The Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Degree Programs
Jan 31, 2020
TBS Staff
Are you ready to discover your college program?
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.
Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected these accredited online associate in early childhood education degree programs based on the quality of the program, types of courses provided, faculty strength, school awards, rankings and reputation; this includes the reputation for providing online degree programs.
Methodology for College Rankings
The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:
The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.
To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):
1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
Considers range of electives within that discipline
Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline
2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]
Considers education background of the faculty
Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources
3. Reputation [weight = 20%]
Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
Faculty
Curriculum
“Freshness” of academic knowledge
Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
Suitability of graduates for the workplace
4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]
Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants
5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]
Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business
6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]
Considers the following of the online classes:
Types of online technology used to deliver content
Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
Considers the following of instructors:
Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
Ratio to number of students in a class
Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees
Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.
To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:
Accreditation
Public or private status
Acceptance rate
Retention rate
Graduation rate
ACT/SAT requirements
Cost in-state / out of state
Undergrad, grad, or both offered
Region
State
City
Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!
If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.
Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
The Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Degree Programs
Pamlico Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
About this school
Located in Grantsboro, North Carolina, PCC offers a rural, small college experience. Class sizes do not exceed a 9-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing learners to build meaningful relationships with professors. PCC also strives to provide affordable, high-quality postsecondary education. The college offers over 10 associate degrees and certificates, and students can receive credit for professional experiences.
PCC's associate in early childhood education can be completed partially online and prepares graduates to work with students up to the age of eight in multiple learning facilities. Students can choose from one of two degree tracks. The career track consists of 66-69 credits and prepares graduates to begin working immediately. Alternatively, the 71-credit birth-through-kindergarten transfer track allows students to transfer to four-year programs within the UNC System. Distinctive courses include:
Foundations of education
Children with special needs
Early childhood administration
Children with exceptionalities
Creative activities
This program does include in-person components, and students complete a language and literacy experience and an early childhood capstone practicum at an approved facility.
Online courses mirror traditional on-campus courses. PCC also provides distance learners with academic advisors, who divise educational plans and help students identify transfer opportunities. The school's career center offers employment skill-building and training assistance. Students who require additional support can schedule tutoring appointments through Smarthinking.
Ohio State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Established in 1870, Ohio State ranks among the top 20 public schools in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report. It also stands as one of the top research schools; the National Science Foundation ranks Ohio State third among schools in terms of industry-sponsored research.
Ohio State's college of education and human ecology offers an associate of arts in early childhood development and education, which qualifies students for Ohio associate licensure in prekindergarten education. Individuals who earn this early childhood education associate degree online must complete at least 60 credits, including 28 major-related credits. Courses include:
Psychological perspectives on education
Family development
Developing age-appropriate curriculum
Creativity and the creative arts
This program also requires participants to engage in fieldwork with age-appropriate students in educational learning environments.
Online courses utilize weekly modules, which contain all assignments and supplementary resources. Distance learners may interact with classmates and professors through discussion boards hosted by CarmenConnect software, which supports video-to-video interactions. Students also gain access to academic advisors, career services, one-on-one coaching, and online librarian support. Ohio State charges in-state and out-of-state distance students the same tuition rate.
Clovis Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
CCC has provided access to associate degree programs, certificates, and diplomas in New Mexico since 1961. As a branch campus of Eastern New Mexico University, students who aspire to earn bachelor's degrees can transfer their credits to a four-year institution easily. CCC prioritizes accessible, affordable education. It also works to build meaningful partnerships through community engagement, diversity, and inclusion.
Aspiring educators who wish to enhance the minds of children up to the age of eight years old can earn an associate of arts in early childhood education at CCC. This degree track explores the education theory and skills needed to effectively lead classrooms. The program also qualifies graduates to acquire the New Mexico child development certificate. Students pursuing this early childhood education associate degree online must complete 71 credits. Most students earn their degrees in five semesters. Notable courses include:
Child development and learning
Curriculum development and implementation
Child psychology
Professionalism
CCC offers entirely online and hybrid distance courses. Professors describe in-person requirements for hybrid courses at the beginning of each semester in the course syllabus. Faculty deliver online coursework through the Canvas learning management system. Courses typically follow weekly modules. Students who need additional support navigating online courses can access free Hoonuit tutorials. CCC also provides online tutoring, technical assistance, access to the Eureka career research database, and live digital counseling.
