learn
CDA Credential
Students preparing for their CDA Credential will:
Reflect upon personal experiences of working within a childcare environment and discuss with peers in relation to the course content;
Research family support agencies in their local community with regard;
Generate ideas for learning activities at the infant, toddler, and preschool levels;
Plan healthy meal calendars for children;
Sketch out floor plans for an early learning classroom to include areas for rest, eating, play, and exploring early learning manipulatives; and
Practice communication strategies for early learning professionals and families.
Career Outlook in Child Development
Career opportunities include an assistant teacher, paraprofessional (teacher’s aide), group supervisor, school-aged childcare, and community organization staff. In some cases, individuals with a CDA may be a home childcare program owner or operator, and a lea teacher in some settings.
There are 5,690 projected annual job openings in Pennsylvania for Childcare Workers. (O*Net OnLine)
There are 220 projected annual job openings in Pennsylvania for Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool, and Daycare. (O*Net OnLine)
There are 4,630 projected annual job openings in Pennsylvania for Teaching Assistants (Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School).
For students looking to continue their education beyond a CDA may request up to 6 Prior Learning Credits (PLC) towards NPRC’s Associate of Applied Sciences in Early Childhood Education. Other regional institutions may also award PLC for a CDA.
Explore More
Related Programs
Early Childhood Education
This program provides students with knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with guiding the social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive development of children from birth to age ten in a variety of settings. Individuals currently holding a CDA credential may receive prior learning credit toward degree requirements.
Business Administration
This program establishes foundational business knowledge, skills, and abilities for increased marketability. Students have the opportunity to select between two specializations: General Business or Business Information Systems. General business courses are designed to go beyond the foundational level of information, while the business information systems track equips students with skills in technology, data, and information systems.
Human Services
Students in this program study human behavior and the social environment in addition to expanding their world view with courses in psychology, sociology, human development, world religions, and human diversity. Select courses within the program are aligned with the Council on Social Work Education’s Social Work Competencies. Students earning this degree have a competitive advantage for entry-level career opportunities with social and human service agencies.
Child Development Associate (CDA) FAQ's
See What Our Students Have to Say
“It was a wonderful experience here at NPRC. I learned so much and my instructor was amazing. He was knowledgeable and made sure that everything we need is uploaded online and communicates well with us. He also held us accountable to make sure we were learning and ready. I enjoyed working alongside my amazing classmates and all the different experiences they brought to the course. Everyone in our class was eager to learn and was proactive about staying up to date on what is being asked of us.”
- Marie, NPRC EMT Graduate
“Attending NPRC was truly life-changing for me and provided a foundation to pursue my passion for early childhood education. I gained the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this field. But it was bigger than just academics; my professors taught me valuable life lessons and instilled important values that have shaped who I am today. Overall, my college journey has not only prepared me for a successful career but has also equipped me with the mindset and tools to make a positive impact on the lives of young children.”
- Brittany, Early Childhood Education Graduate
“I had a fear that this degree would be unobtainable due to being a full-time employee and mother. With the support of family, friends, coworkers, and NPRC, I’ve gained confidence and support to continue my education.”
- Brittney, NPRC Student
“From the first time I found out about
NPRC, I knew attending college was
something I wanted to pursue because
of how genuine the first interaction was.
I’m proof that finding the right path can
be done. It’s worth it to find ways out of
situations you do not want to be in for
better ones. I can’t say enough about how
NPRC’s employees have empowered and
advocated for me.”
- Amanda, NPRC Student
"NPRC’s faculty, staff, and professors do
everything they can to see the students
succeed and provide us with exactly what
we need to do our best both inside the
classroom and out. The early childhood
education program is phenomenal. It was
a school that aided me in balancing class,
schoolwork, and my career. From the start
and throughout my time, NPRC made me
feel like I was at the right place.”
- Savannah, Early Childhood Education Graduate
Latest Articles
