Launch Your Career in
Early Childhood Education
Earn the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential™ — the most respected entry-level credential in childcare and early education.
What Is the CDA Credential?
The CDA is the most widely recognized credential for early childhood educators in the United States — accepted by employers nationwide and awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition.
Whether you're starting fresh or looking to advance in a childcare or preschool role, this program gives you the knowledge and professional preparation to earn your CDA Credential™ with confidence.
Our curriculum covers child development from birth to age five, giving you practical skills you can apply immediately in real childcare and education settings.
Completing this program prepares you to move forward with the official CDA credential application and certification process through the Council for Professional Recognition.
Program Details
What This Credential Does for You
National Recognition
The CDA is accepted by employers across all 50 states — your credential travels with you wherever your career takes you.
Better Job Opportunities
Open doors to preschool, Head Start, daycare, and early learning positions that require or prefer a CDA credential.
Higher Earning Potential
Credentialed educators consistently earn more than uncredentialed workers in the early childhood field.
A Strong Foundation
The CDA is an excellent first step toward a long-term career in education, childcare, or child development.
Core Skills You'll Develop
Gain practical, professional skills for working with children from birth to five years old.
Child Development & Learning
Understand how children grow, learn, and develop at every stage from birth to age five.
Safe & Healthy Environments
Create classroom settings that keep children safe, healthy, and ready to learn.
Social & Emotional Support
Help children develop confidence, self-regulation, and positive relationships with others.
Educational Activity Planning
Design age-appropriate lessons and activities that support early learning goals.
Family Communication
Build strong, respectful partnerships with parents and guardians to support each child's growth.
Professional Responsibilities
Understand the ethics, standards, and professional conduct expected of early childhood educators.
Where Your CDA Can Take You
Graduates with the CDA Credential are qualified to pursue a range of positions in childcare and early education.
Take the First Step Toward a Career You Love
Enroll in the CDA program today and begin building the skills and credential that employers look for in early childhood education.
Enroll Now →