Eastern Wyoming College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Based in Torrington, EWC offers affordable postsecondary programming. Students may choose from 17 associate degrees and certificates. EWC maintains partnerships with 11 universities, facilitating graduates' transfer into four-year programs. EWC accommodates both out-of-state and nontraditional learners through distance learning.
Aspiring educators who plan to work with young students can earn an online associate of arts in early childhood education at EWC. Most students complete this program in four semesters. Graduates can continue their education at a four-year institution or enter the workforce immediately. Students pursuing this early childhood education associate degree online must complete 60-61 credits. Notable courses include:
Social and cultural awareness
Standard first aid and safety
Engaging families in early childhood settings
Teaching with technology
Business mathematics
EWC also requires an education capstone course as a culminating experience.
Faculty use the CampusCruiser learning management system to administer online coursework. Software allows students to interact asynchronously through message forums, email, and chat boxes. However, some courses may use synchronous components, requiring students to login at specific times and participate in live classes. EWC provides librarian assistance over the phone, plus reference services and bibliographic instruction.
Students gain access to 24/7 tutoring services through NetTutor, and they may also contact the school's student success center to access additional help with coursework.
Brunswick Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
About this school
BCC was established in the town of Bolivia in 1979. The school offers accessible and affordable two-year degrees, certificates, and diplomas. BCC emphasizes student-centered learning, meeting the needs of a diverse student population. The college offers online coursework to accommodate nontraditional and out-of-state learners.
BCC's associate of applied science in early childhood education prepares graduates to develop curricula appropriate for students in early childhood facilities. Individuals who earn this early childhood education associate degree online complete a total of 76 credits. Noteworthy courses include:
Sociology of the family
Professional research and reporting
Advanced issues in early childhood education
Exploration activities, and elementary spanish
BCC also requires participants to complete an early childhood capstone practicum.
The format of online courses vary. Asynchronous classes allow students to interact with professors and classmates through email and online chats. Assignments may include essays, discussion posts, group work, and exams. Contrastingly, synchronous courses mimic in-person class environments. Students must log on to the BCC learning management system at set times. The college also offers some hybrid courses, which require occasional in-person attendance.
Distance learners gain access to success coaching, academic advising, and mentorship programs. Students who require additional support can receive tutoring through the school's academic center for excellence. Tutors specialize in reading, writing, and math. BCC participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, which allows out-of-state students from affiliated states to access online courses.
Northeast Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Based in Norfolk, Nebraska, Northeast offers students a variety of two-year associate degrees. The college prioritizes student-centered learning and holds awards for community college excellence from the Aspen Institute. Northeast also strives to provide low-debt degrees that offer a notable return on students' investment, whether they transfer to a four-year institution or immediately join the workforce.
Northeast offers two degrees for aspiring early childhood educators: an AAS in early childhood education and an AA in early childhood education. Students in either degree track must complete at least 60 credits. The AAS includes 12-21 general education credits, 42 core credits, and up to four elective credits. Alternatively, the AA requires 32.5 core credits and a larger number of general education credits. Participants should consult their advisors to discuss elective options. Notable courses include:
Infant and toddler development
Preschool child development
Pediatric basic life support and first aid
Early childhood education curriculum planning
These programs also require an in-person practicum experience at a childcare facility. Students must pass a criminal background check prior to working with children. Learners can earn their early child education degree online through a cooperative effort with other Nebraska community colleges.
Distance learners gain access to academic advisors, a writers' clinic, and online tutoring. The career services department also provides resume and cover letter help, interview skill building, and a job board. The library’s databases provide access to articles and other information resources, such as books, journals, newspapers, and other subscription services.
