Preschool Teacher FAQ

It depends on the program; many need an associate degree or CDA.

The Child Development Associate credential.

It can be demanding but very rewarding.

The median annual wage for preschool teachers was $38,140 ($18.34 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $28,990 and the highest 10% earned more than $61,390.

Most people need about 6 months (CDA) to 2 years (associate) of training. Requirements vary. Many preschool teachers have an associate degree in early childhood education or a CDA credential. Public pre-K and Head Start lead roles often require a bachelor’s degree.

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.

It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.5% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 66,700 openings each year. Upsides include meaningful work with young children; a common challenge is that pay is modest.

Key technical skills include early childhood curriculum, classroom management, child development observation, and health and safety practices. Employers also value patience, warmth, and creativity.

Common credentials include Child Development Associate (CDA), State early childhood teacher license, CPR and pediatric first aid, and State childcare training hours. Childcare licensing rules set training and qualifications for preschool teachers. Public pre-K teachers often need a state teaching license.