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Masters Degree Child Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Air Force

$63K/yr

If the director does not have a BA degree in those areas, the director must have an AA degree and must be working toward the completion of a BA degree. NOTE: You MUST submit copies of your ...

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Masters Degree Child Development information

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$74.5K

$112K

$163K

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for masters degree child development in the United States is $112,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,500.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a career with a Master's Degree in Child Development, and why are they important?

A career with a Master's Degree in Child Development requires deep knowledge of developmental psychology, assessment techniques, and program planning, typically supported by a master's degree in child development or a related field. Familiarity with developmental screening tools, educational software, and data analysis systems is often essential. Strong communication, empathy, and cultural sensitivity help professionals build trust with children, families, and interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure effective support for children's growth, learning, and well-being in educational, clinical, or community settings.

What is the difference between Masters Degree Child Development vs Child Life Specialist?

CriteriaMasters Degree Child DevelopmentChild Life Specialist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Child Development or related fieldBachelor's degree + certification (CCLS)
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, research, policyHospitals, pediatric units, healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, education agenciesHospitals, healthcare organizations, pediatric care

The Masters Degree in Child Development focuses on understanding child growth, research, and education, often in academic or policy roles. In contrast, a Child Life Specialist applies child development principles directly in healthcare settings to support children and families during medical experiences. Both roles require a background in child development, but their work environments and specific certifications differ.

What can I do with a master's degree in child development?

A master's degree in child development opens up a variety of career paths in both educational and clinical settings. Graduates often work as early childhood educators, child life specialists, program directors, or developmental therapists. Many also pursue roles in research, policy advocacy, or continue their education toward a PhD. The degree provides advanced knowledge of child growth, learning, and behavior, making graduates valuable in schools, hospitals, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

What types of career advancement opportunities are available for professionals with a master's degree in child development?

With a master's degree in child development, professionals can pursue a variety of advancement opportunities, such as moving into supervisory or administrative roles within educational or childcare settings, becoming program directors, or specializing further in areas like early intervention or developmental research. Many also transition into policy-making, advocacy, or higher education positions, such as college instructors or researchers. Additionally, pursuing certifications or additional training can open doors to leadership positions in nonprofit organizations or government agencies focused on children and families.
More about Masters Degree Child Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Masters Degree Child Development jobs? Cities with the most Masters Degree Child Development job openings:
What states have the most Masters Degree Child Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Masters Degree Child Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Masters Degree Child Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Masters Degree Child Development jobs are:
Masters Degree Child Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Masters Degree Child Development job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% As Needed, 25% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,050 per year, or $53.9 per hour.
Child Development Manager

Child Development Manager

Southwest Human Development

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

A positive future for every child
Southwest Human Development is Arizona's largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development. The first five years of life are the most critical in a child's development. At Southwest Human Development, our services improve lives and help families by supporting young children and their caregivers during this important time.
Your skills, experience, and passion are needed at one of the nation's largest nonprofits dedicated to early childhood development. Join our team and experience a long-term career which brings joy and satisfaction in knowing you make a difference. We offer over 40 programs and services to more than 140,000 children.
Why choose us?
You will be rewarded with benefits, including zero contribution health plan options, 401K plan, wellness programming, and generous paid time off.
You will have the opportunity to represent a highly respected non-profit agency in Arizona.
You will enjoy a supportive and collaborative work environment.
Job title: Child Development Manager
The Child Development Manager provides support and oversees teaching staff in the planning and implementation of Early Head Start, Head Start and Early Head Start Childcare Partnership Programs. Services include screening, assessment, individualization, child outcome tracking and coordination of overall comprehensive child development, mental health, disabilities, nutrition, health, and parent and child development.
In this role you will:
  • Oversee the implementation and monitors the delivery of high-quality service and teacher practice.
  • Assure that services meet the department and program requirements, are comprehensive, appropriate, and delivered within the established timelines.
  • Demonstrate sensitivity to linguistic, cultural, social, economic, individual, and role differences among persons and families served.
  • Help design and implement staff training.
  • Network with public schools and community agencies to address unmet needs of participating families.
  • Provides supervision, which is regular, reflective, and collaborative in nature.
  • Communicates accurately, clearly, and professionally.

What it takes:
  • Bachelor's degree required: Early Childhood Education, Family Studies or related field.
  • Minimum 2 years' experience is required including Early Childhood Education Program in lead preschool role experience and supervision experience.
  • Knowledge of Developmentally Appropriate Practices and Bilingual Education services.
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
  • Fingerprint Clearance card, Food Handlers certification, and CPR/First Aid certification.
  • Knowledge of Department of Child Safety reporting mandates.
  • Functional knowledge of Childcare Licensing requirements.

Strength and Mobility:
  • Ability to lift 35-50 pounds.
  • Ability to stoop, bend, and squat to child's eye level for appropriate amount of time.
  • Ability to sit for periods of time on floor with children.
  • Ability to get up and down from floor without assistance.
  • Ability to run after a child if necessary.
  • Ability to climb flights of stairs.
  • Ability to play with children, step, run, hop.

Learn more!
Our core values embody Southwest Human Development's commitment to services that uplift the lives of children, families, and other care providers, and the communities in which they live. These values are intended to guide the professional development, ethical conduct, and skilled practice of all our staff, whatever their specific role within the agency. All staff are valued as making essential contributions to strengthening the foundation that Arizona's children need for a great start in life. Learn more about our values and benefits here.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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