Best Online Associate Degrees in Education 2026

An online associate degree in education can be a smart first step if you’re interested in working with children, supporting classrooms, or eventually becoming a licensed teacher. These programs are designed to help you build foundational skills while keeping costs low and schedules flexible, which is especially important if you’re balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.

Below, we’ll highlight some of the best online associate degree programs in education for 2026, along with what you can expect to learn and where this degree can take you. Whether you plan to enter the workforce quickly or transfer into a bachelor’s program later, understanding your options can help you choose a path that fits your goals.

What Is an Online Education Associate Degree?

An online associate degree in education is an undergraduate program that introduces you to the fundamentals of teaching, child development, and classroom support. These degrees are typically offered as Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs, depending on whether the focus is transfer preparation or direct workforce entry.

Many programs offer concentrations in areas such as early childhood education, child development, or paraprofessional education. Coursework often includes topics like educational psychology, learning theory, curriculum basics, and strategies for supporting diverse learners, along with general education classes.

This type of degree is well suited for students who want to work in early learning settings, childcare centers, or K–12 support roles, or for those planning to continue into a bachelor’s degree in education. While an associate degree alone does not lead to teacher licensure, it can provide a strong academic foundation and a clearer sense of your long-term direction.

Best Online Education Associate Degree Programs

An associate degree in education is a great way to start your journey toward a teaching or childcare career. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best online associate degrees in education.

1. Foothill College

Foothill College, based in Los Altos Hills, California, offers an online Associate in Science in early childhood education with a strong emphasis on academic preparation and transfer readiness. The program introduces students to child development, learning theory, and curriculum planning, making it a good fit for those interested in early learning environments or future bachelor’s-level study in education.

The college is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), which supports credit transfer within California’s public higher education system. Foothill’s alignment with state early childhood education standards can be especially helpful for students planning to continue their education or pursue education-related roles within the state.

2. Ivy Tech Community College 

Through its statewide online campus, Ivy Tech Community College delivers a fully online Associate of Applied Science in early childhood education designed with working adults in mind. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, the college emphasizes practical coursework in areas such as classroom support, child assessment, and family engagement, helping students prepare for hands-on roles in early learning settings.

Ivy Tech Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and its early childhood education program holds programmatic accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This accreditation combination supports both immediate workforce entry and smoother transitions into bachelor’s degree programs for students who plan to continue their education.

3. Laramie County Community College

Students looking for a flexible, fully online option may find a strong fit at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The college offers an online Associate of Applied Science in early childhood education designed for distance learners who want practical preparation for early learning and classroom support roles. Coursework focuses on child development, guidance strategies, and age-appropriate instructional planning.

Laramie County Community College is regionally accredited by the HLC, which helps ensure credits are widely recognized and transferable. The program is well suited for students who want to enter the education workforce after graduation or use their associate degree as a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field.

4. Minnesota State College Southeast 

Part of the Minnesota State system, Minnesota State College Southeast offers a fully online Associate of Applied Science in early childhood education for students seeking a structured yet flexible learning experience. Based in Winona, Minnesota, the program emphasizes both theory and application, covering topics such as child growth and development, inclusive learning environments, and curriculum planning for young learners.

The college is regionally accredited by the HLC, and its courses are designed to support both workforce preparation and academic progression. This makes the program a practical choice for students interested in early childhood roles or those planning to continue into a bachelor’s degree program in education or human services.

5. Northland Community and Technical College

Northland Community and Technical College offers a fully online Associate of Applied Science in early childhood and paraprofessional education focused on preparing students for classroom support and early learning roles. The program introduces key concepts in child development, instructional support, and inclusive education practices, helping students understand how learning environments operate.

Located in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, Northland is regionally accredited by the HLC. The program can support students seeking entry-level education roles or those planning to continue into a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field.

6. Northern Virginia Community College

Northern Virginia Community College, located in Annandale, Virginia, offers an Associate of Applied Science in early childhood development with coursework available online. The program focuses on the developmental, social, and instructional needs of young children, preparing students for roles in early learning centers, childcare programs, and classroom support positions.

The college is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). NOVA’s size and reputation within the Virginia Community College System make it a strong option for students who want an education-focused associate degree that can support both workforce entry and future transfer opportunities.

