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    CDA

    CDA Pathway Course

    Are you passionate about nurturing the growth and development of young children? Whether you're taking your very first steps into the fulfilling field of early childhood education or you're an experienced caregiver looking to elevate your skills and gain national recognition, our CDA Pathway course is designed to equip you with the essential tools, knowledge, and support you need to confidently earn your Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. 


    The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is a widely recognized certification in early childhood education, awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition, demonstrating competence in delivering high-quality education and care to young children from birth to age five.


    By achieving your CDA credential, you'll not only unlock exciting career opportunities and potentially increase your earning potential, but you'll also become a more confident and effective advocate for the children in your care. You'll gain a deeper understanding of child development, learning theories, and effective strategies for creating safe, healthy, and stimulating environments. Join us and become a vital force in making a meaningful and lasting impact that ripples throughout your community for years to come. Empower young minds and your career with our CDA Pathway course.

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    Unlock Your Potential

    A CDA credential can open doors to a rewarding career working with young children in preschools, Head Start programs, and family child care centers.


    Advance Your Career

    CDA demonstrates your commitment and expertise, often leading to increased responsibilities and higher salaries in the early childhood field.

    Licensing Requirements

    Many early childhood programs require or prioritize staff with CDA credentials, making it a valuable asset for employment and program quality.

    Build a Solid Foundation

    The CDA provides a strong base of knowledge that can be a stepping stone towards further specialized certifications in early childhood education.

    200,000+

    CDA credential holders in the United States alone

    15%

    Increase in preschool teacher employment is expected by 2031

    80%

    Of employers value those with a CDA over those without one

    20%

    Average wage increase for those who have a CDA credential

    Course Requirements

    Must be at least 18 years of age

    Must have a valid high school diploma or GED

    Must be able to read, write, and speak in the language you intend to use in your future childhood education setting.

    Must be a U.S. citizen or permanenent resident.

    Course Details

    New section opens every start of the month.

    The course is four weeks long, and is fully virtual.

    Classe sessions are fully virtual.

    Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 6:00 PM - 9:00PM.

    Cost: $800

    The CDA Pathway course is designed to help you save time so that you can obtain your CDA as soon as possible. There will also be an opportunity to meet your instructor in-person for help on certain CDA requirements. Your instructor will be by your side and your source of guidance for the entirety of the course and until you receive your CDA credential, up to a maximum of 12 weeks from the day the course begins. The course itself is 4 weeks long, however there are certain requirements that may take longer than 4 weeks to complete. The purpose of the instructor will be to guide you through the fine details of obtaining your CDA, making this sometimes difficult task as easy as possible.


    Let's understand exactly what is required to obtain a CDA, and how the CDA Pathway course will help you towards these requirements.

    CDA Requirements and How We Help

    CDA Requirement: 120 training hours

    CDA Pathway: Half of these will be awarded to you for attending the sessions. The other half will be done online during non-session hours.

    CDA Requirement: Professional Portfolio

    CDA Pathway:Your instructor will work with you closely to help you create an outstanding portfolio that will pass all expectations. The professional portfolio is required for a PD Specialist observation.

    CDA Requirement: 480 hours of work experience

    CDA Pathway:You must gain your 480 hours of work experience on your own time and within three years of applying for the CDA. Your course instructor will assist you in finding a quality center to work at.

    CDA Requirement: Complete the online CDA application

    CDA Pathway: Your instructor will assist you in applying for the CDA via the online application ($525).

    CDA Requirement: PD Specialist Observation

    CDA Pathway:After the CDA application is submitted, a PD Specialist will schedule a time to come and observe you at the center in which you work. Your course instructor will help prepare you for this observation.

    CDA Requirement: CDA Examination

    CDA Pathway:Your course instructor will prepare you for the 65-question CDA Examination which will need to be conducted at a testing center. The instructor will also help you in scheduling the exam for you if needed.

    CDA Pathway FAQs

    Does this course grant me the CDA certificate?

    This preparatory course is designed to guide participants toward earning the Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate. The timeline for obtaining your CDA depends on your current level of preparation and the training hours you already have. With sufficient readiness, you may be able to receive your CDA certificate within just a few weeks after completing this course.

    What will happen if I miss a class session?

    Please make every effort to attend all sessions. There are no make-up classes, and missed sessions are not recorded. Any absence means missing valuable instruction and discussion.

    Does the course fee include the CDA exam?

    No, the CDA exam fee is not included in the cost of this course and will need to be paid separately when you sign up for it online.

    Does the course fee need to be paid in full?

    Yes, however feel free to ask about available payment plans, as we occasionally offer them for special circumstances.

    Will all CDA requirements be explained to me in full through this course?

    This course will thoroughly guide you through all CDA requirements and the steps needed to earn your certificate. Additionally, your CDA specialist will provide support for up to 12 weeks from the start of the course to help you complete any individualized components, such as submitting your application, scheduling the exam, and finishing portfolio or observation requirements.