CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE CREDENTIAL (CDA)
CDA Credential Courses Currently Being Updated.
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 nine Prior Learning Credits (PLC) towards NPRC’s Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education.
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Program Start Date
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Program Completion Date
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Program Cost
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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
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 nine 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.
Paraeducators Pathway Program
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.
Childcare Director Credential
This program specialization can be pursued as part of the attainment of the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education, or as a standalone set of three courses for individuals who already have an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree in early childhood education.
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
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