7. Portland Community College

Portland Community College in Portland, Oregon, offers online associate degrees and certificates in education and teaching pathways designed for students planning to work in schools or continue into teacher preparation programs. These options emphasize foundational education coursework, classroom observation concepts, and academic preparation for transfer into bachelor’s degrees in education.

Portland Community College is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), which supports credit transfer and continued study at four-year institutions. PCC’s online education offerings are well suited for students who want a flexible, distance-friendly way to begin their education journey while preparing for future roles in teaching or school support settings.

8. Rio Salado College 

Known for its fully online model, Rio Salado College in Tempe, Arizona, offers an online Associate of Applied Science and Associate of Arts in early childhood education with year-round start dates. The program is structured for flexibility, with coursework that explores child growth and development, classroom practices, and foundational teaching concepts.

Rio Salado College is regionally accredited by the HLC, and its education programs are designed with transfer and workforce pathways in mind. This makes the school a strong fit for students who need maximum scheduling flexibility while preparing for early childhood roles or future bachelor’s-level study in education.

9. University of Alaska Fairbanks 

Designed with distance learners in mind, the Community and Technical College at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) offers a fully online Associate of Applied Science in early childhood education. Based in Fairbanks, Alaska, the program focuses on child development, learning environments, and culturally responsive teaching practices, reflecting the needs of diverse and often remote communities.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks is regionally accredited by the NWCCU, which provides both academic credibility and transfer opportunities. This program can work well for students seeking flexibility, especially those planning to work in early learning or education support roles while considering future bachelor’s-level study.

10. Wake Technical Community College 

Wake Technical Community College provides an online Associate of Applied Science in early childhood education designed to prepare students for hands-on roles in educational settings. Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, the program emphasizes child development, instructional strategies, and classroom support skills, making it a practical option for students entering the education workforce.

Wake Tech is regionally accredited by the SACSCOC. The college’s strong reputation for online instruction and student support makes this program a solid choice for learners who want a flexible associate degree that can support both employment and future educational goals.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

We evaluated each school using a consistent set of criteria focused on quality, accessibility, and long-term value for students.

• Accreditation: Schools must hold regional accreditation, and programs are reviewed for relevant programmatic accreditation where applicable to ensure academic credibility and transferability.
• Online availability: We prioritize associate degree programs that are fully online or primarily online, allowing students to complete coursework without relocating or disrupting work and family responsibilities.
• Career alignment: Programs are evaluated based on how well their coursework prepares students for education support roles or for continued study toward a bachelor’s degree in education.
• Student outcomes: We consider indicators such as graduation pathways, transfer options, and overall student support to gauge how effectively programs help learners reach their goals.

What Will You Learn in an Online Associate Education Degree Program?

An online associate degree in education introduces you to the core concepts behind teaching and learning, with an emphasis on supporting students in classroom and early learning settings. Coursework often covers child development, learning theories, classroom management basics, and strategies for working with diverse learners.

Most programs also include general education courses and introductory education classes that prepare you for entry-level roles or future bachelor’s-level study. While this degree does not lead to teacher licensure, it helps you build foundational knowledge and confirm whether a long-term career in education is the right fit.

How Long Does it Take to Earn an Associate Degree in Education Online?

Most online associate degrees in education take about two years to complete when attending full time. Programs typically require around 60 credit hours, though timelines can vary based on course load, scheduling, and prior college credit.

Some schools offer accelerated terms or year-round enrollment, which may allow motivated students to finish sooner. Part-time options are also common, making it easier to balance school with work or family responsibilities while progressing at a steady pace.

How Much Does an Online Associate Degree in Education Cost?

The cost of an online associate degree in education can vary depending on the type of school and your residency status. Public community colleges typically offer the most affordable options, especially for in-state students, and many online programs charge the same rate regardless of where you live.

In general, students can expect total program costs to fall within a lower range than bachelor’s degrees, making this a cost-effective way to start an education career or prepare for transfer. Additional expenses may include textbooks, technology fees, or background checks required for education-related coursework.

