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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