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Early childhood education is the study of the holistic development and education of young children, typically from birth to age eight. It focuses on nurturing youths' cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth during their formative years. As distance learning becomes more common, online degrees in early childhood education have emerged as a convenient and flexible option for aspiring educators.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the world of online bachelor's programs in early childhood education, highlighting their curricula, graduates' career prospects, and more. Use this page to learn more about online early childhood education programs and discover how they can shape your career.
Online Early Childhood Education Programs for You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor's Programs
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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 Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $340
Out-of-State | $340
Credits to Graduate: 124
Northwestern College offers a fully online, non-licensure BA in early childhood that students can complete in as little as two years by taking one eight-week course at a time. The degree prepares graduates to pursue careers in child care centers, Head Start programs, and preschool programs.
The bachelor's degree-completion program requires each applicant to hold an associate degree or higher. The 33-credit early childhood core curriculum includes required classes like child observation and assessment, positive behavioral support for young children, and supporting language learners.
#2 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Northwest Florida State College
Niceville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Semester:
In-State | $1,662
Out-of-State | $5,817
Credits to Graduate: 120
Northwest Florida State College's early childhood education program prepares students to pursue work with children ages 0-4. The fully online degree includes seven state-mandated courses and explores topics like child growth and development, early childhood program administration, and child observation and assessment.
Each enrollee must complete a nine-credit supervised teaching internship through the Department of Teacher Education Office. The program requires classes like introduction to exceptional children, facilitating social development in the classroom, and curriculum for infants and toddlers.
#3 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Lynn University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $375
Out-of-State | $375
Credits to Graduate: 120
Lynn University offers an online bachelor's in early childhood education with three start times each year. The program prepares students to qualify for professional roles working with children from birth to age eight.
Students can complete all coursework online and attend on-site practicums. The curriculum explores early childhood education classroom management, instructional strategies, and childhood development.
Required courses include children at risk, cross-cultural communication, and pre-primary math and science. Early childhood education majors also take three one-credit courses to prepare for the Florida Teacher Certification Exams.
#4 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $395
Out-of-State | $395
Credits to Graduate: 120
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global's online BS in early childhood education can prepare graduates for careers like preschool director, family support specialist, or childcare center director. Each applicant must hold at least 48 transferable college credits to qualify for the program.
Core courses include educational psychology for early learners, instructional tools for the teaching of reading, and early childhood special education. The program also requires an advocacy internship and student teaching placements. Early childhood education majors can add a minor in reading.
#5 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT - 4 years
- Online
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $329
Out-of-State | $329
Credits to Graduate: 120
Charter Oak State College offers a fully online early childhood education bachelor's degree with concentrations in early childhood, infant and toddler, and preschool. Students can also add a concentration in Montessori or program administration and leadership.
The curriculum emphasizes values like diversity, reflection, early childhood content mastery, and technology and requires classes like behavior management in early childhood and curriculum for young children. This degree does not lead to certification, but it can prepare graduates for teacher certification programs.
#6 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $286
Out-of-State | $330
Credits to Graduate: 180
The non-licensure early childhood education bachelor of arts degree-completion program from Eastern Oregon University prepares graduates to support and advocate for young children. Depending on prior completed college coursework, learners may complete the degree in as little as two years.
Applicants must complete two prerequisites to qualify for the program: early childhood foundations and child development from conception through age eight. The curriculum explores topics like literature for young children, technology in early childhood, and creative arts methods in early childhood.
#7 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $585
Out-of-State | $585
Credits to Graduate: 120
The online early childhood education BS from Chaminade University of Honolulu's School of Education and Behavioral Sciences aligns with state requirements and standards from the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Students learn effective instructional strategies, teaching ethics, and the Marianist educational tradition.
The program prepares graduates to work with children ages 2.5-6 in schools and other settings. The curriculum includes classes like developmentally appropriate practice, children's literature, educational technology, and two fieldwork experiences.
#8 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $236
Out-of-State | $649
Credits to Graduate: 120
Florida International University's College of Arts, Sciences, and Education offers a fully online bachelor's in early childhood education. This non-licensure program focuses on early childhood learning and development, concentrating on the whole child ages birth through eight.
Enrollees take classes like classroom management, educational psychology, and teaching students with exceptionalities in inclusive settings. To apply to the early childhood education program, an applicant must earn at least 60 college credits with a minimum 2.5 GPA and complete the general education core or hold an associate degree from a Florida university.
#9 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $475
Out-of-State | $475
Credits to Graduate: 120
Concordia University Wisconsin offers an accelerated online bachelor's degree in early childhood education through Project INVEST, which seeks to increase the number of diverse teachers in southeastern Wisconsin. Learners can complete their bachelor's degrees and earn Wisconsin teaching licensure at the same time.
Students working at Christian or consortium schools may qualify for scholarships. Major requirements include classes like human relations for teachers, children's literature, collaborating with families, and teaching reading and emergent language development. Each early childhood education major must complete two student teaching experiences.
#10 Best Online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Programs
Bluefield College
Bluefield, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $395
Out-of-State | $395
Credits to Graduate: 120
The online, non-licensure early childhood education BS from Bluefield College can prepare students to become early childhood instructors in roles like childcare center director, child advocate, and teaching assistant. The program focuses on children from birth through age six.
Students must complete classes like literature for young children, guiding young children, body and brain based-learning, and safe and healthy settings for the young child. The program also includes a 120-hour, two-semester capstone fieldwork experience in which enrollees intern with mentor teachers.
Did You Know?
According to a 2021 study from the peer-reviewed journal Child Development, children who receive high-quality early childhood education are more likely to graduate high school and college.
