Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Do you need the professional credibility an online associate degree in early childhood education can provide? Discover more about earning this degree.
Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Overview
Early childhood educators help shape the next generation of global citizens. These professionals may work in childcare centers, preschools, after-school programs, kindergartens, or other facilities where children live, play, or study.
While some careers in this field require only a high school education, more lucrative professions often demand postsecondary degrees. An online associate degree in early childhood education can launch your career with children or prepare you to advance to a leadership role.
This degree equips students with in-market skills such as differentiated instruction and behavior management strategies. Students also learn child psychology, educational theory, and instructional methodologies.
After graduating with this degree, you can transfer into a bachelor’s program in early childhood administration or another major. You might also pursue professional certifications in the field.
Choosing an Online Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Program
Take your time when selecting where to earn an online associate degree in early childhood education 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 is 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 college have 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.
The Best Online Associate Programs for Early Childhood Education
Gulf Coast State College
Panama City, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$1,750
- Out-of-state$7,064
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled4,797
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
- Fennimore, WI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$4,095
- Out-of-state$6,143
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled2,640
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
Renton Technical College
- Renton, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$3,688
- Out-of-state$4,137
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled3,755
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment21%
- AccreditationYes
Chaminade University of Honolulu
- Honolulu, HI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$26,020
- Out-of-state$26,020
- In-State$24,000
- Out-of-state$24,000
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate95%
- Students Enrolled2,167
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Wyoming College
- Torrington, WY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,970
- Out-of-state$8,910
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled1,538
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Kennebec Valley Community College
- Fairfield, ME
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,820
- Out-of-state$5,640
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled2,406
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
Northeast Community College
- Norfolk, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,970
- Out-of-state$4,170
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled5,258
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University St. Paul
- Saint Paul, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$22,800
- Out-of-state$22,800
- In-State$8,550
- Out-of-state$8,550
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled5,137
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Military College
- Milledgeville, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$6,165
- Out-of-state$6,165
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled8,766
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$15,417
- Out-of-state$15,417
- In-State$7,980
- Out-of-state$7,980
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled85,586
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
St. Petersburg College
- Clearwater, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$1,943
- Out-of-state$7,774
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled28,853
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Spokane Falls Community College
- Spokane, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,875
- Out-of-state$3,680
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled5,023
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Minnesota State College Southeast
- Winona, MN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$5,020
- Out-of-state$5,020
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled1,930
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Chippewa Valley Technical College
- Eau Claire, WI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$4,095
- Out-of-state$6,143
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled7,924
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Tallahassee Community College
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,002
- Out-of-state$7,982
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled11,683
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Accreditation for Online Early Childhood Education Associate Degrees
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.
In addition to institutional accreditation, programs can hold specialized accreditation to demonstrate that they meet standards in the field. Early childhood education programs may hold accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, while teacher preparation programs may hold Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accreditation.
Courses in an Online Early Childhood Education Associate Program
Early Childhood Education Careers and Outlook
Many early childhood education majors may see themselves teaching preschool, leading a daycare, or serving as a teacher’s assistant in a kindergarten classroom. An associate degree may be the ticket to qualifying for one or more of these jobs.
In fact, early childhood education can get you started in a variety of careers. However, the selection of careers listed in the table below offers a representative sample of what you can expect from this major after graduation.
| Early Childhood Education Career | Median Annual Wage (2023) |
|---|---|
| Preschool Teachers | $35,330 |
| Teacher Assistants | $30,920 |
| Childcare Worker | $28,520 |
| Recreation Worker | $31,680 |
| Social and Human Service Assistants | $38,520 |
Like many professional fields, early childhood education typically rewards advanced degrees with higher salaries.
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 rare 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Education Associate Degrees
What is the best degree for Early Childhood Education?
The best early childhood degree depends on your career goals. An associate degree qualifies you to teach preschool or serve as a teacher’s assistant. If you want to teach elementary education, however, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in the field. Professionals who plan to serve as principals, counselors, or instructional leaders may need a master’s degree or higher.
How long does it take to get a degree in Early Childhood Education?
An associate degree in early childhood education typically takes two years. A bachelor’s degree usually requires four years although students with AP, CLEP, early college, or other transfer credits may finish in less time. An online associate degree in early childhood education, if largely asynchronous, could be a program you complete in less than two years depending on your other obligations.
Is an associate degree in Early Childhood Education worth it?
The average two-year public institution charges $4,000 for tuition and fees per year according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics. In August 2023, according to Payscale, people with an associate degree in early childhood education earned an average of $14.05 per hour. Is that return on investment worth it to achieve your personal and professional goals?
What is the difference between a CDA and an associate degree?
A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and an associate degree in early childhood education are both educational pathways, but they differ in terms of their scope, depth, and purpose. A CDA requires specific educational and professional experience, which each state determines separately. An associate degree requires two years of academic coursework in general education and the major field.
