Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Updated April 12, 2024
Edited by
An online early childhood education degree prepares enrollees to work with young children. Find out how to earn this credential and choose the right program.
Online Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Overview
People who love working with young children typically pursue early childhood education degrees to qualify for work as preschool teachers, preschool or childcare directors, and assistant teachers. Common workplaces include daycare centers, preschools, elementary schools, and early childhood centers.
Early childhood education programs develop skills in classroom management, curriculum development, and child advocacy. Students can also gain leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Some online early childhood education programs include teacher licensure, while others do not.
A typical curriculum in early childhood education covers topics like child development, diversity in education, individualized learning, and support for dual language learners. Students may also learn about special education, classroom organization, and emerging literacy assessment methods.
The Best Online Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Programs
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS — see sources section for more details.
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
The University of Washington
Seattle, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Washington, a leader in hybrid education, offers 248 bachelor's programs. One of two bachelor's degrees available fully online, the bachelor of arts in early care and education equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge in a flexible format. Through foundational and advanced coursework, as well as experiential learning opportunities, the program prepares alumni for their postgraduate path in the workforce or for further studies.
Learners can access career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources while enrolled in the program. Prospective applicants should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. The college reports that enrollees are awarded $17,004 in financial aid, on average.
The University of Washington at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 56%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,629
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $37,998
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $50,300
#2 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online
Western Governors University is a leader in hybrid education, supporting 30 online bachelor's degrees for distance learners. The school's online elementary education degree provides undergraduates with industry-relevant knowledge and skillsets needed to succeed in early childhood education. The knowledge and skills gained from these studies can benefit graduates in their careers in early education or prepare them for coursework at a postbaccalaureate level.
Early childhood education students can access institutional support services throughout the duration of the program. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of the bachelor's degree.
Western Governors University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 42-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,380
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,380
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $48,100
#3 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University, located in Miami, provides 81 bachelor's degree options in dual modalities. Delivered in a flexible platform, the online bachelor of science degree in early childhood education introduces participants to the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in early childhood education. While learning theories and practices of childhood education, students build additional skills, such as communication and critical thinking, through general classes. Graduates can apply their knowledge and skillset to further educational studies in early childhood education or to their career.
The college supports attendees through institutional resources, including career services and academic advising. To help offset the cost of earning a degree, the college provides numerous funding opportunities to eligible learners, including scholarships and fellowships. The average enrollee receives $9,917 in financial aid, with 94% of all degree-seekers benefiting from aid.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 25-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,721
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,529
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $41,500
#4 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Central Methodist University
Fayette, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Central Methodist University, based in Fayette, Missouri, offers 27 bachelor's programs in both online and in-person formats. For individuals seeking a career in early childhood education, the BSEd program in early childhood education is a wise choice. After obtaining their degree, graduates can apply their knowledge to a teaching career or further studies.
Early childhood education degree-seekers can access a variety of institutional support services, such as academic advisement, throughout the duration of the program. Students can also meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine their eligibility.
Central Methodist University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 100%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,950
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,950
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,000
#5 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Grand Canyon University supports 67 bachelor's degrees, 39 of which are available remotely. A flexible, online program, the school's BS in early childhood education stands out as a competitive option for students looking to succeed in the early childhood education field. After the program, graduates can pursue a teaching career or continue their education with an advanced degree.
The college provides comprehensive support for new enrollees, which includes financial aid advising. Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and available scholarships, as well as determine their eligibility.
Grand Canyon University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 81%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $16,424
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,424
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $36,000
#6 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Mayville State University
Mayville, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in hybrid education, Mayville State University supports in-person and online study across 31 bachelor's degree options. Students interested in a career in early childhood education can obtain an online BSEd degree remotely. The flexible program equips graduates with industry-relevant knowledge, which they can apply to further their studies in early childhood education or begin their careers.
The college provides comprehensive support for new enrollees, including financial aid advising. Prospective applicants may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Of the college's total undergraduate cohort, 97% receive some form of aid.
Mayville State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 53%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,025
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,038
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,700
#7 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Aspen University
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online
From its main campus in Denver, Colorado, Aspen University offers seven bachelor's programs in both face-to-face and online formats. The school's bachelor of science degree in early childhood studies is a robust program that equips participants with industry-relevant knowledge required for a career in education. The early childhood education program prepares students for teaching careers and qualifies graduates to pursue advanced degrees.
