Best Online Master's in Early Childhood Education of 2023

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Updated May 25, 2023

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A master's in early childhood education can prepare you for careers like lead preschool teacher, preschool director, and childcare center director.

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Teaching will always be a secure career choice. Nationwide, early childhood education positions will continue to be in demand for the next decade — in some states more than others.

Earning a master's in early childhood education online offers flexible training to become a kindergarten teacher, an elementary school teacher, a preschool teacher, or a daycare director. Additional certification can open you up to even more career opportunities.

The best online early childhood education master's programs combine strong academics with ample hands-on training.

Featured Master's in Early Childhood Education Degrees

Best Online Master's in Early Childhood Education Programs

#1 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

Pacific Oaks College

  • Pasadena, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,150
  • Credits to Graduate: 30

Located in Pasadena, Pacific Oaks offers an online master's program in early childhood education, which you can complete full or part time. The program emphasizes leadership, inclusion, and hands-on training. In it, you'll draw on real-world examples to strengthen your skills as an educator.

Prospective applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Pacific Oaks looks for candidates with a degree in early childhood education or child development. You must also submit a resume, a personal statement, and transcripts.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,482
Out-of-state
$11,482
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,074
Out-of-state
$21,074
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
27%
Students Enrolled
1,238
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

Harding University

  • Searcy, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $410
  • Credits to Graduate: 32

Strengthen your teaching skills with Harding's excellence in teaching MA program. This degree incorporates 17 credits of core teaching classes and 15 credits of electives specializing in early childhood education. The Christian university also requires two credits of religious coursework on spirituality and the educator.

To apply, you must submit official transcripts, send in three recommendation letters, and have a current educator license. The program requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA in the final 60 credits. You do not need to submit standardized test scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$21,000
Out-of-state
$21,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,388
Out-of-state
$11,388
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
4,617
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

Clemson University

  • Clemson, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $499
  • Credits to Graduate: 30

Enhance your understanding of early childhood learning with Clemson's M.Ed. in teaching and learning program. This degree offers experiential learning for an early childhood concentration.

During the 18-month program, you'll learn how to create experiential learning opportunities based on the latest research. While studying play-based learning, you'll explore strategies to implement learning processes for children.

You must have a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and work experience in education to apply. Clemson also requests unofficial transcripts, a personal statement, three recommendation letters, and a resume.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,118
Out-of-state
$37,110
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,600
Out-of-state
$22,050
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
26,406
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $415
  • Credits to Graduate: 36

Liberty's master's in curriculum and instruction offers an early childhood education focus. In this program, you'll gain teaching skills while learning how to design engaging, interactive lessons. Coursework also covers child development and assessment methods.

Apply with college transcripts, an online application, and an application fee. Liberty uses an eight-week term and accepts up to 18 transfer credits toward the master's degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

University of Colorado Denver

  • Denver, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $429; Out-of-State | $515
  • Credits to Graduate: 30

In CU Denver's master's in early childhood education program, you'll complete real-world assignments that encourage innovative approaches. You'll also receive student services throughout the program. You can choose the early childhood special education track to add an endorsement or qualify for initial licensure.

The program admits students with fall, spring, and summer start dates. To apply, submit an application at least four months before your start date. CU Denver uses a rolling admission process and aims to respond to applications within 2-3 weeks.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$24,408
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,786
Out-of-state
$22,590
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
24,723
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

University of Mississippi

  • University, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $504
  • Credits to Graduate: 30

Ole Miss's online M.Ed. in early childhood education strengthens leadership skills, leading to careers in administration, consulting, and research. If you've got a Mississippi teaching license, you can also add a pre-K license endorsement to the degree.

The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA on your last 60 hours of undergraduate work. You'll need a bachelor's in education or a closely related field. Admission also requires test scores from the Praxis II, GRE, or other exam.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,718
Out-of-state
$24,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,718
Out-of-state
$24,989
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
21,014
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

Fordham University

  • Bronx, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,500
  • Credits to Graduate: 36

Looking for initial teacher certification? Then check out Fordham's program. You can earn your MS in teaching with the early childhood education track. Explore educational models and study play-based learning during the program. You'll also complete a field experience working with pre-K students and students in kindergarten through second grade.

The application requirements include transcripts, a resume, a personal essay, and two letters of recommendation. Fordham looks for candidates with past experience and the personal characteristics to thrive in an early childhood education program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,730
Out-of-state
$54,730
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,112
Out-of-state
$23,112
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
16,364
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

University of North Georgia

  • Dahlonega, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $303
  • Credits to Graduate: 39

Certified teachers can qualify for UNG's online early childhood education master's program. This degree offers asynchronous classes and a cohort format. What's more, you can graduate in just six semesters.

To apply, you'll need a bachelor's in early childhood education. UNG requires a minimum 2.75 GPA and GRE or MAT scores. If you have a master's degree or a 3.0 GPA or higher, you can waive the test requirement. You'll also need a valid teaching certificate.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,969
Out-of-state
$14,123
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,140
Out-of-state
$16,488
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
19,793
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
71% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

Arkansas State University

  • Jonesboro, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $291
  • Credits to Graduate: 30

Gain hands-on training with A-State's master's in early childhood education. In this program, you'll strengthen your research skills and learn how to create an engaging curriculum. You'll also test out your classroom skills in a practicum in teacher education. You can complete the program in as little as one year.

