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Early Childhood Education Online Certificate Programs

THE INDUSTRY LEADER FOR ONLINE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

CCEI’s certificate programs are an excellent opportunity for educators to expand their knowledge and skills. Our programs are designed to help teachers stay current in their field, meet state licensing requirements, and enhance their effectiveness in the classroom. Our online format allows you to learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, and from anywhere with internet access.

CCEI’s certificate programs cover a wide range of topics in early childhood education. Our courses are research-based and developed by experts in their field designed to be both informative and engaging. In addition, our programs are affordable.

Earning a certificate from CCEI can help you advance your career and give you the tools you need to be a successful educator. At CCEI, we are committed to providing quality professional development opportunities for teachers. We are confident that our programs will meet your needs.   Don’t miss this chance to invest in your professional development and take your teaching to the next level. Learn more about our certificate programs and register today.

To view all CCEI Certificate Program offerings, please review our extensive Certificate Programs Catalog  here .

Online Child Care Certificate Programs & CDA Courses

Click on a course to view the details and requirements

• Instructor-Supported CDA Family Child Care Certificate
• Instructor-Supported CDA Infant-Toddler Certificate
• Instructor-Supported CDA Preschool Certificate
• El certificado de cuidado infantil familiar de CDA apoyado por un instructor
• El certificado de bebé-niño de CDA apoyado por el instructor
• El certificado preescolar CDA apoyado por un instructor
• Self-Study CDA Family Child Care Certificate
• Self-Study CDA Infant-Toddler Certificate
• Self-Study CDA Preschool Certificate
• Programa de Autoaprendizaje y Certificación CDA para Bebés y Párvulos
• Programa de Autoaprendizaje y Certificación CDA para Preescolares
• Programa de Autoaprendizaje y Certificación CDA para Hogares de Cuidado Infantil Familiar
• CDA Credential Renewal Certificate – Infant-Toddler
• CDA Credential Renewal Certificate – Preschool
• CDA Credential Renewal Certificate – Family Child Care
• CDA Credential Renewal Certificate – Infant-Toddler – Spanish
• CDA Credential Renewal Certificate – Preschool – Spanish
• CDA Credential Renewal Certificate – Family Child Care – Spanish
• Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC)
• Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) – Spanish
• Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) School-Age Certificate
• Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) Renewal Certificate
• Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) Renewal Certificate – Spanish
• Infant-Toddler Certificate

Administrator Programs

• Director’s Certificate
• Director’s Certificate Renewal
• Florida Director’s Certificate Renewal
• Georgia Director’s Certificate
• Texas Director’s Credential
• Texas Director’s Credential Renewal

Professional Development Certificate Programs

• Basic Center Management Certificate
• Basic Principles of Child Development
• Budgeting and Risk Management Certificate
• CCDBG Health & Safety Training for ECE Professionals in Nevada
• Child Care Orientation Certificate
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills Certificate
• Diversity and Multiculturalism Certificate
• Georgia Health and Safety Orientation Certificate – 10 Hours
• Health and Hygiene Certificate
• Infant-Toddler Orientation Certificate
• Mandated Reporter Certificate
• Oklahoma Health and Safety Pre-Service Certificate
• Positive Guidance Certificate
• Special Needs and Inclusive Education Certificate
• Staff Leadership Certificate

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Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (Birth - Age 5)

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UC Online’s Bachelor in Early Childhood Education (ECE) offers a program to round out and enhance educators’ Birth – Age 5 educational experience. This program is designed to build on associate degree competencies to strengthen professionals’ ability to design and implement developmentally appropriate learning environments for children Birth–Age 5.

Whether you are in a preschool, Head Start program, child-care center, family childcare environment, or just interested in getting started in the field, our online program provides the flexibility and accessibility you need.  Our courses give you information and strategies that you can learn today and apply in the classroom tomorrow! This degree does not lead to Pre-Kindergarten – Grade 5 licensure.

Early Childhood Education Program Highlights:

• Start-to-Graduation Support: Every student enrolled online is assigned a dedicated Academic Advisor and also a Student Success Coordinator providing one-on-one support. They are your on-campus partners who can help you manage your time and ensure you’re meeting degree requirements to get you to graduation.
• T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® OHIO Scholarship: Current Ohio early childhood professionals may be eligible to receive financial assistance for the cost of tuition, books, and related education expenses. Visit OCCRRA to apply.
• 100% Online: All coursework is completed online – no campus visits are required!
• Flexible Scheduling: Offering part-time and full-time options, our online program is designed with busy, working professionals in mind.
• Three Start Dates per Year: With courses offered year-round, students are offered the convenience of beginning their degree in Fall, Spring, or Summer.
• Accredited:  The University of Cincinnati and all of its regional campuses are accredited by the  Higher Learning Commission . Additionally, UC’s College of Education, Criminal Justice & Human Rights (CECH) is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
• Nationally Ranked: UC Online’s BSEd in Early Childhood Care & Education is currently ranked as the 2nd Best Online Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education by TheBestSchools.org .

Our Guiding Principles:

• To provide accessible education to early childhood teachers.
• To support teachers, families, staff, administrators, and children they serve.
• To help programs meet state and federal mandates and quality initiatives.
• To help teachers meet educational goals.
• To strengthen workplace learning.
• To create technology-proficient teachers.

Business Scholarship Program

UC Online has partnered with hundreds of companies to offer tuition scholarships to employees, spouses, and dependents.

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Yes. You will need to work with a program advisor to understand what credits will apply and meet the minimum requirement for credit hours completed at the University of Cincinnati.

Programs can be completed full-time or part-time. Many programs are set up to be part-time, with most containing fewer than 10 credit hours in any given semester. We know you have a lot going on, so want to make sure that school can fit into your schedule. Note: There are some exceptions.

Tuition is calculated on a per-credit basis. Refer to the Tuition and Fees Chart for more details.

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• Online Associates Degree Early Childhood Development

Online Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Development

Admissions requirements.

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Associate’s in Early Childhood Development Overview

Come back and move forward in a rewarding education career. Earn your degree in early childhood development online and be ready to make a difference in young children’s lives.

• Gain the introductory knowledge and skills to work with children (birth through age 8) and families in early childhood settings, or further your current career in the early childhood development field.
• Learn to create effective learning environments for young children, including supporting their growth and development, building inclusive classrooms, and addressing health and nutrition needs.
• Get a head start on your next degree — apply your AAS in Early Childhood Development credits toward our BS in Early Childhood Administration in the future.

Gain the Skills That Employers — and Children — Need

• Bring knowledge and theory from the classroom into real-world early childhood settings.
• Plan lessons for young children and their families.
• Help strengthen family and community relationships.
• Apply professional standards, values, and practices.
• Understand the importance of individuality and cultural diversity in learning and development.

Review College Scorecard data for this program .

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

The HLC ( HLCommission.org ) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Calculate Your Time and Cost

Estimate how much your prior learning credits can reduce your tuition and time to graduation.

What Courses Will I Take?

The associate’s in early childhood development curriculum connects applied theory to practice, ethics, and professionalism. It also helps you develop the critical thinking and communication skills you need to fulfill the responsibilities of early child care development roles in a variety of learning environments.

Sample Courses

• Early Childhood Curriculum Planning
• Child Safety, Nutrition, and Health
• Creative Activities for Young Children
• Introduction to Early Childhood Education
• Young Children With Special Needs

Program Requirements

1 semester credit hour = 1.5 quarter credit hours

3-Week Trial

Not sure if Purdue Global is right for you? Try an undergraduate program for an introductory 3-week trial period.

There’s no financial obligation and no cost to apply.  That’s the Purdue Global Commitment.

Students who choose to continue at Purdue Global will be billed for the full first term's tuition, including the 3-week trial. See Notes and Conditions below .

You must be a high school graduate or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or other equivalency diploma. You are also encouraged to complete orientation before you start classes.

Refer to the University Catalog or speak to an Advisor to learn more.

Upcoming Start Dates

We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life, and work schedules.

Prepare for the Child Development Associate Credential

The course CE101: Introduction to Early Childhood Education meets the ten hours of training in each of the eight Child Development Associate (CDA) subject areas that are required for the highly regarded CDA credential. Many states require the CDA Credential for those who wish to take on a director of child development role.

The eight areas include:

• Planning a safe and healthy learning environment
• Advancing children’s physical and intellectual development
• Supporting children’s social and emotional development
• Building productive relationships with families
• Managing an effective program operation
• Maintaining a commitment to professionalism
• Observing and recording children’s behavior
• Understanding the principles of child development and learning

Earn Credit for the CDA Credential

If you’ve already earned your Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, you may be eligible for credit toward your degree. Students who hold a valid and current CDA credential (preschool, infant-toddler, or family child care) are eligible to receive this credit for the following Purdue Global courses:

• CE101: Introduction to Early Childhood Education — 5 quarter credits
• CE114: Early Childhood Development — 5 quarter credits
• CE220: Child Safety, Nutrition, and Health — 5 quarter credits

For more information on the CDA, see the Council for Professional Recognition website.

Take the Next Step in Your Education and Career

Reach your professional goals sooner.

Earning your associate’s degree in early childhood development can have an immediate impact on your career. It also lays the groundwork for advancing to a Purdue Global bachelor’s degree.

Get a Head Start on Your Bachelor's

Coursework from the AAS in Early Childhood Development is 100% transferrable into Purdue Global’s  online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Administration .

Ways to Save on Time and Tuition

Purdue Global works with students to find ways to reduce costs and make education more accessible. Contact us to learn about opportunities to save on your educational costs.

Earn credit for prior coursework completed at eligible institutions, including community colleges.

You could earn undergraduate credit for your life and professional career experiences.

Learn about federal financial aid programs available for many of our degree programs.

Learn about federal and state grants and loan programs that may be available.

Employees of Purdue Global partner organizations may be eligible for special tuition reductions.

Undergraduate tuition savings for military include a 55% reduction per credit for current servicemembers and 38% per credit for veterans.

Earn credit for your military training. The average Purdue Global military student is awarded 54% of the credits needed for an associate's and 45% of the credits needed for a bachelor's.

View the total cost of attendance for your program.

Earning your AAS in Early Childhood Development online at Purdue Global prepares you to pursue a number of careers in the field, such as child care program specialist, preschool assistant teacher, and preschool teacher (except special education). Potential employers include Head Start and school readiness programs, local preschools, early intervention programs, and child care organizations.

Average Salary

In Your State

General labor market and salary data are provided by Lightcast and may not represent the outcomes experienced by Purdue Global graduates in these programs. Purdue Global graduates in these programs may earn salaries substantially different or less than the amounts listed above. Salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education, and opportunities for employment that are outside of Purdue Global's control.

Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

Get to Know Our Faculty

Purdue Global faculty members are real-world practitioners who bring knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and industry experience.

Faculty members who have advanced degrees

Faculty members who hold a doctorate

Faculty publications in 2022–2023

Professional development hours logged by faculty in 2022–2023

Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school- or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, July 2023. 2022–2023 academic year.

Download the Program Brochure

Download our brochure to learn more about the Online Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development and the benefits of earning your degree at Purdue Global. Prepare yourself for success with an associate’s degree in early childhood development.

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

* Estimated Graduation Date and Average Completion: Estimated graduation date is based on the assumption that you will enroll in time to begin classes on the next upcoming start date, will remain enrolled for each consecutive term, and will maintain satisfactory academic standing in each term to progress toward completion of your program. Completion time is based on a full-time schedule. Programs will take longer for part-time students to complete.

Credit for Prior Learning: Purdue Global does not guarantee transferability of credit. See the University Catalog for the Prior Learning policy .

Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment.

Future Programs: The University cannot guarantee that students will be granted admission to any future programs. Speak to an Advisor about transfer credit opportunities and see the University Catalog for the Prior Learning policy .

Three-Week Trial: Students who inform Purdue Global they do not wish to pursue the program during the 3-week trial will not be charged. Students who choose to continue at Purdue Global will be billed for the full first term's tuition, including the 3-week trial, and will need to meet other specific requirements. Classes will be applied toward a degree if satisfactorily completed and students select to continue their studies at Purdue Global. No credits are earned if the student withdraws during the introductory period (3 weeks for new qualifying undergraduate students), which begins day one of the first term. Graduate programs and BS in Professional Flight not included. Additional terms may apply to international and non-U.S. citizen students. For further information, see the University Catalog .

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NAEYC’s online professional development introduces early childhood educators to core ideas from NAEYC’s position statements, books, journals, and more. Designed with busy educators in mind, our online resources provide self-paced, interactive learning that connects professional knowledge to daily practice through practical strategies that bolster best instructional approaches. 

Get started today! Explore available courses below and  learn about group discounts .

Already completed your purchase? Visit the NAEYC Learning Lab to log-in and begin your course!

Please Note: NAEYC online courses can only be purchased on the naeyc.org website. NAEYC is not currently offering free courses with the U.S. Department of Education or advertising these courses on Facebook. If you have received these fake ads on your feed, please report them as spam. 

New to the NAEYC Learning Lab!

Context: understanding the child, educator, and program (on demand).

Join DAP thought leaders Susan Friedman and Lorena Mancilla as we focus on one of the 3 Core Considerations: Context.

DAP & The Nine Principles of Child Development and Learning (On Demand)

Hear from DAP thought leader, Dr. Iheoma Iruka as she shares her perspective on taking an equity-focused approach to understand and support child development.

