Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
by TBS Staff
Updated September 27, 2022
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Computer Science Majors
If you enjoy working with young children, you may want to consider a career in early childhood education. Early childhood educators work in elementary schools, preschools, and daycare centers. They teach young children essential skills like communication, reading, and basic math. Early childhood educators also guide children’s emotional and intellectual development. Early childhood educators can serve as important positive role models for their pupils.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that preschool teaching positions will grow by 10% between 2016 and 2026. As such, prospective students considering an early childhood education associate degree can expect to find ample career opportunities after graduation.
The Best Online Associate Programs for Early Childhood Education
#1 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Gulf Coast State College
Panama City, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
From its main campus in Panama City, Florida, Gulf Coast State College offers five online associate degree programs, including an associate in early childhood education program. Students in the early childhood education program prepare for the demands of the education field through instructive study and industry-relevant coursework. Students seeking further education can apply their early childhood education credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Early childhood education degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. The college supports its online learning community through online-specific resources, such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Online students can expect to receive an average of $5,005 in financial aid awards. Typically, 72% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 8% receiving loans.
Gulf Coast State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Panama City, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,750
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,064
Average Tuition
In-state
$1,750
Out-of-state
$7,064
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,797
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Fennimore, WI
2 years
Online + Campus
Looking for a flexible associate degree program in early childhood education? Consider Southwest Wisconsin Technical College's online associate in early childhood education. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an education-specific career. Typically, students can apply their associate degree credits toward future educational endeavors, like a bachelor's degree.
Enrollees benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance with virtual library services and academic tutoring resources.
Typically, students are awarded $4,336 in financial aid. About 78% of incoming students receive financial aid awards and about 28% receive student loans.
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Fennimore, Wisconsin
Admission Rate: Data not available
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,095
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,143
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,095
Out-of-state
$6,143
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,640
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Renton Technical College
Renton, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
Renton Technical College hosts three online associate programs, including an associate in early childhood education. The program prepares students for the demands of the early childhood education field through foundational and advanced coursework. Early childhood education students can apply their course credits toward future educational opportunities, such as a bachelor's degree.
Early childhood education degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. The online learning community connects students with virtual library resources and academic tutoring.
Distance learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, with the average award package being $6,365. Of its enrollees, the college reports that 69% receive financial aid and 7% receive loans.
Renton Technical College at a Glance:
Type of s=School: Public, four-year
Location: Renton, Washington
Admission Rate: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,688
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,137
Average Tuition
In-state
$3,688
Out-of-state
$4,137
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,755
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
21%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#4 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI
4 years
Online + Campus
From its main campus, Chaminade University of Honolulu boasts a highly ranked online associate in early childhood education, one of four online associate degree programs. The associate in early childhood education is an online program that prepares students for the early childhood education field through comprehensive coursework. Upon completion, students can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.
While enrolled, early childhood education students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Online students can further access virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Students benefit from financial aid, with 99% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.
Chaminade University of Honolulu at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Admission Rate: 95%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $26,020
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $26,020
Average Tuition
In-state
$26,020
Out-of-state
$26,020
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
2,167
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Eastern Wyoming College
Torrington, WY
2 years
Online + Campus
Eastern Wyoming College, located in Torrington, Wyoming, supports five online associate degree programs, including an AA in early childhood distance learning. Early childhood education students prepare for a career in early childhood education through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree, certificates, and educational credentials.
A leader in student success, the college connects students with career services, academic advising, and other resources. The institution also provides online enrollees with virtual library services and academic tutoring resources, including writing tutoring.
The average student is awarded $6,355 in financial aid, to offset the cost of an education. The college reports that 94% of students are awarded financial aid, with 7% awarded student loans.