Montgomery Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
About this school
Montgomery Community College offers a rural postsecondary experience in Troy, North Carolina. Students can earn associate degrees and certificates in 14 fields. With a 10-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, professors can provide engaging, hands-on instruction. Montgomery Community College also strives to provide affordable, accessible coursework. The school offers open admissions and provides nontraditional students with access to distance learning options.
Aspiring early childhood educators can earn an associate of arts in education in the early years: birth through fourth grade, preparing graduates to pursue a bachelor's degree or enter the workforce. Learners who earn this early childhood education associate degree online complete 61 credits, including 25 general education credits and 36 major credits. Distinctive courses include:
Literature in early childhood and elementary education
Teaching English language learners
Working with children with special needs
Teaching young children
Participants also complete a student-teaching experience, spending 15 hours a week at an approved facility for a semester. This program holds programmatic accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Montgomery Community College utilizes the Blackboard learning management system to administer digital coursework. Courses follow weekly modules, which contain all assignments and supplementary reading materials. Coursework includes essays, exams, discussion boards, and group projects. For research assistance, students can contact librarians over the phone or by using the after-hour librarian online chat. Montgomery Community College also offers online tutoring in multiple subjects.
Gulf Coast State College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
About this school
Located in Panama City, Florida, GCSC was established in 1957 after the state legislature created a community college network. Students at GCSC may choose from over 150 degrees and certificates. Associate degree programs are designed for students who wish to pursue a four-year degree or enter the workforce after graduation.
Students interested in teaching children up to the age of five years old can earn an associate of science in early childhood education at GCSC, which qualifies graduates for the Florida childcare professional credential. Earning this associate degree in early childhood education online requires completing 60 credits, including 15 general education credits and 45 core credits. Students can look forward to taking the following courses:
Social studies and creative expression for young children
Guiding the young child
Facilitating social development
Practices for working with young children with special needs in inclusive settings
This program also requires participants to complete a supervised work experience and portfolio; students must pass a background check before working with young children.
Faculty deliver this program through hybrid courses, which require students to complete coursework online and attend three face-to-face sessions per class throughout the semester. GCSC utilizes the Canvas online learning management system. Assignments may include exams, essays, group projects, and discussion posts. Some courses may also use proctored tests; students can complete exams in person or by using Respondus Monitor proctoring software.
Stanly Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
About this school
Based in Albemarle, North Carolina, SCC offers two-year postsecondary experiences in 12 fields. The college promotes community involvement, diversity, and inclusion. SCC also boasts student-centered learning environments, which provide effective teaching and encourage lifelong learning. The school offers a 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, creating ample opportunities for interaction with professors and classmates.
SCC designs its online associate of applied science in early childhood education to provide learners with pertinent knowledge related to foundational child growth theories, curriculum development, learning, and assessment to meet the needs of young learners. Students may select the transfer licensure track or the transfer nonlicensure track, each of which consists of 73 credits. SCC holds articulation agreements with multiple four-year institutions for transfer track students. Notable courses in the program include:
Child guidance
Early childhood administration
Language and literacy experiences
Professional research and reporting
Children with exceptionalities
Students must also complete in-person early childhood capstone practicum experiences.
Distance learners gain access to an academic support center and 24/7 online tutoring through Smarthinking. SCC's career services provide resume development, internship opportunities, and career assessments. Distance learners can also take advantage of library resources by accessing virtual chat rooms, online databases, and e-books.
Score
69.24
Graduation Rate
36.00%
10
George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville
Established in 1966, Wallace State has become one of the largest schools in the Alabama Community College System. Students can pursue over 50 associate degrees and certificates. Wallace State also maintains multiple articulation agreements, which allow students to transfer into four-year programs with ease.
Students interested in working with young children can earn an associate of applied science in child development online at Wallace State, developing the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective instruction and carry out administrative tasks. Most students earn their early childhood education associate degree online in five semesters with full-time attendance. The curriculum consists of 61 credits, including the following notable courses:
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Methods and materials for teaching young children
Program planning for educating young children
Children's literature and language development
Children's creative experiences.
This program also requires participants to engage in a supervised practical experience at an approved educational facility.