DAP & Teacher Decision Making (On Demand)

Hear from DAP thought leaders, Sue Bredekamp and Barbara Willer, as they reflect on the importance of the core considerations to teacher decision making.

Emergent Curriculum and the Cycle of Inquiry (On Demand)

NAEYC’s Emergent Curriculum and the Cycle of Inquiry Approach course, is the first step on your journey to guiding children through an emergent curriculum.

Rethinking Circle Time: Effective Communication with Young Children (On Demand)

Rethinking Circle Time provides clear communication strategies, from a behavioral psychology perspective, to help teachers succeed and have a stress-free classroom.

Choose Your Topic!

Ampliando el aprendizaje de los niños a través del juego guiado (a pedido).

En este taller de 1 hora aprenderemos cómo el juego guiada amplía el pensamiento de los niños y las oportunidades de aprendizaje. También describiremos cómo los adultos guían el juego de los niños aplicando tres estrategias. Este módulo se presentó en el Instituto Virtual de NAEYC.

Classroom-Based Assessment (On Demand)

The course is divided into three, 1-hour online modules that help to answer basic questions teachers have about classroom-based assessment, such as:

•  What do preschool teachers need to know about assessment?
•  When & how should preschool teachers collect work samples & photos as evidence of learning?
•  How can teachers use assessment to guide decisions about curriculum & instruction?

Culturally Appropriate Positive Guidance (On Demand)

This 1-hour online module covers: 

• Classroom examples and practical strategies to enhance awareness of how cultural practices are deeply embedded in children and families behavior.
• A deeper understanding of culture in family practices (things families think, say, and do)
• Strategies to be more responsive to the diverse families and children in our programs

Developmentally Appropriate Practice: What do higher education faculty need to know? (On Demand)

• Understand the key revisions to the DAP Position Statement
• Hear recommendations from higher education faculty

Developmentally Appropriate Practice: What do professional development providers need to know? (On Demand)

• Hear recommendations for PD Providers from thought leaders in the field

Developmentally Appropriate Practice: What Do Program Leaders Need to Know? (On Demand)

Listen as early childhood education experts Sue Bredekamp, PhD, Marie Masterson, PhD, and Iheoma Iruka, PhD reflect on NAEYC’s newly revised Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) position statement.

Developmentally Appropriate Practice: What do teachers need to know? (On Demand)

• Understand the key revisions to the DAP Position Statement 
•  Hear how two teachers are implementing DAP in their classrooms

Each & Every Child: Teaching Preschool with an Equity Lens (Facilitated)

Registration has closed.

Interested in participating in future facilitated events like this? Let us know  here

This faciliated online mini-course explores the six parts of the book,  Each and Every Child: Teaching Preschool with an Equity Lens   and includes 4 hours of self-paced learning and 3 hours of face-to-face video meetings with a facilitator over the course of 4 weeks:

•  October 5th, 2020 at 5:00 PM Eastern 
•  October 19th, 2020 at 5:00 PM Eastern 
•  November 2nd, 2020 at 5:00 PM Eastern 

Each & Every Child: Teaching Preschool with an Equity Lens (On Demand)

The 4 hours of self-paced learning include:

• Key practices in combating implicit bias
• Strategies and tips for how to support the learning and development of each and every child
• Examples of intentional play opportunities and guided instructional supports

HOT: Big Questions (On Demand)

This online learning experience includes a webinar segment by authors Janis Strasser and Lisa Mufson Bresson, and discusses real classroom scenarios, the different types of questions that engage children, and how they can be used in different activities throughout the day.

HOT: Creativity (On Demand)

HOT Creativity is a self-paced, 1-hour online module that provides preschool teachers with innovative ideas to incorporate the following aspects into their classroom: 

• Open-ended art activities
• Higher order thinking skills and "big" questions
• Active, intentional technology engagement

HOT: Tinkering (On Demand)

HOT Tinkering is a self-paced module which explores concepts of making, tinkering and engineering for preschoolers while connecting higher order thinking skills to everyday interactions. 

This 1-hour online module provides: 

• Teacher facilitation strategies
• An in-depth look at ways to scaffold higher order thinking with young children
• Tips for implementing a tinker station in your classrooms

Higher Order Thinking Bundle (On Demand)

This collection of higher-order thinking modules brings together three of NAEYC’s popular modules into one convenient package:

•  HOT: Big Questions,
•  HOT: Creativity, and
•  HOT: Tinkering. 

The bundle also includes supplemental articles to reinforce your learning and a Message in a Backpack™ handout for families to encourage curiosity at home. 

Resource Library on Trauma and Young Children

This resource library explores key concepts of trauma and sensitive strategies for working with young children who have experienced trauma. 

Earn up to 5.25 hours of training exploring the following resources: 

•  An interactive module that includes a presentation from author Sarah Erdman 
•  The E-Book:  Trauma & Young Children: Teaching Strategies to Support and Empower
•  A digital copy of  Young Children , July 2020 edition " From Good Guidance to Trauma-Informed Care"
•  3 bonus presentations on trauma

Self-Study: 1, 2, 3! (On Demand)

NAEYC is the world’s preeminent organization dedicated to early childhood education. Hear from NAEYC’s professional development team about the self-study process to improve program quality.

Serious Fun! (On Demand)

This online learning experiences offers guidance on how to: 

• interact with children during play
• carefully evaluate teaching strategies,
• incorporate meaningful play opportunities into rigorous and developmentally appropriate practices that can result in deep, rich learning for children.

Strengthening Relationships With Families (On Demand)

This online module will introduce the 6 principles of family engagement and practical strategies for strengthening program-family relationships.

The Path to Quality Early Learning Services (On Demand)

The Path to Quality Early Learning Services  is a self-paced, 1-hour online module designed for early childhood program leaders. This online module provides an overview of:

• NAEYC's history, mission, and goals
• The foundations of developmentally appropriate practice, and
•  NAEYC's Early Learning Program Standards, which provide a framework to achieving a high-quality program

This module includes a PDF of  Teaching Young Children , “Defining and Recognizing High-Quality Early Learning Programs: NAEYC's 10 Accreditation Standards.”

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Online Master of Education in Early Childhood Education

In the Master of Education in early childhood education program, you’ll expand your specialized knowledge and intellectual skills, examine early childhood education research and discover innovative ways to work with infants and children.

Quick facts

Next start date: 01/13/2025

Total classes: 11

Weeks per class: 15

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Early Childhood Education (MEd) ? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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By submitting my information, I consent to ASU contacting me about educational services using automated calls, prerecorded voice messages, SMS/text messages or email at the information provided above. Message and data rates may apply. Consent is not required to receive services, and I may call ASU directly at 866-277-6589 . I consent to ASU’s mobile terms and conditions , and Privacy Statements , including the European Supplement.

What is an MEd in early childhood education?

• Interested in learning about early childhood education research and working with infants and children in grades K-3.
• With a teaching certificate and a desire to further their knowledge and skills.
• Working in an early childhood setting and looking to pursue a leadership role.
• Pursuing future doctoral studies.

Why should I study early childhood education?

What skills will i learn in this early childhood education program.

• Knowledge of childhood development.
• Equitable learning environments and inclusion.
• Current trends, research and evaluation.
• Instructional design techniques.

Professional licensure and certification

ASU academic programs are designed to prepare students to apply for applicable licensure or certification in Arizona. Completion of an ASU program may not meet education requirements for license or certification in another state. If you are planning to pursue professional licensure or certification in a state other than Arizona, it is strongly recommended that you visit our professional licensure page for contact information of the appropriate licensing entity to seek information and guidance regarding licensure or certification requirements.

Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

MEd in early childhood education courses

Throughout the early childhood education program, you’ll complete coursework on a diverse set of topics centered around working with young learners. This 30-credit program is made up of eight core courses, one elective course and a capstone course, in which you’re required to complete a supervised applied project.

Please note: In order to complete all coursework, you’ll need access to children in a professional or community setting. Featured courses include:

What can I do with an MEd in early childhood education?

Upon graduation, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to apply practical challenges and create positive change for learners, families and communities. Career examples include, but are not limited to:

Learn about early childhood education from world renowned faculty

The Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines including cognitive science, psychology and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices and effects of education policy. Our faculty is also committed to connecting research to schools and other learning environments. They ensure teacher and leadership preparation programs combine scholarly rigor with practical application.

Admissions requirements for the early childhood education program:

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree, in any field, from a regionally accredited institution.

Application requirements

Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of a student's first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• Graduate admission application and application fee.
• Official transcripts.
• Personal statement.
• Three letters of recommendation.

Additional admission information

• An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
• The letters of recommendation should be from individuals who have worked with you in professional or academic capacities and who can attest to your aptitude for the teaching profession and your ability to succeed at graduate-level coursework.
• The personal statement should describe the personal and professional goals that motivate you to apply for this program, what has led you to this career path and how this program will help you excel as an early childhood educator. The admission committee pays particular attention to the quality of writing and ideas expressed in the personal statement.
• GRE scores are not required for admission.

State authorization: We strongly recommend you visit our state authorization page to learn how ASU is authorized to operate in your state, policies for out-of-state students and program exceptions.

Join one of the best colleges of education in the nation

Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College brings people and ideas together to increase the capabilities of educators and the performance of education systems. According to U.S. News & World Report, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College is the only U.S. college of education to rank in the top 15 for both on-campus and online graduate education degrees.

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Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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• Early Childhood Education

Earn your Early Childhood Education certificate online

Helping shape young minds is the kind of challenging, yet rewarding career that requires both compassion and discipline. Earn your Early Childhood Education certificate online and gain an understanding of what it takes to work with children—from curriculum development to health, safety, and nutrition. Upon graduation, you’ll be able to apply your studies to the 120 hours of professional education you need to earn your Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential™.

Our Undergraduate Certificate in Early Childhood Education is further set apart by its flexibility. You’ll have the opportunity to set your own pace and fit your studies in alongside your existing obligations. With online classes, you can complete the one-semester program from anywhere and choose to proceed to an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education right away.

Early Childhood Education Certificate Curriculum

Our online Early Childhood Education Undergraduate Certificate curriculum is designed to help you prepare to build the foundation for a rewarding career working with children. You’ll cover topics that are essential to working in a daycare or preschool, such as:

• Careers in Early Childhood Education
• Child Development
• Curriculum Development

Learn more about curriculum, tuition, and enrollment requirements

Learn about:

• Our affordable tuition payment plan options.
• How online education works.
• How a degree in API Program Name can help you reach your goals.

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What you get

• 120 hours of professional education to apply to your CDA Credential™
• Textbook and/or comprehensive online resources and assessments
• Credits which can be applied toward the Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
• The freedom to complete courses at your own speed with self-paced lessons

average salary

Job opportunities

As a childcare worker, you could find jobs in preschools, daycares, and more! The average salary for childcare workers in 2022 was $28,520 † , though how much you can make can vary based on experience, education, certification, and even where you live.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Help guide children as they learn and navigate cultural diversity, creative expression, literacy, and more.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

Start with the basics of child development and education and discover where your ECE career can take you.

CONVENIENT ONLINE LEARNING

Fit studies into your life and put credit earned toward an Associate Degree and/or industry credentials.

Frequently asked questions

You may be taking your first steps into higher education. Or you may be considering online study for the first time. Whatever your situation, we’re here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.

Earning a child care certificate online makes sense for busy people who are ready for college-level study and want the convenience of learning from home. Your ECE certificate online will give you a solid foundation in subject matter that is useful for many satisfying careers.

Yes! Every student at Ashworth College gains access to the Ashworth College Central Network , an online toolkit that helps you work through resume templates, cover letters, thank you letters, and more. Use the career tools as much as you like to prepare professional documents for your job search. Once you’ve graduated, you can come back to the Ashworth College Central Network at any time.

We allow you up to one year from the date of your enrollment to earn your Early Childhood Education certificate online. A self-paced, flexible study schedule is one of the many benefits of pursuing your education at Ashworth College.

Related programs

Earning a childcare certificate online is one way to take your career to the next level. If you’re interested in a different career path, we have a number of other Undergraduate Certificates including:

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State requirements

A career in this field may require you to meet certain licensing, training, and other requirements that can vary by vocation and state. You should check with your state, local government, and/or licensing board to find out which requirements may be applicable in your state. Click here for contact information on state licensing/regulatory boards and certain professional licensing information.

NOTE: This program is not intended to lead to teacher certification.

† Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, " Childcare Workers ". Accessed December 12, 2023.

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Advance your career in our online API Program Name program. Call 1-800-957-5412

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Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education Degree Online Pint-Sized Scholars With Big Futures

Credit Hours

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 75% of the degree total

Impact the Next Generation with Liberty’s Non-Licensure BS in Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies Degree

A lot happens in a child’s development both before and during their early years of elementary school. With new concepts constantly being introduced to them, children under the age of 8 have a lot of growing to do! You can have a hand in providing the love, support, and encouragement these young ones need to embrace learning and get the best start they can.

Giving children a solid foundation for their academic journey can lead to better lives and opportunities for them down the road. The young students you work with today could be tomorrow’s world changers. By earning an early childhood education degree online, you can learn how to transform the lives of the children in your care.

