Created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), The Pennsylvania Key implements the work and supports the policies developed and managed by OCDEL. Learn More. >
The Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) offers several ways for early childhood and school-age professionals to obtain credentials and degrees. Professionals can find more information on the following:
Apply for the Child Development Associate (CDA).The Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential is the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education (ECE) and is a key stepping stone on the path of career advancement in ECE. You may also be eligible for a CDA Voucher.
Apply for the Director Credential. The Pennsylvania Director Credential is designed as a standard to measure and validate the abilities and competencies of directors and administrators to manage high quality early childhood and school-age programs.
Learn more about Pennsylvania’s Early Childhood Education Apprenticeship. The registered Early Childhood Education (ECE) Apprenticeship is designed as a Career Pathway option for early childhood educators to transition from a CDA to an associates degree (AA) or bachelors degree (BA) while working in an early child classroom.
Apply for the School-Age Credential. The Pennsylvania School-Age Professional Credential (SAPC) was developed to promote quality services for children and families by providing specific standards, professional development and evaluation of school-age practitioners.