Early childhood education degree-seekers benefit from institutional support services throughout their studies. Learners seeking to defray the costs of their degree can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine eligibility.
Aspen University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 8-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,545
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,545
#8 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida State College at Jacksonville offers 13 bachelor's degrees across in-person and online learning modalities. Individuals seeking the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the early childhood education field can earn a BS in early childhood education. Participants can apply their learnings to a teaching career or towards a graduate degree.
Students seeking career, academic, and financial guidance can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources while enrolled. Prospective applicants may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. The average degree-seeker receives a financial aid award package of $5,695.
Florida State College at Jacksonville at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Student-Faculty Ratio: 23-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,095
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,947
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $30,800
#9 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
National University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
National University, a private college located in San Diego, California, supports both in-person and online learning across 52 bachelor's programs. The school offers a bachelor of arts degree in early childhood education, which through a robust education, equips participants with the skills needed to succeed in an early childhood education career. Graduates can also apply their knowledge to further their studies through a master's degree.
Enrollees benefit from a range of resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising. Prospective students should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid.
National University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 89%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,320
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,320
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $51,900
#10 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online
With its main campus in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Walden University facilitates in-person and online learning across 20 bachelor's degree options. The school's BS in early childhood studies equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities. The knowledge and skills gained from these studies can benefit graduates in a teaching career or in further educational pursuits.
Degree-seekers benefit from a range of resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising. Learners can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility.
Walden University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,139
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,139
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $46,100
#11 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Phoenix leads in hybrid education, supporting 39 online bachelor's programs. The bachelor of science in education in early childhood education is one of many robust degree options, preparing students with industry-relevant knowledge. Graduates can apply their knowledge and skills to an early childhood education-specific career or to furthering their studies in the subject.
The college connects degree-seekers with institutional resources throughout their studies. Learners can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine their eligibility.
University of Phoenix at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 77-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,552
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,552
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $34,200
#12 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT - 4 years
- Online
Individuals seeking flexible study can choose from in-person or online bachelor's degree options at Charter Oak State College. For those interested in the early childhood education field, the school's BS in early childhood education is a wise program choice. Students can apply their learnings to a teaching position, administration role, or graduate degree.
Learners benefit from a range of resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray the costs of an undergraduate degree. The college reports that enrollees are awarded $4,497 in financial aid, on average.
Charter Oak State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,656
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,056
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $48,200
#13 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Orange City, Iowa, Northwestern College provides in-person and remote learning opportunities across 49 bachelor's degrees. The school's bachelor of arts in early childhood is an ideal choice for students seeking to advance in an early childhood education career. The nonlicensure program can prepare graduates for a variety of career roles or to complete further studies during an advanced degree.
Degree-seekers can access career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources while enrolled in the program. Prospective applicants can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine eligibility, and apply for student loans.
Northwestern College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 74%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $32,700
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $32,700
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $36,100
#14 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 93 bachelor's degree options. The online nonlicensure BS in early childhood education degree equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework. Enrollees also participate in experiential learning opportunities. After program completion, graduates can enter the workforce or pursue further education, such as enrolling in a master's program.
Learners can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Before enrolling, prospective applicants can meet with financial aid counselors to determine eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 50%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,791
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,791
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,800
#15 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in hybrid education, Colorado Christian University supports in-person and online study across 46 bachelor's degrees. The school's bachelor of arts in early childhood education is an ideal choice for individuals seeking to advance in an early childhood education career. Available in both licensure and nonlicensure tracks, the early childhood education program also prepares students to complete graduate studies.
Through career services, academic advising, and other resources, enrollees can receive guidance throughout their studies. The financial aid office can assist degree-seekers in connecting with funding opportunities and determining their eligibility.
Colorado Christian University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $24,160
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,160
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,600
#16 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Northwest Florida State College
Niceville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in hybrid education, Northwest Florida State College supports seven bachelor's programs, three of which are available online. For students seeking a career in the early childhood education field through flexible enrollment, the online bachelor BS in early childhood education program is a wise choice. After graduating, participants can pursue careers or postgraduate studies relevant to the early childhood education field.
