Best Online Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
Early childhood education majors learn how to care for children and encourage creativity, emotional development, and basic academic skills. A bachelor’s degree in this field helps professionals increase their earning potential and gain specialized training. After finishing an undergraduate program in early childhood education (ECE), graduates can pursue careers like preschool teacher, preschool director, and kindergarten teacher.
Our list ranks the top online bachelor’s in early childhood education programs. Prospective applicants can use the rankings to find the best fit for their budget, interests, and career goals. This article also explores common ECE courses, salary data for graduates, and scholarships for ECE majors.
Why Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education?
With a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, childcare workers can increase their earning potential and advance to administrative or educator positions. Early childhood education majors study topics like child development, literacy education, social and emotional learning, and ECE leadership. Specializations like ECE administration and special education can prepare graduates for focused roles.
Online ECE programs give students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Additionally, many schools offer tuition discounts to distance learners.
Bachelor’s graduates can also pursue an online master’s degree in early childhood education.
Top 10 Online Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
With online and on-campus programs across fields, Liberty University is a private institution. In addition to educating learners at its Virginia campus, the school enrolls learners in 161 online programs. The flexible bachelor's in early childhood education prepares students for a variety of opportunities in early childhood education through accessible coursework.
To graduate with the bachelor's degree, learners complete general education coursework, along with core and upper-division major classes. Hands-on experiential learning opportunities allow degree-seekers to apply field-specific knowledge and skills. During their undergraduate studies and after graduation, individuals can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. An admissions advisor can provide specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
Liberty University Fast Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 91
Online Bachelor's Programs: 30
Number of Online Students: 78,511
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 51%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Average Per-Credit Price: $750
Transfer Credits Counted: Yes
92%
$15,417
81%
$15,417
- Acceptance Rate
- 51%
- Students Enrolled
- 85,586
- Institution Type
- Private
The University of Montana-Western
- Dillon, MT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
With a main campus in Dillon, Montana, The University of Montana-Western delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Undergraduates interested in early childhood education can enroll in the online bachelor's in early childhood education program.
The program features flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier. Distance learners can complete coursework from any location. Students view lectures and participate in discussions virtually. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need four years to graduate from the 120-credit bachelor's program.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Learners can work with financial aid counselors to understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. According to the school, 85% of enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
29%
$ 4,523
76%
$15,913
- Acceptance Rate
- 56%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,358
- Institution Type
- Public
South Dakota State University
- Brookings, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Distance learners can pursue an online bachelor's in early education and care at South Dakota State University. The online program features flexible scheduling options that benefit working professionals. After graduation, bachelor's degree holders can apply for entry-level careers in early childhood education.
The program features foundational and advanced courses in the major. Learners can customize the curriculum through elective options. General education requirements help students develop and strengthen important skills, such as critical thinking and communication. Faculty mentors help enrollees select courses that will support their career aspirations.
Located in Brookings, the public institution delivers 196 programs. Working professionals often pursue one of the school's nine online bachelor's programs. Students with financial need can apply for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant.
38%
$ 7,697
78%
$11,172
- Acceptance Rate
- 90%
- Students Enrolled
- 11,512
- Institution Type
- Public
Bemidji State University
- Bemidji, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Minnesota-based Bemidji State University enrolls students in 83 programs. The public institution's learners can study online or on campus. Online students at the school can pursue a bachelor's in elementary education.
Enrollees benefit from flexible scheduling options. General education requirements help students develop critical thinking and analytical skills. The curriculum blends classroom learning and hands-on experiences to prepare degree-seekers to succeed in the field. Undergraduates work closely with faculty mentors and academic advisors to design an individualized degree plan.
Online degree-seekers pay affordable tuition rates, making undergraduate studies more accessible. Students can discuss funding options with financial aid counselors.
Bemidji State University Fast Facts:
Number of Online Students: 2,213
Student Acceptance Rate: 65%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 61
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
45%
$7,858
72%
$7,858
- Acceptance Rate
- 65%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,897
- Institution Type
- Public
Mayville State University
- Mayville, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Graduates of Mayville State University's online bachelor of science in education in early childhood education program can pursue a variety of positions. The public institution enrolls students in 33 programs, including three online programs.
The virtual classroom environment helps learners gain important technology skills. In addition to core coursework, students complete advanced classes in the field. General education requirements help degree-seekers develop critical thinking and analytical skills. Internship opportunities help undergraduates prepare to impress employers after graduation.
