Education & Care

How to become a Childcare Center Director

From preschool teacher: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

2–4 years

Typical pay

$48k–$68k

Starting from

Preschool teacher

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from preschool teacher and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   2–3 years

   Teach in a licensed centre

   Directors are almost always promoted from the classroom.

   Course that covers thisMaster Course in Early Childhood EducationUdemy · around $89.99 →
2. 2

   1–2 years

   Meet your state's director qualifications

   Usually a credential or degree plus documented years — the rules are state-specific.

3. 3

   6–12 months

   Learn licensing and compliance

   Ratios, records and inspections. A licensing violation can close a centre.

4. 4

   Take the director role

   Enrolment, staffing and parents. Add a CDA or a state director credential.

   ◆ CDA or state director credential

5. ✓

   Destination

   Childcare Center Director

   Browse jobs now →

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