Child Development Associate (CDA) Program and Kentucky Director Credential Program

The child development associate program (CDA) is a training program that offers nine hours of University approved coursework. These nine hours (three three-hour courses) fulfill the mandatory 120 clock hours of training needed to apply for the CDA credential. After training is completed, students go through an assessment process designed and implemented by the National Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition to determine their competence in working with young children. If they successfully complete the process, a CDA credential is awarded. The CDA credential may be obtained in a preschool center-based setting (3 to 5-year-olds) and/or an infant/toddler center-based setting (ages 6 weeks to 36 months) endorsement by the national CDA Council for Professional Recognition. The three child development associate classes are: EDEC 125, EDEC 150 and EDEL 250.

The Kentucky Director Credential training program offers twelve hours of University approved coursework. Students who complete these courses can apply for the credential that is issued by the Kentucky Division of Childcare. The KY DC courses are: EDEC 125, EDEC 150, EDEC 254, and a course of choice from the following options: EDEL 250, EDEC 199, EDSP 199.

For information about both programs, contact Teacher Education Services for Child Care Services, 301 Ginger Hall or call 606-783-9365.