Lehman offers a program based upon the nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) Competency Standards for Preschool Children. Successful completion of this program is a first step towards receiving a credential from the Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition.
Program participants can complete the Child Care Certificate in two or three semesters (125 hours in eight content areas, which include the thirteen functional areas of the CDA Competency Standards*). Students enrolled in the program receive help in preparing for the assessment process leading to the CDA credential. * NOTE: In addition to the education requirement, which this certificate fulfills, students must meet a 480-hour field experience requirement to earn a CDA credential.
To earn the certificate in Child Care, students must complete the eight required topics with a 70 percent average on exams and projects and attend at least 80 percent of classroom instruction for each course. Participants may start the program in any term. Classes meet twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Admission requirements: High school diploma or GED. Applicants who do not have a high school diploma or GED may apply to have this requirement waived with permission of the program coordinator. Note: No student is eligible to seek a CDA credential until proof of a high school diploma or GED is submitted. Students are also required to demonstrate proficiency in writing. (This will be evaluated by either the Certificate Program Application statement or the instructor/coordinator). Participants who do not meet the writing proficiency may be referred to an appropriate course.
Total program tuition: $1085 (125 hours). Tuition may be paid by semester.
NOTE: Financial aid may be available to program participants. Participants in Early Childhood field may be eligible for NYS Educational Incentive Scholarship Program EIP grant. For more information:www.ecetp.pdp.albany.edu or call 1-800-295-9616. Please allow 4-6 weeks for the application process; apply online for quicker processing.
Family Day Care Program
Introduction to Family Day/Child Care covers how to start a Family Day/Child Care business in the home including: the application process and licensing regulations; relationships with parents/families; Family Day/Child Care as a small business; and how to prepare a safe and appropriate program. The topic of professionalism is also covered.
A training certificate is available to students who successfully complete the 30-hour program.
How to apply for a certificate program
To register online, go to the Online Registration area.
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