If you’re ready to step into administration in early childhood education, one of the most powerful moves you can make is earning your Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. The CDA is the most widely recognized credential in early childhood, demonstrating your professional competence and commitment to quality care.

Our CDA Fast Track for Administrators gives you all the training hours you need to apply for your CDA — in a flexible, supportive format designed specifically for those who want to move into leadership.

What Is the CDA?

The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, D.C. It’s recognized nationwide and is often required or strongly preferred for directors, assistant directors, and other leadership roles.

To qualify, you must complete 120 hours of formal training in specific content areas, along with work experience and portfolio requirements. Our CDA Fast Track ensures the training hours are covered — so when you’re ready, you can apply to the Council with confidence.

What Makes the CDA Fast Track for Administrators Different?

Unlike general CDA prep programs, this version is tailored for aspiring administrators. It not only prepares you to meet the CDA’s training requirements, but it also emphasizes the leadership and management skills needed to succeed in administrative roles.

The program includes:

• 100 hours of self-paced online coursework — Learn at your own pace, from anywhere.
  

• 20 hours of instructor-led online sessions (via Zoom) — Engage with expert trainers and peers in real time.
  

• Flexible timeline — Most finish in one semester, but you’ll have up to one year to complete.

Your Pathway to Administration

Finishing this program means you’ll have all 120 hours of CDA training required by the Council. You’ll still need to submit your portfolio and official application directly to the Council for Professional Recognition, but the training will be done.

Even better: when you combine the CDA Fast Track for Administrators with our Director Credential Program, you’ll meet the training requirements to qualify as a director in states like Oklahoma (Bronze Credential) and Texas. It’s the perfect one-two punch for aspiring leaders.

Who Should Enroll?

This program is designed for:

• Aspiring administrators — Teachers preparing to move into roles like assistant director, curriculum coordinator, or director.
  

• Owners and directors-in-training — Leaders who need the CDA to meet state licensing or quality rating requirements.
  

• Educators planning ahead — Anyone who wants to position themselves for future leadership opportunities.
  

Note: We also offer a CDA Prep track for teachers who want to grow in the classroom. If your goal is to stay in teaching rather than move into administration, [click here to explore that option].

Benefits of the CDA Fast Track for Administrators

• Career growth — Prepare for leadership roles with a nationally recognized credential.
  

• Professional credibility — Stand out as a candidate committed to quality and professionalism.
  

• Leadership focus — Training emphasizes administration, not just classroom practice.
  

• Flexibility — Learn at your own pace, with added live support to stay on track.
  

• Confidence — Know you’re fully prepared to apply for your CDA.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the program?
Most students finish in a semester, but you’ll have up to one year.

Do I automatically earn the CDA when I finish this course?
No. This course fulfills the 120 hours of training required. You’ll still need to apply to the Council for Professional Recognition to be awarded the CDA.

What’s the difference between the Administrator track and the Teacher track?
The Administrator track emphasizes leadership and management skills, while the Teacher track focuses on classroom practice and child development.

Can I complete this while working full-time?
Yes. The program is designed to be flexible and self-paced, with online sessions that fit into your schedule.

What happens after I complete the training?
You’ll have all your training hours completed, and we’ll provide guidance on how to apply to the CDA Council to finish the process.

Ready to Fast-Track Your Career?

If you’re ready to move into leadership, the CDA Fast Track for Administrators is your next step. With a combination of self-paced learning, live instructor support, and a focus on administration, this program gives you everything you need to complete your CDA training hours and move confidently toward leadership.

Click here to enroll today and take the next step toward your CDA.