Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $236
Out-of-State | $649

Credits to Graduate: 120

FIU's early childhood education degree, with a non-certification track, focuses on curriculum development, teaching methods, and early childhood education. The virtual courses explore assessments and evaluations of young children, child development, family literacy, and language and literacy development. A success coach helps you throughout the program. 

You can apply in the summer, spring, or fall. First-year students must submit SAT, ACT and/or CLT scores. Transfer students with 60 or more college credits can apply by submitting their transcripts. It takes a minimum 2.5 GPA to get admitted into this program.

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $329
Out-of-State | $329

Credits to Graduate: 120

Charter Oak's bachelor's in early childhood education, tailored for professionals working in childcare of education, offers five areas of concentration. While not directly NAEYC accredited, the program advertises that it meets NAEYC standards for educator prep. 

You can focus your studies in early childhood teaching, infant and toddler education, preschool, Montessori, or program administration and leadership. You'll build a foundation in early child development theory and gain practical experience through field experiences.

Eligible New York state residents currently working in childcare can apply for the New York State Educational Incentive Program scholarship. This degree offers six start dates.

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $300
Out-of-State | $300

Credits to Graduate: 120

The online early childhood education program at Oakland City University is a nontraditional, nonlicensure option for students. Graduates prepare to work in a variety of settings, including Head Start programs and childcare facilities. Online coursework delves into topics like differentiated instruction, child development, and creative arts. 

Many students who have previously earned an associate degree in early childhood education transfer into this program. To graduate, nonlicensure students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 and a minimum 2.3 GPA in their major.

Programmatic Accreditation: Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $294
Out-of-State | $531

Credits to Graduate: 120 (57 in major)

Winona State University's online early childhood education program is a degree-completion program for students who have already earned an associate degree. The 57-credit curriculum for this major prepares graduates to earn an early childhood education license and teach children up to the age of three.

Students take classes like classroom management and early numeracy methods over the course of four semesters. They also join three synchronous classes most semesters — held on Saturdays. Additionally, participants complete student teaching experiences throughout the program.

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $585
Out-of-State | $585

Credits to Graduate: 120

Chaminade's online early childhood education program aligns with NAEYC standards and is approved by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board. The major requirements provide a foundational education in children's literature, curriculum development, and leadership and guidance. Fieldwork experiences provide hands-on learning in classrooms.

Chaminade also offers a bachelor's program that meets the requirements for a Montessori credential and PK-K licensure. You need to complete an online application and submit transcripts to gain admission to Chaminade's early childhood education program.