The school delivers in-person and virtual student support services, such as tutoring and career counseling. Prospective applicants submit an application and the FAFSA to qualify for federal financial aid programs. Students can discuss funding options with financial aid counselors and consult academic advisors when registering for classes.
63%
$5,793
60%
$8,690
- Acceptance Rate
- 70%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,212
- Institution Type
- Public
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Northern Arizona University offers an online bachelor of applied science in early childhood for students who want to earn their degree while maintaining employment. The online program features scheduling flexibility that appeals to busy degree-seekers.
Northern Arizona University is a Flagstaff-based public institution. In addition to on-campus offerings, the school delivers 70 online programs. The school also enrolls degree-seekers in 18 online bachelor's programs.
Enrollees complete core courses, general education requirements, and upper-division classes. The program requires degree-seekers to earn at least 120 credits. The rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop transferable skills and specialized knowledge.
The school offers support services, including tutoring and academic advising, for undergraduate and graduate learners. Undergraduates and alumni can receive online advising from faculty advisors and career counselors. Financial aid counselors help students understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
46%
$10,018
78%
$16,613
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 30,733
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Nebraska at Kearney
- Kearney, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
University of Nebraska at Kearney is a public institution that offers 25 online programs. The school provides distance learning options for students interested in various fields. One option includes the bachelor's in early childhood inclusive teaching.
Core and general education classes help degree-seekers develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced coursework. While completing upper-division requirements, learners gain critical thinking skills they can apply to careers and advanced studies. Undergraduate degree-seekers usually earn the bachelor's in four years of full-time study.
Degree candidates can access support services such as academic advising and career counseling. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans.
University of Nebraska at Kearney Fast Facts:
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Total Programs: 56
Total Bachelor's Programs: 38
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
65%
$ 6,090
77%
$13,290
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,279
- Institution Type
- Public
Western Carolina University
- Cullowhee, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Western Carolina University offers an online bachelor's in birth-kindergarten for busy learners who want to earn their degree while maintaining employment. In addition to on-campus options in Cullowhee, North Carolina, students at the public institution can pursue 19 programs in an online format. The school offers eight online bachelor's programs that are ideal for busy degree-seekers.
Enrollees complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment. The curriculum comprises core coursework and advanced classes to prepare students for the workforce. Degree-seekers also complete general education courses, which strengthen skills such as critical thinking. In-person internships provide opportunities for undergraduates to gain practical experience.
Distance learners can access support services such as academic advising and career-planning resources. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Financial aid counseling can help students reduce out-of-pocket expenses, and academic advisors assist with course selections.
41%
$1,000
78%
$5,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 69%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,167
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Toledo
- Toledo, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Students can attend classes at University of Toledo's campus in Toledo, Ohio. The institution's academic programs feature online and in-person learning formats. Learners can pursue 32 online programs, 10 of which confer bachelor's degrees. After completing the online bachelor's in early childhood education from the institution, graduates often enter rewarding careers.
The school requires at least 120 credits for the bachelor's degree. Students complete core courses, general education requirements, and upper-division classes. Specialized electives allow learners to customize the program based on their goals and interests. The program also offers faculty mentorship and internship opportunities.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Of the school's undergraduates, 95% fund their education through financial aid. Prospective applicants can contact the institution for details about application deadlines and requirements.
40%
$ 8,449
76%
$17,809
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 19,694
- Institution Type
- Public
Florida International Training Institute
- Miami, FL
- N/A
- Campus
- Accredited
Florida International Training Institute is a private institution educating students from its main campus in Miami. The school offers online and on-campus programs for learners. The online bachelor of science in early childhood education from the institution provides a foundation for numerous careers.
The school requires at least 120 credits for the bachelor's degree. Students take classes on general education topics, foundational subjects, and more advanced areas of the field. In addition to completing major courses, learners customize the curriculum by choosing electives. Degree candidates can pursue in-person internships, which many complete locally.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. In addition, 98% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid. Prospective students can contact the institution for details about application deadlines and requirements.
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 91
- Institution Type
- Private
Chaminade University of Honolulu
- Honolulu, HI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A Hawaii-based private institution, Chaminade University of Honolulu offers both on-campus and online programs. Degree-seekers can choose from the school's 52 program options, with 21 programs available online. The institution's online offerings include a bachelor's in early childhood education.