Wallace State uses the Blackboard learning management system to administer online coursework. Fully online courses typically follow an asynchronous format, providing ample scheduling flexibility. Students engage with professors and classmates through email and discussion boards. All child development courses are available online.
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
WITC offers two-year postsecondary experiences in Shell Lake. Students can choose from over 60 programs that prepare graduates to enter the workforce or continue their education by transferring into four-year programs. WITC boasts an 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, helping students build meaningful relationships with professors and receive one-on-one support. WITC also works to accommodate diverse student needs. For instance, nontraditional learners who require greater flexibility can take coursework online.
The online E-CHiLD-early childhood education program at WITC provides graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to educate young learners. Students who earn this associate degree in early childhood education online complete 60 credits. Most full-time students earn their degree in two years. The curriculum includes a variety of courses, including:
STEM
Family and community relationships
Children with differing abilities
Oral and interpersonal communication
Principles of sustainability
WITC requires learners to engage in introductory, preschool, intermediate, and advanced practicum experiences. This program meets the requirements for YoungStar -- Wisconsin’s childcare quality rating and improvement system -- and also leads to several transfer opportunities. Graduates from this program also qualify for the Wisconsin professional credential for preschool teachers.
Distance learners gain access to the same quality instruction as their on-campus counterparts. Courses typically follow an asynchronous format, providing ample flexibility. Distance learners engage with professors and classmates through discussion boards, email, and private chats.
Community Care College is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS).
About this school
Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, CCC was originally established as a school for dental assistants. Today, the college offers over 10 career-ready programs. CCC prioritizes student-centered learning and strives to accommodate diverse learning needs. Nontraditional learners at CCC can attend distance programs that allow students to graduate without ever setting foot on campus. CCC also boasts small class sizes, which create more opportunities for one-on-one engagement between students and professors.
Aspiring educators who enjoy working with young students can earn an associate in early childhood education at CCC. Participants can earn their degrees in as little as 10 months. Distinctive courses include:
Social and emotional development
Language and literacy
Curriculum development
Child growth and development
Guidance
This early childhood education associate degree online program maintains a partnership with the Council for Professional Recognition. Graduates can also earn the child development associate credential -- one of the most widely recognized credentials in early childhood education.
Online courses typically utilize an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete assignments at their convenience as long as they meet specified deadlines. Learners can engage with classmates and professors through discussion boards, email, or private chats. Assignments may include essays, exams, and projects. CCC also provides free online tutoring, career development resources, and resume-building workshops.
The University of Cincinnati is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Founded in southern Ohio in 1819, UC offers an urban postsecondary experience to nearly 46,000 students each year. The school is dedicated to academic excellence, diversity, intellectual inquiry, and inclusion. Students can pursue degrees at all levels and seamlessly transition into advanced programs. UC also offers distance programming that permits working and nontraditional learners to balance their personal responsibilities while earning their degrees.
Students in this early childhood education program complete 60 credits, including 45 core credits and 15 concentration credits. Notable courses may include:
Assessment and evaluation in early care and education
Creative instructional environments for young children
Social emotional development and guidance for infants and toddlers
Operation of an ECE program
Students enrolled in the preschoolers or infant and toddlers concentration must complete a practicum experience. Distance learners can access coursework through the Blackboard online learning management system. Courses typically utilize an asynchronous format, which provides increased flexibility. Students access weekly modules that contain supplemental reading or video lectures. Assignments include essays, group projects, and discussion posts. Some courses may require learners to sit for proctored exams.
Florida Gateway College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
About this school
Based in Lake City, FGC offers a public community college experience to over 5,000 students each year. FGC prioritizes student-centered learning, and its small class sizes create opportunities for hands-on instruction and interaction between students. FGC administers over 60 programs and works to accommodate diverse student needs by offering online classes.
