Grow your passion for children into a long term career with an online bachelor’s in early childhood education.
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Have you always loved children? Maybe you’ve raised siblings or family members as your own, or perhaps you already work with children in your daily life. For those looking to turn their passion for children into a rewarding and in-demand career, a bachelor’s in early childhood education is the right place to start.
What Is an Early Childhood Education Degree?
A degree in early childhood education prepares you to work professionally with small children in both public and private environments, particularly in school settings.
Understanding the inner workings of childhood development is imperative when working with infants and toddlers. Childcare employees and teachers are often faced with a myriad of different situations as children truly begin to develop independence, speech, and personality traits.
A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education will give you the knowledge needed to assess a child’s needs and respond to any possible situation. It will also equip you with the ability to design thoughtful curriculum in a way that encourages the enrichment of young minds.
How Much Can You Earn with an Early Childhood Education Degree?
If you’re looking to work as a preschool teacher, then your chances of securing a job are high: employment of preschool teachers is projected to grow 7% from 2018 to 2028, according to the US Labor Bureau.
This degree will generally prepare you to work in either a public or private school environment. Other positions include childcare workers, teacher’s assistants, and center directors for young children. Depending on your specific field of study, you could also qualify to become a special education teacher. Average salaries hover around $60,000 a year.
What Is Required for a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education Degree?
While an undergraduate degree isn’t necessarily required to work in the field, it will certainly give you the competitive edge needed to be hired.
A bachelor’s in early childhood education is offered as either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) The BS degree will focus more on quantitative analysis and research, with a higher number of general education requirements in maths and sciences, while the BA degree will focus more on art, language, and communication.
Most degrees will require a high school diploma or GED, while others will require you to have completed an associate degree before applying. Depending on the school, you’ll also be asked to provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, an admission essay, and more.
What Are the Most Affordable Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education Degrees?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
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University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,909(in state) / $34,473(out of state)
- Tuition: $8,470
- Credit Hours: 180 (minimum 70 previous credits required)
- Asynchronous coursework
- Project-based coursework rather than test-oriented assessments
School Wide
Program Level
100%OSR ScoreThe early childhood education degree from UW is geared towards supporting the most vulnerable children at their most vulnerable times. A hands-on approach assures not only a university program that is accessible and affordable, but also a degree that feels relevant today. UW’s applied learning method focuses on evidence-based practices in the classroom.
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Prescott College
20-Year ROI$650,436
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $28,896(in state) / $28,896(out of state)
- Tuition: $14,682
- Credit Hours: 120
- Five additional degree certification programs available
School Wide
Program Level
92%OSR ScorePrescott College’s education programs truly embody the spirit of the 21st century. Emphases in Environmental Literacy, Social Justice, and more allow students to maximize the integration of contemporary issues into their teaching. The school’s education initiatives even include helping teachers navigate the challenges of at-home, online learning with parents and students.
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Ashford University
20-Year ROI$818,512
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,848(in state) / $10,848(out of state)
- Tuition: $15,300
- Credit Hours: 120
- One course taken at a time
- Each course a total of five weeks long
School Wide
Program Level
90%OSR ScoreWhether your ultimate goal is to work directly with young children or to create policy for the teachers that do, Ashford University offers an appropriate online track for you. They offer degree emphases in Cognitive Studies, Environmental Management & Sustainability, Web & Mobile App Technology, and more. Upon graduation, you will have advanced instructional skills, theoretical knowledge, and familiarity with the education industry as a whole.
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Brandman University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,000(in state) / $12,000(out of state)
- Tuition: $15,000
- Credit Hours: 120
- 90% of students work while enrolled
- Residents of some states not eligible
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreWith over 56% of its graduates being parents themselves, Brandman University’s online early childhood education degree is the model of flexible learning. The school boasts a student-centered curriculum as well as faculty who are dedicated solely to its online students. The program includes on-site application of theories through both fieldwork and two practicums requirements.
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Liberty University
20-Year ROI$718,609
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,734(in state) / $15,734(out of state)
- Tuition: 11,700
- Credit Hours: 120
- Electronic textbooks provided for all undergraduate courses
- Up to 75% of coursework can be transferred
School Wide
Program Level
88%OSR ScoreLiberty University is renowned for offering programs that are affordable and accessible, and its online education degree is no different. At Liberty, you will learn both the fundamentals of the field as well as modern trends, studying assessment methods such as direct instruction and adaptive learning. The BS in Elementary Education can be taken in tandem with Liberty’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT).