To complete the degree, students earn at least 120 credits. Enrollees take general education and field-specific classes. Degree candidates can consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. In-person internships provide opportunities for online students to gain practical experience.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. To fund their education, 99% of the school's undergraduates receive financial aid. An admissions advisor can provide specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
55%
$26,020
86%
$26,020
- Acceptance Rate
- 95%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,167
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Based in Ohio, University of Cincinnati-Main Campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution delivers 66 online programs, with 459 total programs available. Graduates of the school's bachelor's in early childhood education program often pursue rewarding careers in early childhood education.
Working professionals can benefit from the program's flexible enrollment options. Learners complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment. Full-time degree-seekers typically need four years to earn the 120-credit bachelor's degree. Incoming students with transfer credits can earn their degree sooner.
Students can qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners in the school's online programs pay an average of $732 per credit. The school's financial aid counselors support online enrollees as they search for funding options. At the school, 75% of undergraduates obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
49%
$ 9,476
88%
$24,810
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 39,263
- Institution Type
- Public
North Carolina Central University
- Durham, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
With 65 programs, North Carolina Central University provides academic programs for North Carolina-based students and those throughout the country. The public institution delivers bachelor's programs in online and in-person learning formats. Among the school's online options is a respected bachelor of science in birth-kindergarten teacher education program.
Online enrollees benefit from scheduling flexibility. Students complete general education courses, which strengthen skills such as critical thinking. Specialized electives allow degree-seekers to customize the curriculum, and experiential learning components provide practical skills. Faculty advisors provide undergraduates with academic and professional guidance.
The institution charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making undergraduate studies more accessible. The school's dedicated financial aid counselors work with students as they locate and apply for educational funding.
North Carolina Central University Fast Facts:
Number of Online Students: 3,771
Student Admission Rate: 68%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 33
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Offers Transfer Credits: No
47%
$ 3,728
76%
$16,435
- Acceptance Rate
- 68%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,011
- Institution Type
- Public
Fort Hays State University
- Hays, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Fort Hays State University offers 79 programs from its main campus in Hays, Kansas. Learners can study in person or in a distance learning format. The school's online offerings include a bachelor of science in education (early childhood unified).
Enrollees pursuing the online degree benefit from scheduling flexibility. General education requirements help students develop transferable skills that apply to a variety of careers. Specialized electives allow degree-seekers to customize the curriculum, and experiential learning components provide practical skills. Faculty mentors and academic advisors help undergraduates select courses that will support their career aspirations.
Online learners at the institution pay affordable tuition rates, making undergraduate studies more accessible. Financial aid advisors connect degree-seekers with scholarship and grant opportunities.
Fort Hays State University Numbers:
Number of Online Students: 8,759
Rate of Undergraduate Admission: 91%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 52
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Grants Transfer Credits: No
55%
$ 3,990
74%
$14,070
- Acceptance Rate
- 91%
- Students Enrolled
- 15,908
- Institution Type
- Public
National University
- La Jolla, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Situated in La Jolla, California, National University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. The private institution enrolls students in 137 programs, including 98 online programs. Individuals who aspire to careers in early childhood education can pursue the school's bachelor of arts in early childhood education.
The program features flexible enrollment options, which are ideal for busy enrollees. Students complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment using the latest technology. Undergraduate degree-seekers typically earn the 120 credits required to graduate in four years.
At the accredited institution, learners with financial need can qualify for federal aid. The school's financial aid counselors help students secure funding through scholarship and grant programs. Of the school's undergraduates, 33% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
53%
$13,320
50%
$13,320
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 16,670
- Institution Type
- Private
University of West Alabama
- Livingston, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The bachelor's in early childhood development at University of West Alabama is one of the top-ranked online programs in the field. From its campus in Livingston, the public institution enrolls undergraduates in on-campus and online programs. The flexible learning format helps degree-seekers balance college with work and other responsibilities.
Degree candidates take general education courses, electives, and advanced classes. Students work with faculty mentors and academic advisors to customize their program through electives and minors. The school's online services, including tutoring, financial aid advising, and career counseling, help distance learners complete the program.
Because of the school's accreditation, enrollees can qualify for federal student aid programs like the Pell Grant. Distance learners can also use scholarships, state grants, and student loans to cover costs.
