Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2025
Are you interested in supporting the growth and development of young students? Check out our guide to the best online early childhood education programs.
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A career in early childhood education can be gratifying, from helping children learn how to read their first book to teaching them how to write their name.
If this is something that interests you, enrolling in an early childhood education program can help you become a early childhood educator and equip you with the fundamental skills to help children growth and develop.
In this guide, we rank the best online early childhood education programs based on factors like graduation rate and program cost.
Early Childhood Education Degree Highlights
- A degree in early childhood education can prepare you for a career working with young children as a childcare worker, preschool teacher, or elementary school teacher.
- Many online early childhood education programs require you to have previous experience in the field or a certain number of transferable college credits.
- A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education can pave the way for pursuing a master’s degree in education.
Best Online Colleges That Offer Early Childhood Education
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.
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:
2025- 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.
University of Washington
Seattle, WA4 yearCampus + Online
$12,643
$39,687
43%
19%
Why We Chose This School
The interdisciplinary online early childhood education (ECE) program at the University of Washington offers coursework focused on educational theory, inclusion, and hands-on experience.
Classes include equity in early care and education, social policy in early care and education, and infant and early child mental health. Along with your coursework, you will complete a senior project and create a professional portfolio.
The program includes 87 credits and can be completed in as few as two years. You can enroll part time or full time to earn your degree on a timeline that fits your busy schedule.
Highlights
- $231 per credit
- Scholarships available for ECE students
- 95% retention rate
Know Before You Apply
- One start date in the fall
- No teaching certificate available
- Must have a minimum amount of transfer credits
$17,004
$30,477
95%
55,230
Public
Yes
$12,643
$39,687
Seattle, WA4 yearCampus + Online
$12,643
$39,687
43%
19%
$17,004
$30,477
95%
55,230
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The interdisciplinary online early childhood education (ECE) program at the University of Washington offers coursework focused on educational theory, inclusion, and hands-on experience.
Classes include equity in early care and education, social policy in early care and education, and infant and early child mental health. Along with your coursework, you will complete a senior project and create a professional portfolio.
The program includes 87 credits and can be completed in as few as two years. You can enroll part time or full time to earn your degree on a timeline that fits your busy schedule.
Highlights
- $231 per credit
- Scholarships available for ECE students
- 95% retention rate
Know Before You Apply
- One start date in the fall
- No teaching certificate available
- Must have a minimum amount of transfer credits
Florida International University
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
Why We Chose This School
With three start dates, you can begin your journey at Florida International University as soon as you're ready. The bachelor of science in early childhood education program can be completed 100% online and focuses on early childhood development and educational theory.
The program requires 120 credits, with 30 credits dedicated to professional education courses. Courses include educational psychology, assessment, evaluation, and diagnosis of the young child, and teaching students with exceptionalities in inclusive settings.
As an FIU student, you will be connected with a success coach who will help guide you throughout your studies. You will also have access to online student and career services.
Highlights
- $236 per credit for in-state students
- Three start dates
- 92% retention rate
Know Before You Apply
- $649 per credit for out-of-state students
- Pre-selected electives
- Requires self-discipline
$911
$2,003
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
$6,168
$18,566
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,168
$18,566
59%
67%
$911
$2,003
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
With three start dates, you can begin your journey at Florida International University as soon as you're ready. The bachelor of science in early childhood education program can be completed 100% online and focuses on early childhood development and educational theory.
The program requires 120 credits, with 30 credits dedicated to professional education courses. Courses include educational psychology, assessment, evaluation, and diagnosis of the young child, and teaching students with exceptionalities in inclusive settings.
As an FIU student, you will be connected with a success coach who will help guide you throughout your studies. You will also have access to online student and career services.
Highlights
- $236 per credit for in-state students
- Three start dates
- 92% retention rate
Know Before You Apply
- $649 per credit for out-of-state students
- Pre-selected electives
- Requires self-discipline
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$12,474
$30,446
44%
62%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a 120-credit bachelor of science in early childhood education program and a 2.5-yearearly childhood professional program for students who already hold an associate degree in a related field.
The fully online early childhood professional education program is offered in eight-week and 16-week formats. Although the coursework is 100% online, you do have to complete field experience. However, you can do your field service in your area.
Classes include U.S. minority cultures, child development and technology, and curriculum and methods in early childhood special education.
