Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Programs of 2025
An online master’s in early childhood education allows you to continue working while you earn a higher degree.
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Early childhood education plays an important role in the growth and development of young children, establishing the foundation for socialization, academic success, independence, healthy living, and community engagement.
Pursuing an online master’s in early childhood education can enhance your teaching career and qualify you for leadership or administrative positions within the education sector.
Many schools offer flexible online options to earn your master’s degree in early childhood education. We ranked the best online early childhood education programs based on factors like selectivity, graduation rate, and program cost.
Early Childhood Education Program Highlights
- A master’s degree in early childhood education builds upon skills learned during a bachelor’s degree program, opening doors to career advancement and higher-paying roles.
- These programs typically can take around two years to complete.
- Professionals in some advanced roles, like school principals, earn a median annual wage of over $100,000.
Source: BLS
Start Your Early Childhood Education Journey Now
Top Early Childhood Education Master’s Programs
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:
- 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.
Clemson University
Clemson, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,858
$22,566
38%
44%
Why We Chose This School
With Clemson University's master's in teaching and learning program, you can earn your degree in just 18 months. The program begins in the summer. You take two courses each semester but just one course at a time. Most students finish the program in five semesters.
Enrolled students choose from one of four concentrations: effective and reflective teaching; science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM); experiential learning for early childhood; or instructional coaching. Required courses for all students in the program include curriculum theory, classroom-based research, and cultural diversity in education.
This program does not lead to initial teacher certification.
Highlights
- Four areas of focus to choose from
- Can be completed in 18 months
- Focus on one class at a time
Know Before You Apply
- $640 per-credit tuition cost
- Applicants should be working in an educational setting, like a school
- Must have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, or you will have to take the GRE
$14,118
$37,982
93%
28,747
Public
Yes
$10,858
$22,566
Clemson, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,858
$22,566
38%
44%
$14,118
$37,982
93%
28,747
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
With Clemson University's master's in teaching and learning program, you can earn your degree in just 18 months. The program begins in the summer. You take two courses each semester but just one course at a time. Most students finish the program in five semesters.
Enrolled students choose from one of four concentrations: effective and reflective teaching; science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM); experiential learning for early childhood; or instructional coaching. Required courses for all students in the program include curriculum theory, classroom-based research, and cultural diversity in education.
This program does not lead to initial teacher certification.
Highlights
- Four areas of focus to choose from
- Can be completed in 18 months
- Focus on one class at a time
Know Before You Apply
- $640 per-credit tuition cost
- Applicants should be working in an educational setting, like a school
- Must have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, or you will have to take the GRE
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$5,219
$18,937
90%
69%
Why We Chose This School
The birth-kindergarten master's program at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro is an interdisciplinary program offered by two of the college's departments: the Department of Specialized Education Services and the Department of Human Development and Family Studies.
This synchronous 37-credit program is offered fully online and can be completed in two years. You can choose from two concentrations: early childhood leadership and advanced teaching licensure or early childhood leadership, program administration, and coaching.
Required courses include theory and research in early childhood, inclusive family-centered practices in early childhood, and leadership in educating young children. You will also complete an internship in inclusive early childhood and a capstone portfolio in your final semesters.
Highlights
- Lower tuition for in-state residents
- Scholarship opportunities available for enrolled students
- Two concentrations to choose from
Know Before You Apply
- Higher tuition for out-of-state students
- Synchronous online learning
- Licensing qualifies you for North Carolina teaching requirements only
$4,422
$19,582
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
$5,219
$18,937
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$5,219
$18,937
90%
69%
$4,422
$19,582
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The birth-kindergarten master's program at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro is an interdisciplinary program offered by two of the college's departments: the Department of Specialized Education Services and the Department of Human Development and Family Studies.
This synchronous 37-credit program is offered fully online and can be completed in two years. You can choose from two concentrations: early childhood leadership and advanced teaching licensure or early childhood leadership, program administration, and coaching.
Required courses include theory and research in early childhood, inclusive family-centered practices in early childhood, and leadership in educating young children. You will also complete an internship in inclusive early childhood and a capstone portfolio in your final semesters.
Highlights
- Lower tuition for in-state residents
- Scholarship opportunities available for enrolled students
- Two concentrations to choose from
Know Before You Apply
- Higher tuition for out-of-state students
- Synchronous online learning
- Licensing qualifies you for North Carolina teaching requirements only
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
West Chester, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,288
$13,932
79%
40%
Why We Chose This School
West Chester University of Pennsylvania's master's in early childhood education focuses on understanding child development and the factors that can influence that development.
