On August 4, 2026, American Public University System combined with Rasmussen University and Hondros College of Nursing to form a single higher education institution. American Public University System (the System) now includes American Public University, American Military University, Rasmussen University, and Hondros College of Nursing. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (APEI). We are continuing to update our website to reflect our new structure.
Child Development Associate (CDA)® Credential Prep Classes
Training
A critical part of earning your CDA1 Credential, awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition, is fulfilling 120 hours of formal education—and Rasmussen University can provide that first step into an early education career. The CDA classes are flexible, affordable and provide student support services along the way. Taught with substantial interaction from experienced faculty, the three fully online classes (12 college credits) are available through self-directed learning modules. When you're ready to advance your education, your credits can seamlessly transfer into the ECE Associate’s degree.2
Supporting Your Education
Rasmussen University makes it easy to navigate the ins and outs of continuing your education. With Support Services, you’re connected to the answers, planning and resources you need to be successful.
Take me to:
Online CDA Classes
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Foundations of Child Development
This class explores developmental domains, theories and characteristics of children from birth to age eight.
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Curriculum and Instruction
You’ll learn how to plan and teach developmentally appropriate curriculum in an early childhood environment and continue to explore the CDA Credential standards and application requirements.
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Health, Safety and Nutrition/CDA Application
You’ll learn how to create and maintain safe environments for young children. Along with exploring the CDA Credential standards and application requirements, you may also, if eligible, apply for the CDA Credential at the completion of this class.
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Next Start Dates
The CDA classes are taken one class at a time, with the following available start dates.
CDA Prep Training Class Registration Deadline Start Date Foundations of Child Development 10/01/26 10/05/26 Curriculum and Instruction 11/09/26 11/12/26 For more information on the CDA Prep, contact our admissions representatives by email at cdapreptraining@rasmussen.edu or call 855-297-2939.
100% online
24/7 tech support
Accelerated Training3 can be completed in as few as 4.5 months
1 class
at a time for school/life balance
Take the Next Step
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Where Can I Find CDA Training Near Me?
While students will be completing their CDA classes online, they will be able to receive extra support if needed on any of our campuses as well as online.
Frequently Asked Questions
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About the Classes
What language options are offered?
The CDA Prep is only offered in English.
How long does the CDA Prep take?
Classes are offered one at a time for work/life balance and can be completed in as few as 4.5 months. The CDA Prep is a series of three individual classes which can be taken in any order, but are recommended to be taken in the following order:
- Foundations of Child Development
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Health, Safety and Nutrition/CDA Application
How much do the classes cost?
The three classes are $250 each, a total of $750 if you take all three (there is no registration fee) and are paid for one at a time prior to registration in each class. Before starting your classes, you will need to order the CDA Competency Handbook that corresponds to the age and setting you plan to teach—which is $25 (plus tax and shipping)—through the CDA Council website.
What happens after my CDA Prep classes are complete?
Upon completion of your CDA Prep classes, additional steps are required to obtain your CDA Credential through the Council for Professional Recognition, including completion of your professional portfolio, online CDA Credential application, Verification Visit and CDA exam. Rasmussen University does not award the CDA Credential, it is only awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. You are responsible for payment of the CDA Credential application fee. To learn more, visit: cdacouncil.org/credentials/apply-for-cda. For questions regarding the CDA Credential preparation and application, please email cdapreptraining@rasmussen.edu
What is the alliance with CDA Credential and Council for Professional Recognition?
Our curriculum includes a focus on preparing students to apply for their Child Development Associate (CDA)® Credential from the Council for Professional Recognition. Rasmussen University is proud to be an official partner of the Council for Professional Recognition. - Getting Started
- Taking Online Classes
- Classes