Liberty’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies is an excellent option if you want to work in Christian school, private school, or homeschool settings or in childcare facilities and churches. You could also pursue a career as a paraprofessional educator in a public school. If you decide later on down the road to pursue licensure, this early childhood education online degree can provide a solid foundation for pursuing a licensure-track Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) .

Please note: Liberty’s BS in Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies is a non-licensure degree. This program is designed to prepare students for non-licensed teaching/education roles and to offer a solid foundation for pursuing a licensure program at a later time. If you are interested in teaching licensure at the bachelor’s level, please see our Bachelor of Education program.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies?

If going for your bachelor’s degree seems overwhelming, or you’re wondering how long it takes to earn a degree in early childhood education, let us help. With 8 start dates per year and no set login times, you’ll have the freedom to complete your early childhood education online bachelor’s degree on your schedule.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ). Our programs have met rigorous academic standards and accreditation requirements, so you can be confident that you’re receiving an education of the highest quality.

Our bachelor’s degree in early childhood education online is taught by seasoned faculty who care about your success. Drawing on their years of real-world experience, they can help equip you to lead with excellence and integrity in the field of education. Their encouragement can help fuel your heart for teaching, reminding you how important your work is for eternity.

In addition to offering award-winning academics and industry-leading faculty, we’ve designed our degrees to give you as many opportunities as possible to grow and learn practical skills. Our online early childhood education bachelor’s degree includes an optional field experience course that can be completed at an approved location near you. This course can help give you an additional confidence boost as you apply your studies to a live classroom setting.

What Will You Study in Our Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education Online Program?

Liberty’s bachelor’s degree in early childhood education focuses on current issues and trends in education. You can also learn about the elements of instruction and the important psychological milestones of early childhood development. We know that you are passionate about teaching children – so are we! Let us help you discover the best instructional strategies for both you and your students.

At Liberty, you can earn a degree focused on child development as well as education theories and practices. This can help you better tailor an educational experience to the specific needs of your young students.

We know that lectures and online assignments can only teach you so much – hands-on experience is important as well. That’s why our online bachelor’s in early childhood education degree includes an optional field experience capstone course, which can help you put your skills to the test in a live classroom.

Potential Career Opportunities

Some of the positions you can pursue with a non-licensure bachelor’s in early childhood education include:

• Early childhood center director
• Kindergarten/elementary school teacher*
• Paraprofessional educator in a public school
• Preschool teacher*
• Teacher within a faith-based organization or private school

*The Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education does not lead to teacher licensure. However, this program may be a good fit for students who do not need state teaching licensure to teach at a private school or in other non-licensure settings.

Featured Courses

• EDUC 210 – Early Childhood Education Fundamentals
• EDUC 215 – Wellness in the Early Childhood Setting
• PSYC 210 – Developmental Psychology
• PSYC 221 – Psychology of Childhood

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Education .
• View the Undergraduate Education Course Guides (login required) .
• This online early childhood education degree can help prepare you for Liberty’s licensure-track Master of Arts in Teaching .
• Please note: This is a non-licensure program.

Degree Completion Plan

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

To continue our mission of providing affordable education,  electronic textbooks are provided for all undergraduate courses at no cost to you. As a full-time student, this could save you an estimated $800-2,000 per year on textbooks!

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Admission Information for the Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Students may be allowed to enroll in up to 12 credit hours with Liberty with the submission of our High School Self-Certification Form (login required – you will first need to claim your Liberty Account ) .
• Unofficial transcripts can be used for acceptance purposes with the submission of a Transcript Request Form .

Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

*Official high school transcript requirement may be waived with college transcripts from an accredited college/university showing at least 12 earned credit hours with an acceptable GPA.

Note: A 2.0 or above cumulative GPA is required for admission in good standing.

Transcript Policies

High school transcript policy.

Applicants may submit a High School Self-Certification Form in lieu of a final official high school transcript in order to enroll in up to 12 credit hours at Liberty University.

• Applicants may submit a college transcript showing 12 or more credits from an accredited institution and a High School Self-Certification Form in lieu of high school transcripts.

Students must submit official high school transcripts, or official college transcripts showing at least 12 credit hours earned with an acceptable grade point average (GPA) from an accredited institution, in order to register for additional courses.

The official high school transcript, GED requirement, and High School Self-Certification Form can be waived if the applicant has earned an associate degree or higher.

Final transcripts must reflect all coursework and final grades received for grades 9-12, a graduation date, and an overall GPA. (Mailed transcripts must be in a sealed and unopened envelope.)

Unofficial College Transcript Policy

Unofficial transcripts combined with a Transcript Request Form can be used for admission. Official transcripts are required within 60 days of the admissions decision or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first, and will prevent enrollment into future terms until all official transcripts have been received.

Before sending unofficial college transcripts, please make sure they include the following:

• Your previous school’s name or logo printed on the document
• Cumulative GPA
• A list of completed courses and earned credit broken down by semester
• Degree and date conferred (if applicable)

Official College Transcript Policy

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

If the student uses unofficial transcripts with a Transcript Request Form to gain acceptance, all official transcripts must be received within 60 days of the admissions decision or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first. Failure to send all official transcripts within the 60-day period will prevent enrollment into future terms until all official transcripts have been received.

Military Transfers

If you have military-only transfer credits (completed basic training and enlistment), you must request an official military transcript. Please go to the Military Transfer Credit webpage to request your military transcript.

International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, you may be required to have your international transcripts reviewed. Information regarding the transcript evaluation process for international students can be found by visiting NACES .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9595 Fax

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected] Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

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Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
• Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $250 per credit hour for undergraduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $565 per course) *
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)
• Potential college credit for military training

*Not applicable to certificates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What jobs can you get with a non-licensure bachelor of early childhood education online.

When you think of education professionals, maybe you picture licensed teachers working in public schools. Licensed educators certainly play a vital role in training up the next generation of students, but the field of early childhood education is so much more vast than that – and many jobs are open to applicants without a teaching license!

With this non-licensure early childhood degree online, you can pursue a variety of roles in early childhood centers, churches, and homeschool settings. You could even go on to teach in a private school or work as a paraprofessional in a public school. Partner with us and earn a degree that gets you where you need to go.

Can you earn an early childhood education degree online?

Yes! At Liberty, we believe you should be able to pursue your academic goals without putting your life on hold. That’s why our bachelor’s degree in early childhood education is available 100% online. You’ll have the flexibility to stay invested in your job, family, and community while getting the training you need to launch your career.

If you decide to take the optional field experience course as part of your Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, you can complete the necessary hours at an approved location near you. That way, you can gain valuable hands-on training without having to leave your area.

Can you teach elementary school with a degree in early childhood education?

Early childhood education typically applies to children from birth through age 8. Thus, with a BS in Early Childhood Education degree online, you could become qualified to teach in a non-licensure capacity through the 3rd grade! Be sure to research the application requirements for any jobs you’re interested in to verify what type of education is needed.

What is the benefit of earning a non-licensure early childhood education degree?

Since many teaching jobs in public schools require state licensure, you may be wondering what advantage there is to pursuing a non-licensure bachelor of early childhood education. Typically, a licensure-track degree (e.g., a Bachelor of Education ) will require a certain amount of practicums, student teaching placements, and gate courses to ensure you meet all competencies for licensure. These things are critical if you want to become a licensed teacher – but there are many education roles you can pursue without licensure.

If you’re confident that you don’t need licensure at this time (e.g., if you’re looking to teach in a private school), the Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education provides a strong foundation in learning theory and instructional practice without requiring extensive field placements or other requirements associated with state licensure. Many non-licensure roles will still require a certain level of formal education, and this bachelor’s degree can help provide the training you need to pursue your career goals without requiring you to commit to student teaching placements and practicum hours.

What do you study in an online early childhood education degree?

Our early childhood education bachelor’s degree online can help you gain a solid foundation in a variety of subjects, such as biology, history, mathematics, geometry, and communication. This well-rounded base of courses can help ensure that you’re ready to guide students through a variety of subject-specific activities from pre-K through 3rd grade.

You’ll also dive into essential areas of education like learning theory, classroom management, instructional practice, and educational philosophy. Lastly, you’ll look specifically at the fundamentals of early childhood education, with an emphasis on the psychological development and learning needs of young children.

What topics are covered in an early childhood education degree?

Some of the topics you’ll study in this early childhood bachelor’s degree include:

• Approaches to teaching reading, including phonics, vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, and language development
• Basic theories and principles of child growth and development
• Best practices for teaching mathematics
• How family relationships, development, and content knowledge affect early childhood education
• How to develop a personal philosophy and apply it to teaching, lesson plan design, and delivery
• Learning theories and styles
• Methods for classroom management
• The promotion of wellness in early childhood education through good nutrition and safety for young children

Will this program provide any hands-on experience?

You have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with an optional field experience capstone.

Does this program allow for transfer credit?

You can transfer in up to 75% of your total credits to Liberty’s online bachelor’s in early childhood education.

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Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs

Explore and compare a list of accredited schools to enroll in your next program.

Early childhood education is the study of the holistic development and education of children from birth to age eight. The field focuses on nurturing youths’ cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth during their formative years. As distance learning becomes more common, online degrees in early childhood education have emerged as a convenient, flexible option for aspiring educators.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the world of online bachelor’s programs in early childhood education, highlighting their benefits, curricula, and career outcomes. Use this page to learn about online early childhood education programs and discover how they can shape your career.

Popular Online Education Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Accredited Early Childhood Education Programs

Northwestern college.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $32,700
• Out-of-state $32,700
• Retention Rate 79%
• Acceptance Rate 74%
• Students Enrolled 1,496
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 46%
• Accreditation Yes

Northwest Florida State College

• In-State $2,496
• Out-of-state $9,552
• Retention Rate 0%
• Acceptance Rate 0%
• Students Enrolled 5,004
• Institution Type Public
• Percent Online Enrollment 78%

Lynn University

• In-State $37,600
• Out-of-state $37,600
• Retention Rate 73%
• Acceptance Rate 79%
• Students Enrolled 3,232
• Percent Online Enrollment 48%

Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global

• In-State $8,871
• Out-of-state $8,871
• Students Enrolled 10,944
• Percent Online Enrollment 92%

Charter Oak State College

• In-State $7,656
• Out-of-state $10,056
• Retention Rate 50%
• Students Enrolled 1,634
• Percent Online Enrollment 0%

Eastern Oregon University

• In-State $7,830
• Out-of-state $20,520
• Retention Rate 70%
• Acceptance Rate 94%
• Students Enrolled 2,853

Chaminade University of Honolulu

• In-State $26,800
• Out-of-state $26,800
• Retention Rate 81%
• Acceptance Rate 89%
• Students Enrolled 2,208
• Percent Online Enrollment 61%

Florida International University

• In-State $4,721
• Out-of-state $16,529
• Retention Rate 91%
• Acceptance Rate 58%
• Students Enrolled 58,836
• Percent Online Enrollment 86%

Concordia University-Wisconsin

• In-State $30,890
• Out-of-state $30,890
• Acceptance Rate 71%
• Students Enrolled 5,492
• Percent Online Enrollment 53%

Bluefield College

• In-State $25,750
• Out-of-state $25,750
• Retention Rate 63%
• Acceptance Rate 76%
• Students Enrolled 965
• Percent Online Enrollment 39%

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online uses trusted data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools based on quality, affordability, and reputation. When ranking schools, we look at factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition and other costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.

This list has not been updated for 2024. Explore our rankings methodology to learn more about how we rank schools.

Why Get an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education?

Earning an online degree in early childhood education (ECE) offers several advantages. In addition to qualifying graduates for educator career paths , benefits of online early childhood education degrees include:

Cost-Effectiveness

Online programs may charge lower tuition — including in-state rates for out-of-state learners at public institutions — and eliminate commuting or relocation expenses.

Flexibility

Online early childhood education programs let enrollees access course materials and lectures from home. Asynchronous courses, which don’t require set meeting times, often provide more flexible schedules that can help students balance their degree with other commitments.

Accelerated or Self-Paced Options

Some online programs offer accelerated formats or self-paced learning, enabling learners to complete their degree at their own pace.

Access to More Schools

Because online learning does not require relocation, prospective students are not limited to institutions in their vicinity, providing a wider array of options for potential schools.

Practical Experience

Many online early childhood education programs allow learners to complete field work or practicum components in their area, ensuring these enrollees still receive valuable hands-on learning opportunities.

Did you know?

According to a 2023 study from The Center for American Progress , the demand for childcare workers outstrips the number of professionals in this field. The total number of childcare workers in 2023 is still below prepandemic levels.

What to Expect From an Early Childhood Education Degree Program

Online early childhood education programs typically award a bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS) degree. Specific coursework varies by school, but classes generally cover the following topics:

• Child development and psychology
• Classroom management strategies
• Teaching methods and curriculum design
• Language development

ECE online programs may also offer specializations or concentrations that let students focus their studies on specific topics. For example, ECE majors can specialize in early childhood special education or administration and leadership .

These programs often include fieldwork or practicum experiences to provide hands-on learning. Enrollees observe and lead educational experiences in early childhood settings under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Prospective learners should research individual programs to understand the specific courses, concentrations, and fieldwork requirements they offer to ensure the degree aligns with their goals.

Understand Accreditation in Early Childhood Education Programs

Accreditation is a process that verifies a school’s academic quality. There are two forms of accreditation: institutional and programmatic.

