Students compile a Professional Resource File of information, references, and resources. The course textbook and trainee's manual, All About Child Care , written by NSU's Dr. Marilyn Segal, is designed for CDA training. The program can be completed in about eight months by attending class once a week for three eight-week sessions. Classes meet in the evening or on Saturday to accommodate the work schedules of students. Eight-week sessions start in January, March, June, and September.
Students can enter the program at the start of any session.
Academic Credit Students complete three 3-credit CDA courses, which provide nine undergraduate credits in early childhood education. These courses may be accepted at many colleges for credit in early childhood degree programs. Application Criteria Applicants for the CDA training program must be at least 18 years old, have a high-school diploma or GED, and work or volunteer regularly in an early childhood program. Program completion requires 480 hours of experience working with young children within five years. Options are available for individuals with academic degrees in fields other than early childhood.