About the PA Director Credential
Arcadia University offers the Pennsylvania Director Credential, a three-course, graduate-level program that is a requirement of the Keystone STARS program under the Pennsylvania Early Learning Department.
Keystone STARS is an initiative to improve, support and recognize the continuous quality improvement efforts of early learning programs in Pennsylvania. This comprehensive professional development system, including career pathways with credentials, is for practitioners in settings including center- and home-based child care, school-age programs, Head Start, early intervention programs, and school-based programs. In order for Early Childhood Programs to reach Keystone STARS Level 3, directors must be credentialed.
The goal of the PA Director Credential coursework is to provide directors and administrators of early child care sites, centers, preschools, and before and after school care programs with the skills and knowledge to organize, lead, and manage high quality education centers based on state mandates, current trends and research-based practices. Courses are offered as a cohort program in a blended format, mixing online and face to face instruction throughout the semester. Instruction and learning take place within an 8 week schedule for each course. Students will receive instruction online and are also required to meet on three designated Saturdays for full day (9am-4pm) face to face classroom learning. Class meetings are on Glenside’s campus. This program is also offered in a cohort format delivered fully online.
Pathways to Master Degree in Education Credits earned in the PA Director Credential program can be applied in a variety of ways toward a M.Ed. Programs options such as a concentration in Early Childhood, Educational Leadership or a Modular Master Degree program combining the PA Director Credential coursework and the Certificate in Infant Toddler Mental Health. Individual advising will guide students who wish to pursue further coursework.
Scholarships: At various times throughout the year, tuition support for PA Director Credential college coursework is available from Arcadia as part of our affiliation with South Eastern Regional Key which works with providers, colleges and child care staff to offer scholarship programs and support systems that improve the education and compensation of child care workers. Inquire with the School of Education for scholarship eligibility and availability.
Admission to the PA Director Credential Program
Students must meet the admission requirements of Arcadia University’s graduate Education programs. In addition, students seeking admission for the PA Director Credential coursework should have a bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) from an approved institution of higher education, with a degree in Early Childhood or an approved related field and meet the requirements of Pennsylvania Key.
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