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

If you're passionate about working with young children and helping them developmentally, a bachelor's in early childhood education might be the right fit.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about early childhood education, including what the program entails, the core curriculum, and the specializations you can choose.

What Is a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education?

An early childhood education program prepares students for teaching and working with young children from birth through age eight. This degree focuses on understanding child development, learning theories, and the educational practices that support the cognitive, social, and emotional growth of young children.

The curriculum typically covers child psychology, early literacy, classroom management, and curriculum design. Students learn how to create inclusive and engaging learning environments, assess and support children's developmental needs, and collaborate with families and communities.

Field experiences, such as student teaching or internships, are often integral to the program, providing hands-on experience in real classroom settings.

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in early childhood education are qualified to work in various educational settings, including preschools, elementary schools, childcare centers, and early intervention programs. They may also pursue roles in curriculum development, educational administration, or child advocacy.

Early Childhood Education Degree Core Curriculum

The core courses will give you a strong foundation in child development and teaching methods. Although the course titles may vary among programs, they all focus on the following key areas:

• child development: focuses on the physical, cognitive, and social development of children from birth through age eight
• early literacy: teaches strategies for promoting language and literacy development in young children
• classroom management: covers techniques for creating positive, structured learning environments that support children's behavior and learning
• curriculum design: explores how to create and implement developmentally appropriate curricula for young children
• assessment in early childhood: focuses on assessing children's development and learning, using both formal and informal assessment tools
• inclusive education: prepares students to work with diverse learners, including children with special needs

Types of Early Childhood Education Degrees

Early childhood education degrees are offered as a Bachelor of Science, a Bachelor of Arts, or a Bachelor of Education degree. All offer comparable course schedules with one not being better to earn than the other.

However, if you already have an associate degree, you can earn it online.

Early Childhood Education Degree Specializations

To increase your specialty in early childhood education, universities offer concentrations that you can add to your degree. Some of the best ones that will help your career are listed below.

• Preschool: focus on planning curriculum for children aged three to five in preparation for kindergarten
• Infant and toddler: emphasis on interacting beneficially and creating healthy environments for children from birth to age three
• Nature-based early learning: a unique specialization for those who want to work in forest schools or help children learn in nature
• Administration and leadership: prepares students for leadership roles in early childhood education settings, such as becoming a director of a preschool or daycare
• Bilingual education: prepares students to teach in bilingual or dual-language settings
• Montessori education: specializes in the Montessori method of teaching, which emphasizes child-centered learning

Why Choose Early Childhood Education as a Major?

Even though most entry-level early childhood jobs do not require a bachelor's degree, earning this degree will make you a better prospect and prepare you for career advancement down the road.

If you earn this degree, you will have knowledge about working with children that a high school degree does not give you. This field offers the opportunity to make a profound impact on children's lives by fostering their intellectual, social, and emotional development during their most critical stages of growth.

It's important to ensure you influence these children to the best of your ability. As an early childhood educator, you'll be instrumental in helping children develop foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social interaction that will set the stage for their future academic and personal success.

Learn more: Is an Early Childhood Education Degree Best for Me?

How To Choose the Right Degree Program

Since many colleges have early childhood education programs, you may be having difficulty deciding which early childhood education program you should enroll in. If so, ask yourself the following questions.

• Is the program accredited regionally and by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)?
• Does the program offer specialization options that I want to pursue a career in?
• Are the faculty members experienced in early childhood education themselves? Do they have appropriate degrees?
• What internship opportunities are available? Will I benefit from student teaching in those programs?

Career Opportunities for an Early Childhood Education Major

A degree in early childhood education opens up various career opportunities in educational settings focused on young children. A few of these options require that you earn a graduate degree or a special license, but each starts with a degree in early childhood education.

• Preschool teacher: educates children in a preschool setting, focusing on foundational skills and social development
• Kindergarten teacher: teaches basic academic skills to children in their first year of formal education
• Childcare center director: manages the operations of a daycare or preschool, overseeing staff, curriculum, and daily activities
• Teacher aide: works alongside classroom teachers to assist with classroom management and other tasks

Financial Aid Options for Early Childhood Education Majors

Paying for a bachelor's degree may seem overwhelming, but using financial aid will help lower the cost. We've included some financial aid ideas specific to early childhood education majors below.

FAFSA

Before you can be eligible for any financial aid from the government or private organizations, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid online form. The form helps organizations see your financial need and your education plan.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants specific to teaching and early childhood programs are plentiful. We've listed some below that you can research to see if you qualify.

• TEACH grant
• The Coca Cola Teacher Foundation Scholarship
• Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship
• American Montessori Society (AMS) Teacher Education Scholarship Fund
• Teacher Scholarship Program

There are many other state-specific scholarships. Be sure to research available options and apply for the deadlines.

Loans

If you don't have enough money saved to pay for your degree up front, you can use federal student loans. These usually have lower interest rates and more flexible terms than private loans do.

FAQs About Earning a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education

We've answered frequently asked questions about early childhood education degrees below.

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

Yes, a bachelor's degree in early childhood education is worth it if you want to make a career out of caring for younger children. You do not need this degree for entry-level positions, but it will help you become, for example, a daycare administrator or a lead teacher.

How Much Does an Early Childhood Education Degree Cost?

Tuition ranges from $10,000 to $30,000 per year at public universities, while private institutions may charge more. Be sure to use financial aid to help lower these costs.

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

It will take you four years of full-time study to complete a degree in early childhood education. This includes around 120 to 126 credit hours, covering both general education and specialized early childhood education courses.

Some students may also extend their studies if they choose to pursue additional certifications or specializations.

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

While entirely free programs are rare, there are affordable options available. Check out your state's public colleges for the most affordable programs.

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

A bachelor's degree in early childhood education equips you with various valuable skills, including:

• understanding child development
• classroom management
• curriculum development
• assessment and evaluation
• communication