Online Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education: Courses, Careers & Payment

A bachelor's degree in early childhood education is designed for those who are passionate about nurturing younger minds during their formative years.

This page provides an overview of what to expect from an online early childhood education degree, including core curriculum, types of degrees, specializations, and career opportunities.

What Is an Online Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education?

An online degree in early childhood education (ECE) is either a complete bachelor's program or a degree completion program. If you have already completed an associate degree, many programs allow you to transfer those credits to the bachelor's program.

Overall, the program prepares you to work with children from birth through age eight in various educational settings. You will learn about the developmental needs of young children and the educational practices that best support their growth and learning.

The program typically covers a broad range of topics, including child psychology, instructional strategies, classroom management, and family engagement. You also study the impact of social, cultural, and economic factors on early childhood development and education. Before graduation, you will complete a student teaching where you work with an experienced teacher in their classroom.

Many online programs are designed to meet the requirements for a state teaching licensure, making graduates eligible to teach in public and private schools, as well as in early childhood centers.

Online Early Childhood Education Degree Core Curriculum

The core course topics that ECE online programs focus on include:

• Introduction to early childhood education: provides an overview of the field, including historical perspectives, current trends, and professional roles
• Child development: explores the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children from birth to age eight
• Teaching content areas in pre-K-4 grades: ensure students develop skills for teaching all content areas to students at an early age
• Classroom management: teaches strategies for creating positive learning environments and managing classroom behavior effectively
• Assessment in early childhood education: covers methods for assessing young children's learning and development, including observation and documentation techniques
• Family and community engagement: examines the role of families and communities in early childhood education and strategies for effective collaboration

Online Early Childhood Education Degree Specializations

Many online early childhood education programs offer specializations that allow students to focus on specific areas of interest or career goals. With this degree program, you might choose to specialize in one of the following areas:

• Special education: prepares educators to work with young children with disabilities, focusing on inclusive practices and individualized education plans
• Montessori education: provides training in the Montessori method, an educational approach that emphasizes child-led learning and hands-on activities
• Bilingual education: equips educators with the skills to teach in dual-language classrooms, focusing on language development and cultural diversity
• STEAM education: specializes in incorporating science, technology, engineering, art and design, and mathematics into instruction

Learn more: Is an ECE Degree Right for Me?

Earning Your Early Childhood Education Degree Online

Earning an early childhood education degree online is a flexible and convenient way to prepare for a career in teaching young children. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Research and Choose the Right Program

First, determine whether you want to work in preschool settings, elementary schools, or specialized areas like special education or bilingual education. This will help you choose the right program and specialization.

Then, ensure that the program you choose is accredited by a recognized accrediting body, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Accreditation is crucial for ensuring that your degree meets professional standards and is recognized by employers.

Next, review the program's curriculum to ensure it covers essential topics like child development, instructional strategies, classroom management, and family engagement. Check if the program includes practical experience components like student teaching or internships.

Learn more: Best Online ECE Programs

2. Meet Admission Requirements

Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some may require prior college coursework or an associate degree. To figure this out, look at each program's admissions webpage.

Once you know which program you want to apply for, gather all the required documents and send it in before the due date.

3. Secure Financial Aid

Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal grants and loans. You may be able to apply for the Pell Grant or the TEACH Grant if you meet the qualifications.

Next, apply for scholarships and grants that are specifically for education majors. Organizations like the TEACH Early Childhood Scholarship Program and other education-focused foundations may offer financial support.

Your state and institution may have their own forms of financial aid as well. Do as much research as you need to so that you will not have to take out a large student loan.

4. Enroll and Start Your Coursework

After being accepted, enroll in the program and choose your classes. Be sure to follow the recommended course sequence to meet graduation requirements on time.

Since your courses might not have required meetings, you will need to develop strong time management skills. Dedicate a space and time to work on your coursework so that you can stay up-to-date with discussions and assignments.

And don't hesitate to use your school's student support services. Academic advising, career counseling, and technical support are all there to better your learning experience.

5. Gain Practical Experience

You will need to coordinate with your program when and where you will complete your student teaching. The experience you gain from this internship is crucial for applying what you've learned in real-world settings and is often required for state licensure.

6. Complete Graduation Requirements

Some programs may require a final project, thesis, or portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge and skills in early childhood education. Be sure to know what you need to complete before applying for graduation.

7. Apply for State Licensure (If Required)

Not all online ECE programs are for state licensure. If yours is, research your state's requirements for teaching licensure, as they can vary. Most states require passing a certification exam and completing a background check.

Then, study for and pass any required exams, such as the Praxis exams, to become a licensed early childhood educator.

8. Begin Your Career in Early Childhood Education

If you weren't working in an ECE environment while earning your degree, utilize the school where you completed your student teaching. You may be able to secure a job with them.

However, you also can leverage your program's career services, online job boards, and networking connections to find teaching positions in early childhood education.

Career Opportunities for an Online Early Childhood Education Major

Although earning an online ECE degree is not always a requirement for working with young children, this degree does give you more career opportunities, such as the following.

• Preschool teacher: educates children aged three to five in foundational skills such as language, socialization, and basic academics
• Kindergarten teacher: teaches basic subjects to children in kindergarten, focusing on preparing them for elementary school
• Childcare center director: manages the daily operations of a childcare center, including curriculum development, staff supervision, and parent communication
• Early childhood special education teacher: works with young children with disabilities, creating and implementing individualized education plans

FAQs About Earning an Online Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education

If you still have questions about online ECE programs, we've answered a few frequently asked ones below.

Is a Bachelor's Online Degree in Early Childhood Education Worth It?

To work in a daycare center, you do not need an early childhood education center. However, if you want to teach in a school, then this degree is worth it. You will be able to get your license and make a difference in school-aged children.

Is an Online Early Childhood Education Major Hard?

If you are passionate about teaching young children, then you will enjoy most of the course content. Since you are working with young children, the content of what you teach them also will not be difficult to master.

How Much Does an Online Early Childhood Education Degree Cost?

According to U.S. News, on average, you will pay from $30,000 to $60,000 in tuition for an online ECE degree since credits range from $250 to $500.

Are There Any Free or Affordable Early Childhood Education Degree Programs Online?

There are affordable online ECE degree options, especially at public universities or through community colleges that offer transfer programs. Additionally, some online platforms may offer free courses in early childhood education topics that can supplement your degree.

What Skills Will I Gain in an Online Early Childhood Education Degree Program?

In an online early childhood education degree program, you will gain skills in:

• child development
• curriculum design
• classroom management
• family engagement

These skills will prepare you to create supportive and effective learning environments for young children and to work collaboratively with families and communities.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Degree in Early Childhood Education Online?

If you start earning this degree right after you graduate high school, it will take you four years. However, if you already have an associate degree, it will take you just two years.

If your program has accelerated or competency-based options, you may be able to finish faster.