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Florida International University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,721(in state) / $16,529(out of state)
- Tuition: $6,864 in state / $10,376 out of state
- Credit Hours: 120
- Four annual start dates
- Every undergraduate student is paired with a success coach
School Wide
Program Level
87%OSR ScoreThe online early childhood education degree from Florida International University seeks to prepare students for careers in childcare, child development, and general early education. Its BS takes an all-encompassing approach to early childhood development, with courses in literacy development, family engagement, and cultural diversity. Its online platforms are available 24/7 for interaction with professors and students.
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Mayville State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,255(in state) / $7,883(out of state)
- Tuition: $314 per credit
- Credit Hours: 120
- Four specialization options
- Both BA and BSEd degree options available
School Wide
Program Level
86%OSR Score“Supportive and safe learning environments” are parts of the core learning objectives for the bachelor’s in early childhood education program at Mayville State University. Students can start in MSU’s AA track, then easily transfer credits into the bachelor’s degree program. Students who complete the online degree program are also certified in CPR/First Aid response.
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University of the Southwest
20-Year ROI$719,683
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,000(in state) / $16,000(out of state)
- Tuition: $14,100
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program leads to licensure in the state of New Mexico
- 30 hours of residency integrated into the degree
School Wide
Program Level
84%OSR ScoreUniversity of the Southwest seeks to create fully-realized educators by incorporating state-approved curriculums and small, personalized classes. Its bachelor’s in early childhood in education includes programs such as Reading Instruction and a semester of intern teaching. Students who complete this BS degree can choose to stay with USW and pursue a Master of Science in Education (MSE).
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Colorado Christian University
20-Year ROI$773,184
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $21,810(in state) / $21,810(out of state)
- Tuition: $14,070
- Credit Hours: 120
- Each course is taken individually
- Six years of guaranteed fixed tuition once enrolled
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreThe BA in Early Childhood Education from Colorado Christian University provides comprehensive undergraduate training through a Christian lense. The degree can be taken with or without the option of Colorado licensure, and coursework focuses on the modern needs of students through servant-leadership. The program boasts small class sizes and direct access to field professionals.
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National University
20-Year ROI$1,183,483
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,032(in state) / $13,032(out of state)
- Tuition: $8,325
- Credit Hours: 90 (quarter units)
- Tuition discounts available for veterans and online students
- Year-round admittance
School Wide
Program Level
80%OSR ScoreAs a veteran-founded non-profit university, NU seeks to provide affordable and flexible degrees to students, and the BA in Early Childhood Education is one of its many excellent offerings. The degree covers a wide gamut of topics, from technical skills and speaking with young students’ families to ethical and legal standards within the profession. As a student within the ECE program at National University, you will have over 16 education faculty members at your disposal.
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Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
20-Year ROI$708,304
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,550(in state) / $5,550(out of state)
- Tuition: $25,000
- Credit Hours: 122
- Classes offered in 8-week or 16-week formats
- Selective admissions process for entrance into degree program
School Wide
Program Level
80%OSR ScoreCMU’s early childhood education degree prepares students to directly enter the world of teaching by providing them with the educational background desired by primary schools. The BS includes multiple practicums, internships, and student teaching opportunities. At Central Methodist, you’ll have many degree options, including Special Education, Child Development, and Educational Studies.
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Florida Gateway College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $2,369(in state) / $9,473(out of state)
- Tuition: $6,916
- Credit Hours: 120
- All full-time faculty have doctoral degrees
- An AS in Early Childhood Education must be completed to graduate
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreAs a student at Florida Gateway College, you’ll learn to emphasize strategy and continuous reassessments as core tenets of your teaching strategy, as well as many other practical teaching methods. You will receive coursework covering curriculum for young children, direct access to in-person education programs, and opportunities for student teaching. FGC accepts the TEACH Early Childhood Scholarship offered by Children’s Forum.
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University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,422(in state) / $19,581(out of state)
- Tuition: In-state $4,470 / Out-of-State $ 8,940
- Credit Hours: 120
- Annual application deadlines July 15th and December 1st
- Eligible for the 2PLUS transferral program
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreSpecialization is key at the University of Northern Carolina, with two options offered in its bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. You can select a degree track in either Birth Through Kindergarten licensure or in Early Care and Education. UNC uses a combination of individual coursework and live online learning within its course instruction.