Highlights
- 94% retention rate
- Licensure track for Illinois residents
- Scholarship available for early childhood education students
Know Before You Apply
- 44% admission rate
- Early childhood experience required for admission
- Higher out-of-state tuition rate
$14,891
$29,176
94%
56,563
Public
Yes
$12,474
$30,446
Champaign, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$12,474
$30,446
44%
62%
$14,891
$29,176
94%
56,563
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a 120-credit bachelor of science in early childhood education program and a 2.5-yearearly childhood professional program for students who already hold an associate degree in a related field.
The fully online early childhood professional education program is offered in eight-week and 16-week formats. Although the coursework is 100% online, you do have to complete field experience. However, you can do your field service in your area.
Classes include U.S. minority cultures, child development and technology, and curriculum and methods in early childhood special education.
Highlights
- 94% retention rate
- Licensure track for Illinois residents
- Scholarship available for early childhood education students
Know Before You Apply
- 44% admission rate
- Early childhood experience required for admission
- Higher out-of-state tuition rate
Iowa State University
Ames, IA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,982
$26,168
89%
55%
Why We Chose This School
Whether you’re looking to complete your degree or are just starting your undergraduate studies in early childhood education, Iowa State University has got you covered. The school's bachelor’s in early childhood education and programming is a 120-credit program that allows you to transfer up to 30 credits.
The degree consists of general education credits, core curriculum credits, and elective credits. Courses include assessing young children and their environments to enhance development and working with families. You complete two practicum courses, where you observe, create, and teach content.
The degree culminates with a capstone experience.
Highlights
- Can transfer up to 30 credits
- 85% retention rate
- State programs that help pay tuition costs
Know Before You Apply
- Not a teacher licensure program
- Requires self-discipline
- 75% graduation rate
$10,572
$26,776
85%
30,177
Public
Yes
$8,982
$26,168
Ames, IA4 yearCampus + Online
$8,982
$26,168
89%
55%
$10,572
$26,776
85%
30,177
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Whether you’re looking to complete your degree or are just starting your undergraduate studies in early childhood education, Iowa State University has got you covered. The school's bachelor’s in early childhood education and programming is a 120-credit program that allows you to transfer up to 30 credits.
The degree consists of general education credits, core curriculum credits, and elective credits. Courses include assessing young children and their environments to enhance development and working with families. You complete two practicum courses, where you observe, create, and teach content.
The degree culminates with a capstone experience.
Highlights
- Can transfer up to 30 credits
- 85% retention rate
- State programs that help pay tuition costs
Know Before You Apply
- Not a teacher licensure program
- Requires self-discipline
- 75% graduation rate
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,422
$19,582
90%
69%
Why We Chose This School
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s bachelor of science in early childhood development and education offers two concentrations: a birth through kindergarten teacher licensure concentration and an early care and education concentration.
Both programs require 120 credits and prepare you to work with babies and toddlers in home and school settings. You complete your coursework entirely online and, minus a few courses with set meeting times, you can access your class materials at your own time.
Classes include social-emotional competence in inclusive settings, emergency literacy and literature, and leadership in early education. You will also gain hands-on experience through practicum courses.
Highlights
- 90% admission rate
- $182 per credit for in-state students
- Two concentrations to choose from
Know Before You Apply
- 57% graduation rate
- Associate degree required for admission
- Licensure concentration may not fulfill requirements for your state
$5,219
$18,937
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
$4,422
$19,582
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$4,422
$19,582
90%
69%
$5,219
$18,937
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s bachelor of science in early childhood development and education offers two concentrations: a birth through kindergarten teacher licensure concentration and an early care and education concentration.
Both programs require 120 credits and prepare you to work with babies and toddlers in home and school settings. You complete your coursework entirely online and, minus a few courses with set meeting times, you can access your class materials at your own time.
Classes include social-emotional competence in inclusive settings, emergency literacy and literature, and leadership in early education. You will also gain hands-on experience through practicum courses.
Highlights
- 90% admission rate
- $182 per credit for in-state students
- Two concentrations to choose from
Know Before You Apply
- 57% graduation rate
- Associate degree required for admission
- Licensure concentration may not fulfill requirements for your state
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND4 yearCampus + Online
$9,237
$13,856
77%
68%
Why We Chose This School
With a focus on curriculum development, lesson planning, and child development, the bachelor’s in early childhood education from the University of North Dakota prepares graduates to seek a teaching license in North Dakota.