Institutional accreditation applies to entire schools. An accredited school must complete a rigorous review process proving that it meets an accrediting body’s standards for academic excellence. Attending an accredited school can help learners qualify for federal financial aid and facilitate easier credit transfers between institutions.

Programmatic accreditation only covers specific degrees or departments and can be especially important in industries requiring certification or licensure, like education. This optional process verifies how well a specific program’s coursework prepares learners for field-specific careers. Early childhood education programs can hold accreditation from organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Search NAEYC’s database to find accredited early childhood education programs. You can also check schools’ accreditation status on their websites.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education?

Accredited early childhood education programs typically lead to careers in childcare or preschool, including jobs such as childcare worker, preschool teacher, and childcare center director. However, students may also pursue roles in elementary education, such as teacher assistant, kindergarten teacher, or special education teacher.

Classroom-based educator roles typically require licensure. For example, each state has licensing requirements for kindergarten and special education teachers in public schools, which can include passing relevant exams, obtaining a master’s degree, and completing student-teaching hours.

Of the potential careers for early childhood education program graduates, childcare workers tend to see the lowest pay — their median annual wage was $30,370 in 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Meanwhile, kindergarten and special education teachers have the highest median salaries, each earning over $60,000 a year.

Location can influence salaries for early childhood education professionals. For example, childcare workers in the District of Columbia have an average salary of $41,540 , while those in Mississippi earn an average of $22,620.

The following table highlights common jobs for graduates of accredited early childhood education programs.

Paying for an Online Degree in Early Childhood Education

In addition to qualifying graduates for a variety of childcare jobs, a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education can also be a stepping stone to additional credentials and education, like a teaching license or master’s degree . However, tuition and fees for a bachelor’s program can be burdensome. Prospective students should explore financial aid options such as:

Federal Student Loans

Students can borrow federal student loans to pay their tuition and fees and pay back the loans in installments. The federal government offers loan forgiveness programs for qualifying educators , including the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. PSLF forgives loan balances for government or nonprofit employees — including Head Start preschool teachers — after they make 120 qualifying loan payments.

Scholarships

Organizations, schools, and states offer scholarships to early childhood education students. Scholarships can directly reduce the cost of tuition and fees and don’t require repayment. For example, Massachusetts’ Early Childhood Educator Scholarship provides funding for up to nine credits per semester to early childhood educators pursuing their first bachelor’s degree.

Grants apply directly to tuition and fees and are sometimes based on financial need. The federal government offers the needs-based Pell Grant for all eligible undergraduate students for up to $7,395 per academic year. Students who intend to teach in a low-income school or educational agency can also qualify for the federal non-needs-based TEACH Grant , which provides up to $4,000 per academic year.

Explore Other Degree Levels for Early Childhood Education

Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Degrees

An online associate degree in early childhood education delivers convenience, flexibility, and the opportunity to earn credentials for entry-level careers in education. These degrees typically lead to supporting roles and non-licensure career tracks in daycare facilities, early learning centers, preschools, and schools. You may benefit from an associate degree in early childhood education if you …

Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education

An online master’s in early childhood education can boost your career prospects and earning power. Use this guide to connect with top-ranked programs.

2024 Guide to a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education Online

Thinking about an advanced degree in early childhood education? Get program details and career information for an online doctorate program.

Questions About Degrees in Early Childhood Education

What is early childhood education.

Early childhood education explores academic, social, emotional, and cognitive development in children from birth through age eight. Early childhood educators typically work in preschools, daycares, or early learning centers, helping young children develop skills like early reading, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.

How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education?

A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education generally includes 120 credits and takes four years of full-time study. Part-time enrollees usually take 5-6 years, while accelerated programs can reduce the graduation timeline to three years.

What can you do with an early childhood education degree besides teach?

In addition to teaching careers, workers with early childhood education degrees can pursue non-teaching roles, including nanny, childcare center director, or childcare worker. Graduates can also become early education consultants, preschool curriculum designers, or child development researchers, though some of these jobs may require further education.

Can you teach kindergarten with an early childhood education degree?

Yes, an early childhood education degree focuses on educating children between birth and age eight, which includes kindergarten students. However, each state requires teachers to hold a license to teach kindergarten in public schools.

Which professional organizations should I join to help my career?

The National Association for the Education of Young Children , the National Head Start Association , and Childhood Education International advocate for the early childhood education field and its professionals. These organizations provide research and professional development resources for educators to advance their knowledge, skills, and careers.

How to Check if Your Online School Is Accredited

Curious how to know if a university is accredited? Our guide explores everything you need to know about college accreditation and red flags to avoid.

Financial Aid for Online Colleges

How to Become a Teacher in Your State

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Early Childhood Education

If you want to explore a career in education  that allows you to make a difference and work with children, our online Early Childhood Education Associate Degree can help you prepare to take the first steps toward the career you want. Through accredited, flexible, online classes you can earn a degree while taking the next steps toward becoming a preschool teacher  from home, on your schedule. 

• Our Early Childhood Education Degree online can prepare students for entry-level jobs such as preschool teacher, teacher's aide, and child care professional.  
• College-level early childhood classes cover fundamental topics including how to promote language, literacy, and social skills development for preschoolers and young children.
• Apply what you learn with hands-on training by completing observation hours and practical application in a licensed childcare center through four required field experience modules. 
• Penn Foster is an official partner of Bright Horizon Family Solutions and Learning Care Group. 
• Our online programs are flexible enough for you to finish them at a pace that works for you, based on how much time you can dedicate to your coursework each week.

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Video Transcript

• How to plan, evaluate, and design curriculum appropriate for the education of young children.
• How to apply best practices, observation, and assessment to enhance learning and development.
• How to use the power of play to meet established early childhood curriculum goals.
• How to work with children with special needs, including recognizing important developmental milestones.

Preschool Teacher

AVG SALARY*

NUMBER OF JOBS*

JOB GROWTH*

State Licensing Requirements

State licensing requirements vary for early childhood education professionals. Penn Foster College recommends that you check with the licensing agency in your state for specific requirements. This program is intended to provide the education required for entry level employment or career advancement in a daycare or childcare setting. Your state will have specific regulations that specify whether or not the courses in the program would meet any continuing education requirements. This program is not intended to meet or satisfy teacher certification requirements established by any state department of education. Educators are advised to contact their employer as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement. This is particularly important for residents of CT.

A background check may be required for employment in child day care centers and schools.

Please review your state board requirements that are applicable to your field of study. State boards may impose a variety of different requirements. This is particularly important for residents of Missouri and South Carolina.

Penn Foster's Early Childhood Education Associate Degree program fulfills the 120 hour educational requirement for those interested in earning their Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. For more information about CDA Credential requirements, click here .

How to Get the Education to Work with Children

• 4 semesters
• 4 field experience options

Estimated completion time per semester :

• Fast track = 4 months
• Average time = 10 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework. The estimated completion times per semester are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from November 2020 - October 2021, excluding withdrawals.

Our Early Childhood Education Degree online will cover the foundational concepts that are used by ECE teachers every day — including how to make lesson plans and promote language, literacy, and preschool social skills development. Your online education classes include: 

• Health, Safety, and Nutrition for the Young Child
• Curriculum for Early Childhood Education
• Working with Children with Special Needs
• Guidance in Early Childhood Education

Non-US residents: This is a United States-based institution with course materials that are geared toward US job and labor standards. Learners from outside of the US may find that some information and materials will differ from the current standards of their country. Please note, the materials for this program are in English and use the Imperial unit of measurement, not the metric system.

Due to externship requirements and other factors, students outside of the United States are not eligible to enroll in this program at this time.

As part of earning your early childhood education degree online, you'll gain hands-on experience and apply what you've learned each semester in a field experience requirement. You will gain practical experience by completing observation hours and practical application in a licensed childcare center near you. Your field experience in semester four will consist of 300 hours, which is a minimum of 45 hours in each age group: infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Penn Foster does not assist students in finding a site to complete their field experience. However, through our partnerships, you may be able to be placed in a Bright Horizons center or Learning Care Group near you for the externship portion of the program.

Students can complete each of the field experience requirements at the same approved facility or find a new site each semester.

Demetria P.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2021

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Prepare for a job as a child care professional while gaining the 120 hours of education required for your CDA.

Prepare to earn your CDA and build a professional portfolio with Penn Foster's online CDA Credential Prep Undergraduate Certificate.

Learn how psychology impacts the growth and development of children in our online Child Psychology Certificate.

What will I teach as an ECE teacher?

Early childhood education professionals most often teach children younger than five years old. You’ll teach students basic skills such as identifying colors, shapes, numbers, and letters. You’ll organize activities that allow children to learn about the world around them. Most ECE graduates work as preschool teachers, teaching assistants, childcare workers, and special education teachers.

What is the average salary for a teacher in early childhood education?

The average salary for early childhood education teachers can vary based on experience, the state in which you work, and the environment you work in. The national average salary in 2021 for preschool teachers was $30,210 per year.* Salary and hourly wages for teachers can also be determined based on whether or not the school they work for is a private or public institution.

Is early childhood education right for me?

Teachers in early childhood education work closely with young children and their parents to develop language, literacy, and other necessary skills. Effective teachers are patient, compassionate, creative, and have developed written and verbal communication skills. If this sounds like you, becoming an ECE teacher could be a great career path!

Can I teach elementary school with a degree in early childhood education?

Generally, an Early Childhood Associate Degree prepares graduates for work in preschools, daycares, or other facilities with a classroom setting. Though requirements can vary slightly based on your state and whether you’re seeking employment in public or private education, most elementary school teachers are required to attain at least a bachelor’s degree and pass state exams.

Where else can I teach with an Early Childhood Education Degree?

Besides preschools, you can teach in public and private daycares, childcare centers, and schools as a teaching assistant or special education support staff. Additionally, early education teachers also work in social services or as a home-based provider, such as a nanny.

Are early childhood education teachers in demand?

Skilled educators are important to a child’s short and long-term intellectual growth and well-being, so the need for early education teachers is projected to grow about 15% by 2031, adding around 63,100 new jobs.*

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. " OPreschool Teachers ." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Accessed September 23, 2022.

Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.

Disclaimers:

1 Depending on where you live, you may be charged taxes in addition to the total cost of your program.

Penn Foster Partners with Bright Horizon Family Solutions and the Learning Care Group

Online BA in Early Care and Education

New scholarship covers your entire education.

ECE students can apply for the new Early Learning Equity Scholarship and get all of their costs covered!

What you can earn

Credits earned, time commitment, upcoming deadline, transforming early childhood education.

The online Early Care & Education (ECE) program centers young children, families, and communities through interdisciplinary coursework and practice-based learning rooted in equity, diversity and inclusion.

Students join ECE for the flexibility and affordability, gaining a full UW education while living and working in their own community.  And our instructors and staff provide each student with dedicated support and coaching.

If you are committed to transforming the early childhood education field, we invite you to join our next cohort of change-makers.

After graduation

ECE equips you with the skills, knowledge, and experiences that will elevate your strengths and talents to excel in your career development. Graduates in this program continue their professional development in current or new roles and transition into leadership positions. These positions include lead teachers, coaches, and program directors in non-profit community-based settings and early learning sites.

• Preschool teaching
• Early childhood administration
• Children’s museums educator and communications
• Early learning assessment
• Early learning coach and specialist
• Early education policy and advocacy
• Education research
• Family & community support

The ECE program can also serve as a pathway for graduates interested in K-8 education, health related fields, child life specialist, social work, psychology, or other fields related to children’s learning, development and well being.

• Want to become a K-8 teacher? Although ECE graduates do not earn a teaching certificate, it is a great foundation for one of our teacher preparation programs.
• Aiming to earn your master's degree? After earning your bachelor’s degree through ECE, we offer a wide array of graduate-level programs that support your career goals.

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Prefer a one-on-one experience? Prospective students can schedule an admissions advising appointment .

The ECE program is offered entirely online, which means you can log in anytime and from anywhere to complete coursework before weekly deadlines. We use an online learning management system to host course materials and interactions with your peers and professors. While most learning occurs asynchronously, you’ll enjoy some real-time collaboration opportunities.

To earn your B.A. in Early Care & Education, you'll need to complete all required ECE courses along with any remaining general education courses and electives. The program’s duration varies based on the amount of college credits you’ve previously earned. Full-time students typically graduate in about two years, while part-time students usually graduate in about three years.

Technical requirements: You will need access to reliable high-speed internet, webcam, microphone, and a device capable of capturing video and audio, like a smartphone. The program may require additional software that UW offers at low or no cost, with tutorials provided.

Once you enroll, your academic adviser will review any transfer credits and help you create a personalized graduation plan to complete your degree, which may include general education and elective courses. The sample graduation plans outline the required ECE courses only and do not include general education or other graduation requirements.

• Full-time graduation plan
• Part-time graduation plan

The following list includes required ECE courses.

Explores current and historical themes, research, and programs in the field of early care and education, offering students the opportunity to explore their own professional identities.

Drawing upon the history of multicultural education, social justice education, culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogies, critical perspectives in early childhood education, and anti-bias education, this course supports professionals serving young children and families to develop skills needed to engage in equitable practices.

Builds on foundations of critical pedagogy, social justice education, and culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogies. Focuses on the intersections of identity (e.g., class, dis/ability, and gender), self, systems of power and privilege, and working with young children. Designed to better understand how art and children's texts can be used as tools for equity.