Early childhood education degree-seekers can access institutional support services throughout the duration of the program. Prospective applicants can meet with financial aid counselors to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid. The institution reports that 79% of all learners receive aid, with an average financial aid package being $5,768.
Northwest Florida State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Student-Faculty Ratio: 23-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,496
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,552
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $27,800
#17 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers a total of 66 bachelor's programs in both face-to-face and online formats. The school's BS in early care and education degree is offered through an virtual platform and stands out as a competitive option for students looking to succeed in the field. Alumni of the early childhood education program can also pivot to a master's degree after their undergraduate studies.
Early childhood education degree-seekers benefit from institutional support throughout their studies. The college provides numerous funding opportunities to eligible enrollees, including scholarships and fellowships. Incoming learners receives an average of $9,314 in financial aid awards.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 88%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,422
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,581
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $33,100
#18 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for flexible study in dual modalities can choose from one of Indiana Wesleyan University's 19 bachelor's degree options. Students seeking the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the early childhood education field can enroll in the school's online BS in early childhood education program, which is a nonlicensure track. After the program, participants can pursue an early childhood education-specific career or graduate studies.
The college provides comprehensive support for new enrollees, including financial aid advising. To help offset the cost of earning an education, prospective degree-seekers may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Indiana Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,871
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,871
#19 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in La Grande, Eastern Oregon University supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 31 bachelor's programs. Individuals seeking flexible study relevant to the early childhood education field can benefit from the one of school's bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. Along with preparing participants for careers in applicable fields, the early childhood education program also prepares alumni for further educational pursuits, such as graduate studies.
Career services and academic advising are just two of the numerous institutional resources centering on student success. Learners seeking to defray the costs of their degree can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine their eligibility. Typically, 96% of all enrollees receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid package being $6,961.
Eastern Oregon University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 94%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,830
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,520
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $36,000
#20 Best Early Childhood Education Degrees Online
The University of Montana Western
Dillon, MT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Montana Western leads in hybrid education opportunities, supporting 33 bachelor's degrees, one of which is available online. The school offers an early childhood education program, through which participants earn a bachelor of science degree. The robust education equips graduates with the skills needed to succeed in an early childhood education career. After the program, students can join the workforce or pursue graduate studies.
Enrollees benefit from a range of resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising. To help defray the cost of earning a degree, the college provides numerous funding opportunities to eligible learners, including scholarships and fellowships. Of the college's total undergraduate cohort, 91% receive some form of aid.
The University of Montana Western at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 52%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,523
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,913
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $29,300
Online Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the below accredited online early childhood education programs based on quality, types of courses offered, faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation, including the schools reputation for providing quality online degrees.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Online Education Degrees
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Advantages of Studying Early Childhood Education Online
While graduates with associate degrees can pursue early childhood education employment, a bachelor's-level education can provide additional benefits. Bachelor's degree-holders can work as lead preschool teachers, preschool directors, and elementary teachers for K-3 students. Individuals with associate degrees can only work in lower-level education jobs, like assistant preschool teachers.
Earning a master's in early childhood education can deliver even more opportunities, such as roles in advanced fields like curriculum development or principalship. Graduates can also qualify for college professor employment to teach early childhood education.
For most early childhood education careers, a bachelor's degree will suffice. If you're undecided about pursuing a higher degree, consider the potential salaries of careers in early childhood education.
Featured Early Childhood Education Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Which Online Early Education Degree Program is Right for Me?
Take your time when exploring your options for earning an online degree in early childhood education. The first school you find might not be the right choice for you. Many institutions offer online programs, so it can be beneficial to remain discerning and selective.
Schools may charge discounted tuition to in-state learners. For example, Texas residents can often save money by enrolling in Texas-based schools. Some online programs offer flat-rate tuition to all enrollees, regardless of location.
