You’re exploring Early Childhood Education at Cincinnati State — and that’s a smart move. If you’re drawn to working with young children, especially in childcare, preschool, or early elementary settings, ECE is a strong, hands-on option that prepares you to step into the field quickly.
But Cincinnati State offers a few other similar programs, too, and it can be hard to know which one truly fits your goals. That’s why this page exists: to help you compare the options so you can feel more confident that Early Childhood Education is the right path for you.

How Most Students Decide
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Degree and the Child Development Associate (CDAC) Certificate both prepare you for careers in early childhood education with similar starting salaries. On the other hand, while the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Certificate (IDDC) can work in early childhood intervention settings, it tends to be more adult focused. To decide which path is right for you, most students boil it down to a few simple questions…
Do You Want to Earn a Certificate or a Degree?
If you want a comprehensive education that leads to jobs like Preschool Teacher, Assistant Teacher, or even working in elementary schools, the ECE Degree is the right choice. If you want to start working fast with children ages birth to 5 or want to be more adult-focused, the CDAC and IDDC certificates are a quicker path.
What Kind of Work Setting Do You Want?
If you see yourself in preschools, elementary schools, or Head Start programs, the ECE Degree sets you up for those environments. If you want to work in early childcare centers with the youngest children, the CDAC allows you to do that quickly, either online or at the Workforce Development Center (WDC). The IDDC offers a wide variety of work settings.
A Side by Side Comparison
Early Childhood Education (ECE) | Child Development Associate (CDAC) | Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Certificate (IDDC) | |
Program Length | 4 Semesters | 1 Semester | 3 Semesters |
Focus | Prepare early childhood educators | Prepare early childhood educators | Prepares for jobs that serve/care for individuals of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities. |
Career Roles | Preschool lead teacher Assistant teacher Educational assistant. Prepares students to enter bachelor’s degree programs for PreK-5th grade teacher licensure and non-licensure tracks. | Assistant Teacher Childcare Worker Support Staff Floater | Varies, depending on employer and level of education attained |
Can Transfer to 4-Year Program? | Yes For PreK-5th grade teacher licensure and non-licensure tracks. | Some colleges may | Some colleges may |
Work Settings | Childcare Preschools Elementary schools Head Start programs | Variety of settings with children ages birth to 5 years old, and their families | Group homes Foster care agencies Respite services Supported employment programs Adult day programs Vocational rehabilitation agencies Early childhood intervention programs |
Experiential Learning | Student Teaching required | None | Practicum Required |
Starting Salary | $25-37,000+ | $28,000+ | $23-40,000+ |
Early Childhood Education (ECE)
Prepare to work directly with young children in classrooms and childcare settings.
This associate degree is for students who want to become lead teachers, assistants, or pursue PreK-5th grade teaching licensure. Includes hands-on experience through required student teaching.
Child Development Associate Certificate (CDAC)
Get foundational training for working with children ages birth to 5.
A short-term certificate that helps you qualify for roles like assistant teacher, floater, or childcare support staff. Can be completed at the Clifton campus or online through the Workforce Development Center.
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Certificate (IDDC)
Support individuals with developmental disabilities in care and education settings.
This certificate prepares you for roles in group homes, day programs, and early intervention services. A good option for students interested in disability advocacy or support work. Practicum required.
Your path at Cincinnati State starts when you apply, but if you’re not quite ready, you can reach out with any and all questions or explore college and program details like key dates, courses, costs, and financial aid options via the links below, or by requesting your starter kit.
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Background | Curriculum & Classes Why Students Love Our Program |
Career | Why Choose This Career Compare Similar Programs |
How and When | How to Start College |
Making it Work | Understanding Cost & Financial Aid Balancing School, Work & Life |