To apply, you'll need a valid teaching license and official transcripts. A-State requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA from an accredited institution.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,232
Out-of-state
$10,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,986
Out-of-state
$9,972
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
13,106
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
75% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education of 2023

Northwestern College

  • Orange City, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus
  • Avg. Cost per Credit: $340
  • Credits to Graduate: 33

Advance your teaching skills with Northwestern College's online master's in early childhood education program. This degree builds on your classroom experience to train you as an administrator, specialist, or consultant. Thanks to a flexible format, you can take one class per eight-week term and graduate in under two years.

You'll need to meet the program's admission requirements, which include holding an accredited bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You must also have a valid teaching license to apply.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,700
Out-of-state
$32,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,120
Out-of-state
$6,120
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
1,496
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Master's in Early Childhood Education: Program Overview

  • A master's in early childhood education usually lasts around two years.
  • Generally, you'll need a bachelor's degree and a 2.5-3.0 GPA to get admitted.
  • You can expect to pay anywhere from around $300 to $1,500 per credit for your master's in early childhood education.
  • You'll study elementary curriculum design, instructional methods, and early literacy.
  • Common master's in early childhood education concentrations include special education and leadership and advocacy.

Choosing an Online Master's in Early Childhood Education Program

When choosing between online master's in early childhood education programs, evaluate each of your prospective program's strengths, requirements, and specializations.

For example, some programs provide a set curriculum, whereas others let you customize the degree. Additionally, some programs may require a capstone, while others may allow you to choose between writing a thesis or gaining work experience.

Some online early childhood education degrees offer concentrations or specializations in areas like administrative training. These concentrations may appeal to educators who want director-level positions.

Other specializations include special education and inclusive education.

By researching online early childhood education degree programs, you can find one that fits your interests, career goals, and budget.

What to Expect From an Online Master's in Early Childhood Education

With so many online degree options, you must consider the variations between early childhood education programs. Some may require a practicum or field experience, while others may not.

In some states, an online early childhood education master's degree may meet the qualifications for a teaching license. Because each program is different, you should closely research your top choices.

Most master's programs in early childhood education provide core courses in assessing young children's learning, play-based learning, and leadership in early childhood education.

You can expect to take the following courses:

Certifications and Licenses You Can Get With a Master's in Early Childhood Education

By earning a master's in early childhood education, you can meet the qualifications for many optional credentials below. Certifications generally require meeting certain educational requirements and passing an exam, though criteria differs by state.

Child Development Associate Credential

The Council for Professional Recognition provides this credential for candidates who meet all professional requirements, including experience working with children from birth to age 5.

You must have a minimum of a bachelor's in early childhood education.

Certified Child Care Professional

The National Early Childhood Program Accreditation offers certification as a childcare professional for candidates with childcare experience at a licensed childcare provider.

While the credential does not require a master's degree, graduates with a master's in early childhood education can meet the qualifications. Several states use this certification for director-level positions.

Popular Careers for a Master's in Early Childhood Education

With an early childhood education degree, you can pursue several career paths, working with children from birth to age 8.

You can stay in the classroom as a preschool teacher, childcare worker, or early childhood special education teacher. Or, you can move into administration.

In certain states, preschool directors must meet educational requirements, such as earning an advanced degree.

Here are three popular jobs you can pursue with a master's in early childhood education. All salary and job growth data below comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Preschool Teachers

Preschool teachers care for children before they enter kindergarten, teaching language, motor, and social skills. These professionals can work at both public and private schools.

Although entry-level positions only require an associate degree, a master's degree can qualify you for leadership positions.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021)
$30,210

Projected Job Growth Rate
15% increase from 2021-2031

Preschool and Childcare Center Directors

Preschool directors and childcare center directors supervise staff, design programs, and oversee daily activities. While a bachelor's degree meets the entry-level requirements for this role, some states require additional education.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021)
$47,310

Projected Job Growth Rate
8% increase from 2021-2031

Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, physical, and/or emotional disabilities. Some of these teachers focus on early childhood special education, working with children from birth to age 8.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021)
$61,820

Projected Job Growth Rate
4% increase from 2021-2031

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Early Childhood Education Programs

What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in early childhood education?

Early childhood education specialists and kindergarten and elementary school teachers rank as some of the highest-paying positions in early childhood education.

According to the BLS, kindergarten and elementary school teachers make a median annual salary of $61,400 as of May 2021. Preschool, elementary school, middle school, secondary school, and special education teachers earn a median annual salary of $61,030.

Special education teachers also earn some of the top wages, with a median pay of $61,820.

Do you need a bachelor's degree in education to get a master's in early childhood education?

You typically need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college to get admitted into an early childhood master's program.

That said, admission requirements can vary widely by school. You may need a bachelor's degree in education, for example. Additionally, some colleges may require that you also hold a valid teaching certificate or be in the process of seeking teaching licensure.

If colleges do not require a teaching certificate, they may ask that you have relevant work or volunteer experience.

How much is a master's in early childhood education?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate students at public institutions paid an average of $12,394 in tuition and fees in 2020-2021. Graduate students at nonprofit colleges paid a much higher average tuition of $28,445.

Many variables determine your total cost of college. For instance, some online programs may be cheaper because they offer in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of where they live.

All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the TBS Rankings Team.

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