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CDA Preparation
Certificate of Competence
The Certificate of Competence in Child Development Associate (CDA) Preparation is obtained by completing three of courses which meet the formal training requirements for the national CDA credential. The Certificate programs allow graduates to apply for the CDA creduntial which, with a year of experience, is currently the minumum requirement for preschool teachers in Hawaii and with a six months of experience the minimum requirement for program leaders for school age child care. The CDA with 6 months of experience allows graduates to enter the early childhood field as assistant teachers. Students interested in obtaining the national Child Development Associate (CDA) credential may then take courses to fulfill their formal training requirements while getting their "on-the-job" experience and fulfilling their other requirements independently.
Visit the CDA Council Web Site
The Certificate of Completion in Early Childhood Education
The Certificate of Completion in Early Childhood Education requires a minimum 17 credit core course sequence designed to give you basic skills to work with children from infancy through eight years of age. To obtain the Certificate of Completion, students must also demonstrate proficiency at ENG 22 and MATH 1 levels. This certificate allows graduates with an AS degree in another field to enter the early childhood field at teacher levels.
The Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education (Preschool or Infant/Toddler Specialization)
The AAS degree program prepares you for immediate employment as a teacher in private early childhood programs for preschoolers or as a lead caregiver infants and toddlers. Variations to the basic requirements will accommodate school age child care workers, family child care providers, home visitors, parent educators, special education assistants, or supervisors and directors of private early childhood programs. All courses in the Certificate of Achievement program are required plus specific additions.