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Adams State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,736(in state) / $16,752(out of state)
- Tuition: $11,904 (in-state)
- Credit Hours: 60
- 99% of graduates are employed within 90 days of graduation
- Must be in possession of a prior associate degree in childhood education
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreAdams State University offers a self-paced study structure and a selection of liberal arts coursework in order for you to personalize your learning path. ASU seeks to equip all of its graduates with the tools needed to teach any type of child in the early stages of childhood development. Learning topics include effective approaches for students who are diverse linguistically, culturally, and in learning style.
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State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $2,365(in state) / $9,467(out of state)
- Tuition: in-state $3,024 / out-of-state $11,934
- Credit Hours: 54
- Free tuition on acceptance into Barancik Foundation Early Educators Cohort
- Emphasis in infant and toddler education from birth to age four
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreSCF places a heavy importance on practical experience, with three internships and four field experience courses built into the online degree track. Its singular Go Live online learning format allows one-one one interactions with both professors and students, as well as live lectures and Q&A sessions. The State College of Florida also participates in the Florida Prepaid plan.
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Wilmington University
20-Year ROI$848,436
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,890(in state) / $10,890(out of state)
- Tuition: $11,430
- Credit Hours: 122
- Over 13 additional certifications offered
- 91% of Delaware’s K-12 school leaders choose WilmU for higher education
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreWilmington University offers six different class formats for in-person and online learning, maximizing its ability to match your needs. Its early childhood education degree program is nationally recognized by the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) in providing essential teaching tools for its students. Coursework includes Child Development and Differentiated Methods of Teaching.
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Purdue University Global-Cedar Falls Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,327(in state) / $15,327(out of state)
- Tuition: $16,695
- Credit Hours: 180
- Course credit for past work experiences
- Ten-week term courses
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScorePurdue University’s program differs from others on our list in that it focuses on education administration. The degree blends theoretical concepts of early childhood development with fundamental approaches to administrative policies. An accelerated bachelor’s option is available for those looking to continue straight into a master’s program.
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Notre Dame College
20-Year ROI$844,017
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $28,600(in state) / $28,600(out of state)
- Tuition: $15,200
- Credit Hours: 125-128
- 100+ hours of field experience for each student
- Active teaching program for over 90 years
School Wide
Program Level
74%OSR ScoreNotre Dame’s online childhood education degree is just one of the college’s long list of excellent programs. Just over 50 hours of general education requirements are matched with nearly 60 hours of professional and early childhood education credits, in addition to core curriculum classes. The school offers both a licensure and non-licensure track for its childhood education program.
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Florida State College at Jacksonville
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $2,095(in state) / $7,947(out of state)
- Tuition: $12,586
- Credit Hours: 120
- Must pass the General Knowledge Examination for Florida Teacher Certification to enter
- Students can enroll in the winter, summer, or fall
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreFlorida State College’s early childhood degree combines practicality with affordability. The courses of this BS degree are designed to both meet and excel the Florida Department of Education requirements with evidence-based learning. As a student, you will be asked to complete over 150 hours of student teaching and field work.
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The University of Montana-Western
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,308(in state) / $15,450(out of state)
- Tuition: In-state $5,725 / Out-of-state $ 16,724
- Credit Hours: 120
- Participant of the Western Undergraduate Exchange Program
- Rural Fridays program brings home schooled students to campus
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreThe strength of the early childhood education major at The University of Montana is clear to anyone who takes a look. The university utilizes the Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation Model Classroom to prepare you for a 21st century classroom. Completing this BS in early childhood education will enable you to create enriching learning environments.
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Chaminade University of Honolulu
20-Year ROI$759,124
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $24,400(in state) / $24,400(out of state)
- Tuition: $19,800
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program offers both AS and BS options
- $5,000 scholarship available to online students
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR Score“Instill children with a joy to learn.” These words represent the spirited approach that Chaminade University takes towards its early childhood education degree. The curriculum places an emphasis on diverse students and learning environments, ethics within the teaching profession, and application of Marianist philosophy for all-inclusive learning.
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South Dakota State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,191(in state) / $10,439(out of state)
- Tuition: $16,500
- Credit Hours: 120
- Member of the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (GPIDEA)
- Course sequence can be designed to meet your personal needs
School Wide
Program Level
72%OSR ScoreThe BS in Early Education and Care from South Dakota State offers opportunities for students to focus on child development within highly mobile families. Through this program, you will also be able to participate in student networking groups such as the South Dakota Education Association. This childhood education degree is a collaborative effort, ensuring you receive a top-notch online degree with coursework spanning multiple universities.