Builds on foundations of critical pedagogy, social justice education, and culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogies. Focuses on the intersections of identity (e.g., race, ethnicity, language, and sexual identity), self, systems of power and privilege, and working with young children. Designed to better understand how art and children's texts can be used as tools for equity.

Instructionally Supportive Interactions: Importance of equitable high-quality early childhood education. Specific types of environments and responsive instructional interactions that support children's thinking, language, and problem-solving. First of a two-part series.

Social and Emotional Support and Well-Organized Classrooms: Focus on importance of equitable high quality early childhood education and specific types of environments and responsive instructional interactions that support children's social, emotional and self-regulatory skills. Second of a two-part series.

Focuses on the kinds of knowledge, ways of knowing and modes of inquiry relevant to early care and education. Through identifying and reviewing substantive research in their areas of interest, students locate ideas for inquiry within the research literature in early care and education.

Seeks to deepen understanding of contemporary social issues and problems that impact families and young children. Discusses legislation and other policies from a local, national and global perspective. Explores the complex web of social, private, and governmental organization that impact families and young children.

Focuses on the key role that family and community contexts play in supporting development, as well as the key role early childhood programs can play in promoting family engagement. Participants examine interdisciplinary principles on how best to support a developing child's primary relationships through family engagement, and responsiveness to differences between families.

Helps identify individual strengths, set professional goals, and practice necessary professional skills, such as job-searching, networking, and developing oral and written proficiency.

Synthesizes and demonstrates learning across the ECE major. Brings together research, theory and hands-on practice in service learning in order to highlight overall degree competencies and promote development of a professional portfolio.

Focuses on developmental foundations and theoretical and researched-based models of early childhood curriculum. Studies approaches to designing, organizing and implementing early learning programs. Studies curricular content for supporting children's learning and development in physical development; social and emotional development; approaches to learning; cognition; and language and early literacy.

Teaching From the Inside Out: Being a Resilient Educator: Equips students with skills and strategies to optimize their effectiveness as early childhood educators. Students learn how to be as healthy as possible, possess the confidence to manage stressful situations, connect effectively with others and focus on the positive aspects of life.

Addresses the significance of social and emotional development in the early years. Discusses the adoption of models and evidence-based practice strategies that focus on promoting social-emotional development, providing support for children's appropriate behavior and preventing challenging behavior. Examines how adult resiliency and wellness relate to improved early care and teaching.

Focuses on observation and methods used to study and understand young children in the context of families and society. Develops skills to understand children's behavior in learning environments. Examines approaches to and purposes for assessment and documentation of children's development and learning. Explores approaches to assessing early learning environments.

Supporting Language & Literacy Development in Preschool: Increases knowledge about language and literacy developments between ages 3 to 5 and the ways in which these developments are critical precursors to the emergence of and success with formal reading skills, and to build participants' use of evidence-based language and literacy practices within the preschool classroom.

Increases knowledge about cognitive developments between ages 3 to 5 and ways in which these developments are critical precursors to emergence and success with later content and skills in mathematics and science. Learn to design and implement effective instructional practices and interactions with children that support their learning and development.

Examination of the latest research on brain development in early childhood and the application of this knowledge in the creation of learning environments that promote physical, language, cognitive, social and emotional development. The roles of family, classroom and community provide context to build relationships that support each child's development.

overs the topics of disability and ableism specifically focused on educational contexts.

Human learning in the educational setting. Cognition, development, learning, motivation, affective processes and socialization. Emphasis on skills in influencing classroom learning and discipline.

Provides a survey of infant and early childhood development, including prenatal and neonatal factors, and social/societal influences, using an Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion informed framework. Emphasizes how risk and protective factors can impact social emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. Includes research based principles and approaches to supporting families and caregivers of young children.

We believe early childhood professionals learn by applying knowledge through action, observation and reflection. ECE students take part in Community Based Learning (CBL), a place-based education, centering learning in the physical environment, local culture, history, language, and with the people of a community.

You will have many opportunities to integrate your classroom experience into your CBL Experience. You will build on your cultural and contextual knowledge of children’s learning through real-world opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills in early learning settings.

Our students participate in two types of experiential learning:

• Community-Based Learning Experience : Weekly time spent engaging with young children through your work or volunteering in an early learning setting is required for many courses.
• Applied assignments: Examples of applied assignments include videos of your practice, environment or child observations, case studies, and an interview with a professional or parent. These may be completed at your Community-Based Learning Experience site.

Already working or volunteering with children in an early learning setting? You can complete the community-based learning experience at your current job! If you need support finding a setting, our CBL coordinator will help you find a place to do your community-based learning.

It will take a minimum of 7 quarters to complete the program. To graduate from the University of Washington, you must have a minimum of 180 quarterly credits. How long it takes to graduate depends on a number of factors, including how many credits you are transferring in with and how many credits you take per quarter as an ECE student.

You can connect and schedule an advising appointment with our Lead Admissions & Outreach Adviser who can provide one-on-one support with: 

• Admissions process
• Scholarships and financial aid
• Transferring to UW

Schedule an appointment

Admission requirements and process

Please reach out to us at  [email protected] if you need any support during the application process!

New students start each autumn, and you can choose either full-time or part-time enrollment.  Applications open in January each year . Applicants who submit by our priority deadline (April 1) will be notified first about admissions decisions. They will also be notified about scholarship opportunities in May. Because of the different steps and requirements, we recommend starting your application process as early as possible.

To be eligible for this program, you must have met the following requirements:

• Live in the United States and do not require an F-1 visa.
• Completed at least 45 transferable quarter credits from regionally accredited colleges or universities (1 semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits)
• Earned a cumulative transfer GPA of 2.0 or higher.

If you have completed fewer than 40 transferable quarter credits at the time you submit your application, you will also need to complete the College Academic Distribution Requirements (UW admission requirements that can be satisfied by high school and/or college coursework). Please contact us at [email protected] if you have questions about this requirement.

• Include transcripts from all institutions attended
• Your transcripts must include your name and coursework
• If you have fewer than 40 transferable credits at the time of application, you must also submit and official or unofficial high school transcript

Instructions

Respond to each of the questions below using these instructions. You may choose to submit either written or recorded responses:

• Written responses: Write a short paragraph (150 words or less) in response to each question.
• Recorded responses: Make a video or audio recording with your responses (1-2 minutes per question). You will need to upload your recording to a cloud service such as Youtube, Google Drive, or Sharepoint and share the link in your application form.

Please reach out to us at [email protected] if you have questions about how to submit your application questions.

• The ECE program focuses on community-based early learning with children from birth to age 8 and their families. Tell us about your experience and/or interest in working with children in this specific age range and their families. 
• How has your background and experience prepared you to be effective in an environment that holds equity, diversity, and inclusion as a core to our mission and values?
• What impact have you had (or hope to have) in the early learning community for equity, diversity, and inclusion at your current position (or a position in the future)? What are you still working on?
• In what ways do you hope the ECE program will further your learning and skill set in equity, diversity, and inclusion? 
• The ECE program’s Community-Based Learning requirement is to work or volunteer for at least 3-5 hours per week at a formal early learning setting that serves children ages birth-8, and allows you to observe, enact practices, and occasionally film yourself interacting with at least 3-5 children. Examples include Head Start, ECEAP, childcare center, family childcare center, elementary school, etc. Do you currently work or volunteer in a setting that meets this criteria? If so, briefly describe the setting and your role. If not, are you willing and able to volunteer in this kind of setting for 3-5 hours per week while you are a student in the program? Briefly describe your ideal volunteer setting. Support is available to help you find a site.
• (optional) Are you applying as a member of the Native Cohort based at Tulalip?
• (optional) Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
• Gather all required materials
• Visit the online application form
• Log into your account or create a new profile if you are a first-time applicant
• Complete all steps in application process and upload your documents
• Pay the nonrefundable application fee or request a waiver
• Submit your online application
• Submit transcripts
• When completing the online form, be sure to select: “Early Care & Education (Online)”
• If you have already earned your bachelor’s degree, select “Early Care & Education (Online) - Post-Bac”

You will be notified some time between June and August. Applicants who submit before the priority deadline (April 1) will be notified first.

In general, you should be able to transfer college-level academic credits for general education courses (described on the UW's Undergraduate Advising General Education page) and early childhood and education-related credits.

For more information about UW’s transfer requirements, including notable restrictions on transfer credit, please visit the UW Transfer Credit Policies page. 

To graduate from the University of Washington, you must have a minimum of 180 quarterly credits completed. Transfer students are encouraged to take courses that will transfer and count towards UW’s general education credits.

Please note: the majority of your ECE major coursework must be completed within our program. Most EDUC/ECE courses that transfer will count towards your general education requirements or general electives.

Costs and funding

The online ECE program is a self-sustaining, fee-based program. Course fees are charged on a per-credit basis and are the same for Washington residents and non-residents. Our course fees are less than, or comparable to, many similar programs in Washington state. The current estimated cost is:

• $231 per credit
• The total cost to complete varies based on transfer credits

Additional UW fees (registration, technology, etc) are not included in this estimate. 

It is highly recommended that students in the program complete the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) application. These applications are necessary for various forms of financial aid, including scholarships and loans. Because ECE is a fee-based program, students are not eligible for tuition exemptions or university grants, such as the Husky Promise. For more details, please visit the fee-based programs page on the Office of Student Financial Aid website. 

The Office of Merit Scholarships, Fellowships & Awards offers information and resources about student scholarship opportunities and mentors students through the various application processes.

Students may qualify for specific scholarships and other financial aid that are tied to their background or prospective career field, including the opportunities below.

The Early Learning Equity (ELE) Scholarship, made possible by an extremely generous gift from the Ballmer Group, covers a student’s unmet financial need, including the cost of attendance for Washington state residents. The scholarship is available to newly enrolled ECE students, or those returning  to ECE after one or more years away.

Through this one application, undergraduate students can apply for multiple scholarships worth between $900 - $5,000.

The Zesbaugh and Anderson-Olsen Scholarships generously supports undergraduate students in financial need who are committed to a career as an educator. Applicants should be pursuing a career in P-12 teaching, education policy, higher education, school counseling, social services, or a myriad of other education fields.

Child Care Aware of Washington (Early Achievers) is for early learning professionals working at an Early Achievers enrolled program. The Bachelor’s Degree Pathways Scholarships are contract based for 12 months, and include BA completion, DTA/Pre-BA and the Montessori Credential.

The Martin Achievement Scholarship and Martin Honors Scholarship are available for Washington community college students and graduates interested in obtaining bachelor's degrees from the University of Washington.

Students based in Washington state can also apply for scholarships and other financial aid earmarked for residents of this state. There are number of sites that offer information about these kinds of programs, including:

• Career Bridge: Pay for School
• theWashBoard.org

Transforming inequitable systems

Our curriculum is rooted in the belief that all young children and their families have the right to equitable learning and development opportunities in a just and culturally-thriving society. ECE students reflect on their identities and how decisions we make every day in and outside of the classroom are influenced by larger power systems. Assignments and cohort discussions encourage critical thinking about early learning, equity, and community.

Read our equity statement

Honoring Indigenous Land and Calls to Action: The ECE program shares a commitment that is essential to the process of working to be in good relationship with the Indigenous land on which our lives and institutions exist and the peoples of the land. Read our land acknowledgement .

We are here to support you!

Our faculty and student support team are committed to supporting you every step of the way: from your very first question about ECE to your graduation date, and beyond. We offer admissions advising to help you navigate the application process, and our academic adviser will be there to support you after you enroll in the program. We offer support in your community-based learning experience, and our faculty are committed to supporting you as you earn your degree, and prepare for your future.

Our support approach is holistic, encompassing all aspects of your student experience. Support ranges from academic planning and community-based learning placements, to career guidance and resource referrals, and more.

At the start of the program, you’ll meet with your adviser to develop an individualized graduation plan. Then you’ll connect regularly to check in on progress and discuss any obstacles you might be facing. Your community-based learning coordinator will work with you to identify and establish a community-based learning site. If you need help, we are here to listen and guide you to available UW resources.

Faculty in the program are dedicated to your success, employing a “high-touch” teaching approach to keep you engaged. They check in weekly with students and embed career goals in courses to make them relevant to your experience.

The faculty also help foster a reflective and collaborative community where students feel empowered and all voices are heard. Students grow this community by sharing experiences and best practices and offering feedback and support to each other.

New to online learning? Don’t feel intimidated by the online aspect of ECE. All levels of tech savvy are welcome — and we’re here to support you.

The technology is manageable and easy to use. We use a web-based learning management system to deliver course materials, and guided instruction and tutorials are built right into the curriculum. If you need extra technical support, our help from a technical support team is just a phone call or email away.

Frequently asked questions

No. ECE students do not receive a teaching credential through the program. If teaching in elementary schools is your career goal, ECE is a great first step for your undergraduate work. After graduating you can apply to one of our college's teacher education programs and earn your Master in Teaching (M.I.T.). If your goal is to teach middle or high school, the ECE program is not a good fit and we encourage you to check out one of our other undergraduate majors.

No. Because you are admitted directly to the ECE major, you can only pursue the ECE major while you are enrolled at the University of Washington.

The ECE program is fully online. While you may be able to take occasional on-campus classes, options are extremely limited. If you prefer an on-campus experience, we recommend the Early Childhood & Family Studies: Teaching & Learning program.