University of West Alabama Numbers:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 25
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Number of Online Students: 4,339
Student Acceptance Rate: 35%
Percent of Students who Earn a Bachelor's Degree: 35%
Price Per Credit: $410
Offers Transfer Credits: No
77%
$ 9,100
67%
$18,200
- Acceptance Rate
- 35%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,653
- Institution Type
- Public
Winston-Salem State University
- Winston-Salem, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Winston-Salem State University delivers respected, accessible online undergraduate programs for distance degree-seekers. The public institution is based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and offers online and on-campus programs. One option includes a bachelor of science in birth-kindergarten education.
Distance learners complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment, gaining experience with the latest technology. Online students participate in virtual discussions and communicate with faculty members online. Degree-seekers complete core classes and specialized courses in the field. Bachelor's degree-holders can apply for entry-level careers immediately after graduation.
Admissions advisors provide prospective applicants with details about application deadlines and requirements.
Winston-Salem State University Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 39
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Price Per Credit: Unavailable
Percentage of Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 97%
Learners Receiving Student Loans: 72%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
50%
$ 3,401
78%
$13,648
- Acceptance Rate
- 68%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,121
- Institution Type
- Public
Wilmington University
- New Castle, DE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A private institution in New Castle, Delaware, Wilmington University offers in-person programs, along with online classes. The institution's online offerings include a flexible bachelor of science in early care and education for students planning to pursue early education careers.
Degree candidates take general education courses along with core and upper-division major classes. The program incorporates electives and experiential learning opportunities to prepare graduates for unique careers. The school's career counselors help undergraduates prepare to secure professional roles after graduation.
Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. Admissions advisors provide prospective students with program-specific application details.
Wilmington University At a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 43
Online Bachelor's Programs: 26
Number of Online Students: 10,989
Applicants Admitted: N/A
Graduation Rate: 21%
Average Per-Credit Cost: Not Known
Applies Transfer Credits: No
75%
$11,430
60%
$11,430
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 14,730
- Institution Type
- Private
Union Institute & University
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The bachelor of science in early childhood education and adolescent development at Union Institute & University is one of the top-ranked online programs in the field. From its campus in Cincinnati, Ohio, the private institution offers 28 programs, including on-campus and online programs. The flexible learning format makes it easier for students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The online bachelor's program draws on a rigorous curriculum to build advanced knowledge and skills. Faculty mentors and academic advisors help degree-seekers build an individualized course of study based on their career goals. The school supports distance learners with academic services and career counseling.
As an accredited institution, distance learners can submit the FAFSA and use federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant to pay for college. The school's financial aid office works with students to identify scholarships and grants to cover costs.
Union Institute & University Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Number of Online Students: 853
Applicants Admitted: Not Known
Rate of Graduation: 58%
Average Price Per Credit: Not Known
Grants Transfer Credits: No
99%
$13,080
100%
$13,080
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 860
- Institution Type
- Private
Western New Mexico University
- Silver City, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Western New Mexico University's online bachelor of science in early childhood education benefits distance learners seeking career advancement in the field. With 36 online programs, the public institution educates students based in New Mexico and throughout the country. The school delivers 16 online bachelor's programs, which provide scheduling flexibility for busy degree-seekers.
The program features a virtual classroom environment, providing flexibility for online learners. Students take core classes and advanced coursework. The curriculum also features general education requirements, which help degree-seekers develop transferable soft skills. Many undergraduates pursue internship opportunities to gain professional experience while earning their degree.
Learners in the school's online programs can access support services such as tutoring and career counseling. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Financial aid counselors help students understand funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
66%
$ 4,167
59%
$11,400
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 3,193
- Institution Type
- Public
What to Expect From an Early Childhood Education Degree Program
Bachelor’s in early childhood education programs help prepare individuals to work with children from birth to age eight. Enrollees study teaching methods, curriculum development, and assessment techniques for young learners. Attendees typically complete around 120 semester credits in four years of full-time study.
Students wondering how much does it cost to get a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education can check each prospective school’s website to learn about tuition rates. The total tuition for a full degree often ranges between $24,000 and $75,000.
In addition to general programs, early childhood education bachelor’s enrollees can pursue a subject concentration to specialize in a field like history, English, or math. Programs often require fieldwork teaching experiences and culminating projects.
Explore Admissions Requirements
Each school maintains its own admissions requirements for early childhood education bachelor’s applicants. The list below highlights common application procedures and prerequisites.