UND caps its classes at 25 students, so you can count on individualized learning and attention from professors. Required courses include educational technology, data literacy for teachers, and observing and assessing children. You will also gain hands-on experience through practicum classes and student teaching.
UND also offers an accelerated degree program that allows you to complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education at an accelerated pace entirely online.
Highlights
- $385 per credit
- Three start dates
- 100% of graduates are working or pursuing graduate degrees
Know Before You Apply
- Some classes are taught synchronously
- Must have time management skills
- Only prepares you for licensure in North Dakota
$11,963
$17,944
83%
14,172
Public
Yes
$9,237
$13,856
Grand Forks, ND4 yearCampus + Online
$9,237
$13,856
77%
68%
$11,963
$17,944
83%
14,172
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
With a focus on curriculum development, lesson planning, and child development, the bachelor’s in early childhood education from the University of North Dakota prepares graduates to seek a teaching license in North Dakota.
UND caps its classes at 25 students, so you can count on individualized learning and attention from professors. Required courses include educational technology, data literacy for teachers, and observing and assessing children. You will also gain hands-on experience through practicum classes and student teaching.
UND also offers an accelerated degree program that allows you to complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education at an accelerated pace entirely online.
Highlights
- $385 per credit
- Three start dates
- 100% of graduates are working or pursuing graduate degrees
Know Before You Apply
- Some classes are taught synchronously
- Must have time management skills
- Only prepares you for licensure in North Dakota
Ball State University
Muncie, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$8,688
$26,696
72%
59%
Why We Chose This School
Ball State University’s bachelor’s in early childhood education is a 120-credit degree that prepares you for careers other than licensed teaching roles. This fully online degree is flexible and many enrolled students continue working while seeking their degrees.
Once enrolled, you can choose a minor. Options include applied behavior analysis, psychology of human development, autism spectrum disorder, and more. Coursework focuses on understanding diverse family structures and teaching theories. Courses include creative experiences for young children, child and family wellness, and culture and language in teaching and learning.
Highlights
- Scholarships for Indiana residents
- Federal employees pay in-state tuition rate
- Pick concentration based on your interests
Know Before You Apply
- 62% graduation rate
- Non-licensure program
- Must hold an associate degree or 45 applicable credits to apply
$9,884
$21,222
77%
20,440
Public
Yes
$8,688
$26,696
Muncie, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$8,688
$26,696
72%
59%
$9,884
$21,222
77%
20,440
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Ball State University’s bachelor’s in early childhood education is a 120-credit degree that prepares you for careers other than licensed teaching roles. This fully online degree is flexible and many enrolled students continue working while seeking their degrees.
Once enrolled, you can choose a minor. Options include applied behavior analysis, psychology of human development, autism spectrum disorder, and more. Coursework focuses on understanding diverse family structures and teaching theories. Courses include creative experiences for young children, child and family wellness, and culture and language in teaching and learning.
Highlights
- Scholarships for Indiana residents
- Federal employees pay in-state tuition rate
- Pick concentration based on your interests
Know Before You Apply
- 62% graduation rate
- Non-licensure program
- Must hold an associate degree or 45 applicable credits to apply
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI4 yearCampus + Online
$10,992
$19,800
91%
52%
Why We Chose This School
Central Michigan University’s early childhood education program is a certificate add-on to a bachelor’s in science in education. Of your 120 credits, 51 credits are focused on early childhood education, preparing you to work in a variety of early childhood settings.
With a learner-centered model, coursework includes teaching and learning about race in early childhood, using constructivism as a learning tool, and collaborating with stakeholders around early childhood special education.
Although this degree is 100% online, students can still participate in partnership programs between the college and outside organizations, including the literacy center and STEM education partnerships.
Highlights
- 91% admission rate
- $301 per credit
- Two start dates
Know Before You Apply
- 62% graduation rate
- Requires self-discipline
- Not a licensure program
$808
$808
73%
14,423
Public
Yes
$10,992
$19,800
Mount Pleasant, MI4 yearCampus + Online
$10,992
$19,800
91%
52%
$808
$808
73%
14,423
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Central Michigan University’s early childhood education program is a certificate add-on to a bachelor’s in science in education. Of your 120 credits, 51 credits are focused on early childhood education, preparing you to work in a variety of early childhood settings.
With a learner-centered model, coursework includes teaching and learning about race in early childhood, using constructivism as a learning tool, and collaborating with stakeholders around early childhood special education.
Although this degree is 100% online, students can still participate in partnership programs between the college and outside organizations, including the literacy center and STEM education partnerships.