We are here to help! We offer info sessions and individual pre-admission advising. Schedule a virtual advising appointment.

Yes! If you work in an early learning setting with children (birth to age 8), it is likely that this will count as your CBL weekly hours. If you don’t work with young children, the CBL coordinator is available to support you to find a CBL placement. 

You can access coursework on your own schedule and complete the majority of your work on the weekends. There are flexible options for occasional synchronous small group sessions and meetings with staff and faculty.

Yes!  If you have already completed or will complete a bachelor’s or graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university prior to enrolling at UW, you are considered a post-baccalaureate applicant. Please select “Early Care & Education (Online) - Post-Bac” option when you fill out the online application form. 

As a “post-bac” you will only need to complete the ECE major coursework as your general education coursework will be taken care of with the credits from your original bachelor’s degree.

Yes, you are a UW Husky. You will receive a UW student ID card, enjoy the same access to resources and events as campus students, and can walk across the stage at Commencement! Go Dawgs!

Program Faculty

Nancy Hertzog

Gail E. Joseph

Jodi Burrus Newman

Soojin Oh Park

Holly Schindler

Program staff.

Ruth O. Ayodeji

Alejandra Baires-Ramirez

Jenni Campbell

Camille Lemire

Sala Sataraka

Bridget wittke.

Alumni Profile

• Request Information

Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education

The Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Development and Education is your first step in building a foundation for success in a career in childcare by preparing you to work with children and families in a variety of settings. Our completely online program is designed to meet the needs of diverse students. This degree leads to Associate Licensure in Pre-Kindergarten Education (in Ohio*). Graduates are qualified to teach in licensed childcare and preschool programs, and are eligible for associate pre-kindergarten teacher licensure after passing the OAE (Ohio Assessments for Educators) Pre-Kindergarten I and Pre-Kindergarten II tests. Also, interested students can apply ALL of the coursework toward a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Science.

For our military-affiliated learners:

Ohio State is dedicated to supporting our military community. Registered Virtual Lab School users who have completed all 15 foundational courses within the Infant Toddler, Preschool, or School-Age track, can use 13 credit hours from the Virtual Lab School towards the online degree in early childhood education, as well as any scholarships or aid available from the U.S. Department of Defense or Ohio State’s military affairs to assist in covering the cost of tuition.

The Associate of Arts, Early Childhood Education program is approved in Ohio and prepares students to teach in childcare, pre-schools, and pre-K programs within a school district. Should a student wish to teach in a school district’s pre-K program outside of Ohio, additional curriculum may be required to meet the requirements defined by the state educator licensing board. Students interested in obtaining a pre-K school district position should contact the state educator licensing board prior to enrolling in the program to confirm requirements.

"The wide variety of challenging classes has given me the confidence and training I need to be successful in the workplace."

"I would tell someone if you're passionate about it , this is definitely the way to go. On its own it's a great way to start your professional career in teaching , but if you want to build upon it and pursue your education, that's another opportunity as well."

Frequently asked questions.

Please find key information about the Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Development program below.

Do I need to come to campus at all?

There is no in-person class requirements, this program is 100% online.

Can I apply any of this coursework to a bachelor's degree?

Yes, this program’s curriculum aligns with Ohio State’s bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Sciences as well as Primary Education.

How long will it take to complete the program?

The program is structured to be completed in 2 years. However, you can take longer if you prefer.

Official Recognition

Recognition from our partners.

National Veterans Leadership Foundation Alliance Partner

The NVLF partners with universities to enhance experiences and outcomes for veteran and military-connected students.

Collegiate Purple Star Award

The Collegiate Purple Star recognizes those public and independent colleges and universities in Ohio that are supportive and inclusive of military-connected students.

Pat Tillman Foundation Partner

The Pat Tillman Foundation identifies remarkable military service members, veterans and spouses, empowering them with academic scholarships, lifelong leadership development opportunities and a diverse, global community of high-performing mentors and peers.

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Academic Calendar

The Online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education program offers the flexibility of enrolling in three terms each year: spring, summer, and autumn. This schedule allows students to progress through their studies at a pace that suits their personal and professional commitments.

Spring 2025

Application Deadline December 11, 2024

Term Start Date January 6, 2025

Summer 2025

Application Deadline April 12, 2025

Term Start Date May 6, 2025

Autumn 2025

Application Deadline June 25, 2025

Term Start Date August 26, 2025

Admission Criteria

The Associate of Early Childhood Education program is completely online and open to anyone with a high school diploma or GED, making it an accessible pathway for those passionate about working with young children. Students will gain the essential skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in early childhood education. Whether you’re looking to enter the field for the first time or build on existing experience, this program offers a flexible and inclusive option to start your journey.

To begin the application process you’ll need the following required items:

• Unofficial transcripts
• Professional references
• Personal statement
• Application Fee – $60

Is this program available in my state?

Select your state from the map below to view program availability.

The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement, also known as  SARA , establishes uniform standards for distance education for all participating states and institutions. Ohio State joined SARA in 2015, which means Ohio State can offer most online and on-ground courses and programs in  SARA member states, districts and territories without seeking authorization in each state.

Career Outlook

The Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education program prepares students to work with children ages 0-5 in childcare centers, preschools, and pre-K programs. Graduates can pursue roles such as early childhood educators, preschool teachers, teacher assistants, or childcare workers, helping to foster children’s cognitive and social development. The program also serves as a solid foundation for those interested in continuing their education, such as obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Science.

Whether you’re looking to grow in your current career or make a career change altogether, Ohio State’s online programs can help you achieve your goals. Learn what the outlook is for your current or next career move using O*Net’s My Next Move tool.

Graduates of the Associate of Early Childhood Education and Development program will be equipped to identify typical and atypical child development and apply the latest research on physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development to early childhood education.

ESEPSY 2309 – Psychological Perspectives on Education

This course deals with the major theories of human development, motivation and learning. Planning of instruction, teaching strategies, assessment and classroom management are examined. Authentic pedagogical practices are used to gain an understanding of the teaching and learning process. 

ESSPED 2650 – Introduction to Young Children with Exceptionalities

Intro to Young Children with Exceptionalities is an overview of the education and early care of exceptional learners from birth to the early grades. This course will focus on young children whose attributes/learning abilities differ from the norm to such an extent that an individual family service plan (IFSP) or an individualized program of special education (IEP) is required to meet their needs. 

HDFS 2200 – Family Development (Virtual Lab School Equivalent)

Dynamics of family interaction over the life cycle; emphasis on developmental, social, and cultural influences on the family experience. 

HDFS 2410 – Child Development (Virtual Lab School Equivalent)

Study of the nature, nurture, and development of children from conception through the childhood years. 

HDFS 3300 – Promoting Early Language & Literacy Development in ECDE

This ECDE course focuses on theories of language development, the sequence of speech and language development and differentiating between normal and atypical speech. Emphasis will also be placed on the teacher’s role in facilitating communication and literacy skills, on planning and implementing appropriate language and literacy activities, and on selecting & using literature to enhance language. 

HDFS 3310 – Developing Age Appropriate Curriculum for ECDE

This course is an overview of care giving for infants and toddlers in group settings. Developmentally appropriate programming for infants and toddlers is emphasized across developmental areas through routines, environment, and experiences with a focus on language and brain development. The role of staff and parent relationships is explored as is state rules for licensed child care centers. 

EDUTL 2820 – Creativity and the Creative Arts in ECDE

This course introduces students to basic definitions, theories, and practical examples of using creativity, imagination, and the arts as means for educating young children within and outside of traditional early childhood educational settings. 

HDFS 3189.01 – Field Work with Targeted Populations: Children (Virtual Lab School Equivalent)

Field Work for students who are interested in working with children. 

HDFS 3450 – Positive Guidance of Young Children in Group Contexts (Virtual Lab School Equivalent)

Examines strategies to help promote adaptive behavior in home, school, and community contexts. Students will learn strategies for managing and preventing behavioral problems and develop an understanding of behavior management practices. 

HDFS 3800 – Professional Development (Virtual Lab School Equivalent)

The professional: performance, role in society, position securement, involvement in organizations, and continuing development. Students are encouraged to take this course early in the major. 

KNSFHP 1103 – Introduction to Health and Wellness in American Society (Virtual Lab School Equivalent)

A study of student health problems; designed to foster understandings and attitudes needed for intelligent decision-making related to present and future health needs. 

Understanding Online Course Types

As you research the right online program for you, you likely will come across the terms “asynchronous” and “synchronous.” Learn what these terms mean and how they’re important to consider when understanding how a program will fit into your life.

Program Faculty

Ohio State’s Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education program boasts a dedicated and experienced faculty committed to fostering the next generation of educators. Our faculty members bring a wealth of knowledge from diverse academic backgrounds and practical experiences, including advanced degrees in human development, family science, and education. They are deeply invested in the study and research of child development, family dynamics, and early childhood education practices. With their extensive expertise, students receive a comprehensive education that combines theoretical foundations with practical application, ensuring they are well-prepared to excel in the field of early childhood education.

Sarah Lang, Ph.D.

Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Science, The Ohio State University (2014) MS in Human Ecology, The Ohio State University (2014) BS in Psychology, The Ohio State University (2001) I am fascinated by young children and particularly interested in the way key relationships in young children’s lives impact their social-emotional development. As a former infant-toddler and preschool educator, I had an opportunity to develop a broad perspective on the myriad of relationships within which children and families function. My published research thus far has taken a family systems perspective, focusing on how individual characteristics of new parents may interact to influence each other’s parenting, and how particular parenting practices may predict children’s social-emotional development. For my dissertation work, I am investigating the relationships between early childhood teachers and families, applying theoretical models of coparenting to the childcare setting. In particular, I am studying how teachers and families understand their relationships with each other, what factors are associated with how these relationships function, as well as how these relationships are associated with family involvement and child social-emotional functioning.

Kelly Purtell

Arya Ansari

Cynthia Buettner

Testimonials

From gaining the confidence and training needed to excel in the workplace to discovering a passion for early childhood development that leads to further academic pursuits, our student’s stories highlight the program’s impact. Graduates of the Associate in Early Childhood Education program praise the challenging yet supportive curriculum and the opportunities it provides for both professional and personal growth. These firsthand accounts reflect how the program sets the stage for success in early childhood education and beyond.

"Once I started honestly I loved it so much that now I've started my Bachelors in Human Development and Family Sciences"

Get started.

Speak with a knowledgeable Enrollment Advisor who can help answer your questions and explain different aspects of the more than 70 online degrees and certificates offered at Ohio State.

Early Childhood Care & Education Certificate

Gain the knowledge and skills to specialize in the inclusive care and development of children aged 2-6 in licensed early learning settings in British Columbia.  

Funding Opportunity for Domestic Students

Hybrid online/in-person part-time basic ECCE program funded by the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills available for domestic students

Location: VCC Downtown Campus

Program timeline: February 21, 2024 - December 23, 2025 (six terms)

Class time: Evenings (6:00 pm - 9:00 pm) and Saturdays (daytime, TBD)

Online courses are synchronous (Zoom and Moodle), the in-person courses run in the ECCE classrooms DTN.

Contact: [email protected]

What you will learn

On completion of the Early Childhood Care and Education Certificate, graduates will be able to:

Protect and promote the psychological and physical safety, health and well-being of young children 2-6 years of age.

Develop and maintain a warm, caring, and responsive relationship with each child and with groups of children.

Administer daily experiences that support and promote children's physical, emotional, social, communication, cognitive, ethical and creative lives.

Use pedagogical narration to interpret and respond to every child's skills, abilities, interests and needs with special focus on infants and toddlers and children who need extra support.

Analyze variations in developing among young children 2-6.

Establish and maintain an open, cooperative relationship with each child's family.

Establish and maintain inclusive, supportive, collaborative relationships with others working in the early care and learning setting.

Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with other community service providers working with the child.

Reflect on one's own knowledge, attitudes, and skills and take appropriate action for change.

Practice administrative and management skills as related to early care and learning settings.

Advocate for high-quality, accessible, comprehensive and inclusive early care and learning settings.

What to expect

Courses combine classroom lectures, presentations, discussions, practical exercises, and individual and group work.   Students take an active role and learn by observing early childhood programs during field trips and off-site field studies.   Students are exposed to the new ECCE resources SECD (Science of Early Child Development).   Guest speakers are invited for every course in order to provide community awareness and connections for the students.

The class time includes the use of the ECCE Lab.   The ECCE Lab is a combination of classroom space and several mock learning centers.   The instructors incorporate the practical application in their lectures.

Practicum students receive on-site support and supervision from college instructors and sponsors who are qualified early childhood educators.

Admission requirements

• Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
• Minimum 18 years of age
• English Language Proficiency  assessed at English 12 with a minimum ‘C’
• Interview with Selection Committee, in person or by video conference
• Two letters of recommendation, indicating suitability for the program
• 40 hours of volunteering work in a licensed childcare facility in BC

Upon Acceptance:

• Students in this program are required to complete a CRC. The CRC must be completed according to VCC's Criminal Record Check instructions . Students whose CRC results indicate they pose a risk to vulnerable populations will not be able to complete the requirements of the program (e.g. practicums) or graduate. 
• Students must submit a negative Tuberculosis (TB) skin test. If the TB skin test is positive, a negative TB chest x-ray is required.
• Diphtheria/Tetanus
• Measles, Mumps & Rubella
• Varicella (chicken pox)
• Hepatitis B

Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free in academic upgrading , university transfer or English as a Second Language (ESL) Courses.