Aspiring educators who enjoy working with young learners can earn an associate of science in early childhood education at FGC. Graduates may enter the workforce directly or transition into the early childhood education bachelor's program at FGC. Learners who earn this early childhood education associate degree online finish 60 credits of coursework, and students may choose from specialization tracks in the following areas:
Infant-toddler
Preschool
Special needs
School age and childcare center management
Distinctive courses include:
Cognitive experiences for young children
Basic childhood nutrition
Introduction to technology for educators
Survey of disabling conditions in young children
Learning through play
This degree requires learners to carry out a child development internship at an approved early childhood facility. The program holds accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
FGC uses the Canvas online learning management system to administer coursework. Most courses utilize an asynchronous format, through which students can complete assignments at their own pace. FGC also provides students with academic advisors. Distance learners can access multiple online library resources and live assistance from librarians through text, live chat, and email.
Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
About this school
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty is one of the largest Christian universities in the world. The school also ranks among the most conservative colleges in the country. Liberty accommodates diverse student needs by offering over 600 programs to on-campus and distance learners.
With a 17-to-1 online student-to-faculty ratio, students can network and collaborate with peers while also accessing hands-on instruction from their teachers.
Liberty's school of education offers an associate of arts in early childhood education nonlicensure degree track, which prepares graduates to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year program. This early childhood education associate degree consists of 60 credits, including 36-39 general education credits and 21 core credits. Most students earn their degrees in 18 months with full-time attendance. Featured courses include:
Wellness in the early childhood setting
Psychology of childhood
Learning theory and portfolio development
Educational philosophy for teachers
This program does not require any in-person or practicum experiences.
Online courses at Liberty follow an eight-week format. Students access weekly modules through the Blackboard online learning management system. Most courses follow an asynchronous format. Assignments may include discussion posts, virtual group work, essays, and exams. Liberty hosts a digital library and distance learners gain access to an online writing center, career center, and technology support.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
About this school
Established in 1922, UAF is recognized as an international research center that offers high-quality postsecondary instruction. UAF boasts an 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, granting students access to small class sizes and plentiful opportunities for hands-on instruction and engagement.
Students interested in learning about child development and instruction can enroll in UAF's associate of applied science in early childhood education program. Graduates prepare to immediately enter the workforce or transition into four-year programs. Students who earn this early childhood education associate degree online complete 60 credits, including courses like:
Positive social and emotional development
Child and family ecology
Inclusion of children with special needs
Screening and assessment
Healthy learning environments
This program also requires two in-person practicum experiences.
Distance learners can access online coursework through the Blackboard online learning management system. Most eCampus courses follow an asynchronous format with no in-person requirements. Students access weekly modules, which contain their assignments and supplementary reading materials or recorded lectures. However, some courses may follow a synchronous format, requiring students to login at specific times to engage in audio or video conferencing.
UAF offers in-state tuition to all eCampus students. Distance learners also gain access to technical support, academic advisors, and career development.
Chaminade University of Honolulu is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
About this school
Located in Hawai'i on the island of Oahu, Chaminade is the only Catholic university in the state. Chaminade also represents one of three Marianist postsecondary schools in the country. Students enroll from all over the world, creating a diverse educational environment. Chaminade has grown from a two-year college into a university, offering both undergraduate and graduate programs. However, class sizes remain small, with an 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Chaminade's education and behavioral science department offers an associate of science in early childhood education that explores the knowledge and skills needed to create stimulating learning experiences for young learners. Students can earn this early childhood education associate degree online by completing 60 credits of coursework. Notable classes include:
Child development
Health and family issues in early childhood education
Leadership and guidance in education
Curriculum foundations
Learners must also complete an in-person field experience. Graduates may directly enter the workforce or pursue advanced education, seamlessly transitioning into one of Chaminade's online bachelor's degree programs.
Chaminade uses the Canvas online learning management system to administer distance coursework. Courses typically follow an asynchronous format, providing a large amount of flexibility. Chaminade also allows full-time students to accelerate their program by taking additional courses each semester.
Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Salary 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.
These 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.
These 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.
These 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.
Schools typically require applicants to hold an associate degree or some college experience to assist classroom teachers. These assistants give students additional instruction or personal attention as needed, supervise children and ensure their safety, and help teachers prepare materials and deliver lessons.
These 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.
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. Community colleges can receive regional accreditation, just like four-year schools can.
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.
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.
