Most CDA programs consist of between three and four courses which typically do not exceed 12 credit hours.
Most CDA programs offer courses which cover the following areas of study: principles of childhood development, early childhood development theory, classroom guidance, parent communication, and professionalism.
Many CDA programs provide students with the ability to choose an area of study around which specific courses are offered. The most common areas of study are: infant and toddler development, preschool development, and family childcare development. (For example, Nova Southeastern University, one of the top online universities according to Online Education Database, offers the above specializations, as do many other schools.)
Many programs require that students work in a licensed early childhood center while enrolled in CDA courses.
Several schools, such as Seminole State College, provide online CDA courses which give students flexible schedules, thus allowing them to work while enrolled in CDA classes.