Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2023
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Get equipped with the resources that will help you easily navigate your learning journey.
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- Early childhood educators work with kids ages 1-8 and play a key role in their growth.
- A degree in early childhood education provides necessary skills and knowledge.
- Data shows early childhood degrees tend to be less expensive than other majors.
- Students should choose programs that are accredited, flexible, and right for their career.
You may not remember the name of your preschool teacher, but you don't need to — they had an impact on you whether you realize it or not.
In fact, research from the National Association of School Psychologists shows that early childhood educators play a key role in our development. Most importantly, they teach us the joys of learning, setting us up for lifelong success.
And you can be a part of that. An online bachelor's degree in early childhood education will give you the right tools to help students during a pivotal time in their lives.
But first, let's see if it's the right choice for you.
Is a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Right for Me?
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What the Degree Is About: You'll learn the tools to teach kids (ages 1-8 years old) how to balance play with education while nurturing personal, social, and academic skills.
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How Long It Takes: The degree takes about 4-5 years. Some accelerated programs take about 1.5 years to complete, but the workload is heavier.
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Career Path: Early childhood educators can teach in preschools, daycares, nurseries, and home-based programs. They can become administrators, executive directors, and education consultants, or work in social and mental health services.
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Keep in Mind: There are three common types of this degree:
- Bachelor of science (BS) in early childhood education
- Bachelor of education (B.Ed.) with a concentration in early childhood education
- Bachelor of arts (BA) 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.
Best Online Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Programs
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Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $390 full time
Out of State | $390 full time
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Liberty provides you with the academic training and hands-on preparation early childhood educators need for entry-level positions. The university's early childhood education degree focuses on teaching methods, the latest best practices, and classroom management fundamentals.
Potential careers include early childhood center director, preschool teacher, and tutor. You can apply by submitting your official high school or college transcripts. And Liberty's online early childhood education program lets you transfer up to 90 credits, meaning you can earn your bachelor's in 12 months or less.
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $340
Out of State | $340
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
You should consider NWC if you hold an associate degree from an accredited college. The school's early childhood education degree online program awards you up to 94 transfer credits and also admits first-year students.
An NWC bachelor's degree opens up many career opportunities at Head Start programs, childcare centers, and preschool programs. The college's financial aid experts help you connect with state and federal aid for aspiring educators.
Northwest Florida State College
Niceville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $123
Out of State | $124
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Consider NWF State College if you want a well-rounded education you can apply to many career paths. The early childhood education degree requires core classes in guidance for young children and an introduction to exceptional children. You also take an introduction to early childhood education class. Many elective credits let you personalize your educational experience.
Admission requirements include an associate degree and a minimum 2.0 undergrad GPA. You must also complete a criminal background check for field experiences.
Lynn University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $375
Out of State | $375
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Lynn's three annual start dates make it a convenient choice if you want to begin your education as soon as possible. The early childhood education degree online program features small class sizes and foundational coursework. You build upon your academic knowledge by completing a final-semester practicum.
Application materials include a personal statement and official high school or college transcripts. You can reduce out-of-pocket costs if you qualify for the Florida Effective Access to Student Education Grant.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $395
Out of State | $395
Credits to Graduate
66
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
IWU uses a Christ-centered curriculum to prepare you for a career as a public school teacher. The early childhood education degree online program requires classes in literature-focused preschool environments and emergent literacy. You also complete two student teaching experiences.
You must hold at least 48 transfer credits from an accredited college and complete a criminal background check. Career opportunities beyond public school teachers include childcare center director and preschool teacher.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $319
Out of State | $419
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | New England Commission of Higher Education
Charter Oak offers you a personalized educational experience. The online degree in early childhood education features five concentration options, including one in preschool and Montessori education. Major classes help you master childhood development fundamentals and literacy techniques.
Charter Oak's online program features six start dates and a generous transfer credit policy. Top career opportunities include teaching assistant, preschool teacher, and elementary school teacher. You may qualify for one of many scholarship opportunities, some of which cover full tuition.
Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $278
Out of State | $320
Credits to Graduate
180
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Put EOU on your college shortlist if you want an education career that doesn't require a license. The university's online early childhood education degree takes four years to complete without transfer credit. It offers classes in technology in early childhood education, critical issues in early childhood, and literature for young children.
Application materials include high school or college transcripts and test scores. This degree opens up many career opportunities, such as private school teacher, educational coordinator, and Head Start teacher.
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $585
Out of State | $585
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Don't live in Hawaii? Not a problem. You can still enroll in one of Chaminade's online programs. Earning a degree in early childhood education prepares you to work with children ages 2-8 in educational settings that don't require a license. You train for your future career by taking classes in children's literature, math curriculum and methods, and leadership and guidance.
Graduation requirements include two fieldwork experiences at local schools. You receive a tuition discount if you serve active duty in the armed forces.
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $229
Out of State | $346
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
FIU features many advantages, such as one-on-one success coaches and three annual start dates. The online early childhood education degree offers classes in child development and educational psychology.
You must submit official high school transcripts and test scores if you lack college experience. Other requirements include a minimum 2.5 GPA for transfer credit. FIU awards four institutional scholarships to incoming undergraduates with excellent high school or college grades.
Why Should I Get an Online Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Degree?
Do you want to help children build a lifelong foundation for their life and learning? Or encourage them to enjoy school, see them grow, and give them the tools they need to succeed?
Then a bachelor's degree in early childhood education is worth considering.
"Students who love working with young children and see the potential in every child would benefit from an early childhood education degree. If you've ever looked at a young child and saw them making connections and looking at the world around them with keen interest and wonder — you are probably a great candidate for a career in early childhood education!"
— Lisa Downey, BA in Child Development, Roosevelt University
Benefits of Getting a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education
- Advanced instructional skills
- Training in childhood development theories and principles
- Understanding of current research and best practices
- Field experience in classrooms
- Community-based learning
Benefits of Getting Your Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Online
- Earn your degree without quitting your job
- Balance classes, work, and childcare
- Well-suited for career changers
- Self-driven learning environment
- Neurodivergent-friendly learning methods
"There is a great deal of flexibility that an online degree program affords — making it a great choice for working adults, people with families, and those with other commitments — but pursuing a BA in early childhood education does require a great deal of organization."
— Lisa Downey, BA in Child Development, Roosevelt University
How Much Does an Online Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Cost?
Here's some good news: You'll likely pay less for an online education degree than for other majors.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the median annual cost for an online undergraduate education degree is $3,450. The median annual cost for all other majors is almost twice as expensive — $6,080.
Still, college is more than just tuition and fees. You may end up paying for hidden costs such as textbooks and emergency expenses that can add up quickly.
But you can make your degree more affordable in a few ways, which include using credit for prior learning, education scholarships, and transfer credits.
"Holding an early childhood education degree is a huge accomplishment, just as with any degree. But it takes a lot of patience and work, especially since you will be working with children under five years old."
— Elisa Yi, BA in Child Development, California State University
Read More:
How Long Does an Online Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education Take?
It all depends on if you're a full-time or part-time student.
If you're a full-time student, taking a minimum of 15 credits per semester, you can finish your degree in about four years. Full-time students can opt for accelerated programs that speed up the time to three years or less. But it usually means a heavier workload.
A part-time student taking less than 15 credits per semester can finish in five to six years. As a part-time student, you'll typically have more manageable workloads and can balance personal responsibilities, such as having a job or family.
"If you're thinking about getting an early childhood education degree, make sure you know that it has a lot of observing classroom settings and learning about the different age groups."
— Elisa Yi, BA in Child Development, California State University
Average Length of Time
3-4 years (Full Time)
5-6 years (Part Time)
Required Course Credits
120 credits*
*Varies depending on your school/program
Featured Early Childhood Education Degrees
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Much Money Will I Make With a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education?
It's safe to say you won't make a ton of money in early childhood education. And it doesn't help that teachers tend to be paid lower than their actual value, according to the Economic Policy Institute.