Eastern Wyoming College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Torrington, Wyoming
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,970
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,910
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,970
Out-of-state
$8,910
Retention Rate
57%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,538
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Kennebec Valley Community College
Fairfield, ME
2 years
Online + Campus
Located in Fairfield, Maine, Kennebec Valley Community College provides online education across 13 associate degree programs, including its AAS in early childhood education program. Students in the early childhood education program benefit from industry-relevant coursework, preparing them for future careers in education. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Learners can access career services, academic advising, and other support options during their studies. Additional institutional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Students seeking to defray the cost of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $5,284 in financial aid awards. Approximately 83% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 32% receiving student loans.
Kennebec Valley Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Fairfield, Maine
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,820
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,640
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,820
Out-of-state
$5,640
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,406
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
40%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Northeast Community College
Norfolk, NE
2 years
Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Northeast Community College supports 13 online associate degree programs, including its associate in early childhood education program. Students in the program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Graduates seeking to advance their education can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Enrollees benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Other institutional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.
The average student is awarded $4,456 in financial aid, to offset the cost of education. Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 90% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 21% opting for student loans.
Northeast Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Norfolk, Nebraska
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,970
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,170
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,970
Out-of-state
$4,170
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,258
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Concordia University St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
At Concordia University St. Paul, the AA in early childhood education program is one of two online associate degree programs offered online. Students can build their knowledge of the early childhood education field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Typically, students can apply their associate degree credits towards future educational endeavors, like a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
The institution reports that 98% of all enrollees receive financial aid, and 58% receive student loans.
Concordia University St. Paul at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota
Admission Rate: 98%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $22,800
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $22,800
Transfer Credit Accepted: Accepted
Average Tuition
In-state
$22,800
Out-of-state
$22,800
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
5,137
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Georgia Military College
Milledgeville, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Georgia Military College supports 25 online associate degree programs, including its associate in early childhood education program. Early childhood education students prepare for a career in early childhood education through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students seeking further education can apply their early childhood education credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other support options during their program. Distance learners can further benefit from virtual services such as library access, writing workshops, and other academic tutoring.
On average, students receive $5,742 in financial aid. The college reports that 92% of students are awarded financial aid, with 33% receiving student loans.
Georgia Military College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Milledgeville, Georgia
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,165
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,165
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,165
Out-of-state
$6,165
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,766
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students looking for a flexible online associate program in early childhood education should consider Liberty University. Students in the early childhood education program benefit from industry-relevant coursework, preparing them for future careers in early childhood education. Upon completion, students can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.
While enrolled, early childhood education students can access college resources geared toward student success. Further resources available to online learners including virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Students benefit from financial aid, with 99% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
Admission Rate: 51%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,417
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,417
Average Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
St. Petersburg College
Clearwater, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
St. Petersburg College's AS in early childhood education is one of 15 associate degree programs offered remotely. The early childhood education program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an early childhood education-specific career. Students seeking to advance academically can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other support services during their program. Distance learners can benefit from resources such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Typically, enrollees receive $8,559 in financial aid awards. Approximately 73% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 25% receiving student loans.
St. Petersburg College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Clearwater, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774
Average Tuition
In-state
$1,943
Out-of-state
$7,774
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
28,853
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Spokane Falls Community College
Spokane, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
At Spokane Falls Community College, the associate in early childhood education is one of five associate degrees offered online. Enrollees gain foundational knowledge and skills relevant to the early childhood education field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students can also transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree at a four-year school.
The college connects early childhood education students with career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance from virtual library services and academic tutoring resources.
Typically, enrollees receive $6,270 in financial aid awards. Students can expect to qualify for financial aid or loans, as 61% of enrollees are awarded aid and 23% receive loans.
Spokane Falls Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Spokane, Washington
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,875
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,680
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,875
Out-of-state
$3,680
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,023
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#13 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Minnesota State College Southeast
Winona, MN
2 years
Online + Campus
Distance learners looking for a flexible online associate degree program in early childhood education should consider Minnesota State College Southeast. Students in the AAS in early childhood education program prepare for the demands of the early childhood education field through instructive study and industry-relevant coursework. Students seeking to advance their education can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Early childhood education degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. Distance learners can further benefit from virtual services such as library access, writing workshops, and academic tutoring.
