CDA Training Options

The following CDA training options give candidates the opportunity to complete training requirements for clock hours or college credit.

Review these frequently asked questions to learn more about the CCR&R CDA Training Program.

Option 1: Personalized Learning Path (clock hours)

CDA candidates develop a personalized Learning Path by selecting from a menu of clock-hour credit courses offered by CCR&R in online and face-to-face formats. This option is ideal for people who are self-motivated, able to seek their own information, want the freedom to choose from a variety of courses and want to complete training hours at their own pace. To begin earning your CDA training hours this way:

Call CCR&R to connect with a Training Coordinator who will help you develop a personalized Learning Path that fulfills CDA training requirements.
Use the CCR&R Training Calendar to schedule and complete the courses identified on your Learning Path. Be sure to document training as you complete each course.
Work with your regional CCR&R Professional Development Coordinator to find information about completing the other components of the CDA application process

Costs for this self-paced, clock-hour option
• $0 to $300 depending on type of training attended
• $200 estimated advisor fee
• $325 national assessment fee

Convert you CDA Credential into college credit
Contact a CCR&R Professional Development Coordinator to learn how you may be able to convert your CDA credential into college credit.

Option 2: CDA Training Program (clock hours)

This distance learning course administered by ND CCR&R is divided into three modules. Candidates earn 45 clock hours of training for each module. You may register for one module at a time, but must complete all three modules to meet the national CDA requirements. This option allows you to work independently, while keeping you on pace to complete the CDA training within 12 months. To begin earning your CDA training credits this way:

Use the CCR&R Online Training Calendar to register and pay for the modules you wish to take. Registration is on-going, so you may register at any time.
Download course materials and complete on your own computer. Contact CCR&R if you prefer to purchase a paper version of the modules.
Order the course textbooks through the North Dakota State University (NDSU) Varsity Mart Bookstore online or call 701-231-7761. Request the books for the course titled HDFS 194.
Complete the learning assignments and other CDA components and return the course materials within 12 months of the date you registered for the course to receive clock hours.
When you have successfully completed the three course modules, and the other components of the national CDA, you are ready to submit your CDA Direct Assessment Application.

Costs for this independent study, clock-hour option
• Course fee of $255 per module or $765 for all 3 modules. Fee is non-refundable
• $200 one-time book fee (covers all 3 modules)
• $200 estimated advisor fee
• $325 national assessment fee

Training Materials
• Course Overview and Required Textbooks
• Sample Lesson

Convert you CDA Credential into college credit
Contact a CCR&R Professional Development Coordinator to learn how you may be able to convert your CDA credential into college credit.

Option 3: Distance & Continuing Education (college credit)

You can earn direct college credit by completing CDA training courses through Distance and Continuing Education at a university or college. ND CCR&R works in partnership with the following institutions that offer this option:
North Dakota State University (NDSU) Distance and Continuing Education
Minnesota State University - Moorhead (MSUM) Distance and Continuing Education

Costs for this college credit option
• Course fees per credit set by the sponsoring institution.
• $200 one-time book fee (covers all 3 modules)
• $200 estimated advisor fee
• $325 national assessment fee