Early Childhood Education

NHSC’s Early Childhood Associate (ECA) certification is earned by paraprofessional teacher’s aides and independent business owners who need to comply with state licensure requirements.

A student who completes the ECA also may choose to fulfill the requirements for the national Child Development Associate (CDA). Additional information about the CDA is available at: www.cdacouncil.org/about/cda-credential

Career paths available with a certificate in early childhood education include:
• Private childcare provider

• Preschool teacher’s aide

• Kindergarten teacher’s aide

• Daycare center manager

• Head Start teacher