Online Professional Development
Self-paced online courses designed for educators who want to grow without giving up evenings and weekends. Earn PD hours and deepen your practice.
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Next CDA Cohort Begins: January 2026
Spots Are Limited.
Scholarship Support Available.
EPIC is an officially approved Training Agency in the New Jersey Workforce Registry. Our learners are eligible for state-funded scholarships for CDA training and early childhood career pathways.
Welcome to the Early Professionals Institute & Collective (EPIC) — your launchpad to a future filled with purpose, opportunity, and real-world impact.
About EPIC
The Early Professionals Institute & Collective (EPIC) is a nonprofit dedicated to helping people start and grow meaningful careers in early childhood education. We support aspiring educators, childcare staff, and future family childcare owners with structured training, coaching, and career planning.
Our programs are aligned to New Jersey professional standards and the NJ Workforce Registry, with options for scholarship funding that can significantly reduce – or fully cover – tuition costs. Whether you're entering the field or seeking advancement, EPIC equips you with the skills, confidence, and support to thrive.
Online Courses & CDA Programs
Flexible, online training built for busy adults. Learn on your own schedule while building real, career-ready skills.
Career Coaching
One-to-one guidance to clarify your goals, polish your resume, get ready for interviews, and map out your next steps in education.
View Coaching Options →CDA Credential Cohort
An 8-week, evening-friendly program aligned with NJCCIS and CDA Council requirements. Complete your 120 hours with structured support, portfolio guidance, and exam prep.
Learn About the CDA Cohort →Download a Free Resource
Get practical tools to start organizing your career, finances, and next steps in early childhood education.
Proven Steps for Financial Success
A simple roadmap to budgeting, planning, and preparing for your first months working in childcare or running your own program.
Get the FreebieEasy Steps to Get Started
Step-by-step guidance for getting into the NJ Workforce Registry, exploring scholarships, and choosing a first training path.
Get the FreebiePhysical & Emotional Activities
A starter set of activities that support young children’s social-emotional development and movement in early childhood settings.
Get the FreebieSuccess Stories
“Tomar el curso de CDA con EPIC fue una experiencia transformadora. Poco después de terminar el programa, conseguí trabajo en un centro de educación infantil.”
— Matilde G.
“Career coaching with EPIC helped me rebuild my confidence, sharpen my resume, and feel prepared for interviews. I’m now working as a paraprofessional in a role I’m excited about.”
— Stephanie S.
“El acompañamiento durante el curso CDA hizo toda la diferencia. Me sentí apoyada, motivada y lista para marcar una diferencia en la vida de los niños.”
— Liliana P.
“The CDA course gave me practical tools, structure, and encouragement. Within weeks of finishing, I accepted a job at a childcare center in Jackson, NJ.”
— Olive C.
Stay in Touch
Share a bit about your goals and we’ll help you choose the right training path, scholarship option, or coaching support.