If you are an Early Childhood Educator working with children ages birth through 5 in a DHS licensed, BrightStar rated and CCAP center or family child care program you may qualify to earn 12/24 FREE college credits in Early Childhood Education. RIECETP has added the Certificate in Early Childhood Education for students who have completed the 12-credit program. All courses directly apply toward the department’s A.A. degree.
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS JUNE 30, 2025
College Credit Program
Courses will be offered in the following sequence:
- HMNS-2100 Child Growth and Development Skills 12 credit program
- HMNS-2120 Curriculum for Young Children 12 credit program
- HMNS-2150 Parent and Child Relations 12 credit program
- HMNS-2140 Guiding Children’s Behavior 12 credit program
- HMNS-1010 Introduction to Helping and Human Services 24 credit program
- HMNS-1080 Health, Nutrition and the Young Child 24 credit program
- HMNS-2070 Characteristics and Needs of Special Populations 24 credit program
- HMNS-1210 Field Experience and Seminar I – Child Development 24 credit program
RIECETP 12/24 College Credit Program Application Fall 2025 (Click Here)
RIECETP CDA Training
The Child Development Associate (CDA) is a nationally recognized early childhood credential designed to assess early childhood educator’s knowledge, skills and abilities using multiple sources of evidence such as an exam, observation and professional portfolio. The purpose of this credential is to ensure that early childhood educators are providing high quality care and meeting the developmental, emotional and educational needs of children.
The 14-week Cohort model will meet online weekly to assist participants to:
- Receive instruction to gain an understanding of the 6 CDA Competency Standards.
- Receive technology training and use of textbooks.
- Receive guidance in preparing the Professional Portfolio and developing a Philosophy Statement.
- Develop Community Supports.
- Earn up to 45 hours of RI State Approved Professional Development Hours.
- Receive guidance in completing the CDA online application process and pre-exam requirements
CDA Application – Preschool Fall 2025 (Click Here)
CDA Application – Infant/Toddler Fall 2025 (Click Here)
For more information, please contact:
Lori Ryan
Program Coordinator
Community College of Rhode Island
Department of Human Services
Revised Jan. 2025