On average, students receive $4,518 in financial aid. Typically, 82% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 33% receiving loans.
Minnesota State College Southeast at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Winona, Minnesota
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,020
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,020
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,020
Out-of-state
$5,020
Retention Rate
58%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,930
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Chippewa Valley Technical College
Eau Claire, WI
2 years
Online + Campus
Chippewa Valley Technical College, located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, boasts 13 online associate degree programs, including its highly ranked associate in early childhood education program. Students in the Early Childhood Education program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing them for the demands of an early childhood education career. Graduates seeking to advance in further studies can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Students can access numerous college resources such as career services and academic advising. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
Students seeking to defray the cost of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $5,251 in financial aid awards. Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 78% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 27% opting for student loans.
Chippewa Valley Technical College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,095
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,143
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,095
Out-of-state
$6,143
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,924
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Tallahassee Community College
Tallahassee, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Tallahassee Community College's associate degree in early childhood development, education, and management is one of three associate degree programs offered remotely. Students in the early childhood education program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Typically, students can apply their associate degree credits toward future educational endeavors, like a bachelor's degree.
The college prioritizes student success through career services, academic advising, and other resources. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
Online learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, receiving an average of $4,518 in aid. The college reports that 68% of students are awarded financial aid, with 25% receiving student loans.
Tallahassee Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 25-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,002
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,982
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,002
Out-of-state
$7,982
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,683
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
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While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we
value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break
down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
Academics
Affordability
Online Enrollment
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Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
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Featured Early Childhood Education Programs
Choosing an Online Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Program
Take your time when selecting where to earn an early childhood education associate degree online to make sure you find the right program. Many options exist -- with a little patience and research, you can find a school that matches your specific needs. If cost represents a primary factor in your decision, you may want to start your search with public, in-state programs. These typically offer the most affordable tuition rates. However, some distance programs offer the same tuition rate to all online students, regardless of residency status. The list below describes a few other factors worth considering when looking at associate programs.
Program Cost: Tuition and fees vary depending on the school and program, as do the number of credits required to graduate and the transfer credits allowed. Online courses may or may not cost the same as on-campus courses. Make sure to compare the per-credit costs for each program that interests you.
Transfer Policies: If you wish to transfer credits into your associate program or ensure that your degree will transfer to a bachelor’s program at another institution, it is important to look into each school’s transfer policies. Most schools limit the number of transfer credits they accept. Additionally, many two-year colleges boast articulation agreements with four-year colleges, ensuring smooth transfer of associate degree credits.
School Size and Type: Class size and the student-to-teacher ratio can vary widely according to the type of school you attend. For example, large universities may rely on larger classes taught by graduate students, while smaller schools may offer smaller class sizes with greater individual attention. Look into the average class sizes of online courses to ensure you will receive the classroom experience you need.
Program Length: Online programs frequently offer flexible delivery options, including part-time, full-time, and accelerated formats. Most associate degrees take full-time learners two years to complete.
On-Campus Requirements: Some online programs do require occasional on-campus meetings, such as orientations or weekend residencies. Make sure that you can travel to campus as needed or select a program that does not require any on-campus commitments.
Accreditation for Online Early Childhood Education Associate Degrees
All the best schools participate in a voluntary evaluation process to demonstrate program quality; this process is called accreditation. Colleges often consider accreditation when determining whether they will accept transfer credits, and employers may expect job applicants to hold a degree from an accredited institution. When exploring online programs, you can look for institutional and programmatic accreditation. Institutions may hold regional or national accreditation. Both the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education coordinate accreditation, recognize accrediting bodies, and maintain lists of accredited schools.
Regional accreditation is typically viewed as more rigorous and prestigious than national accreditation, and regionally-accredited institutions often only accept transfer credits from other regional institutions.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education?
Associate degrees typically require students to complete about 60 credits and take two years of full-time study. Online programs frequently offer flexible options that allow learners to progress at their own pace, and part-time learners may take 3-4 years to complete their degree. However, part-time options do enable students to continue working more easily while attending school.
