A national early childhood credential. The single most respected entry-level credential in the field, and an official path to EEC Teacher certification in MA.

Who needs it

Anyone who wants to qualify as an EEC Teacher without taking a college class — the CDA counts as your education requirement.

How to get it

Complete 120 hours of ECE training, document 480 hours of work with kids, build a portfolio, then pass an exam and observation.

Cost

~$425 application fee. Many MA centers reimburse it after a year of employment.

Where to start

CDA Council ↗