Career roadmap
How to Become a Retail Store Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a retail store manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a retail store manager: (1) start as an associate, (2) become a key holder, (3) become an assistant manager, (4) become a store manager, (5) advance. Most people need about 2–5 years of retail experience. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a retail store manager
Start as an associate
Learn sales and operations.
Become a key holder
Open, close and lead shifts.
Become an assistant manager
Learn scheduling and inventory.
Become a store manager
Run the store.
Advance
Become a district or regional manager.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma plus retail experience is typical. Some managers have business or retail management degrees.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2–5 years of retail experience |
Certifications and licenses
- NRF Foundation retail certifications: Credentials in retail management and service.
- Loss prevention training: Training on shrink reduction.
- Leadership training: Company manager programs.
- Business or retail management degree: Formal training in management.
Skills to build now
Start with sales management, scheduling and payroll, and inventory and shrink control, and practice leadership and coaching. Learning the retail store manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Sales Associate: Sell and serve customers.
- Assistant Store Manager: Lead operations.
- Store Manager: Run the store.
- District or Regional Manager: Lead multiple stores.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Retail Store Manager 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 store managers need a degree?
Usually not; experience matters more.
Are hours long?
Often, especially around holidays.
How long does it take to become a retail store manager?
Most people need about 2–5 years of retail experience of training. A high school diploma plus retail experience is typical. Some managers have business or retail management degrees.
Do you need a degree to be a retail store manager?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 41-1011 (First-line supervisors of retail sales workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for First-line supervisors of retail sales workers (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.