The program begins each fall and follows a cohort model. You can complete the degree in as little as five semesters. All the courses are offered fully online in an accelerated format. While most of the degree is asynchronous, there are group projects and synchronous activities.
You will complete a minimum of 33 credits. Courses include play-based teaching and learning, designing effective learning environments for young children, and diverse learners in early childhood settings.
Highlights
- Cohort model
- Accelerated format
- Offered 100% online
Know Before You Apply
- Fall start date only
- Not a licensure program
- Need at least one year of prior experience with children
$7,716
$19,290
84%
17,076
Public
Yes
$9,288
$13,932
West Chester, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,288
$13,932
79%
40%
$7,716
$19,290
84%
17,076
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
West Chester University of Pennsylvania's master's in early childhood education focuses on understanding child development and the factors that can influence that development.
The program begins each fall and follows a cohort model. You can complete the degree in as little as five semesters. All the courses are offered fully online in an accelerated format. While most of the degree is asynchronous, there are group projects and synchronous activities.
You will complete a minimum of 33 credits. Courses include play-based teaching and learning, designing effective learning environments for young children, and diverse learners in early childhood settings.
Highlights
- Cohort model
- Accelerated format
- Offered 100% online
Know Before You Apply
- Fall start date only
- Not a licensure program
- Need at least one year of prior experience with children
Fordham University
Bronx, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$23,112
$23,112
56%
19%
Why We Chose This School
Fordham University offers several master's in teaching degree tracks, including one in early childhood education. The program focuses on play-based learning and incorporating families in early childhood education.
This online master's degree requires 36 credits and can be earned in two years. Although the program is mostly asynchronous, there are synchronous elements including weekly live classes. Before you graduate, you will complete two student teaching placements. Each experience is 14 weeks.
As an online student you have access to resources including student advisors. When you complete the program, you will have met all the academic requirements for teacher licensure in New York state.
Highlights
- 98% pass rate on New York state teacher exams
- Complete degree in two years
- High retention and graduation rates
Know Before You Apply
- Program eligibility for New York state teaching license
- $1,736 per-credit tuition cost
- Some synchronous components
$56,920
$56,920
88%
16,153
Private
Yes
$23,112
$23,112
Bronx, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$23,112
$23,112
56%
19%
$56,920
$56,920
88%
16,153
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Fordham University offers several master's in teaching degree tracks, including one in early childhood education. The program focuses on play-based learning and incorporating families in early childhood education.
This online master's degree requires 36 credits and can be earned in two years. Although the program is mostly asynchronous, there are synchronous elements including weekly live classes. Before you graduate, you will complete two student teaching placements. Each experience is 14 weeks.
As an online student you have access to resources including student advisors. When you complete the program, you will have met all the academic requirements for teacher licensure in New York state.
Highlights
- 98% pass rate on New York state teacher exams
- Complete degree in two years
- High retention and graduation rates
Know Before You Apply
- Program eligibility for New York state teaching license
- $1,736 per-credit tuition cost
- Some synchronous components
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,691
$20,774
94%
44%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Northern Iowa offers a master's degree in early childhood education for educators who already hold a teaching license from any state. The program requires 30 credits and takes two years to complete. You begin in the summer session and follow a course sequence.
The program focuses on literacy, research, and teaching strategies. Courses include foundations of instructional psychology, analysis and design of curriculum for young children, and educational research. The program is fully online, but it has a weekly live component.
As an online student, you still have access to academic advising, tutoring services, and career services.
Highlights
- Support services from day one
- High retention rate
- Scholarships available for online students
Know Before You Apply
- Designed for educators who already hold a teaching license
- Weekly synchronous requirements
- Summer start date
$8,396
$19,940
84%
9,021
Public
Yes
$9,691
$20,774
Cedar Falls, IA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,691
$20,774
94%
44%
$8,396
$19,940
84%
9,021
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Northern Iowa offers a master's degree in early childhood education for educators who already hold a teaching license from any state. The program requires 30 credits and takes two years to complete. You begin in the summer session and follow a course sequence.
The program focuses on literacy, research, and teaching strategies. Courses include foundations of instructional psychology, analysis and design of curriculum for young children, and educational research. The program is fully online, but it has a weekly live component.
As an online student, you still have access to academic advising, tutoring services, and career services.
Highlights
- Support services from day one
- High retention rate
- Scholarships available for online students
Know Before You Apply
- Designed for educators who already hold a teaching license
- Weekly synchronous requirements
- Summer start date
Why You Should Get a Master’s in Early Childhood Education
Advance Your Career
A master’s degree can open the door to higher-level positions and a wider salary range.Gain Specialized Teaching Skills
Graduate-level early childhood education programs provide advanced teaching skills and specializations.Access More Job Opportunities
Employers often favor candidates with a master’s degree over those with a bachelor’s.
Benefits of Getting a Master’s in Early Childhood Education Online
Flexible Work Schedule: Just over 2 in 5 students enrolled full-time in online programs of any major also work full-time, according to our 2024 BestColleges Online Education Trends Report.- High Return on Investment: According to our survey, 93% of online students and program graduates say their degree will have or has had a positive return on investment — and 97% say they would recommend online education to others.
- Positive Experience: 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.
Source: BestColleges
How to Choose the Best Early Childhood Education Program for You
There are several factors to consider when evaluating an online early childhood education program, including cost, program length, and the specific role you want to pursue.
How Much Does an Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Cost?
Online
Avg. Tuition & Fees (2020)
$7,738
Avg. Net Price (2020)
$6,306
On Campus
Avg. Tuition & Fees (2020)
$12,600
Avg. Net Price (2020)
$10,275
Source: NCES PowerStats
In 2020, the average tuition and fees for an online master’s degree in early childhood education was just over $7,700. For on-campus students, the price increased to $12,600.
Factoring in grants and scholarships, however, the average net price for an online master’s degree in early childhood education was just over $6,000 in 2020, while on-campus students paid around $10,300.
There are several options you can explore to help lower the cost of an early childhood education degree, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), loans, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships.
Find Financial Aid for Your Master’s in Early Childhood Education
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in Early Childhood Education?
Typical # of Credits
30 Credits
Typical Program Length
2 Years
An online master’s in early childhood education program typically requires around 30 credits and can be completed in two years of full-time study.
Accelerated online programs allow students to fast-track their degree and graduate in as little as one year. Additionally, several schools offer 4+1 programs that allow students to earn a master’s degree in early childhood education within a year of finishing their bachelor’s program.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Early Childhood Education?
A master’s in early childhood education can provide you with the necessary skills for various jobs in the education field, ranging from teaching positions to leadership roles.
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 slight decline in employment.
Additionally, the BLS projects 20,800 openings for school principals over the next decade. Local elementary and secondary school principals have the highest median annual salary of over $105,000, with private school principals following behind at almost $93,000.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary School Teacher | $63,680 | Teaches young students basic subjects such as reading, science, and math |
| Preschool Teacher | $63,280 | Works with children ages 5 and under to teach them basic skills in preparation for kindergarten |
| Elementary School Principal | $103,460 | Manages daily school operations and activities |
| Education and Childcare Administrator | $54,290 | Oversees daily operations and activities of preschools or childcare centers |
| Childcare Worker | $30,370 | Works with young children and helps nurture their early growth and development |
Learn More About Jobs in Early Childhood Education
Is a Master’s in Early Childhood Education Worth It?
An online master’s degree in early childhood education is worthwhile if you want to advance your career in early childhood education and potentially transition into a leadership role.
In the short term, pursuing a master’s degree takes additional time and money. If teaching is your goal, a master’s degree may not be necessary to pursue. However, if working in leadership or administrative capacities outside the classroom is your goal, you should strongly consider a master’s degree.
Education Beyond a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education
A master’s in early childhood education can open the door to career advancement and increase your earning potential. If you’re interested in advanced research and academic leadership, you might want to pursue a doctorate in education, which takes around three years to complete on average.
Education doctorates come in two forms: a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) and a doctor of education (Ed.D.). A Ph.D. program emphasizes research, theory, and policy within the field and spans approximately 4-6 years. On the other hand, an Ed.D. focuses on training students for leadership roles in education, typically taking around three years to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Education Master’s Programs
Special education teachers are among the highest-paid early childhood educators, with a median annual salary of nearly $66,000 as of May 2023, according to the BLS.
Leadership positions like school administrators can earn over $100,000 annually; however, these roles often require a master’s degree or higher.
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