Recommended Characteristics

The Early Childhood Care and Education Certificate is designed to meet the needs of adult learners who reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of our community.

The following attributes are recommended:

• Desire to work with children and families in early childhood programs and services
• Previous experience in working with young children
• Ability to communicate effectively in English

Fees and other costs  

Tuition deposit: $400 ( non-refundable )

Need help with tuition?

Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.

* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable.

Any refunds are issued according to VCC's refund policy .

Additional Details

4 Course(s)

3 Course(s)

5 Course(s)

2 Course(s)

Connect with us

•   Have a question? Email us [email protected]

Learn more about any admission requirements, career possibilities, and have your questions answered

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Early Childhood Education vs. Elementary Education: Choosing the Right Specialization for your Teaching Career

When planning a career in education, many prospective teachers consider pursuing either early childhood education or elementary education. Educators in both areas play crucial roles in the development and education of young children, yet they differ significantly in focus, required skills, educational pathways, and career outlooks.

Comparing these two specializations, early childhood education versus elementary education, reveals distinct responsibilities, competencies, and opportunities for each role. Understanding these variations and the education requirements for each role can help aspiring teachers prepare to support the next generation effectively. 

Early Childhood Education vs. Elementary Education: Career Descriptions

Here we will take a look at the key differences in the job responsibilities and work environments of teachers who specialize in early childhood education and elementary education.

Early Childhood Educators

Early childhood educators work with young children, ranging from infants to those who are around 8 years old, typically in preschool and early elementary settings. Educators in both areas play crucial roles in the development and education of young children, yet they differ significantly in focus, required skills, educational pathways, and career outlooks.

Early childhood educators work in a variety of settings, including public and private preschools, child care centers, Head Start programs, and elementary schools. The role often involves creating a safe and nurturing environment for young children, assessing their developmental progress, and collaborating with their parents and other educators to support each child’s growth.

Elementary Education

Elementary educators teach children in kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade. Elementary school teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experiences of the children in their classroom, who are typically between the ages of 5 and 11. Their work encompasses a range of responsibilities that extend beyond classroom instruction, such as school administrative duties and extracurricular involvement.

These teachers are responsible for developing children’s foundational skills in various subjects, including math, reading, science, and social studies, while also supporting their social and emotional development.

Elementary school teachers primarily work in public or private elementary schools. Public schools are funded by the government and are free for students to attend, while private schools are funded through tuition paid by families and sometimes other private sources. Some elementary teachers may also work in charter schools, which are publicly funded but operate independently of the public school system.

Early Childhood Education vs. Elementary Education: Skill Requirements

While there is some overlap in the skills required for early childhood educators and elementary educators, certain abilities stand out as especially important in each role. Here are some highlights:

Key Skills of Early Childhood Educators

• Patience and Nurturing . Early childhood educators should be able to create a safe, comforting learning environment and take a gentle, patient approach that accommodates the developmental pace of young children. 
• Creativity . Early childhood educators must be able to develop imaginative and engaging teaching methods to capture the interest of young learners. Much of their day-to-day work involves planning and doing creative activities that promote learning through play.
• Strong Communication Across Generations . Being able to clearly and effectively interact with young children to facilitate understanding and learning is a must, but so is the capability to regularly and openly communicate with the children’s parents to provide them with updates on their child’s progress and to address any concerns.  
• Knowledge of Child Development . Early childhood educators must have comprehensive knowledge of developmental milestones to plan age-appropriate activities for the children in their classroom. They also must have the ability to recognize and respond to the individual needs of each child.
• Ethical decision-making is the process of striving to resolve issues using moral principles as a guide. This involves evaluating the options, considering the moral ramifications of each, and making choices based on one’s values and standards. 

Key Skills of Elementary Educators

• Classroom Management . Elementary educators need strong organizational skills to maintain an orderly classroom environment. They also must have effective disciplinary strategies to address behavioral issues and promote positive behavior.
• Subject Matter Expertise . Educators teaching in elementary schools need to have both proficiency in a broad range of subjects, including math, reading, science, and social studies, and the ability to teach these subjects in an engaging and comprehensible manner.
• Adaptability . Elementary educators must be flexible, adjusting their lessons and teaching methods to meet the diverse learning needs of their students, ensuring that every child can succeed.
• Communication Skills. Like early childhood educators, elementary educators need to be able to communicate effectively and in a developmentally appropriate way with their students and the students’ families.

Early Childhood Education vs. Elementary Education: Education Requirements

Both early childhood educators and elementary educators must earn a relevant degree. How long it takes to become a teacher can vary depending on each individual’s educational path and mode of study. 

Education Requirements for Early Childhood Education

The education and training requirements for preschool teachers vary by setting and state regulations, with most positions requiring at least an associate degree.

To enter the field of early childhood education within a public school system, a bachelor’s degree, such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Early Childhood Education is typically required. This degree provides a comprehensive understanding of child development, curriculum planning, and effective teaching strategies for young learners. 

Coursework often includes subjects such as child psychology, early literacy, classroom management, and creative arts.

Hands-on experience through student teaching or internships is often a focal point of the program, providing practical skills and real-world experience.

In addition to earning a degree, obtaining state-specific certification or licensure is often necessary to work as an early childhood educator, and is required for those working in a public school system. The requirements for certification vary by state, but they generally include passing exams that assess knowledge of teaching practices and child development. Many states also require continuing education credits to maintain certification.

Education Requirements for Elementary Education

Teaching jobs in elementary education usually require a bachelor’s degree, such as a BA in Elementary Education . State-specific certification or licensure is also required to teach at the elementary level. 

Most elementary education degree programs are teacher preparation programs. These programs combine academic coursework with practical teaching experience. Students typically complete a series of education courses that cover teaching methods, curriculum design, and assessment techniques. Individuals who have earned an undergraduate degree in a field outside of education can often prepare for licensure by participating in a graduate-level teacher preparation program.

Practical experience through student teaching or internships is an essential part of elementary education programs as well, offering prospective teachers the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a classroom setting and develop effective teaching strategies.

After completing their degree program, aspiring elementary school teachers must obtain state certification or licensure to teach in public schools. 

Once certified, elementary school teachers are usually required to stay current on their continuing education and professional development to maintain their certification and keep up with the latest educational best practices. 

Early Childhood Education vs. Elementary Education: Salary and Job Outlook

Understanding the job outlook for early childhood and elementary education can help prospective teachers make an informed career decision. 

Job Outlook: Early Childhood Educators

Preschool teachers usually work in child care centers or in public or private schools. Many follow the traditional 10-month school year, but some positions are year-round.

As of May 2023, the median annual salary for preschool teachers was $37,130, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 

The BLS projects that employment of preschool teachers will grow by 3% from 2022 to 2032, which matches the average growth rate projected for all occupations. There are projected to be about 56,300 job openings annually, mainly due to workers transferring to other occupations or leaving the workforce, such as for retirement.

Job Outlook: Elementary Educators

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers typically work in public or private schools. They generally teach during school hours when students are present, and they may prepare lessons and grade assignments on evenings or weekends. Most of these teachers have summers off and do not work during that time.

As of May 2023, the median annual salary for elementary school teachers, excluding special education teachers, was $63,680, according to the BLS. For kindergarten teachers, excluding special education, the median annual salary was $62,690.

The BLS estimates that employment of kindergarten and elementary school teachers will remain relatively stable from 2022 to 2032. Despite minimal growth in employment, the agency projects that there will be about 109,000 job openings each year, on average. 

Start Your Career in Education

Deciding whether to pursue a career in early childhood education or elementary education depends on the interests, skills, and career goals of the aspiring teacher. Both roles offer rewarding opportunities to make a significant impact on children’s lives. If you enjoy working with very young children and have a nurturing personality, early childhood education might be the right fit for you. If you prefer teaching a broad range of subjects to slightly older children, elementary education could be your calling.

At Mid-America Christian University, we offer comprehensive BA in Early Childhood Education and BA in Elementary Education programs, as well as graduate-level degree and certificate programs. Our programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you’ll need to excel in either of these rewarding careers. 

To learn more about how a degree from Mid-America Christian University can prepare you for a career as a teacher, please explore our education degree programs .

Recommended Readings:

Careers in Education: Teaching and Beyond   How to Become a Therapist Types of Ministry Degrees  

Forbes , “Earning an Elementary Education Degree: Everything You Need to Know” Forbes , “Guide to Early Childhood Education Careers: 7 Roles to Consider” UNESCO, “What You Need to Know About Early Childhood Care and Education” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers   U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Preschool Teachers

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Graduate Admissions

Office of graduate admissions.

820 Idaho Avenue Morrill Hall, Room 205 Moscow, ID 83843

University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 3019 Moscow, ID 83844-3019

Phone: 208-885-4001

Email: [email protected]

Web: More Contact Information

Childhood Development (M.S.)

Requirements: .

Education Level: Bachelor's GPA: 3.0 GRE: No TOEFL/IELTS: 79/6.5 Number of References: 3 Other Req.: No

Availabilities:

Terms: Fall Location: Moscow Thesis option: Thesis Deadlines: Priority — Jan. 1 International — May 1 Domestic — July 1

Program Contact

Director of Graduate Studies: Annie Roe

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Applicants must have a minimum overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.00 on a 4.00 grade scale equivalent to U.S. bachelor’s degree. If your GPA meets the minimum admission requirements, the department of major will determine if your overall academic record and test scores meet department requirements.

Note:  If you do not meet the minimum 3.00 GPA, your application can be considered for admission if you:

• earned an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher for your last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits

Degree Levels and Equivalents

All graduate school applicants must satisfy the following criteria to be considered for graduate admission to the University of Idaho:  Have earned a bachelor's degree from a college or university accredited by a recognized accrediting body, a ministry of education, or an official quality assurance organization in another country. The bachelor's degree should consist of four years of study, equivalent to 120 semester credit hours or 180 quarter hours.

An official academic record from all post-secondary education institutions attended is required. This may take some time so start this early in your application process.

In the instance that official records cannot be obtained, unofficial records may be used to consider your application. These documents are typically issued to the student and may be considered official after further review. This applies to cases where it is impossible to obtain the official records, and will be considered only on a case by case basis.

Domestic Applicants

Students must have a bachelor’s degree from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association. If the degree is from a recognized but not regionally accredited institution, the application will be reviewed by the department and by the College of Graduate Studies.

International Applicants

For information about equivalency and required academic credentials by country of education page, use the Degree Equivalency Guide .

The University of Idaho recommends, and reserves the right to require, a professional credential evaluation by an outside, independent party. Reasons for outside review include, but are not limited to, verification of document authenticity, potential transfer credits and the wish to expedite the processing of an application file. You are responsible for supplying the correct academic records and paying for the evaluation service. You will need to request a course-by-course evaluation. Transferring Internationally earned credits requires a course-by-course professional credential evaluation .

The preferred provider of transcript evaluations is:

• World Education Services, Inc.

There is a list of the five services from which the University of Idaho will accept evaluations.

• Visit our professional credential evaluation page .

Precise, word-for-word, English translations are required for all foreign language documents.

English Proficiency

The most common and widely accepted test is the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

Our institution code for the TOEFL is 4843.

The following are acceptable as proof of English Language Proficiency:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): minimum overall score of 79 
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): minimum overall score of 6.5
• MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery): Minimum overall score of 77
• PTE A (Pearson Test of English Academic): Minimum overall score of 58
• U of I American Language & Culture Program (ALCP) with score of a Level 6/Advanced Pass
• U.S. Education Earned Bachelor, or higher, degree at accredited U.S. institution
• Duolingo English Test: Minimum Overall 110 (as of Spring 2024 admission, the minimum required score will be 115)

A waiver for this requirement is automatically granted to applicants whose education is from countries where English is an official/native language. For more information, visit our English language countries page .

• All tests must have been taken within two years of the semester.
• Some graduate programs have a higher requirement. If so, you will need to take the TOEFL, or equivalent test, and obtain the higher score prior to be granted regular admission.
• Some graduate programs allow admission to be granted to applicants who qualify academically, but have not yet achieved U of I minimum English language requirements. To view information and a list of programs accepting students on this admission, visit our international requirements webpage .

Quick Application Guide

For the best user experience:

• Desktop or laptop advised, mobile devices are not recommended
• Have recommender names and email addresses
• Have electronic versions of your required documents
• Be ready to complete an online application fee

Provide Academic & Personal Information

• Program applying
• Academic background
• English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE (if applicable)
• Your Contact Information
• Answer varying questions
• Three (3) recommender names and emails
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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• Graduate Application Status Portal
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Recommendation for admission is based on the department's decision. Final admission is determined by the College of Graduate Studies.

Important notes to keep in mind  » Learn More

Tuition, Fees, Scholarships and Costs

Visit the following pages to learn more:

• Scholarships and Costs  (General Annual)
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• Idaho Residency for Tuition Purposes

Letters of Recommendation

The number of letters is up to the academic department/program. Individual programs may require 1 to 3 letters of recommendation. Please  gather the names and email addresses of your recommenders. You will need to enter this information to complete an online application. Remember to inform recommenders in advance that they will receive an invitation to upload their letter of support directly to your application.