- Complete an online application
- Application fees may apply
- Schools may waive application fees for early childhood education programs or for prospective students with financial need
- Submit official transcripts
- Applicants usually need a high school degree or equivalent
- Schools may require a minimum 2.5-3.0 high school GPA
- Submit standardized test scores
- Some schools may not require test scores
- Others may require minimum ACT or SAT scores
- Submit proof of residency
- At public schools, proof of residency determines whether students pay in-state or out-of-state tuition
Understand Accreditation
Prospective students should ensure their school has received institutional accreditation, which verifies that the college or university meets standards of academic excellence. Education departments can also hold programmatic accreditation from agencies like the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Though optional, programmatic accreditation can serve as verification from industry professionals that a degree adequately prepares graduates for jobs in the field.
Discover Popular Courses
Each bachelor’s in early childhood education program offers its own classes that explore topics like learning environments, child development, and creative arts in early education. The list below includes common courses found across curricula.
- Foundations in early childhood education
- Educational technology
- Early childhood literacy
- Exceptional children
- Child abuse and violence prevention
- Family and community relations
Learn About Graduation Requirements
In addition to the completion of general education classes and major-specific courses, early childhood education programs typically maintain requirements of additional culminating projects and experiences prior to graduation.
Many programs, especially those that prepare enrollees for teaching licensure, require student-teaching or other fieldwork experiences that allow learners to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world educational spaces. Depending on their curricular focus, some degrees may require internships in non-classroom settings like daycares or outdoor educational centers.
In addition to student-teaching, schools may require a capstone course where students build a teaching portfolio or write reflective self-assessments about their time in the field.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education?
Multiple factors determine how much it costs to get a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Program reputation, institutional public or private status, and student state residency all affect a degree’s total price.
In addition to comparing costs to find affordable options, prospective attendees can reduce their costs through financial aid. By filling out the FAFSA and researching on their own, aspiring early childhood educators can access funding opportunities like:
- Grants: Grants are need- and merit-based financial aid. They do not require repayment.
- Scholarships: Scholarships can be need-based, merit-based, or demographic-based. They do not require repayment.
- Loans: Public and private lenders offer student loans. These require repayment with interest, so borrow only what you need.
Price Check
As of 2024, the average student borrows $7,487 in loans each year, according to the Education Data Initiative.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education?
Early childhood education program graduates can qualify for teaching and other child-related careers. Degree-holders who want to work in the classroom can pursue roles like elementary school teacher, preschool teacher, or teaching assistant. Individuals can also find work in non-teaching roles, including family advocacy and education consultancy.
Childhood education professionals’ salaries vary by location. States with a higher cost of living generally offer higher average wages. For example, in 2023, New York elementary school teachers earned an average of $94,600 annually, while Oklahoma elementary school teachers earned an average of $51,330, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) — a reflection of New York’s higher cost of living.
Individuals can earn a graduate degree or certifications to boost their earning potential and deepen their expertise. With the proper training and credentials, education professionals can pursue roles such as school counselor, special education teacher, or instructional coordinator.
| Job | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth Rate (2022-32) |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers | $63,670 | +1% |
| Preschool Teachers | $37,130 | +3% |
| Child Care Center Director | $49,030* | N/A |
| Education Consultant | $67,750* | N/A |
| Family Advocate | $42,080* | N/A |
Sources: BLS, Payscale
Explore Other Education Degrees
- Online Adult Education Degrees
- Online Special Education Degrees
- Online Science Education Degrees
- Online Secondary Education Degrees
- Online Elementary Education Degrees
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Education
What is early childhood education?
Early childhood education is the subfield of education related specifically to young children’s learning and development. Bachelor’s in early childhood education programs explore topics like curriculum development, educational technologies, and learning environments.
What degree is best for early childhood education?
Your career goals determine which early childhood education degree is best. If you want to work as a teacher from preschool to second grade, a bachelor’s in early childhood education can suit your needs. If you want to work in roles like school counselor, curriculum developer, principal, or special education teacher, you may need a specialized program, an advanced degree, or professional certifications.
How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education?
A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education usually requires 120 credits and takes four years of full-time study to complete. Part-time students may need additional time to earn their degree.
What job can I get with an associate degree in early childhood education?
Childhood education associate degree graduates can pursue careers like preschool teacher, teacher assistant, or nanny. These workers can qualify for additional roles by earning a bachelor’s degree or pursuing professional certifications.
What can you do with an early childhood education degree besides teach?
Early childhood education degree-holders can pursue a variety of careers, including jobs in consulting, sales, and advocacy. Childhood education programs focus on how to work with young children, and children need help outside the classroom, too. Graduates can apply their knowledge to many roles related to children.
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