Highlights
- 91% admission rate
- $301 per credit
- Two start dates
Know Before You Apply
- 62% graduation rate
- Requires self-discipline
- Not a licensure program
Winona State University
Winona, MN4 yearCampus + Online
$8,388
$15,120
74%
52%
Why We Chose This School
Winona State University’s bachelor’s in early childhood education is a transfer pathway program that allows applicants who already hold an associate degree in a related field to earn their bachelor’s in early childhood education while meeting the Minnesota state standards for a teaching license.
Coursework in WSU’s program includes early numeracy methods, preschool and kindergarten curriculum and methods, and multicultural youth, children, and families. The degree also includes student teaching requirements.
As an online student at WSU, you will still have access to student resources, including online tutoring and the writing center.
Highlights
- Can earn Minnesota teaching license via this program
- Affordable tuition
- Online tutoring and student advising
Know Before You Apply
- Must already hold an associate degree
- 60% graduation rate
- Requires time management skills
$8,320
$12,560
76%
6,154
Public
Yes
$8,388
$15,120
Winona, MN4 yearCampus + Online
$8,388
$15,120
74%
52%
$8,320
$12,560
76%
6,154
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Winona State University’s bachelor’s in early childhood education is a transfer pathway program that allows applicants who already hold an associate degree in a related field to earn their bachelor’s in early childhood education while meeting the Minnesota state standards for a teaching license.
Coursework in WSU’s program includes early numeracy methods, preschool and kindergarten curriculum and methods, and multicultural youth, children, and families. The degree also includes student teaching requirements.
As an online student at WSU, you will still have access to student resources, including online tutoring and the writing center.
Highlights
- Can earn Minnesota teaching license via this program
- Affordable tuition
- Online tutoring and student advising
Know Before You Apply
- Must already hold an associate degree
- 60% graduation rate
- Requires time management skills
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$32,770
$32,770
68%
57%
Why We Chose This School
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran college with a 12-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The accelerated bachelor’s in early childhood education is a 120-credit degree that prepares participants to work with students from birth to third grade, offered in eight-week course sessions.
You will take general courses in biblical theology as well as content-specific courses in the art and science of teaching reading, STEM in early childhood, and assessment strategies for diverse learners. The program culminates with a final semester of student-teaching experience.
If desired, you can add an additional Christian or Lutheran teaching diploma.
Highlights
- $490 per credit
- Multiple start dates
- 96% of grads are employed or in a graduate program within one year
Know Before You Apply
- Prepares you for Wisconsin teacher licensure only
- Some courses are synchronous and require you to log on live
- Requires self-discipline
$12,042
$12,042
79%
5,063
Private
Yes
$32,770
$32,770
Mequon, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$32,770
$32,770
68%
57%
$12,042
$12,042
79%
5,063
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran college with a 12-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The accelerated bachelor’s in early childhood education is a 120-credit degree that prepares participants to work with students from birth to third grade, offered in eight-week course sessions.
You will take general courses in biblical theology as well as content-specific courses in the art and science of teaching reading, STEM in early childhood, and assessment strategies for diverse learners. The program culminates with a final semester of student-teaching experience.
If desired, you can add an additional Christian or Lutheran teaching diploma.
Highlights
- $490 per credit
- Multiple start dates
- 96% of grads are employed or in a graduate program within one year
Know Before You Apply
- Prepares you for Wisconsin teacher licensure only
- Some courses are synchronous and require you to log on live
- Requires self-discipline
Why You Should Get an Early Childhood Education Degree
Rewarding Career: As an early childhood educator, you can have a significant impact on children’s lives, teaching them how to read, write, and communicate effectively.- Opportunity for Growth: After years of experience, you could move into administration positions or even start your own business, such as a daycare center.
- Work in a Variety of Settings: Early childhood educators can work in several work environments, including preschools, elementary schools, and childcare centers.
Benefits of Getting an Early Childhood Education Degree Online
According to our 2024 BestColleges Online Education Trends Report:- An online program provides the flexibility to work while studying. Just over 2 in 5 students enrolled full time in online programs of any major also work full time.
- More than 90% of students and program graduates say their online degree will have or has had a positive return on investment.
- Out of more than 100 survey respondents, 100% of psychology, education, and social sciences online students and program graduates say they would recommend online education to others.
How to Choose the Best Online Early Childhood Education Program for You
When evaluating an online early childhood education program, consider its cost, program length, and accreditation.
You should also take time to think about the specific skills you want learn from a program so you can evaluate its core courses and electives.
How Much Does an Online Early Childhood Education Degree Cost?
Online Education Bachelor’s Degrees
Avg. Tuition & Fees (2019-2020)
$9,594
Avg. Net Price (2019-2020)
$5,334
Source: NCES PowerStats
During the 2019-2020 academic year, the average tuition and fees for an online bachelor’s degree in education was just under $9,600. However, if you factor in grants and scholarships, the average net price was just over $5,300.
There are several options you can explore to help lower the cost of your early childhood education degree. For instance, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Also contact your schools financial aid office to find out if you qualify for other loans, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships.
Also, note that online students in early childhood education may qualify for special scholarships offered by organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the National Education Association.
Find Financial Aid for Your Early Childhood Education Degree
How Long Does It Take to Get an Early Childhood Education Degree?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
A degree in early childhood education typically requires 120 credits and four years to finish, if you’re a full-time student. As a art-time student, it may take an additional year or more for you to graduate, depending on how many classes you sign up for per semester.
If you want to fast-track your degree, there are several steps you can take, such as taking summer courses, transferring credits, and earning credit for work and life experience.
You can also consider enrolling in an accelerated education program. An accelerated program lets you finish your degree faster by offering shorter courses or dividing the academic year into more than two semesters, depending on the school.
Early Childhood Education Degree Application Requirements
Minimum GPA, typically between 2.0 and 2.75- Previous experience in early childhood education
- Resume or CV
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
Accreditation for Early Childhood Education Programs
Make sure to choose an online early childhood education program from a school that holds institutional accreditation, particularly regional accreditation, which is known for having more rigorous quality standards.
Additionally, many early childhood education programs hold programmatic accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This agency requires programs to meet standards in areas like teaching approaches, staff qualifications, and relationships with children’s families.
What Can You Do With an Early Childhood Education Degree?
An early childhood education degree can prepare you for several positions in the education field, such as a childcare worker and elementary school teacher.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects around 106,500 openings for kindergarten and elementary school teachers each year between 2023 and 2033, despite a decline in employment.
Similarly, the BLS projects 162,500 yearly openings for childcare workers through 2033. Preschool teachers have the highest demand in the field, with a 4% projected job growth between 2023 and 2033.
You typically need a state license for teaching positions, and an early childhood education degree can help prepare you for the licensing process. However, while many online teaching programs can help you earn a license, you might still need in-person student teaching experience to qualify.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Childcare Workers | $32,050 | Work with young children and help nurture their early growth and development. |
| Elementary School Teachers | $62,340 | Teach young students basic subjects such as reading, science, and math. |
| Kindergarten Teachers | $61,430 | Teach students around 5 years of age basic concepts such as letters, numbers, shapes, and time. |
| Preschool Teachers | $37,120 | Work with children under the age of 5 to teach them basic skills in preparation for kindergarten. |
| Special Education Teachers | $64,270 | Work with students who have learning, mental, emotional, and/or physical disabilities in an educational setting. |
Learn More About Early Childhood Education Jobs
Is an Online Early Childhood Education Degree Worth It?
An online early childhood education degree can be worthwhile if you’re interested in working with young children.
With this degree, you can typically qualify for teaching roles at preschools and elementary schools or as a childcare worker. And while entry-level positions in early childhood education may not offer high salaries, many find it a rewarding career with a consistent employment demand.
Online education programs are also usually highly recommended by students and graduates, according to our research.
Our 2024 Online Education Trends Reports found that 93% of students and graduates thought earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment. Additionally, all of the psychology, education, and social sciences online students and program graduates we surveyed said they would recommend online education to others.
Education Beyond a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
A bachelor’s in early childhood education can help you land entry-level roles like teacher and childcare worker. But if you’re looking for career advancement and increased earning potential, you might want to get a master’s degree in education.
There are different types of master’s degrees in education available, including a master of education (M.Ed.), a master’s in early childhood education, and a master’s in elementary education. These programs take 1-3 years to complete, depending on whether you enroll part time or full time.
Furthermore, if you’re interested in advanced research and academic leadership, you might consider earning a doctor of education (Ed.D.), which takes around three years to complete on average.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Early Childhood Education Degrees
The best degree for early childhood education is generally a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Alternative options include degrees in early childhood development, early childhood studies, and elementary education.
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