Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Programs of 2025
An associate degree in early childhood education (ECE) prepares you for several career paths. Learn about the coursework, cost, and length of these online programs.
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2025Early childhood education (ECE) is any type of education children receive before they reach five years of age. ECE settings include preschools, childcare facilities, and homes. ECE educators include preschool teachers, daycare workers, teacher assistants, and nannies.
People who want to become a preschool teacher or teacher assistant may need to complete an associate degree in ECE. Preschool teachers need at least a two-year degree to enter the profession, which is growing at a much faster rate than average.
We’ll cover ECE fields that require associate degrees, and rank the best online degree programs, coursework, costs, and completion times.
Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Programs
How We Rank Schools
Craven Community College
- New Bern, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
Craven Community College's AAS in early childhood education program emphasizes interdisciplinary concepts in developmental psychology, research literacy, and education. Coursework also explores the fundamentals of child health, safety, and nutrition, along with language acquisition and literacy, creativity, and teaching exceptional students.
Covering five semesters, the program leads to graduation in two calendar years. We like how it specifically prepares students to transfer into licensure-track bachelor's programs in the University of North Carolina system.
Highlights
- Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
- Part-time and full-time study options
- $76 per credit (in-state)
Know Before You Apply
- Practicums require prior approval
- Low retention and completion rates
- Transfer to bachelor's programs not guaranteed
77%
$1,824
62%
$6,432
- Acceptance Rate
- 100%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,701
- Institution Type
- Public
Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute
- Hudson, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
62%
$2,432
71%
$8,576
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 3,703
- Institution Type
- Public
Ohio State University-Main Campus
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
OSU's AA program in early childhood development and education covers both typical and atypical student growth, drawing heavily on current research. We like how the program maximizes options. Graduates can pursue entry-level careers or higher degrees or transfer into OSU's primary education or human development and family sciences bachelor's programs with advanced standing.
The program has earned recognition and accolades from organizations, including the Pat Tillman Foundation and the National Veterans Leadership Foundation Alliance. It also holds the Collegiate Purple Star Award for its inclusion and support of military students.
Highlights
- 100% online delivery
- Open enrollment policy
- Out-of-state students pay in-state rates
Know Before You Apply
- Not available in Colorado
- Non-refundable $60 application fee
64%
$11,936
94%
$36,173
- Acceptance Rate
- 51%
- Students Enrolled
- 60,046
- Institution Type
- Public
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
- Fennimore, WI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
SWTC's online associate program in early childhood education follows a chronological structure that begins with foundational basics and gradually builds up to more targeted and specialized concepts. The curriculum emphasizes strategies for guiding child behavior and includes required courses in teaching students with variable abilities.
The program uses an affordable, flat-rate tuition model that makes the degree very attainable financially. We also like how SWTC offers advanced standing opportunities to students with professional experience in early childhood education.
Highlights
- Field experiences in every semester
- On-campus daycare center
- Supports transfer opportunities
Know Before You Apply
- August start dates only
- Synchronous daytime class meetings
- Mandatory $300 technology fee each semester
34%
$4,290
73%
$6,450
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 2,710
- Institution Type
- Public
Front Range Community College
- Westminster, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
FRCC's associate programs in early childhood education include two tracks: an associate of applied sciences path leading to career entry and an associate of arts path designed for students seeking to transfer into a bachelor's program after graduating. Both consist of 60 credits, and students can complete either program in just four semesters.
We like how FRCC specifically designed the curriculum to respond to Colorado's labor market. The state introduced universal preschool in 2023-24, creating a surge in demand for qualified early childhood educators.
Highlights
- Tuition reductions available through Colorado's College Opportunity Fund
- Generous credit for prior learning policies
- Scholarships available
Know Before You Apply
- Degrees transfer to a limited number of Colorado four-year schools
- Does not prepare graduates to teach in most other U.S. jurisdictions
33%
$ 3,754
56%
$15,404
- Acceptance Rate
- 100%
- Students Enrolled
- 19,449
- Institution Type
- Public
South Texas College
- McAllen, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
STC's associate of arts in teaching program offers an elementary track designed for people seeking to work with children from early childhood through sixth grade. The program features a 42-credit core curriculum and an 18-credit elementary education specialization, which combine to offer a well-rounded yet targeted professional perspective.
We like that the degree meets "No Child Left Behind" paraprofessional standards, which gives students the option of entering the workforce after completing the program. STC's program is also suitable for educators seeking an efficient path to qualifying as a substitute teacher in Texas.
Highlights
- 100% online coursework
- Multidisciplinary curriculum
- Approved by Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
Know Before You Apply
- TSI-liable program
- Degree may not transfer outside of Texas
- Two required offline field experiences
49%
$2,610
63%
$7,500
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 27,894
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Fairbanks, AK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
UAF's associate degree program in early childhood education takes a comprehensive approach to educator preparation. We like the program's broad scope: Students learn about curriculum and instruction, family dynamics, productive learning environments, and health and safety. Coursework also emphasizes student differences and accommodating children with special needs.
The 60-credit program has a two-year completion timeline for full-time students. UAF welcomes first-time college students, as well as learners seeking to enter early childhood education from other fields.
