Child Development Associate
Certificate
How Can We Help?
Early Childhood Education Division
Start your journey in early childhood care with this focused, practical certificate. You’ll build a strong foundation in how young children grow, learn and thrive — and gain real-world skills in teaching strategies, observation and curriculum planning.
Designed to help you launch or advance your career quickly, this certificate prepares you to apply for the national Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalency and meets Arizona Department of Health Services training requirements. It also qualifies you for Level C on Arizona’s Early Childhood Career Ladder, giving you a solid foothold for future growth in the field.
What You Will Learn
- Child development and characteristics of children ages 0-8
- How to build relationships with families and communities
- Observation, assessment and curriculum planning
- Teaching strategies that support development and learning
Program At a Glance
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Length of Program
1 semester (full-time); 2 semesters (part-time)
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Study Methods
In Person | Online
- This program has additional admission requirements
Launch Your Early Childhood Career Quickly
This short, stackable certificate is a great first step for anyone exploring a future in education. Whether you’re entering the workforce or working toward your CDA, you’ll be ready to make a meaningful impact on young learners right away.
Build on your certificate by applying your credits toward the Early Childhood Studies AAS degree and continue advancing your career.
Support When You Need It
Not sure if this is the right path for you? Schedule an appointment with an advisor to:
- Discuss program options and pathways to a bachelor’s degree
- Learn about funding and financial aid
- Get personalized guidance to reach your goals
