To work as a kindergarten teacher, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have at least a bachelor's degree;
• complete an early childhood education or teacher education program;
• complete a student teacher internship; and
• pass a state licensing exam.

To work as a preschool teacher, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have an associate degree; and
• meet your state's licensing requirements.

Education after high school

Education requirements for kindergarten teachers vary by state. In most states, you need at least a bachelor's degree from an approved teacher education program. Almost all education programs include courses in early childhood development, math teaching, and reading teaching. Public kindergarten teachers must also have a teaching license.

Many states require that teachers have (or be in the process of working on) a master's degree in education. This usually involves one additional year of course work after completing a bachelor's degree.

Training requirement for preschool teachers varies widely. Each state has its own licensing requirements. They range from a high school diploma to a college degree. However, most require you have an associate degree. Private child care facilities and schools may have fewer requirements than public schools. They may not require college courses, a license, or experience.

Early childhood education programs are available at four-year schools. In addition, community colleges offer one- and two-year programs in early childhood education.

On-the-job training

Before graduating from a teacher education program, you work as a student teacher. Student teachers work in kindergarten classrooms with experienced teachers. In the beginning, you observe the teacher and classroom. Later, you teach on your own.

Training for preschool teachers varies by employer. Some provide less than a month of training and others provide up to one year.