Early Childhood Education CDA Diploma (CDAD)
What is a Diploma in Early Childhood Education?
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) CDA Practicum Certificate program is designed for ECE CDA Apprenticeship students engaging in Related Technical Instruction (RTI) and earning credit-bearing coursework from our department. This certificate program integrates classroom learning with hands-on experience at practicum or On the Job Learning (OJL) sites where students are employed as ECE professionals. The curriculum encompasses foundational ECE theories, child development, and community and family engagement, tailored to align with both NAEYC standards and the specific competencies required for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Throughout the program, students will fulfill all academic and practical requirements necessary to complete their CDA Portfolio, ensuring they are well-prepared for professional roles in early childhood education settings.
The Early Childhood Education CDA Diploma (CDAD) at LCCC is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs of the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Early Childhood Education CDA Diploma
In this program, you’ll take classes such as:
- Foundations of Early Childhood Education
- Child Growth and Development
- Communities and Families
Course Fees
Pathway to a Career in Early Childhood Education
Advance your career at your own pace. Each step below transfers credits to the next. Appropriate job titles and average pay ranges are meant to help guide an individual interested in this field; they vary based on individual experience and employer.
Workforce Training
CDA Apprenticeship
Lehigh Carbon Community College
- Assistant Teacher
- Assistant Group Supervisor
Associate Degree
Early Childhood Education A.A.S.
Lehigh Carbon Community College
- Lead Teacher
- Group Supervisor
- Home-Based Teacher
Post-Associate’s Credential
Early Childhood Education Director Specialized Credit Diploma
Lehigh Carbon Community College
- Director
Wage information taken from Lightcast Q1 2024 BETA Data Set – QCEW Employees. Wage range is 25%-75% hourly average in surrounding 10-county region.
State Licensing and Credential Requirements
Students who complete the A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education are qualified for specific career roles within early childhood education / childcare based on state guidelines. The below information is meant to provide a resource for students interested in roles within early childhood care and education. This is not a definitive list of requirements. Please refer to state guidelines for career roles and degree and certification requirements.
Program Coordinator