Why Should You Earn Your Degree in Early Childhood Education Online?
Earning an online degree in early childhood education (ECE) offers several advantages. The field of ECE is in high demand, making it a rewarding and fulfilling educator career path. Benefits of online early childhood education degrees can include:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Online programs often have lower tuition fees — including in-state rates for out-of-state learners at public institutions — and eliminate commuting or relocation expenses.
- Flexibility: Online early childhood education programs let enrollees access course materials and lectures from home. Asynchronous courses often provide more flexible schedules that let students balance their degree with other commitments.
- Accelerated or Self-Paced Options: Some online programs offer accelerated formats or self-paced learning, enabling learners to complete their degree at their own pace.
- Access to More Schools: Because online learning does not require relocation, prospective students are not limited to institutions in their vicinity, providing a wider array of options for potential schools.
- Practical Experience: Many online early childhood education programs allow learners to complete field work or practicum components in their area, ensuring these enrollees still receive valuable hands-on learning opportunities.
By earning an early childhood education degree online, individuals can acquire the skills and knowledge they need for careers in this field while enjoying the flexibility and affordability that online learning can offer.
What Do You Learn in an Online Early Childhood Education Program?
Online early childhood education programs typically award a bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS) degree. Specific coursework varies by school, but classes generally cover the following topics:
- Child development and psychology
- Classroom management strategies
- Teaching methods and curriculum design
- Language development
ECE online programs may also offer specializations or concentrations that let students focus their studies on specific topics. For example, ECE majors can specialize in early childhood special education or administration and leadership.
These programs often include fieldwork or practicum experiences to provide hands-on learning. Enrollees observe and lead educational experiences in early childhood settings under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Prospective learners should research individual programs to understand the specific courses, concentrations, and fieldwork requirements they offer to ensure the degree aligns with their goals.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education?
Preschool Teacher
Preschool teachers help children under the age of five learn subjects such as reading, writing, and science by instructing them on skills like letter and number recognition. These professionals must tailor their curriculum and teaching styles to accommodate young children.
Kindergarten or Elementary School Teacher
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers educate and guide students in their early academic years. They create lesson plans, deliver lessons, assess student progress, and promote a positive learning environment. These teachers play a crucial role in shaping students' foundational knowledge, skills, and social development.
Teaching Assistant
Teaching assistants provide instruction to young children under the supervision of licensed teachers. Job duties include enforcing classroom rules, keeping records, maintaining class materials, and supporting lesson plans.
Preschool or Child Care Center Director
Directors oversee the operations of preschool and child care centers. This work entails hiring, training, and supervising employees; developing education programs; and managing organizational finances. In addition, preschool and child care center directors must comply with state regulations.
What Should You Consider Before Choosing an Online ECE Program?
Before you enroll in an online early childhood education program, you need to make sure that it fits your needs. The following factors will help you choose a quality program that aligns with your career aspirations and provides a solid foundation for a rewarding, impactful career in education:
Accreditation
Confirm that all schools on your list are institutionally accredited, which signifies they meet established standards of academic quality.
Additionally, programmatic accreditation from relevant organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, or the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation demonstrates that an ECE program adequately prepares enrollees for educator careers.
Learning Experience
Check that the program's format aligns with your learning style and schedule. Some programs offer synchronous courses, which require students to log on at specific times to participate in virtual class sessions. Other courses use asynchronous learning, which typically allows learners to engage with course materials on a more flexible schedule. Asynchronous courses may be ideal for enrollees who work full time or have family obligations.
Additionally, ensure any prospective program provides ample opportunities for hands-on learning, such as fieldwork or practicum experiences. These opportunities are essential for developing your teaching skills.
Specialization Options
Exploring specialization options is crucial in aligning your program with your career goals and interests. Look for programs that offer coursework or specializations in specific subfields of ECE, such as special education, infant/toddler education, or curriculum development. Having the opportunity to delve deeper into your chosen area of interest can enhance your expertise and make your skills more marketable.
Licensure vs. Non-Licensure Track
Decide whether you want a licensure or non-licensure track program. Licensure track programs are designed to prepare graduates for teacher licensure or certification — typically required for teachers in public schools. Non-licensure track programs may be suitable if you're interested in roles outside of traditional classroom teaching, such as educational administration, policy, or advocacy.
Explore Other Degree Levels for Early Childhood Education
FAQ About Online Early Childhood Education Programs
Admission requirements for online bachelor's programs in early childhood education typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, completed application form, transcripts, letters of recommendation, admission essay, and a minimum GPA. Some programs may require a background check.
Typically, students can complete an online bachelor's degree in early childhood education in four years of full-time study. Part-time options, which can provide additional flexibility for enrollees, usually take longer.
The cost of an online bachelor's degree in early childhood education varies because of factors like the institution's public or private status, students' state residency, and financial aid options. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics for the 2020-21 school year, full-time tuition at public institutions averaged $9,400, while private nonprofit schools averaged $37,600. Learners should also factor additional expenses such as textbooks and technology fees into their budgets.
While salaries can vary depending on factors like location and experience, positions with the highest average salaries in early childhood education include kindergarten or elementary school teacher and preschool or childcare care center director. Professionals who pursue advanced educational credentials like a master's degree can also qualify for roles as instructional coordinators, a job which the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports paid a median salary of $63,740 in 2021.
Successful early childhood teachers should possess qualities such as patience, creativity, empathy, strong communication skills, and flexibility. They must create nurturing, stimulating learning environments, effectively collaborate with families and colleagues, and adapt teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of their students.
Next Steps
Page last reviewed July 25, 2023. All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.