Career roadmap
How to Become a Childcare Center Director
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a childcare center director, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a childcare center director: (1) work in childcare classrooms, (2) earn a degree, (3) become a lead teacher, (4) become an assistant director, (5) become a director. Most people need about Bachelor’s plus 2–5 years of experience. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a childcare center director
Work in childcare classrooms
Gain teaching experience.
Earn a degree
Early childhood education or a related field.
Become a lead teacher
Mentor staff.
Become an assistant director
Learn operations.
Become a director
Lead a program or several.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field is typical, plus classroom experience. State director requirements vary.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Bachelor’s plus 2–5 years of experience |
Certifications and licenses
- National Administrator Credential (NAC): Credential for childcare administrators.
- Child Development Associate (CDA): Early childhood credential.
- State director credential: Required in some states.
- CPR and first aid: Required in programs.
Skills to build now
Start with program management, licensing compliance, and budgeting, and practice leadership and communication. Learning the childcare center director vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Teacher: Lead a classroom.
- Assistant Director: Support operations.
- Center Director: Run a center.
- Regional Director or Owner: Lead multiple centers.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Childcare Center Director training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do childcare directors need a degree?
Usually a bachelor’s, though states vary.
How long does it take to become a childcare center director?
Most people need about Bachelor’s plus 2–5 years of experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field is typical, plus classroom experience. State director requirements vary.
Do you need a degree to be a childcare center director?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, though some states allow directors with an associate degree, a CDA and experience.
What certifications are available for childcare center directors?
Common credentials include National Administrator Credential (NAC), Child Development Associate (CDA), State director credential, and CPR and first aid. State childcare licensing sets director qualifications, which often include education, experience and training hours.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-9031 (Education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycare).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycare (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.