Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Discover which early childhood education programs offer the best return on investment and everything you need to know about the degree.
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Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Early Childhood Education

Early childhood education degrees teach students the essential skills to help young children learn and develop. Experts in this field focus not only on education, but on the social and emotional development of children.

Young children learn quickly; the first five years of life are the most critical for brain development. A child's brain is 90% developed by the age of 5, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center.

You can help assist the development of children by attending an online college for early childhood education and learning the skills necessary to help the next generation.

"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

Featured Online Colleges for Early Childhood Education

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Early Childhood Education Degrees Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Florida International University
Miami, FL
$4,721 $16,529 64%
#2 Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT
$7,656 $10,056 Not provided
#3 Oakland City University
Oakland City, IN
$25,740 $25,740 73%
#4 Winona State University
Winona, MN
$8,100 $14,600 77%
#5 Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI
$27,340 $27,340 90%

Top 5 Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Degrees Online

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. 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. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

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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#1 Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
56,664
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Charter Oak State College

  • New Britain, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,656
Out-of-state
$10,056
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$9,720
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,618
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Oakland City University

  • Oakland City, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,740
Out-of-state
$25,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
867
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Winona State University

  • Winona, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$14,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,000
Out-of-state
$12,080
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
6,545
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Chaminade University of Honolulu

  • Honolulu, HI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,340
Out-of-state
$27,340
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,720
Out-of-state
$27,720
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
2,214
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
63% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

What Will I Learn in an Early Childhood Education Program?

If you enroll in a bachelor's in early childhood education program, your early childhood education courses will cover instructional strategies, teaching techniques, and theories of early childhood development for children eight years old or younger.

Bachelor's programs may be presented as either Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees, or even as a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.).

BA programs focus on the humanities, and more social aspects of early childhood education, including:

  • Nutrition
  • Toddler care
  • Guiding behaviors

B.Ed. degrees zero in on education styles and techniques, while BS degrees focus on the math and technology, like early childhood models and assessments.

Common Courses
  • Literature and Young Children
  • Children with Special Needs
  • Program Administration
  • Leadership and Supervision
  • Young Children and the Arts
  • Partnerships with Families and Communities
  • Mathematical Learning in the Early Years
  • Protective Education and Child Well-being

"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

Licensure vs. Non-Licensure Programs

Online early childhood education degree programs may offer teaching licensure or certification tracks. Some educational careers, such as those in the P-12 public school system, require you to hold a state-issued license.

Licensure programs help you meet the educational and teaching requirements to pursue an initial license, but you may still need to sit for additional state exams or institutional recommendation to obtain licensure.

Early childhood education programs that lead to licensure may include student-teaching experiences and mentorship from experienced professionals. Non-licensure bachelor’s degrees in this field do not guarantee meeting state licensing requirements, and may not have field experience opportunities.

Why Should I Earn My Early Childhood Education Degree Online?

"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

Career Paths in Early Childhood Education

Graduates from early childhood development degree programs have specialized skills for helping young children learn. While many graduates may choose teaching career paths, others may pursue careers as educational leaders, coordinators, and policymakers related to children.

Teachers can choose to work with different types of students, including preschoolers, kindergarteners, and elementary school children. Childhood development specialists in other professions can pursue careers with NGOs, governments, consulting agencies, and research organizations.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many careers in this field are expected to slightly grow or shrink within the next decade.

Careers for Early Childhood Degree-Holders
Job Median Salary (May 2022) Outlook (2022-2032)
Preschool Teacher $35,330 +3%
Kindergarten Teacher $60,490 +1%
Elementary School Teacher $61,690 +1%
Special Education Teacher, Preschool $62,240 +2%
Special Education Teacher, K-6 $62,390 +0%
Preschool or Childcare Center Director $49,690 -3%
Source: BLS

Requirements to Become an Early Childhood Educator

Early childhood educator careers usually require you to have an associate or bachelor's degree related to education. Specialized roles, including childcare director, may prefer candidates with an early childhood development degree.

States may have specific education requirements for teachers. For example, public school teachers in certain states must major in a content area, such as literature.

Depending on your state and role, you may need a license to pursue a career in early childhood education. All states require K-3 public school teachers to obtain licensure. Licensing requirements typically include a bachelor's degree, background check, and a certification test. States may also require teachers to complete continuing education courses or obtain a master's degree.

Preschool teachers may need only an associate degree. Some states additionally require the Child Development Associate credential. However, preschool teachers at public schools must also obtain licensure, which requires a bachelor's degree and competency exam.

How Much Does an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education Cost?

Early childhood education degree tuition can vary based on a school's location, prestige, student population, and more. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average undergraduate tuition in 2021-2022 was $15,546.

Online bachelor's students enrolled in education programs paid an average tuition of $6,472, according to the NCES.

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.

How Long Are Early Childhood Education Programs?

Schools vary in how many credits they require for a bachelor's degree, though the typical requirement is 120 credits. How quickly you finish your program depends on whether you're a full-time or part-time student.

If you're a full-time student, you can finish your bachelor's degree in about four years. Full-time students can opt for accelerated programs that speed up the time to three years or less, but this usually means a heavier workload.

A part-time student 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.

Is an Early Childhood Education Degree 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 Early Childhood Education Degrees

What degree is best for early childhood education?

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There are many degree options within this field,, including undergraduate and graduate programs in early childhood education, early childhood studies, and early childhood development. The best choice is the one which focuses on your personal interests and supports your career goals.

What are the admission requirements for an online bachelor's program in early childhood education?

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Colleges have different requirements for admission, which may include official transcripts, testing scores, letters of recommendation, and an online application. Programs may offer free applications, standardized testing waivers, and scholarship opportunities.

What are the skills needed to be an early childhood teacher?

Chevron Down

Early childhood teachers should have a love for children and an interest in helping them develop. Teachers should also have patience, empathy, and energy to be around young students daily.

What are the highest-paying early childhood education jobs?

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Special education teachers are among the highest-paid early childhood educators, with a median annual salary just over $62,000. However, careers as a politician, consultant, or educational leader that help young children learn, have the potential to earn even more.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed November 27, 2023.

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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