Financial Aid for Online Associate Degree in Education

Students pursuing an online associate degree in education may qualify for several types of financial aid, including options tailored to future educators. Most programs on this list accept federal financial aid, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Common financial aid options include:

• FAFSA-based grants and loans: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can unlock access to federal Pell Grants, subsidized loans, and state-based aid.
• TEACH Grant: The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant supports students who plan to teach in high-need fields or underserved schools, though eligibility requirements and service commitments apply.
• State and institutional grants: Many states and community colleges offer grants or tuition assistance for education majors, especially those entering early childhood or K–12 support roles.
• Employer or workforce programs: Some childcare centers, school districts, and workforce agencies offer tuition assistance for employees pursuing education-related degrees.

How To Choose the Right Online Associate Degree in Education 

Choosing the right online associate degree in education starts with understanding how each program fits your goals, schedule, and long-term plans. Below are the most important factors to consider as you compare schools.

Program Focus and Career Goals

Some associate degrees in education are designed for workforce entry, while others emphasize transfer preparation for a future bachelor’s degree. Look closely at whether the program focuses on early childhood education, paraprofessional roles, or general education foundations, and consider how that aligns with the type of work you want to pursue next.

Online Format and Scheduling Flexibility

Not all online programs are structured the same way. Some offer asynchronous courses you can complete on your own time, while others require scheduled class sessions or limited in-person components. If you’re balancing work or family responsibilities, a fully online, year-round program may be the most practical choice.

Accreditation and Transferability

Regional accreditation is essential, especially if you plan to continue your education. Accredited programs are more likely to transfer smoothly into bachelor’s degrees in education and qualify for federal financial aid, reducing the risk of lost credits or unexpected barriers later on.

Student Support and Resources

Strong online programs provide more than just coursework. Advising, tutoring, career services, and field placement guidance can make a meaningful difference, particularly for students returning to school after time away or navigating education pathways for the first time.

Career Outlook With an Online Associate Degree in Education 

An online associate degree in education can prepare you for entry-level roles that support teaching and early learning, particularly in childcare and classroom settings. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for preschool teachers is projected to grow about 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, with roughly 65,500 job openings each year, largely driven by workforce turnover rather than new positions.

Graduates may also pursue roles as teacher assistants, where an associate degree or related coursework is often preferred. While overall employment in this role is projected to decline slightly, the BLS still estimates about 170,400 openings per year due to retirements and career changes.

Many students use an associate degree as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree, which is required for licensed teaching roles. The BLS reports that kindergarten and elementary school teachers see consistent demand, with more than 100,000 openings per year driven primarily by replacement needs.

FAQs About the Best Online Associate Degree in Education Programs

Earning an associate degree can feel like a big step. Below, we’ve answered some frequently asked questions about online associate degrees in education to help you decide if this is right for you.

Is an Online Associate Degree in Education Worth It?

An online associate degree in education can be worth it if you want an affordable, flexible way to enter education-related roles or prepare for further study. While it does not lead to teacher licensure on its own, it can help you qualify for early childhood, paraprofessional, or classroom support positions and reduce the total cost of earning a bachelor’s degree by allowing you to transfer credits.

Is an Online Associate Degree in Education Respected by Employers?

Employers generally focus more on accreditation and relevant skills than whether a degree was earned online or in person. Degrees from regionally accredited colleges are widely recognized, and many employers value the practical coursework and foundational training these programs provide, especially for entry-level education and childcare roles.

Who Should Consider an Online Associate Degree in Education Program?

This type of program is a good fit for students interested in working with children, supporting classrooms, or exploring education as a long-term career. It is especially well suited for working adults, career changers, and students who want a flexible, lower-cost way to start their education journey before committing to a bachelor’s degree.

Can an Online Associate Degree in Education Transfer to a Bachelor’s Program?

In many cases, you can transfer your associate degree, especially if the degree is offered by a regionally accredited college and designed with transfer pathways in mind. Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degrees typically transfer more easily into bachelor’s programs in education, while Associate of Applied Science degrees may require additional planning. Checking articulation agreements and speaking with an academic advisor can help you understand how credits will apply before you enroll.

Does an Online Associate Degree in Education Lead to Teacher Licensure?

An associate degree alone does not lead to teacher licensure in public schools, which typically requires a bachelor’s degree and state certification. However, many students use an associate degree as a first step toward licensure by transferring into a bachelor’s program in education. For early childhood or paraprofessional roles, an associate degree may be sufficient depending on state and employer requirements.

Explore Online Associate Degrees in Education

Take the first step toward a career in education by exploring the online associate degrees featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to learn more about program options, transfer policies, and more.