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Completing a master's in child development online program can open the door to various careers in education, healthcare, and social and community services. Potential careers include positions working directly with children, crafting educational policy, and handling administrative work related to young students.
These programs explore child growth and development starting at birth through adolescence. Topics include early childhood education, cognitive and behavioral development, and research methods in child development.
Consider a master's degree in child development if you plan to pursue a leadership role in the field or transition from another career. This degree can also expand career opportunities and salary potential for people working in preK-12 schools.
Explore details on a typical online master's in child development program with this helpful guide, including popular courses, specializations, and graduation requirements. We also cover career outlook data and salary potential for graduates.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Master's Degree in Child Development
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Child Development
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $348
Out-of-State | $348
Credits to Graduate: 35-44
MSU's online master of science in child life studies offers standard and advanced track options, each with practicum or internship components. Learners in both tracks take courses like trends and issues in child life, advanced family studies, and child life theory and practice. The standard track requires an additional nine credits that include classes such as growth and development: infancy through early childhood and aspects of childhood illness and disease.
The school also offers an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's program in this field. At MSU, the online classes use synchronous and asynchronous delivery models. The curriculum in this degree holds approval from the Association of Child Life Professionals and helps prepare graduates for the child life professional certification exam. Applicants need a bachelor's degree demonstrating a 2.75 minimum GPA in the last 60 credits of coursework.
#2 Best Online Master’s in Child Development
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $288
Out-of-State | $708
Credits to Graduate: 30-31
In TWU's online master of science in child development, you can earn your degree in just 12 months. The program offers a 30-credit thesis track with a research project and defense and a 31-credit professional track with a portfolio requirement. Regardless of degree track, learners take courses like adolescent development within the family, theories of child development, and child guidance.
All enrollees also complete two family studies-specific research classes about statistics and research methods. At TWU, courses run in seven-week sessions and use asynchronous and synchronous delivery modes. For admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of coursework. Prospective students also submit a resume, contact information for a reference, and a letter of intent.
#3 Best Online Master’s in Child Development
University of La Verne
La Verne, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $800
Out-of-State | $800
Credits to Graduate: 33
ULV's online master of science in child and adolescent development offers early childhood and adolescence specializations. Designed for practitioners, both concentrations culminate with a graduate seminar and do not require a thesis. Graduates can qualify for teaching positions in the California Community Colleges system.
Regardless of concentration, all learners take classes like human development, educational psychology, and academic writing. The program offers three annual start dates. Full-time enrollees can complete the degree in 1.5 years, while part-time learners usually finish in 2.5 years. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA. They also submit two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose.
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Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page.
Did You Know...
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in master's-level occupations to grow at a faster-than-average rate, signaling demand for employees with strong educational backgrounds.
What to Expect From a Child Development Graduate Program
Master's in child development programs focus on ways to improve policies and practices that support outcomes for children. Graduates with this degree may qualify for roles in education, social and community services, and healthcare.
A typical online master's in child development degree takes about two years to complete and requires 30-32 credits. Along with classroom learning with core, elective, and concentration courses, many programs also require a hands-on practicum or internship in the last semester.
Schools usually offer master's degrees in child development as master of science (MS) or master of arts (MA) programs. You may encounter child development-focused master's degrees in psychology or education, as well.
Popular Courses
Specific classes vary by program, but a typical master's in child development requires courses exploring research, assessment, growth and development, and intervention strategies. Explore some popular child development classes at the master's level below.
Child and Adolescent Development
This class provides a foundational understanding of development from childhood through adolescence. Coursework explores physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development through the lens of human development theories. You'll also learn about intervention strategies that promote healthy development for children and adolescents.
Research Design
Students engage with qualitative and quantitative methods for research. Assignments cover ways to analyze real-world studies and apply various research methods in your projects.
Early Childhood Assessment
Course materials in this class cover assessment and observation techniques for young children from birth to middle childhood. Other topics include early interventions and child outcomes.
Prevention and Intervention in Early Childhood
This class explores evidence-based strategies for effective interventions in early childhood. Coursework tackles potential problems in childhood, along with ways to prevent and address them.
Child Development Capstone
This course allows you to demonstrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program by tackling a current issue or problem in the field of child development. In some cases, you might work with a local organization on a project.
Degree and Specialization Options
Schools with master's in child development online programs usually offer either MA or MS tracks. MA programs focus more on liberal arts classes and entering the workforce right after graduation, while MS programs prepare students to continue their advanced education and may include more science and math courses.
Some programs feature concentrations, which allow you to focus on an area of interest. We describe two popular specializations below.
Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
This specialization focuses on the mental health and psychological development of infants and young children. Enrollees can pursue this concentration to prepare for careers as developmental psychologists. Required courses may include early childhood intervention and infant observation seminars.
Child Life
A child life specialization can help you learn strategies for assisting children with difficult situations, including childhood illness. Classes explore therapeutic play, childhood death and bereavement, and therapeutic relationships.
Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements for master's in child development online programs vary by school. However, many programs require a capstone project to graduate. This course usually requires students to synthesize the knowledge and skills they acquired throughout the program and implement them to address real-world problems in child development.
Students can sometimes complete supervised internships or practicums to fulfill capstone requirements. Gaining hands-on professional experience before graduating can potentially help you land your first job after earning your degree.
What Can I Do With an Online Master's in Child Development?
A master's in child development can prepare you for various roles working with young children. Salaries range from about $49,000 for preschool and childcare center directors to more than $85,000 for developmental psychologists.
Below, we cover potential careers to consider with a master's in child development. Some positions may require additional licensure or certification.
Preschool and Childcare Center Directors
Preschool and childcare center directors are high-level administrative professionals who oversee the staff, budgets, and programs for their facilities. Typical duties include hiring and training childcare workers and preschool teachers, creating policies, communicating with parents and staff, and ensuring the facility meets legal regulations.
- Required Education/Licensure: Bachelor's degree; some states require a license
- Median Annual Salary: $49,690
- Job Outlook (2022-32): -3%
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers provide instruction to young children from kindergarten through fifth grade in public and private schools. Frequent duties include planning lessons, grading assignments, enforcing classroom rules, and communicating with families regarding student progress.
- Required Education/Licensure: Bachelor's degree and a teaching license
- Median Annual Salary: $61,620
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +1%
Developmental Psychologist
Developmental psychologists use their training to understand the behaviors and thought processes of children and adolescents. Duties may include counseling, conducting research, diagnosing disorders, and writing papers on research findings.
- Required Education/Licensure: Master's degree and a state license
- Median Annual Salary: $85,330
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +6%
Social and Community Service Managers
Social and community service managers with master's degrees in child development typically work in community organizations and social service agencies that serve children and families. Duties include administrative tasks, data analysis, community outreach, and proposal writing.
- Required Education/Licensure: Bachelor's degree
- Median Annual Salary: $74,240
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +9%
Choosing the Right Child Development Master's Program
Choosing the right online master's in child development program requires you to consider several key factors. Below, we've outlined some considerations as you research available programs.
- University Resources/Career Services: Consider the types of student resources and career services a prospective school or program offers. For example, does the program help students with internships or experiential learning opportunities? Some schools also provide resume assistance and host professional networking events.
- Accreditation Status: Make sure that any program you consider holds institutional accreditation from an agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation ensures that schools meet high academic standards. Some child development master's programs may also hold programmatic accreditation.
- Future Education Opportunities Within That School: If you're considering pursuing a doctorate or Ph.D. after completing your master's degree in child development, prioritize universities that offer both programs.
Paying for an Online Master's in Child Development
Attending graduate school can be expensive, but the available career opportunities after graduation can provide a strong return on your investment. Below, we explain some potential funding sources to consider.
Make sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid as early as possible to maximize your chances of receiving financial aid.
A scholarship is merit-based free money that does not require repayment. Look for scholarships from your school or specific department. Nonprofit organizations, private companies, and professional organizations also offer various scholarships. You can learn more about finding and applying for scholarships on the Federal Student Aid website.
Like scholarships, grants do not require repayment. They are usually need-based and offered by the federal government, state governments, schools, and independent organizations. Department of Education grants include Federal Pell Grants, TEACH Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, and Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants.
A fellowship provides financial support for graduate students and does not require repayment. This form of funding usually covers tuition and includes a living stipend. You can typically find fellowships from government agencies, universities, and foundations.
Check to see if your university or department offers teaching or research assistantships. These positions often provide a living stipend and tuition waiver in exchange for part-time work while earning your degree.
Once you've applied for every other type of financial aid, consider taking out student loans to help pay for your graduate education. Federal student loans usually offer better interest rates, lower barriers to borrowing, and more favorable repayment terms than loans from private lenders.
Questions About Getting a Master's in Child Development Online
Is an online master's in child development worth it?
The value of an online master's in child development depends on your personal and professional goals. Consider the estimated cost of attendance for your program and your potential salary after graduation to calculate your projected return on investment.
Do I need to get certified or licensed after earning a master's in child development?
Certification requirements depend on the type of job you plan to pursue after graduation. If you aim to become a teacher or child care worker, you may need certification and/or licensure, depending on the state and employer.
What are the benefits of getting a master's in child development online?
Earning a master's in child development online can provide more flexibility and convenience than an on-campus program. An online program can make it easier to earn your degree if you plan to work full-time while pursuing education. Choosing an online program also extends your program reach to schools that were otherwise unavailable due to their location.
Do you need a master's in child development to be a kindergarten and elementary school teacher?
Requirements vary by state, but a public school teacher at the kindergarten or elementary level typically needs a bachelor's degree and a teaching license. However, some states require educators to pursue master's degrees after working as teachers. Even if it's not required, a master's degree may help you earn a better salary as an educator.
Which professional organizations should I join to help my teaching career?
You can help your teaching career by joining professional organizations like the National Education Association, Childhood Education International, and the Association of American Educators. Other groups to consider are the National Head Start Association and ZERO to THREE.