But, you can expect to make more money as you gain experience.
For example, some executive director positions that require a bachelor's degree and 3-5 years of experience offer a base salary of more than $75,000, as per Payscale data.
How to Consider Your ROI
Wondering how much you'll get in return for your investment? Our wage calculator can help you weigh the numbers. Use it to consider questions like:
- Can your starting salary cover student loan payments, rent, and groceries?
- Can you meet your life goals as well as your career goals?
Read More: Going Back to School for a Teaching Degree
What Jobs Can I Get With a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education?
You'll have lots of job options as an early childhood educator. You can teach students, lead schools and education centers, or work in policy and advocacy.
Many people choose to teach in preschools, daycares, nurseries, and home-based programs. Others take on more supervisory roles, including preschool, daycare, and childcare center directors.
Here are five popular jobs for early childhood educators, including how much they pay and how much they're projected to grow by 2031:
| Job | Median Salary (May 2021) | Job Growth Rate (2021-31) |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers | $61,350 | 4% |
| Preschool Teacher | $30,210 | 15% |
| Preschool Center Director | $47,310 | 8% |
| Special Education Teacher | $61,820 | 4% |
| Daycare Director | $38,750* *Accurate as of September 2022 |
N/A |
Still, most teaching jobs don't make a ton of money compared to other careers. But that doesn't mean you can't reach a higher salary. A bachelor's degree in early childhood education can be a pathway to other high-earning careers.
As an early childhood educator, you can earn a state-issued teaching certification, which supplements traditional coursework with student teaching or fieldwork. Certificates can qualify you for other relevant positions. For example, a supervisory certificate leads to administrative positions.
Suppose you're interested in more leadership positions. In that case, you can look into a master's in early childhood education or a master's in education administration. Both degrees lead to a base salary of more than $51,000, according to Payscale.
Read More:
Is a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Worth It? Grads and Instructors Weigh In
The early childhood educators we spoke to want you to know the degree has far-reaching impacts. Your job matters — you have the power to make a lifelong impression on the children you teach.
"Yes. The knowledge I gained from my bachelor's degree in early childhood education has stayed with me for my entire career. It also helped me as a parent. I keep in touch with many of my former students, and they often tell me how they use what they learned in my classes and how they feel so much more confident and respected with their degree."
— Lisa Downey, BA in Child Development, Roosevelt University
"Absolutely. Having a passion for supporting young children is an excellent foundation for anyone looking to work in early childhood education; combining that passion with an understanding of child development, family communication, and so much more allows the early childhood professional to be a powerful and positive influence not only on that child’s life, but also on the life of that child's family and even the community."
— Michele Lucia, Core Faculty, Walden University
"Having a degree in early childhood education gives me the feeling of being the first teacher of these kids' lives, besides their own parents. You are the beginning stepping stone of helping these young friends mold into what they're capable of."
— Elisa Yi, BA in Child Development, California State University
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Education Programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education
What do early childhood educators do?
Early childhood educators plan, organize, and lead classes for children ages 1-8 years old. These classes help nurture their personal, social, and academic skills. For example, group circles can help children learn how to interact with each other and follow along with the class.
What can I expect from an early childhood education program?
Be prepared to learn theories of childhood development, how to interact with different age groups, and ways to collaborate with parents. You'll solve problems, help children meet their academic and development needs, and strategize how to make classes effective for everyone.
Also expect to learn how to observe, document, and assess how children learn and grow. You'll visit schools and community-based centers and see how children behave. Some programs may include field experiences or student teaching.
Are early childhood education majors in demand?
According to BLS projections, the number of jobs for childcare workers will grow by 6% between 2021-2031, which equals 61,600 new jobs. The BLS also projects roles for elementary school teachers to grow by 4%, which amounts to 60,200 new jobs.
During the same period, specific jobs are projected to grow more rapidly. The BLS projects jobs for childcare center directors to grow 8%, special education teachers who specialize in preschool care to grow 4%, and preschool teachers to grow 15%.
