Credentials
CDA Educator Pathways
Council for Professional RecognitionCompare CDA settings, requirements, the application process, and renewal information.
Visit official website →Educator Resource Hub
Professional growth
Career & Continuing Education
Official starting points for earning a credential, documenting Illinois training, and comparing online degree pathways.
Illinois training
Gateways i-learning
Gateways to OpportunityTake online courses and track completed training in your Professional Development Record.
Visit official website →Illinois credentials
Gateways Credentials
Gateways to OpportunityReview Illinois credential levels and learn how to apply through the Registry.
Visit official website →Associate degree
AAS in Early Childhood Education
Rasmussen UniversityFlexible online, non-licensure pathway that can continue into Rasmussen’s ECE bachelor’s program.
Visit official website →Associate degree
AAS in Early Childhood Development
Purdue GlobalOnline, non-licensure program with a pathway into Early Childhood Administration.
Visit official website →Associate degree
AA in Early Childhood Studies
Eastern UniversityOnline program designed for working adults with bachelor’s pathways available.
Visit official website →Associate degree
AA in Early Childhood Education
Liberty UniversityFully online, non-licensure program focused on child development and instructional practice.
Visit official website →Bachelor’s degree
Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
Rasmussen UniversityFully online, non-licensure program focused on early childhood practice and leadership.
Visit official website →Bachelor’s degree
BS in Early Childhood Administration
Purdue GlobalOnline, non-licensure degree combining child development with administration and leadership.
Visit official website →Bachelor’s degree
BS in Early Childhood Education
Eastern UniversityOnline program leading toward Pennsylvania PK–4 certification; verify reciprocity in your state.
Visit official website →Bachelor’s degree
BS in Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies
Liberty UniversityA fully online, non-licensure program covering child development and early-learning practice.
Visit official website →Programs, tuition, transfer policies, and licensure rules can change. Confirm current details with the university and your state teacher-certification or licensing agency before enrolling.