Child Development Associate student

Child Development Associate (CDA)® Credential Prep Classes

Training

A critical part of earning your CDA1 Credential, awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition, is fulfilling 120 hours of formal education—and Rasmussen University can provide that first step into an early education career. The CDA classes are flexible, affordable and provide student support services along the way. Taught with substantial interaction from experienced faculty, the three fully online classes (12 college credits) are available through self-directed learning modules. When you're ready to advance your education, your credits can seamlessly transfer into the ECE Associate’s degree.2

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Supporting Your Education

Rasmussen University makes it easy to navigate the ins and outs of continuing your education. With Support Services, you’re connected to the answers, planning and resources you need to be successful.


Online CDA Classes

  • Foundations of Child Development

    This class explores developmental domains, theories and characteristics of children from birth to age eight.

  • Curriculum and Instruction

    You’ll learn how to plan and teach developmentally appropriate curriculum in an early childhood environment and continue to explore the CDA Credential standards and application requirements.

  • Health, Safety and Nutrition/CDA Application

    You’ll learn how to create and maintain safe environments for young children. Along with exploring the CDA Credential standards and application requirements, you may also, if eligible, apply for the CDA Credential at the completion of this class.


  • Next Start Dates

    The CDA classes are taken one class at a time, with the following available start dates.

    CDA Prep Training ClassRegistration DeadlineStart Date
    Health, Safety and Nutrition02/10/25
    07/02/25
    02/12/25
    07/07/25
    Foundations of Child Development4/03/25
    8/11/25
    4/07/25
    8/13/25
    Curriculum and Instruction01/02/25
    05/12/25
    01/06/25
    05/14/25

    For more information on the CDA Prep, contact our advisors by email at [email protected] or call 855-297-2939.

100% online

24/7 tech support

Accelerated Training3 can be completed in as few as 4.5 months

1 class at a time for school/life balance

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Where Can I Find CDA Training Near Me?

While students will be completing their CDA classes online, they will be able to receive extra support if needed on any of our campuses as well as online.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • About the Classes
  • Getting Started
  • Taking Online Classes
  • Classes