Exploring Career Development

You are never too old to learn something new. Continuing education through trainings, credentials, or higher education is vital for everyone in the field of early care and education. Whether you are stepping into a classroom as an educator for the very first time or have years of experience under your belt, ongoing training and education will ensure you have the tools and knowledge to provide high quality education for the children in your care.

There are many types of trainings and educational opportunities available for early care and education providers. To learn more about the opportunities available and funding that can ensure you pay little to no cost to participate, explore the information below.

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    Community Based Career Development

    Community based career development refers to training provided by MiRegistry Approved trainers. These trainings are listed on MiRegistry's Statewide Training Calendar.
    Explore Community Based Career Development

    Credit Based Career Development

    Credit based career development is earned through community colleges and universities. In some cases, individuals may want to dip their toes into the world of higher education and take a class or two, rather than pursue a full degree.
    Explore Credit Based Career Development

    Credentials

    Credentials are earned through completion of a certification or qualification in a specific area. In the State of Michigan's early childhood and school age care and education ecosystem, the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, Michigan Youth Development Associate (MI-YDA) Credential, Montessori Credential, and Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health (MI-AIMH) Endorsements require professional development (credit or non-credit bearing) and a demonstration of competency in areas critical to working with children.
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    Degree Programs

    Degree programs at community colleges and universities are a great way to explore the theory and practice behind the education and care of children and youth. Students can choose to pursue an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree.
    Explore Degree Programs
    Career Pathway
    Use this information to guide and plan your career development.

    Job Boards for Job Seekers and Recruiters

    MAISA, MIAEYC, Great Start to Quality, and Early On, host free job boards to support workforce development.

    Financial Supports

    Learn about financial supports available to support your career development goals.
    Use Self-Assessments for Career Guidance

    Use self-assessments to understand how your skills and interests might align with career opportunities.

    Explore Career Opportunities
    Learn more about careers in the early childhood and school age care and education field.
    Explore Career Development Opportunities
    Learn about expanding your career opportunities through training, credentials, and higher education.
    Provide Feedback on the Career Exploration Tool
    Provide constructive feedback on the Career Exploration Tool.