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Program Cost: As you research tuition and other fees, consider that private institutions typically cost more than public schools. However, you should be wary of programs that are significantly cheaper than most, as they might not be accredited. Online school rankings can help you evaluate cost and quality. -
Transfer Policies: Always check a school's transfer policies. While you might feel set on a certain school or program, keeping your options open can be beneficial. Most accredited schools have transferable credits, but policies differ among institutions. -
School Size and Type: Before enrolling in an early childhood education degree online program, consider each school's public vs. private status. If you prefer closer attention from professors, a private institution may offer a better option. If you don't mind larger class sizes, you can save money by attending a state school. -
Program Length: If you want to focus most of your attention on completing your degree quickly, enroll in a full-time or accelerated program. If you have a busy schedule and prefer a slower pace, enroll in a part-time program. Typically, full-time students complete bachelor's degrees in four years, while part-time students take 6-8 years. -
On-Campus Requirements: Some courses require supervised tests or in-person advisor meetings. If you want to study from the comfort of your home or live in a different part of the country from your university, pay close attention to on-campus requirements.
Early Childhood Education Careers and Outlook
Early childhood education is a versatile degree and can open the door to various careers. Some early childhood education degree-holders earn teaching credentials and work in elementary schools or special education.
Common careers for students who earn an online early childhood education degree include preschool teacher, childcare worker, preschool and childcare center director, and teacher assistant.
| Early Childhood Education Career | Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| Preschool Teachers | $37,130 |
| Childcare Workers | $30,370 |
| Preschool and Childcare Center Directors | $54,290 |
| Teacher Assistants | $35,550 |
| Special Education Teachers | $67,190 |
This data represents a small sampling of the careers available to early childhood education graduates. Explore some of the best online programs in early childhood education below.
Featured Online Special Education Degrees
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Accreditation for Online Early Childhood Education Degrees
Always ensure that your online master's in early childhood education is accredited. Accreditation occurs at the institutional and programmatic levels. Institutional accreditation indicates that the school has undergone a voluntary evaluation of its student resources, outcomes, and curriculums.
Attending an accredited institution ensures that you can receive federal financial aid and transfer credits between schools. Programmatic accreditation focuses on departments and programs within schools and usually serves as a secondary accreditation. The primary accreditors for early childhood education programs are the Teacher Education Accreditation Council and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee accreditation agencies to ensure their integrity. To learn more, check out CHEA's list of accrediting bodies for private, state, and community colleges.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Program?
- Principles of Development in Infancy: In this class, students learn the normal stages of development over the first few months of a child's life. This course also covers methods of recognizing and intervening in developmental problems that may begin during infancy.
- Health, Safety, and Nutrition: Enrollees learn about what children should eat, how to prevent dangerous accidents, and how to foster a healthy learning environment. When adults meet children's physical needs, kids can focus on learning and developing.
- Child and Family Development: Children grow and change significantly from ages 3-6. In this course, students learn children's stages of growth and how family development can affect the process. Enrollees explore normal characteristics for each early childhood stage, allowing them to identify children who may have developmental delays.
- Relationships in Today's Families: No two family units have the same dynamics, and learning about the differences can help educators understand how to best communicate with and motivate young children. Unfortunately, some children come from broken homes, and teachers must be sensitive to a child's home life.
- Classroom Experience: Online early childhood education programs require real-world classroom experience. In this class, students work in classroom settings under lead teachers' supervision. Enrollees develop familiarity with creating and implementing lesson plans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Education Bachelor's Degrees
What is the best degree for early childhood education?
The best online early childhood education degree depends on your career goals and personal interests. In general, a bachelor's degree in early childhood education offers excellent preparation for most early childhood education careers. However, you can consider a master's degree if you want to pursue leadership or administrative roles.
What is the difference between a BS and a BA in early childhood education?
Both types of bachelor's degrees usually require the same number of credits and prepare students to pursue careers in the early childhood education field. However, a BS usually requires more math and science classes, while a BA focuses on the arts and humanities.
How long does it take to get a degree in early childhood education?
A typical bachelor's degree in early childhood education takes about four years for full-time students to complete. Some online programs may offer accelerated options with shorter degree completion timelines. Associate and master's degrees usually take about two years of full-time enrollment.
Is a degree in early childhood education worth it?
In general, early childhood education is not a very lucrative field, but professionals perform fulfilling work helping young children. Earning an early childhood education degree can put you in a better position to ask for raises and promotions than peers without formal education.
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