Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get my CDA at St. Petersburg College?

While St. Petersburg College does not offer a 'CDA' program, many students take the early childhood courses in the A.S. degree to meet the National CDA requirements. You can see the specific requirements on the Council for Professional Recognition website:

www.cdacouncil.org

There are also 'equivalent' programs at many technical schools and high schools. Here's the link to the Department of Children and Families approved list:

www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/childcare/b5_fccpc_program.shtml

Typically the certificate represents 120 hours of training AND 480 hours of experience working with young children.

Q: What about a Staff Credential?

You can view the requirements for the Staff Credential on the Department of Children and Families website under the Training tab at:

www.myflorida.com/childcare

Many students who already have a college degree in another field and need six credits in early childhood education take our EEC courses as non-degree seeking students.

Q: Can I renew my Staff Credential by taking a course at SPC?

Yes, you may apply to SPC as a non-degree seeking student and take an Early Childhood Education course from the A.S. degree program. Courses are listed on our website:

www.spcollege.edu/spg/earlychildhood

Q: Can I teach in a public school with the Associate of Science degree?

Public schools require their full-time budgeted teachers to have Florida teacher certification in the appropriate age/grade level. This typically requires a Bachelor degree earned in a teacher preparation program. You can apply to this program (B.S. degree in Prekindergarten/Primary Education) here at SPC. The program requires a general education Associate of Arts degree (A.A.) with certain pre-requisite courses and other admission requirements.

Q: Which students usually apply to the Associate of Science program?

The Associate of Science degree in Early Childhood Education primarily serves students currently working in early childhood settings such as child care centers, preschools and private schools. These students may choose to enter a Bachelor's degree program here at SPC or at other colleges and universities (must meet additional requirements depending on the program) but they also desire course work during their associate degree that is relevant to their work with children.

The early childhood courses in the A.S. degree program require field experiences (case studies, observations, lesson activity presentations) that can usually be completed in the student's work setting. The final course in the A.S. degree can also typically be completed as a 'working internship' for those students who are employed in an early childhood setting. Distance students must be employed in a setting where a supervisor, Director or Principal can provide the onsite supervision and evaluation.

Students not currently in the early childhood field may find it difficult to meet the individual course requirements and the internship hours/evaluation. Those students may be interested in completing the general Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree and may take courses in early childhood as elective credits.