CDA Credential Prep Program
Build Missouri’s Early Childhood Workforce.
Earn Your CDA
Prepare for the nationally recognized Child Development Associate® (CDA) Credential—the most widely accepted certification in early childhood education. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to advance, this program helps you build essential skills, boost your confidence, and meet job qualifications.
At the same time, you’ll be playing a vital role in addressing Missouri’s growing need for qualified early childhood educators—strengthening both your future and the state’s early childhood education and care system.
Flexible, Self-Paced, and Designed to Keep You on Track.
This fully online, instructor-supported program lets you learn on your schedule. Each course takes about 15 hours to complete, with a recommended pace of one course per month (around 4 hours/week).
You’ll have up to 18 months to finish the full program or individual courses—giving you the flexibility to balance learning with your life, while staying on track to earn your CDA Credential with confidence.
Clear Expectations. Supportive Structure.
To earn credit, learners must complete all course modules, assignments, and assessments with a minimum score of 70%. You can retake assessments as needed to meet this requirement.
For those enrolled in the full program, each course must be completed successfully before moving on to the next, ensuring a clear, structured learning path.
If you’re taking individual courses, know that these courses are designed to build on one another. While you have the flexibility to complete them in any order, we recommend following the full program sequence for the best learning experience.
Stay focused, finish strong, and move forward with confidence.
CDA PREP PROGRAM CURRICULUM
Get the skills and knowledge you need to earn your CDA Credential and thrive in early childhood education. Our self-paced program includes 10 focused courses designed to build your confidence, meet CDA subject area requirements, and prepare you for real-world success.
Course 1: Subject Area One
Planning a Safe and Healthy Learning Environment—Create clean, secure, and nurturing spaces that support children's health and safety.
Course 2: Subject Area Two
Advancing Children’s Physical and Intellectual Development—Support motor skills, problem-solving, and creativity through intentional play and learning.
Course 3: Subject Area Three
Supporting Children’s Social and Emotional Development—Help children build confidence, manage emotions, and form positive relationships.
Course 4: Subject Area Four
Building Productive Relationships with Families—Learn strategies for engaging families as partners in each child’s growth.
Course 5: Subject Area Five
Managing an Effective Program Operation—Develop organizational and leadership skills for a successful classroom or center.
Course 6: Subject Area Six
Maintaining a Commitment to Professionalism—Strengthen your professional identity through ethical practices and ongoing learning.
Course 7: Subject Area Seven
Observing and Recording Children’s Behavior—Practice techniques for documenting development and using observations effectively.
Course 8: Subject Area Eight
Understanding Principles of Child Development and Learning—Gain a solid foundation in how young children grow, learn, and develop from birth to age five.
Course 9: Subject Area Six
Early Childhood Classroom Management—Learn practical tools for guiding behavior and creating structured, positive environments.
Course 10: Subject Area Six
Orientation to the Early Childhood Workplace—Prepare for real-world success with insight into roles, responsibilities, and expectations in the field.
Have Questions? We're Here to Help!
If you’d like to learn more about the CDA Prep Program or need guidance on which courses are right for you, please reach out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to earn a CDA Credential?
To apply for your CDA Credential, you must do the following: • Have a high school diploma, GED, or be a high school junior/senior in a qualified early childhood program. • Complete 120 hours of formal training in early childhood education with 10 hours minimum covering each of the 8 core subject areas. • Have 480 hours of work experience working with children in the age group matching your type CDA® application. • Complete Family Questionnaires and Professional Portfolio.
Will I be provided with a certificate or letter to verify my completed CDA education for the credentialing process?
Yes! You’ll receive a certificate of completion for each individual course you finish, or one comprehensive certificate if you complete the full program. These can be submitted to the Council for Professional Recognition as proof of meeting the 120-hour training requirement.
When can I start the course?
Courses are open enrollment—you can register anytime and start right away!
How long does it take to complete a course or the full program?
Each course takes about 15 hours to complete. We recommend completing one course per month to finish the full 10-course program in about a year. You have up to 18 months to complete either individual courses or the full program.
What happens if I can’t finish within the 18-month timeframe?
We understand life can be unpredictable! You may request a one-time extension of up to 6 months by contacting the program manager.
What kind of support will I receive?
You’ll receive a digital handbook to help guide your CDA portfolio development, and course assignments are designed to align with portfolio components. Weekly virtual office hours offer opportunities to connect, ask questions, and share with peers. Bonus learning events may also be offered to enrich your experience.
What happens when I pass a course?
You’ll earn a certificate of completion and a digital badge to showcase your learning. Full program participants also receive a certificate verifying the completion of 144 hours of formal training—meeting the CDA credential application requirement.
Will I earn Missouri Professional Development (MOPD) clock hour credit for these courses?
Yes. Missouri Professional Development (MOPD) clock hour credit will be awarded for course completion.
Is financial assistance available for the full program?
Yes! Scholarships and grant opportunities may be available. Connect with our program manager for details.
What can I do with a CDA Credential?
With a CDA Credential, you can work as a classroom aide or paraprofessional and take the first step toward a meaningful career in early childhood education.
Can I earn college credit for my CDA Credential?
Possibly! Many Missouri community colleges offer “Credit for Credential,” awarding college credit toward an associate degree in early childhood education. Contact your college of interest to learn more about their transfer policies.