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Child Development Associate Degree Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate degree in Early Childhood Development/Education or a closely related field (Elementary Education, Family-Life Studies, Child Psychology). Education must be obtained from an accredited ...

Associate degree in Early Childhood Development/Education or a closely related field (Elementary Education, Family-Life Studies, Child Psychology). Education must be obtained from an accredited ...

This state required credential is waived for those who possess a teacher's license, an Associate's Degree, Technical Certificate or Diploma or a BS Degree in early childhood, child development or ...

Associate degree in Early Childhood Development/Education or a closely related field (Elementary Education, Family-Life Studies, Child Psychology). Education must be obtained from an accredited ...

Minimum of an associate degree in child development or early childhood education (ECE) or in a *related field with coursework equivalent to a major relating to early childhood education and a minimum ...

Minimum of an associate degree in child development or early childhood education (ECE) or in a *related field with coursework equivalent to a major relating to early childhood education and a minimum ...

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Child Development Associate Degree information

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$29K

$53.4K

$81K

How much do child development associate degree jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate degree in the United States is $53,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job with a child development degree?

The highest paying jobs with a child development degree often include roles such as early childhood program director, child life specialist, or preschool director, which can offer salaries ranging from $50,000 to over $80,000 annually. These positions typically require additional experience, leadership skills, and sometimes certification, and they involve overseeing programs, supporting children's development, or managing staff in educational or healthcare settings.

What can you become with a child development degree?

A child development associate degree prepares individuals for careers such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, early childhood educator, or family support specialist. These roles typically involve working in daycare centers, preschools, or community programs and may require certification or licensing depending on the position and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a Child Development Associate Degree, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Child Development Associate Degree, you need a solid understanding of child growth, early education best practices, and developmentally appropriate activities, often supported by CDA certification. Familiarity with educational frameworks, child assessment tools, and classroom management software is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and creativity are essential soft skills for engaging young children and collaborating with families and colleagues. These skills ensure effective learning environments and positive developmental outcomes for children in early childhood education settings.

What is a Child Development Associate Degree?

A Child Development Associate Degree is a two-year undergraduate program that prepares students to work with young children in various educational and care settings. The program typically covers topics such as child psychology, early childhood education, curriculum planning, and child health and safety. Graduates are equipped to support the growth and development of children from infancy through early childhood, and they may qualify for roles such as preschool teacher, childcare worker, or teacher's aide. This degree also provides a foundation for further study in education or related fields.

Is a child development degree worth it?

A Child Development Associate Degree provides foundational knowledge of child growth, behavior, and learning strategies, which can improve job prospects in early childhood education and caregiving roles. It often qualifies individuals for entry-level positions and may be required for certification or licensing in some states. The degree can lead to increased earning potential and career advancement in the field of early childhood development.

What is the difference between Child Development Associate Degree vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectChild Development Associate DegreePreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild Development Associate (CDA) credential or degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require CDA or higher
Work EnvironmentChildcare centers, preschools, Head Start programsPreschools, daycare centers, private and public schools
Industry UsagePreparation for early childhood education rolesDirectly involved in teaching preschool children

The Child Development Associate Degree provides foundational knowledge and credentials for working with young children, often serving as a stepping stone to becoming a preschool teacher. While both roles focus on early childhood education, a CDA is typically a credential or degree that qualifies individuals for entry-level positions, whereas preschool teachers are responsible for planning and implementing educational activities for preschoolers. Having a CDA can enhance job prospects and earning potential in preschool teaching roles.

What can I do with a child development associate?

A Child Development Associate Degree qualifies individuals for entry-level positions in early childhood education, such as preschool teacher, childcare provider, or teaching assistant. It provides foundational skills in child development, behavior management, and curriculum planning, often requiring certification or licensing depending on the state or employer.

What types of career paths can I pursue after earning a Child Development Associate Degree?

With a Child Development Associate Degree, you can pursue various entry-level roles in early childhood education, such as preschool teacher, teacher’s assistant, childcare center staff, or family childcare provider. This degree often serves as a stepping stone to higher-level positions, including lead teacher or center director, especially when paired with further education or certifications. Many employers value the practical skills and foundational knowledge gained from this degree, and it can also help you specialize in areas like special education or child advocacy. Additionally, the role often involves working closely with families, educators, and specialists, providing opportunities to build strong professional networks and grow your expertise.
More about Child Development Associate Degree jobs
What cities are hiring for Child Development Associate Degree jobs? Cities with the most Child Development Associate Degree job openings:
What states have the most Child Development Associate Degree jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Development Associate Degree jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate Degree jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate Degree jobs are:
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate Degree job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,418 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Childcare Director

$41K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 hours ago


Job description

Cambria County Child Development Corporation (CCCDC) offers high quality early childhood and school-age programs.
Child care directors are responsible for the daily operations of the learning center. They ensure a safe and educational environment for young children, manage teaching staff, develop curricula in coordination with teachers, communicate with parents, and uphold the center's reputation.
-Minimum of Associate's Degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education or related degree with 18 ECE credits, and 2 years experience working with children. Bachelor's Preferred.
-Required: State Police, Child Abuse, FBI (paid for by CCCDC), NSOR clearances and Health Assessment and TB test.
-Sign on Bonus!
-We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Job Type: Part-time
Benefits:
401(k) matching
Employee discount
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Retirement plan
Tuition reimbursement


Schedule:
Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:
Bonus pay

Experience:
Teaching: 2 years (Preferred)
Childcare: 2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:
Child Development Associate Certification (Preferred)