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Pacific Oaks College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $21,090(in state) / $21,090(out of state)
- Tuition: $18,225
- Credit Hours: 121
- Four unique specialization options
- Up 24 credits offered for past workplace experience
School Wide
Program Level
71%OSR ScorePacific Oaks College strives to impart its core tenets of humanity and social justice within all of its majors, including its bachelor’s degree in education. Collaboration with others, problem solving, inquiry, and self-reflection are all integrated into its course offerings. Applicants must show three years of prior work experience, or equivalent completed university credits, in order to be considered for this program.
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Granite State College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,368(in state) / $8,280(out of state)
- Tuition: $9,420
- Credit Hours: 120
- Both certification and non-certification tracks available
- Top 20 college in the nation with lowest median federal debt per student
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScoreGranite State College is unique in its orientation towards adult learners who are seeking to either go back to school or advance in their current careers. Its BS in Early Childhood Education offers maximum flexibility with the pace and procedure of its coursework, accepting up to 90 transfer credits. The degree program focuses on the assessment of young children with exceptionalities and special education law and practices.
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Eastern Oregon University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,928(in state) / $18,248(out of state)
- Tuition: $11,925
- Credit Hours: 180
- Up to 135 credits from previous college coursework can be applied
- Bachelor’s degree alone does not offer licensure certification
School Wide
Program Level
69%OSR ScoreEastern Oregon University promises its digital students access to the same professors, content, and opportunities they would receive on campus. Program courses focus on subjects such as advocacy for young children and high-quality lesson plan material creation. If you’re seeking a teacher certification, EOU offers an MA in Teaching licensure program, which can be taken in tandem with your undergraduate degree.
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Northwestern College
20-Year ROI$756,764
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $30,000(in state) / $30,000(out of state)
- Tuition:
- Credit Hours: 124
- 8-week course structure
- Seamless transfer of associate degree credits
School Wide
Program Level
69%OSR ScoreIn addition to offering strong online coursework in early childhood education, Northwestern College is committed to helping achieve your degree without accruing massive debt. Northwestern offers the TEACH scholarship, which covers most of your tuition, textbooks, stipends for travel and internet, and paid time away from work. They also participate in Child Care WAGE$ Iowa, which gives wage supplements to passionate students pursuing their degree.
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California Baptist University
20-Year ROI$839,708
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $30,446(in state) / $30,446(out of state)
- Tuition: $14,500
- Credit Hours: 48
- Average student graduates within 16 months
- Programs taught with the ethical standards of Christian heritage
School Wide
Program Level
68%OSR ScoreCalifornia Baptist University offers a degree in early childhood education with a global context. It encourages students to engage with others, make effective decisions, and think critically. Coursework includes Spiritual Development of Young Children, Administration of Early Childhood, and Foundations of Christian Thought.
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Concordia University-Portland
20-Year ROI$857,806
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $29,620(in state) / $29,620(out of state)
- Tuition: $31,158
- Credit Hours: 124
- Teach-Out partnership available with Concordia University-Chicago
- First-of-its-kind, PreK-8 public school within the University system
School Wide
Program Level
67%OSR ScoreConcordia University has been delivering ground-breaking, high-quality education with a Christian lens for over 110 years. Coursework includes Innovative & Creative Approaches to Learning, Equity and Justice in ECE, The Teacher as Researcher, and more. You can also choose to continue your education at Concordia University through its master’s, doctoral, and certification programs.
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Grand Canyon University
20-Year ROI$1,049,692
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,365(in state) / $16,365(out of state)
- Tuition: $13,200
- Credit Hours: 120
- Interactive online education through Learning Management System
- One-on-one tutoring sessions available with a learning advocate
School Wide
Program Level
65%OSR ScoreGrand Canyon University’s courses within its early childhood education degree are 7 weeks long and can be taken on your own schedule. CGU’s program is unique in that it provides you with the opportunity to directly practice the technologies you will be implementing for your students. This Bachelor of Arts from GCU leads to qualification for licensure.
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Southwestern College
20-Year ROI$920,340
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $28,600(in state) / $28,600(out of state)
- Tuition: $17,005
- Credit Hours: 124
- General Education requirements waived for students with A.A. degree
- Qualifying military members pay half of tuition price
School Wide
Program Level
65%OSR ScoreThe active child programs held at Southwestern College give students to apply the concepts they learn in real-time. These include an early learning center, an afterschool program, and multiple special education programs partners such as PALS (Preschool and Language Stimulation) and REACH. Online Early Childhood Education receive the same diploma as their on-campus peers.