Highlights
- Two practicum experiences
- Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
- Fall, spring, or summer starts
Know Before You Apply
- May include hybrid delivery requiring a campus presence
- Students must earn at least a C- grade in all courses
77%
$ 8,670
72%
$25,650
- Acceptance Rate
- 70%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,710
- Institution Type
- Public
Northwest Indian College
- Bellingham, WA
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
NWIC's AAS program in early childhood education emphasizes child-centered learning outcomes. The program teaches students how to identify and analyze each child's unique needs, and to design learning activities that respect individual and cultural diversity.
NWIC classifies this as a transfer program, making it a suitable starting point for learners who plan to upgrade to higher degrees. The 96-credit program also offers advanced standing opportunities to students who have completed certificate or diploma programs in early childhood education.
Highlights
- Two practicum experiences
- Barrier-free enrollment policy
- Students with Indigenous ancestry qualify for in-state tuition regardless of state residency
Know Before You Apply
- Institutional orientation toward educating Indigenous peoples of North America
- Careful academic planning required for a successful bachelor's transfer
86%
$3,564
50%
$3,564
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 643
- Institution Type
- Public
NHTI-Concord's Community College
- Concord, NH
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
NHTI's early childhood education degree program fosters connections between educational theory and teaching practice with its developmentally focused curriculum. We like how the program allows students to earn stackable certificates as they work through their hands-on courses, which use a project-based approach to learning.
Notably, NHTI offers financial assistance to professionals entering or employed in child care and early learning. The program's flexible design can also accommodate working students who wish to continue building professional experience while they study.
Highlights
- Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
- Available in a 100% online format
- Prepares students for immediate career entry
Know Before You Apply
- Criminal background check required
- Camera and video recording device required
- Weekly child care lab components
52%
$ 6,450
52%
$14,700
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 2,619
- Institution Type
- Public
Great Basin College
- Elko, NV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
GBCNV's AA in early childhood education program takes an evidence-based approach to educator preparation. The curriculum emphasizes data analysis and analytical reasoning, helping students build advanced research literacy. This positions graduates for ongoing professional development through self-directed learning.
We like how the curriculum also integrates a strong humanities focus alongside its scientifically focused coursework. This balanced approach supports GBCNV's intended learning outcomes, which notably include strong leadership skills. Graduates can enter the early childhood education profession as instructors or facilities directors.
Highlights
- 100% online degree
- Supports transfer to four-year programs
- $131 per credit for in-state students and $193 per credit for out-of-state students
Know Before You Apply
- Nevada Highway Patrol and FBI background checks required
- No practicum components or fieldwork requirements
99%
$ 3,607
38%
$10,967
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 3,197
- Institution Type
- Public
What Do You Learn in an Early Childhood Education Associate Program?
Two-year programs in early childhood education typically issue Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Applied Science (AAS), or Associate of Science (AS) degrees. Some programs may be designed for students who want to enter the field after graduation. Others prepare students for transfer to four-year baccalaureate programs.
In these associate degree programs, aspiring educators learn effective instructional strategies through coursework in curriculum development and the principles and practices of teaching young children. They also discover strategies for working with diverse learners via courses in special education, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and language and literacy development.
Other common course topics include:
- Child development
- Behavior management
- Safety in early childhood settings
- Health and nutrition
Students must also complete general education and elective courses. Some programs require students to fulfill practicum or internship requirements, as well.
How Long Does an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education Take?
Many associate degrees in early childhood education consist of around 60 credits. Full-time students take about 15 credits per semester and earn their degree in two years. Most part-time students complete this degree in 3-4 years. But if you’re taking self-paced, asynchronous courses, program length can vary widely.
Depending on the institution, you may be able to reduce the program length by transferring previously earned credits or by earning college credit through relevant employment.
How Much Does an Online Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education Education Cost?
An online associate degree in education costs about $12,300 per year, according to 2022-2023 National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data. The good news is that the cost varies per institution, and online degrees cut commuting costs that in-person associate degrees may carry.
Your return on investment for your college education is something to keep in mind, too. To help you pay for school, you can apply for education scholarships to reduce the cost of your tuition and fees.
What Can You Do With an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education?
An early childhood education associate degree provides the skills and knowledge you need to work with kids in and out of the classroom. You could teach kids in a preschool, look after kids in daycare, or assist teachers in the classroom.
In most of these roles, you’ll balance supervising children and organizing activities to entertain them or teach them basic concepts.
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) |
|---|---|
| Preschool Teacher | $37,120 |
| Teacher’s Assistant | $35,240 |
| Daycare Worker | $31,000* |
| Nanny | $37,000* |
| Special Education Aide | $25,000* |
*As of April 2024
Beyond the Associate Degree
Though an associate degree is sufficient for some preschool teaching jobs, many states require these pre-kindergarten educators to hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. For instance, 50% of all teachers in Head Start, a federal program for children from low-income families, must hold bachelor’s degrees or higher. Preschool teachers at public schools, as well as preschool and daycare center directors, often need to hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
Some states also require preschool teachers to hold Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials. The Council for Professional Recognition, the organization that issues the credential, describes it as the “most widely recognized credential in early childhood education.” The credentialing process requires several steps and must be completed every three years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Associate Degrees in Early Childhood Education
Though preschool teachers at public schools often must hold bachelor’s degrees, some private schools may only require an associate degree. Additionally, center-based Head Start preschool teachers and assistant teachers can be hired with an associate degree.
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