Child Development Associate (CDA)

Earn certification to work with preschool-aged children.

DEGREE:

Certification

DELIVERY:

Hybrid

LOCATION:

Morehead

TIME REQUIRED:

9 Credit Hours

Course Requirements

What You Can Do with a child development Degree

Earning a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential opens the door to rewarding careers in early childhood education. With this credential, you are qualified to work in a variety of early childhood education programs, supporting the growth and learning of children from birth to age five. Along the way, you’ll build highly sought-after skills—including effective communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and professionalism—that not only prepare you for the classroom but also strengthen your career opportunities across the field.

Explore More

Infant/Toddler/Preschool Teacher (private early childhood programs)
Early Childhood Program Director
Family Childcare Provider
Head Start or Early Head Start Teacher
Classroom Paraprofessional
Professional Nanny

Take the Next Step

Ready to be a Morehead State Eagle? It’s easy to get started—fill out your application online today.

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What You’ll Learn in Child Development

You’ll gain the knowledge and real-world experience needed to complete the National Council for Professional Recognition assessment. This pathway prepares you to earn the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, which can be pursued in center-based preschool programs (ages 3–5) or infant/toddler center-based programs (birth to age 3).

Advance Your Career with the Kentucky Director Credential

Students may also choose to pursue the Kentucky Director Credential, a state-recognized credential that highlights leadership and administrative knowledge in early childhood education. This credential prepares you for roles such as early childhood education center director or program administrator, demonstrating your expertise in management, operations, and best practices for leading high-quality early learning programs.

REQUIRED COURSES: