Best Online Early Childhood Education Degrees

Overview

Park University gives students the best combination of versatility and support with their online degrees. The Bachelor of Science Education Studies degree with Emphasis in Early Childhood Education offers emphasis options in Young Child (age birth to Grade 3), EC Education and Leadership, or EC Teaching Young Children, Park University gives options to suit all facets of early childhood ed.

Program Features

A perfect option for someone looking to boost their current early childhood career or get a start in the field, coursework trains students in curriculum development, observation and documentation, and teaching strategies. Specific courses included in the online degree include:

• Social & Emotional Learning in Early Childhood Education
• Family Involvement in Early Childhood Education
• Infants and Toddlers
• Integrating the Curriculum: Pre-primary

Details

The Park online program is a non-certification program, but gives graduates the qualifications to be in leadership positions in Head Start programs, accredited care centers, private preschool, family child care settings and more. 95% of the education programs involved direct interaction and observation with children. Admission to the School of Education is also required for full completion of the coursework.

Overview

Granite State College’s well-regarded online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education is a regionally accredited and offers teaching certification. Geared toward young children from nursery school to Grade 3, this program additionally offers Early Childhood Special Education certification, making it an incredibly strong online option.

Program Features

The college offers courses that give vital information for understanding a young child. From brain cognition, and technology best practices to assessment skills, graduates leave with the most relevant understanding. Specific course include:

• Conducting Critical Inquiry
• IFSP, IEP and Transition Plans
• Young Children with Exceptionalities
• The Dynamic Role of the Special Educator

Details

While coursework can be completed online, field experiences like student teaching and observation are a part of the program, giving hands-on context. With 84% of students transferring from another institution, Granite State’s Transfer Pathway works closely to make sure all eligible credits are applied to their degree. This is a huge boost to students, as it saves time and money, even allowing general education requirements to be waived. Affordable tuition and Granite State’s commitment to help students easily enter the program make this a great online choice.

Overview

Liberty University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies. This is an NCATE accredited, non-licensure program.

These online studies are designed to complement Liberty University’s Masters of Arts in Teaching, which can lead to full teaching licensure.

Program Features

Focusing on early childhood philosophies, behaviors, and trends, coursework gives students a strong foundation in understanding the mind of a young child. Theory and methodology are explored, along with best practices currently seen in early childhood classrooms. Coursework for this degree includes:

• Psychology of Childhood
• Early Childhood Education Fundamentals
• Wellness in the Early Childhood Setting
• Developmental Psychology

Details

Liberty University’s online courses are made to be thorough and easy to access. The degree will entail 120 hours total and up to 90 credit hours are applicable to transfer in from another institution. One practicum, gaining vital hands-on experience is an optional addition to the program. 30 hours of the program must be obtained through Liberty University course offerings.

Overview

The University of Toledo offers a Fast Track online Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. This is a non-licensure program. For admission to the program, you must have an accredited associate degree in early childhood education or childhood development with a 2.7 GPA. Applicants typically are daycare or early learning educators or administrators, as students are also required to be employed in an early childhood setting for at least 20 hours per week for admission.

Program Features

The University of Toledo gives students courses that matter in early education. From methods to research and theory, graduates learn from faculty practitioners who care about their learning outcome. Graduates from the Fast Track program often continue towards a master’s degree in early childhood education or pursue leadership jobs in the field. Course offered have field experiences that complement each course which include:

• Creating an Effective Learning Environment
• Supporting Math and Science
• Supporting Reading and Social Studies
• Supporting Young Children with Special Needs

Details

UT’s online program comes with a full system of support. From the Transferology system, which ensures all previous coursework is fully vetted for credit, to their eTutoring, eLibrary or IT Help, online education is made simple. Success coaches and caring advisors make sure that you are supported during your degree program. University of Toledo faculty are able to be reached with ease through their well maintained online platform.

Overview

Fresno Pacific University’s Early Childhood Development Degree is a fully online program that focuses on youth from birth to age 8 and includes those with special needs. The Bachelor of Arts degree is meant to equip those who currently work with young children, but also is applicable to those starting out in the field. While working in childcare or preschool settings does not require teaching credentials,those looking to work with elementary aged children are eligible to take the Multiple Subjects Teaching credential exam upon completion of the coursework.

Program Features

Fresno Pacific University creates an atmosphere of support for its online students. A supportive student success coach works with you throughout your enrollment and tuition includes an iPad to maintain strong communication and technology learning. A Christian worldview is applied to coursework and classes cover the most relevant and practical aspects of early childhood education. Classes that are a part of the online degree include:

• Children’s Play and Learning Theory
• Biblical Perspectives for Educators
• Math and Science for Young Children
• Jesus and the Christian Community

Details

Coursework is applicable to teaching and social work, children’s ministry programs and family support services. The degree can be completed in four intakes each year, which allows total completion in less than 14 months. Designed in with a cohort model, students are able to engage with supportive peers and faculty. Because there are no set class times, the workload fits seamlessly into student schedules.

Overview

Southwestern College offers a stellar online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education program.

A dual focus on early childhood general education and early childhood special education give graduates combined Kansas state licensure at graduation. This license is applicable toward children from birth to age 8. A minimum of 6 college credits and 2.75 GPA are required for admission.

Program Features

Southwestern College is committed to working with busy professionals who are seeking a degree with lots of flexibility. Credit is awarded to applicants for not only prior college credits, but also military service, work/life experience, and exams like the CLEP or DANTES. Courses in the degree major give students a chance to learn theory, methods, and also trends pertinent to early childhood education today. Coursework offered includes:

• Administration, Guidance & Behavior
• Assessment in Early Childhood Intervention
• Technology in Special Education
• Methods of Teaching Science & Math

Details

Southwestern College also has an on-campus preschool, perfect for the supervised student teaching and observations requirements in the degree. Student teaching happens in two different grade levels, adding an extra layer of learning for participants. Special education training is given added perspective because of their partnerships with several noted national organizations.

Overview

Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education degree program was named #6 of the Top 50 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2017 and #4 by BestColleges.com for online learning. It is well-regarded for its highly accessible online platform, “locked-in tuition” promise, and advisors who assist with everything from financial assistance to course scheduling.

Program Features

With topics spanning from phonics instruction to unit planning and classroom management, graduates of the online Early Childhood Education program gain valuable, real-life classroom skills. Graduates are eligible for Ohio teaching licensure in Early Childhood Education with an additional EC Generalist Endorsement, adding incredible job opportunity from their time at Mount Vernon Nazarene. Early Childhood Education courses include:

• Art, Music, and Movement
• Children’s Literature for Early Childhood Education
• Learner and Learning Process
• Building Family and Community Relationships

Details

With 600 hours of clinicals, practicums, and field experiences, students in the Early Childhood Education program find a real-life application to their extensive online coursework. Field experience is offered in urban and diverse environments and integrated classrooms. This gives students the experience to have incredible confidence when they enter their own classrooms. With Mount Vernon Nazarene’s engaged faculty practitioners, students are supported toward career success.

Overview

Chaminade University of Honolulu offers a top-quality online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. Online coursework is available through their Professional and Continuing Education office and coursework focuses on children from 2 – 6 years old, in private schools or other educational capacities. This degree set up to match NAEYC standard as well as Early Childhood Education registry standards for Hawaii.

Program Features

Chaminade’s online program is non-licensure, but meant to step into their Master of Arts in Teaching program. The Early Childhood Education online degree can also be obtained with a Montessori credential. Before early childhood coursework begins, a class called Introduction to Chaminade Early Childhood Education must be taken. Early Childhood coursework requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and includes:

• Children’s Literature
• Math Curriculum & Methods
• Leadership & Guidance in Education
• Educational Technology

Details

Chaminade University’s Early Childhood Education degree is 100% online, giving extreme flexibility. Admission can be sought at four different intervals throughout the year and runs on an accelerated 10 week term. Faculty practitioners create a strong support network for online learners, and small class numbers ensure individual learning goals are reached. Seminar and field experience cap the major requirements.

Overview

Brenau University’s accredited Bachelor of Science Early Childhood degree is available online through the easy-to-use Canvas delivery platform. Students work through a liberal arts curriculum and being their early education studies with a 7 course Early Childhood Bridge program. After that is completed, the 63-credit hour bachelor’s degree begins. The 19 courses offered allow graduates to receive teaching certification for preschool – Grade 5 in Georgia.

Program Features

Courses are taught online by certified online faculty and last 7 weeks. The Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education core class is scheduled to meet the same night of the week online, providing students with stability and the chance to engage with online classmates. Classes are offered year-round. Some of the classes in the ECE are:

• Literacy Methodology
• Teaching Math – Early Childhood Education
• Literacy Assessment and Diagnosis
• Teaching Science – Early Childhood Education

Details

Brenau University students must pass the Teaching Field Content Exams for academic content area before they are eligible for the student teaching portion of the degree. After gaining their credit hours, students are well-prepared for professional opportunities in curriculum, teaching age levels from nursery to early elementary school, or child development training. The ease and high quality of Brenau’s online platform and instruction make it an institution to research.

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Education Early Childhood Inclusive is an online program at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. A combination of online courses, field experience, and student teaching give graduates an Early Childhood Inclusive teaching certificate. This is valid for teaching special education children from birth to age 5 and children from birth to age 8 in general education.

Program Features

Students in the program are able to specialize their degree, by choosing an area of focus: either a Birth – Kindergarten Specialization or Age 3 – Grade 3 Specialization. Classes keep students engaged in the topics that matter most to practitioners. The Early Childhood Inclusive program offers instruction in:

• Phonics and Word Study
• Literacy Methods for the Preschool Teacher
• Music and Movement for Early Childhood Teachers
• Early Childhood Program Administration

Details

Specially created for teachers, program assistants, and administrators already working in early childhood settings, this program also is perfectly suited to those who simply need a more flexible learning format. The University of Nebraska at Kearney works closely with new students to ensure all previous credits are applied to the online degree. Whether you are in early intervention, private preschool, early childhood special education or work with infants, the high quality courses and ease of access make this program a value-added to your career.

Overview

Vanguard University of Southern California’s supportive faculty and online flexibility make their Bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education a program to consider. Whether you are interested in public or private ECE settings, graduates gain eligibility for Title 22 and Title V in the State of California. Students are also eligible for credentials with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), a Preschool Associate Credential (PAC), and as a program director.

Program Features

Online classes are offered each semester in an accelerated track, which breaks down to taking 2 courses for 7 weeks. Teachers invest personally in student success, and the small-community feel at Vanguard leads to high student satisfaction. Taught from a Christian worldview, specific courses in ECE are:

• Early Foundations for Moral and Character Development
• Ministering to Parents and Families
• Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis: Autism
• Advancing Early Childhood Programs Through Technology

Details

Within the program, a special education emphasis is offered giving students additional career options. A Transitional Kindergarten track can also be taken, with graduates receiving a Child Development Master Teacher Permit. Even better, Vanguard was noted as a Best Value program for 2017 by AffordableColleges.com. Students end their program with advanced practicums and a capstone class, summarizing their ECE experiences.

Overview

National University’s Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education is an online program that has major benefits for its students. This program meets the requirements necessary for Child Development Associates National Licensing, as well as for a California Child Development permit. It also matches National Association for the Education of Young Children standards as well as the Child Development Associates National Competency Standards.

Program Features

What is especially great about National University’s ECE program is that students can also tailor their coursework to a specific concentration. Choosing from Early Childhood Administration, Infant and Toddler or Teacher Education, specialized training will not only give their students more learning success, but also be attractive to future employers. Specific courses in the Early Childhood curriculum include:

• Nature, Numbers and Technology
• Children with Special Needs
• Ethical and Legal Issues
• Play as Pedagogy

Details

Students gain the practical skills that matter. From creating learning spaces that are developmentally appropriate, to knowing how to properly assess students in their classroom, graduates blend top research with a strong understanding of educational theory and pedagogy. A field experience where an educational philosophy is mastered and reflected on is one of the final requirements of the ECE degree.

Overview

The online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education at Grand Canyon University is designed for the student who is on-the-go. Focused on a career working with children from birth to Grade 3, this degree leads to recommendation for Kindergarten – Grade 3 initial licensure in Arizona, a huge boost to any career. Coursework fully aligns with national teaching standards in early childhood education.

Program Features

Grand Canyon University’s low faculty to student ratio and rigorous coursework fully engage students in the world of a young child. From child literacy and language to the best instruction practices, real-life skills are offered which turn a student into a successful educator. Special focus on non-English speakers, exceptional learners, and evaluations are bundled into the degree. Coursework includes:

• Child Guidance, Management, and the Environment
• Instructional Methodologies for Teaching Math
• Early Childhood Literature
• Technology in the Early Childhood Classroom

Details

Students enrolled are also able to participate in practicums, two different age groups of student teaching experiences. Classes are typically 7 weeks long and up to 90 credits can be transferred, a huge plus for transfer students. Whether you are interested in social services that benefit young children, private or public classroom settings, child development or daycare settings, a ECE degree from Grand Canyon University can propel you to the next level up in your career.

Overview

Offering two different Bachelor degrees, students at CCU can either choose an Early Childhood Colorado licensure program or a non-licensure Bachelor of Liberal Arts with Early Childhood Education Theory emphasis. Both options are tailored to work with children from pre-kindergarten age through Grade 3 and are applicable to private, international, public, or charter schools. If you choose the licensure track and are residing in a state other than Colorado, you are eligible to apply for licensure through the reciprocation process.

Program Features

The degree coursework has a Christian worldview, and small class sizes allow for networking and close communication with instructors. After completing general and liberal arts core classes, students are immersed in educational theory and trends which benefit the learning outcomes of their future classrooms. Professional core classes include:

• Special Needs Methods
• Diverse Reader: Intervention for Developing Readers
• Teaching as a Profession
• Psychological Foundations of Education

Details

Field experiences are closely tied into both Early Childhood programs and student teaching experience is necessary for those seeking licensure. Certain restrictions in course offerings apply to online students residing in states other than Colorado, so be sure to check eligibility standings. With online options galore and the support structure to achieve all your career goals, Colorado Christian University’s ECE programs are not to be overlooked.

Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education degree from Mayville State University was specially created for those who are already working in early childhood settings. Focused on the young child from birth to age 8, this program leads to licensure, giving educators an even wider degree of career options. Accredited through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, high academic quality and flexibility meet at Mayville State.

Program Features

The majority of ECE course offerings from Mayville State are able to be completed online according to your schedule. Some educational methods courses meet at set times in the week for full engagement of the class, and one summer block has an on-campus attendance requirement. Mayville State’s average class is 15 students, giving fantastic networking stemming from its small size. Classes in the Early Childhood program include:

• Special Needs Inclusive Environments
• Educational Technology
• Teaching English Language Learners
• Electronic Portfolio and Assessment

Details

Named in the Princeton Review category of Best in the Midwest, Mayville State’s tuition is under $300 a credit, adding affordability to its many attributes. Hands-on and experiential fieldwork, internships, and student teaching are offered as a part of the ECE degree. Graduates leave the program with a high degree of success in professional responsibility, content, understanding the learner, and instructional practice.

Overview

Aspen University’s online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education has the student practitioner in mind. With amazing flexibility and a unique payment plan, the program gives students predictability and skills as they educate themselves in early childhood (birth to Grade 3) coursework. The program offers a Child Development Associate credential and does not lead to teaching certification.

Program Features

A foundations in liberal arts lead students into the exciting world of early childhood ed. Questions on curriculum development, educational assessment, behavior and early literacy are taught with proctored exams interspersed throughout the 40 courses. Classes specific to the major include:

• Play and Learning for the Preschool Child
• Infant and Toddler Mental Health
• Children with Special Needs
• Guiding Preschool Behavior

Details

A specialization in either infants and toddlers or preschool gives even more fine-tuning to student’s future career plans or advancement opportunities. Students appreciate Aspen University’s unique payment plan, which makes a $250 payment each month as an automatic withdrawal for course costs. For those who have already their Associate degree in ECE, a completion program is also offered through Aspen University’s online offerings.

Overview

The College of Education at Eastern Oregon University offers a highly respected online degree in Early Childhood Education. Focused on the early development of children from birth to age 8. A non-licensure program, the Early Childhood Education degree is meant to complement the Master of Arts in Teaching program for licensure.

Program Features

Whether you have a passion for working as an early childhood advocate, classroom teacher, director, or in a religious program for young children, Eastern Oregon University will give you the skills needed for personal and student success. This online program was designed to be completed in two years and with tuition at around $230 per credit hour, an extremely good investment in your ECE future. Course offered include:

• Early Childhood Health and Wellness
• Critical Issues in Early Childhood
• Play & Learning Environments in Early Childhood
• Administration in Early Childhood

Details

With practicums offered as part of the Eastern Oregon University, students get a chance to interact and learn from seasoned practitioners and observe young children in healthy, well-established environments. Early childhood students launch into careers or elevate existing careers through completion of this degree, which uniquely requires the choice of an additional academic minor. Just another value-added to this solid online program from Eastern Oregon University.

Overview

The online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Administration is a unique offering in Early Childhood Education. This degree can add incredible bandwidth to early childhood job options and give you the tools to offer stellar support to the young children and families served. Whether you want to enter into a leadership position in an already running early childhood organization, run your own program, or be promoted from a classroom practitioner, Purdue University Global can help.

Program Features

This degree from the social sciences allows graduates to gain professional skills and knowledge in upper management, advocacy, special needs, curriculum, and overall child development. Courses are taught online by seasoned professionals in early childhood education, who have the hand-on knowledge of the work environments (both public and private) that graduates are about to advance to. Classes in the Early Childhood Administration degree include:

• Organizational Communication
• Leadership in Practice
• Human Resource Management
• Accounting for Non-Accounting Majors

Details

Purdue University Global works hard to make sure you are getting the most out of your online courses. They offer a Tuition Cap, offering a fixed rate for total student cost. For planning, this is a huge pro for students. With multiple start dates and a full battery of online support services, from instructional materials to reference assistance, logging in and launching your career goals is easy.

Overview

Brandman University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education combines excellent instruction with relevant, engaging coursework. Giving students the key skill-sets that make a difference in early childhood settings, the program is designed specifically for working with young children from birth to age 8. Foundational courses in the Curriculum Alignment Project Eight begins the degree and ensures students will find success in upper level offerings.

Program Features

Online coursework doesn’t feel distant or cold, due to the highly engaged and communicative instruction and class environments. Brandman has been a leader and innovator in online learning and their highly recognized online platforms combine academic coaching, year-round course offerings, and value. Courses in the Early Childhood Education program include:

• The Intentional, Reflective Teacher
• Dual Language Learners and Their Families
• Teaching in a Diverse Society
• Effective Support for Children with Exceptional Needs and Their Families

Details

Brandman University’s degree work includes integral hands-on fieldwork and two practicums that give you experience and observation times in authentic learning space. A final, capstone course gives student learners a chance to summarize their experiences in the ECE program and prepare for their next steps. At around $500 a credit, the Brandman University program offers great value. Note that only California residents are eligible for this online program.

Overview

Lewis-Clark State College gives students looking for a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Development some incredible options with their thorough and respected online plan. Created with children from birth to age 8 in mind, this program can significantly lift job opportunities in the rapidly growing field of early education, from advocacy to administrator.

Program Features

Students will be challenged through Lewis-Clark State College’s online coursework. Run with Blackboard Learning Management System and offering the full support of the e-Learning Services department, coursework is easy to access and online learning culture becomes natural. Classes focusing on self-help for young children, professional conduct and ethics, and creating healthy learning spaces turn students into confident practitioners. Some of the core classes offered include:

• Learning Environment
• Families
• Infant and Toddler Development
• Physical Development

Details

Early Childhood Education students complete their degree with a series of internships, workshops, directed projects, and special topics courses. A Technical Skills Assessment is also a mandatory part of the program and complements the rigorous general education foundation core from Lewis-Clark State College. With its attentive support staff, highly motivated faculty, and thorough course offerings, a ECE degree from Lewis-Clark State is a great investment.