September 30, 2023

Coastal Bend College

The latest official news from CBC!

Coastal Bend College to Offer a Non-credit Child Development Associate Program

Coastal Bend College’s Department of Continuing Education has partnered with Ed2Go to provide a child development associate non-credit program completely online.

Childcare professionals play a vital role in early childhood development. This 100% course will train you for a career in child development and help you pass the Council of Professional Recognition’s CDA certification exam. Key topics include procedures and strategies for creating a safe and enriching childcare environment.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for childcare professionals is projected to increase by 11% through the year 2026, which is slightly faster than the average. The average annual salary for childcare professionals is $21,170 and $28,790 for preschool teachers. With experience in the field, wage could increase. In fact, the median annual wage for a Childcare Center Director this year is $45,790.

Childcare professional ensures the welfare, health and safety of children under their care. Other common childcare job titles include:

  • Childcare Worker
  • Childcare Professional
  • Daycare Worker
  • Child Development Specialist
  • Child Development Center Assistant

The CDA is a nationally-recognized credential that demonstrates a childcare professional’s skills, competencies and knowledge. According to the Council for Professional Recognition, CDAs are able to “nurture the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social development of children.”

Earning a Child Development Associate credential can be a steppingstone to career advancement in the early childhood education field. Many CDAs go on to work in education as preschool or elementary school teachers.

The program cost is $850.

If you have any questions or would like to register for the veterinary assistant program at Coastal Bend College, please email ce@coastalbend.edu or call 361-354-2768.