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What is a CDA?
A Child Development Associate is someone who is able to meet the specific needs of children. With the support of parents and other adults, the CDA works to nurture a child's physical, social, emotional and intellectual growth within a developmental framework. The CDA Credential is awarded to childcare providers who have successfully completing the CDA assessment process and demonstrated their ability to work with young children and their families.
There are two ways a CDA can be obtained: through vocational credit (myCDA) and through college credit (National CDA).
All CDA applicants must:
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Be at least 18 years old
- Meet all Seminole State enrollment requirements
- Have an application on file with Seminole State's Early Childhood Education Department before entering the program (Call 407.708.2413 for an appointment.)
- Acquire 480 hours of work experience by the end of the program
Seminole State's CDA Programs
Online National CDA Vocational Program (myCDA)
This is an online program extending over one semester of study. Students must have access to the Internet and meet all College entrance requirements.
- Two vocational courses, extending over one term, must be taken.
- As part of the portfolio development, 480 hours of experience must be documented with preschool children in group care.
- The certificate is awarded by the National CDA Council.
- Credit for courses completed within the program can be applied toward Associate in Science (A.S.) degree programs.
- Program credentials must be renewed by the CDA Council after three years initially, and again every five years after that.
- Click here for the program course listing.
College-Credit CDA Program (National CDA)
This program includes four college-credit courses.
- Credentials earned in the program are accepted nationally.
- Certificates are awarded by the National CDA Council.
- Program credentials must be renewed by the CDA Council after three years initially, and again every five years after that.
- Credit for courses completed within the program can be applied toward A.S. degree programs.
- Courses include: EEC 1000, EEC 2200, EEC 1601, EEC1319
- Most courses can be taken online.
- The program can be completed in one semester.
For more information on the National CDA, contact:
The Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition
2460 16th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 2009-3575
Toll-free: 800.424.4310
Additional Information
Enrolling to earn your CDA credential is just a phone call or e-mail away.
- For more information, e-mail the Early Childhood Education Department, or call 407.708.2413 to schedule an appointment. Our office is located in J-008 on the Sanford/Lake Mary Campus, next to the Safety and Security Office.
- An appointment will take about 30 minutes. An appointment is not required, but will help you be aware of the process.
- If you would like to apply to the College during your appointment, bring two forms of identification. Proof of residency is required for in-state tuition rates.
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