Missouri ECE Qualifications: When Do You Need a Master’s Over a CDA?
If you’re serious about growing in your career in ECE, there is more than one way to progress in your career. Some paths help you start sooner than you expect, while others open bigger opportunities later on. So, how do you decide which path is right for you?
You have likely heard about the CDA (Child Development Associate) or may have considered pursuing a Master’s degree. In Missouri, the rules for new ECE professionals are very defined, and knowing the difference between these two paths can save you time and money. Read on to find which option will be better for your goals and your requirements.
Do You Need a CDA to Work in Missouri Daycare?
In Missouri, you do not always need a CDA credential to start working in a daycare, but it can be very helpful. Many day care centers hire staff who have a high school diploma or a similar qualification for entry-level positions.
But the CDA is a preferred certification that shows you have professional knowledge and practical experience working with children. How does the CDA credential work?
The Process Of The CDA Certificate
- Start with Online Coursework
A CDA can be taken online; you submit assignments online and take quizzes through the program platform. - Complete Training Sessions
You’ll complete 120 hours of on-demand online sessions, which usually take about 12 weeks. These sessions cover essential classroom management, child development, and teaching strategies - Gain Hands-On Experience
You must work in a child care center or home daycare for at least 480 hours. This gives you the chance to apply what you’ve learned and experience the ECE. - Submit Your Application
Once you’ve finished your coursework and practical hours, you’ll submit an application to the CDA Council. And provide proof of completed coursework and experience. - Complete Exam and Interview
A professional development specialist assigned by the CDA Council will observe your exam and also interview you to test your knowledge and skills in ECE - Receive Certification
After your application is approved and you pass the observation and interview, you’ll receive your digital CDA certificate, usually within 24 hours. This credential qualifies you for teaching roles in Missouri’s ECE field.
If cost is holding you back, the CDA Scholarship offered by Child Care Aware of Missouri covers many of the expenses involved in earning your certificate. It’s an easy way to start your ECE journey without stretching your budget. In short, you can work in MO daycares without a CDA, but having one gives you an advantage.
When Do You Need a Master’s Degree in ECE
Now, when you have worked in entry-level positions, but want to progress to the next level. A Master’s in ECE prepares you for leadership or administrative roles like childcare center directors.
A master’s program can take you up to two years to complete. And gives you the best ROI as it qualifies you for higher-level positions. Though a master’s is not a major licensing requirement in Missouri, a bachelor’s is usually enough to get a better position.
But it is necessary for high-impact career paths, which include becoming an Early Childhood Specialist for a non-profit or working as a Program Administrator. If your targeted role in ECE is a high-impact role, but you are looking for additional support, many Missouri educators use T.E.A.C.H. Program by Childcare Aware of Missouri and get financial help to complete the coursework.
CDA vs Bachelor’s vs Master’s in ECE: What Jobs Do You Qualify for
Roles You Can Get With a CDA in Missouri
| Roles | Average Salary | What You Do |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Teacher | $26,000–$32,000/year | Support lead teachers, supervise children & help with everyday activities |
| Lead Preschool Teacher | $31,000–$38,000/year | Plan activities, guide children’s learning & manage a classroom |
| Infant/Toddler Caregiver | $28,000–$35,000/year | Care for infants and toddlers. |
Roles You Can Get With a Bachelor’s Degree in ECE
| Roles | Average Salary | What You Do |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-K Teacher | $35,000–$45,000/year | Teach pre-kindergarten classes |
| Early Childhood Assistant Director | $38,000–$50,000/year | Support the center director, & help with staff schedules |
| Head Start Teacher | $33,000–$45,000/year | Teach in early learning programs, monitor each child’s growth & follow federal program rules |
Roles You Can Get with a Master’s Degree in ECE
| Roles | Average Salary | What You Do |
|---|---|---|
| Childcare Center Director | $40,000–$60,000+/year | Manage operations, check licensing compliance & lead the center’s educational approach |
| Curriculum Coordinator | $45,000–$65,000/year | Train teachers & monitor learning standards |
| Program Administrator | $50,000–$70,000/year | Support community-based ECE initiatives |
| Education or ECE Consultant | $55,000–$80,000/year | Help with curriculum, policy, and child development strategies. |
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your MO ECE Career Path
The right choice depends on where you are now and where you want to be in five years.
Find the right ECE career path for you: Choose the CDA credential if you want to start working in ECE quickly or have limited time and budget for training. And choose a Master’s degree in ECE if you’re aiming for director or administrative roles. The path you choose is the role you see yourself in, and how you want to contribute to Missouri’s childcare system.
As you sort through your options in ECE, Missouri is working hard to support your process. Childcare Aware of Missouri is moving towards clearer and more practical rules and licensing requirements so that educators can spend less time on paperwork and more time on educating children.