Additionally, learners who can transfer in credits, test out of requirements, and/or take accelerated classes can complete their degrees in less than two years. The time it takes to complete an early childhood education associate degree online can impact the overall cost of a program. Most schools raise their tuition rates each year, and students who take larger course loads may gain access to lower per-credit tuition rates.
Courses in an Online Early Childhood Education Associate Program
Introduction to Early Childhood Education
This course introduces the theoretical and historical foundations of early childhood education. Topics include national, professional, and ethical standards; state regulations; career options; and program types. Students explore methods that can be used to create safe, appropriate, and responsive environments and activities for young children.
Child Development
This course explores the physical, social-emotional, and cognitive changes that occur in the first five years of life. Students learn to identify the skills young children typically acquire during this time and ways to support growth and optimize developmental outcomes.
Health and Wellness
This course emphasizes the health-related aspects of child development and age-appropriate behavior management techniques. Future caregivers learn to identify potential challenges children in their care may face. They also develop strategies to provide appropriate care, communicate with families, and promote wellness.
Exceptional Children
In this course, students explore ways to work with parents and other professionals to care for children with special needs, including those with physical/cognitive disabilities and gifted/talented children. Topics include methods for modifying the physical environment to ensure inclusion and strategies for adapting activities and instruction.
Language and Literacy
This course provides an overview of normal language development in young children. Students explore strategies to facilitate language development, identify appropriate children’s literature and its purpose, and present literature to young children in engaging ways.
Educational Paths for Early Childhood Education Degrees
After earning an online associate degree in early childhood education, you may decide to continue your education by earning a bachelor’s degree. Some schools require their employees to hold at least a bachelor’s degree, especially if they want to teach kindergarten or higher grades. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree can also pursue some leadership positions, increasing their salary potential and allowing workers to gain access to benefits like employer-paid healthcare. The three degrees below represent potential educational pathways aspiring teachers can follow.
Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
The upper-level courses in a bachelor’s in early childhood education program go into greater depth than associate-level courses. These programs may prepare you to earn teacher licensure in your home state, qualifying you to work in a public elementary school.
Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education with a Montessori Education Concentration
The Montessori method revolutionized the education of young children by focusing on a child’s natural curiosity and emotional development. Montessori teachers receive specialized training during their teacher education programs, qualifying them for both traditional and Montessori classroom settings.
Bachelor’s in Physical Education
A child’s physical development proves just as important as their intellectual and emotional development. Physical education programs may satisfy the requirements for teacher licensure in your home state, opening the door to more career opportunities and a higher salary.
Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Career Information
Associate degree holders can find rewarding positions teaching and caring for young children in public and private preschools, elementary schools, and Head Start programs. They may also provide much-needed childcare to working parents through daycare providers and recreational centers. These teachers and care providers offer nurturing, professional supervision and instruction to children ages five and under. Professionals who go on to complete a bachelor’s degree may qualify for higher-paying jobs in the field. The list below describes career options often pursued by graduates of associate programs.
Preschool Teachers
Preschool Teachers work with children under the age of five in childcare centers and public and private preschools, helping young learners acquire the basic academic and social skills needed for elementary school. This position typically requires an associate degree.
Childcare Worker
Childcare Workers care for young children not yet in school. They may also provide after-school care in private homes, schools, and childcare centers. While this position may not require an associate degree, some employers prefer to hire degree holders.
Preschool Director
Preschool Directors manage the daily operations of childcare centers and preschools, including hiring teachers, dealing with admissions, and communicating with parents. This position requires at least an associate degree, although employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s.
Teacher Assistant
Schools typically require applicants to hold an associate degree or some college experience to assist classroom teachers. Teacher Assistants give students additional instruction or personal attention as needed, supervise children and ensure their safety, and help teachers prepare materials and deliver lessons.
Elementary School Teacher
Elementary School Teachers typically hold a bachelor’s degree; in public schools, they also need to obtain state licensure. An associate degree may serve as an important first step toward qualification as an elementary school teacher.