• Please use your references institutional email address
• Preferably, letters of recommendation should be issued on the university or company letterhead
• Preferably, your recommendations should come from teaching or research faculty in an area related to your anticipated field of study or a company supervisor who has worked with you and can articulate your merits

For more information, visit our documental resources page .

Submitting Documents

Include your full name on ALL materials and ensure uploads are LEGIBLE .

Any change in specific degree, major or semester before enrollment requires a new application (including uploaded material) and a non-refundable fee.

To be considered  official , all academic records and test scores (ie. transcripts, degree certificates, GRE, TOEFL) must be sent directly from the institution and/or testing center to Graduate Admissions. When these items are submitted by applicants or educational consultants/agencies, approved or not, they are considered  unofficial .

Direct mailing address is:

Graduate Admissions University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 3019 Moscow, ID 83844-3019

Additional items  that applicants upload into the application include (if required):

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae (required)
• Statement of Purpose (required)
• Scans of Official Transcripts (optional, see below)
• Personal Information Form (some programs)
• Writing Sample (some programs)
• Portfolio (some programs)

Note: Failure to adhere to these requirements could delay your credential evaluation and/or admission to the University of Idaho. For more information or assistance,  visit our documental resources page .

Unofficial Transcripts

• Applicants may upload scanned copies of official transcripts and translations via the online application. Only scans of high quality (600 dpi or higher, front and back with grading keys/scales) from the University Registrar’s office, also known as original documents from your institution, are acceptable. These scans may be used to determine your acceptance into the program. However, the  official transcript documents will ultimately be required .

Official Transcripts

• Transferring Internationally earned credits requires a course-by-course professional credential evaluation .
• U.S. Institutions: Academic transcripts from each college or university attended must be received by Graduate Admissions directly from the awarding institution in the officially sealed envelope bearing the institution’s official seal, stamp, and/or appropriate signature.
• Graduate Admissions accepts electronic transcripts from U.S. higher education institutions.
• Current or former U of I students: If you have or are currently attending the U of I, you do not need to order U of I transcripts. Graduate Admissions will secure them for you.

Test Scores

• ETS Institution Code (U of I): 4843
• The GRE is only required for some graduate programs.
• Department code (if needed and not supplied): 5199
• A waiver for English language proficiency requirement is automatically granted to students whose education is from countries where English is an official/native language.
• Department code (if needed and not supplied): 99

International

Complete and return the following to Graduate Admissions regardless of your source(s) of funding:

• Certificate of Financial Responsibility Form
• Copy of passport for applicant and all accompanying dependents requiring a Certificate of Eligibility (I-20)
• Current I-20

All students currently in F-1 status at any type of institution (college, university, intensive English institute) in the U.S. who plan to transfer to the University of Idaho must complete the transfer procedure through SEVIS. For more information, see the "Student Visa and SEVIS Information" drop-down below.

Student Visa and SEVIS Information

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services regulations require that every student verify the availability of funds to pay for educational and living expenses before an I-20 or DS-2019 form to obtain a visa to enter the U.S. can be issued.

Immigration regulations require that international students holding F-1 or J-1 student visas be certified as full-time students during the academic year. F-1 graduate students are required to be enrolled in nine credit hours and are allowed to take up to three credits of online coursework toward this requirement. J-1 visa holders are also required to enroll in nine credit hours, but are not allowed to take online classes toward the nine credit requirement.

• Additional documents are required for international students , see the "International" section of the "Submitting Documents" drop-down above.
• Not all programs are eligible for an F-1 or J-1. View the "Program Specific" drop-down or contact the program for information.
• All students currently in F-1 status at any type of institution (college, university, intensive English institute) in the U.S. who plan to transfer to the University of Idaho must complete the transfer procedure through SEVIS.

SEVIS Record Transfer Request (PDF Form)

Transfer Procedure:

• Receive admission to the University of Idaho
• Notify your current school of your intentions to transfer
• Complete Part I of this form (only after you have been admitted and choose to attend U of I)
• Have an international student advisor at your current institution complete Part II
• After you and your current school have determined the date to have your SEVIS record electronically released to the University of Idaho, promptly return this form
• After the release date, the University of Idaho will produce an I-20.

More From Forbes

The importance of collaboration around early childhood education.

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Kendra Davenport is the President and CEO of Easterseals .

It’s difficult to go a day without hearing about how we live in divided times. While there may undoubtedly be things that divide Americans, many things also unite us. At the top of the list is a shared and genuine concern for the healthy development and education of our nation’s children.

The first five years of a child’s life are when their brain develops faster than at any other time. These years provide the foundation that shapes a child’s future health, development, learning and emotional well-being to ensure success in school and life. It’s also a time when early intervention services are crucial to help infants, toddlers and young children with developmental delays or other disabilities achieve cognitive, social, emotional, communicative and physical milestones.

Unfortunately, access to this type of intervention is not experienced evenly, and each year, more than 1 million children enter kindergarten with an undiagnosed developmental delay and are not ready to learn. The effects of this imbalance go far beyond any one student or individual. Leaders of all organizations—businesses and nonprofits—have an interest in ensuring that all children have access to meaningful early childhood education. The benefits to society realized by investing resources in high-quality birth-to-age-five programs are well-documented in research by University of Chicago professor James J. Heckman. The research proves a yield of up to 13% return on investment in early childhood programs, reducing the need for special education and remediation, better health outcomes, reduced need for social services, lower criminal justice costs, and increased self-sufficiency and productivity among children and families.

The U.S. economy loses as much as $35 billion annually because parents either reduce their working hours or leave the workforce entirely. Businesses lose an estimated $12.7 billion annually due to employee absenteeism caused by lack of childcare. This lack of childcare costs $57 billion annually "in lost earnings, productivity and revenue."

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Harris will propose $50,000 small business tax deduction for startup expenses: here’s what to know, google chrome 3-week update deadline—new warning to change your browser.

By expanding access to quality education and healthcare for children, we are helping expand opportunity and education for tomorrow’s leaders. A study last year by Georgetown University found that 72% of jobs in the U.S. will require a college degree by 2031. However, as Roy Bostock, vice chairman of Delta Airlines, has pointed out, to obtain a university education, one first needs to graduate from high school. The likelihood of graduating from high school increases fourfold if children read at grade level by third grade, and chances of reading at grade level double if children start school ready to learn. Their success all comes back to those critical first years.

Regions throughout the country suffer from rampant shortages of childcare options. Known as childcare deserts , many areas have too few licensed slots for the number of children who need care. More than half of America’s children live in such a desert, and this is particularly true for those from low- and middle-income, Hispanic and rural communities.

Parents are increasingly worried about the costs even when childcare options are available. "Since 1990, childcare costs have risen 214% ... Meanwhile, the average family income has increased by just 143% over the same period." According to Child Care Aware of America, "the annual price of child care exceeds the annual cost of in‑state tuition at a public four‑year university," and in all but six states childcare costs for two children exceed average mortgage prices. The combination of high costs and low levels of access has created a growing inequity in quality childcare across the U.S.

As a parent, I can attest to having experienced similar struggles around childcare more than a decade ago, and while my children are now grown, relatively little has changed in terms of the accessibility and affordability of childcare.

We can do more as nonprofit and community leaders to address barriers to education and healthcare. Solving issues such as the childcare conundrum demands creative solutions that often begin with public-private partnerships. Such alliances allow private and nonprofit organizations to share unique but symmetrical perspectives and form mutually beneficial unions.

For example, our organization has partnered with the Abbott Fund, with additional support from CareSource, to develop and implement the Project on Education and Community Health Equity (PEACHE). The initiative, which we are currently piloting in North Georgia, Southern California and the D.C., Maryland and Virginia regions, will improve the school readiness of children in underserved communities and improve relationships between healthcare and education service providers. By establishing the data-proven link between health and education needs, and the gaps that exist for low-income communities, we plan to scale this program nationally. This project helps ensure a child’s health and education needs are kindergarten-ready.

Knowing who to partner with demands research as well as planned and ongoing interaction. Devoting the time to get to know potential partner organizations is essential to understanding whether a company will make for a good match with your organization. Creating opportunities for staff and leadership to interact with counterparts at a potential partner organization builds internal consensus and can help determine whether the collaboration has the potential to become a partnership.

Through meaningful partnerships, private and nonprofit sectors can bring about meaningful change. After all, it is in everyone’s interest that tomorrow’s leaders are set up for success in school and life.

Forbes Nonprofit Council is an invitation-only organization for chief executives in successful nonprofit organizations. Do I qualify?

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Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra, Russia

The capital city of Khanty-Mansi okrug: Khanty-Mansiysk .

Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra - Overview

Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra is a federal subject of Russia, part of the Urals Federal District. Khanty-Mansiysk is the capital city of the region.

The population of Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra is about 1,702,200 (2022), the area - 534,801 sq. km.

Khanty-Mansi okrug flag

Khanty-mansi okrug coat of arms.

Khanty-Mansi okrug map, Russia

Khanty-mansi okrug latest news and posts from our blog:.

21 March, 2020 / Nizhnevartovsk - the view from above .

8 November, 2017 / Surgut - the view from above .

4 March, 2017 / Khanty-Mansiysk - the view from above .

12 February, 2016 / Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug from above .

21 May, 2013 / The most powerful thermoelectric power station in Russia .

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History of Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra

Yugra is the historical homeland of the Ob-Ugric peoples: Khanty, Mansi, Nenets, and Selkup. They were engaged in hunting, fishing, cattle breeding. After the Turkic peoples pushed them from south to north, these peoples had to apply their skills in more severe conditions. It is at this new location Ugrians began to domesticate deer.

In the first half of the second millennium AD, the main features of the material and spiritual culture of Khanty, Mansi and forest Nenets were formed. It is believed that since then they have not undergone major changes. Since the second half of the 13th century, a new factor in the development of the region was its entry into the Golden Horde.

At the end of the 14th century, the collapse of the Golden Horde led to the emergence of a separate Tyumen Khanate. In 1495, the Siberian Khanate appeared. At that time the basic principles of political, administrative and socio-economic organization of this territory were developed. The region was called Ugra or Yugra.

More historical facts…

The region became part of Russia in the end of the 16th century. From the middle of the 18th century, this region became a place of exile for criminals. December 10, 1930, Ostyako-Vogul national okrug was formed with the center in the settlement of Samarovo. Construction of a new center began 5 km away from it. In February 1932, the new center of the region was named Ostyako-Vogulsk.

In 1934, the first steps to find oil and natural gas in the region were taken. October 23, 1940, Ostyko-Vogul national okrug was renamed Khanty-Mansi national okrug and Ostyko-Vogulsk was renamed Khanty-Mansiysk. August 14, 1944, the region became part of Tyumen Oblast. On January 27, 1950, Khanty-Mansiysk became a city.

On September 21, 1953, in Berezovo, the first natural gas in Western Siberia was produced. On June 23, 1960, the first oil in Western Siberia was discovered near Shaim. This was followed by the discovery of many other oil and natural gas fields. Along with the industrial exploitation of oil and gas fields, the timber industry developed rapidly.

By the end of the 20th century, under the influence of demographic and socio-economic developments the Khanty-Mansi region in fact lost its national basis. On July 25, 2003, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug was renamed Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra.

Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra views

Rest on the lake in Yugra

Author: O.Frolov

Golden autumn in the Khanty-Mansy region

Author: Leonid Karpushin

Beautiful nature of Yugra

Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra - Features

The name of the region is associated with the self-names of the two main groups of northern peoples - Khanty and Mansi. In the Middle Ages, the word “Yugra” was used to refer to peoples and lands beyond the Northern Urals.

This region, located in the middle of Russia, occupies the central part of the West Siberian Plain. Its territory stretches from west to east for almost 1,400 km, from north to south for 900 km. The area of the region is comparable to France or Ukraine.

The climate is temperate continental characterized by rapid change of weather especially in spring and autumn. Winters are long, snowy and cold with frosts below minus 30 degrees Celsius. Summers are short and warm. From the west this region is protected by the Ural mountains, from the north it is open to cold arctic air.

The highest points of the region are Mount Narodnaya (1,895 m) in the Polar Urals and Mount Pedy (1,010 m) in the Northern Urals. Two major rivers flow in Khanty-Mansi autonomous okrug: the Ob (3,650 km) and its tributary the Irtysh (3,580 km). About 30% of the territory is covered by swamps. There are more than 300,000 lakes surrounded by marshes and forests.

The largest cities of Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra are Surgut (396,000), Nizhnevartovsk (280,800), Nefteyugansk (128,700), Khanty-Mansiysk (106,000), Kogalym (69,200), Nyagan (58,500). Today, only about 32,000 people are representatives of indigenous peoples: Khanty, Mansi and Nenets. Half of them live in the traditional way.

This region is very rich in oil and natural gas. The largest oil and natural gas fields are Samotlorskoye, Fedorovskoye, Mamontovskoye, Priobskoye. There are also deposits of gold, coal, iron ore, copper, zinc, lead and other mineral resources.

The climate is not favorable for agriculture. Most of the agricultural products and foodstuffs is brought from other Russian regions. Waterways and railways are the main shipping ways. The total length of the pipeline network is 107,000 km.

About 60% of Russian oil is produced in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra. In total, more than 10 billion tons of oil were produced here. The total number of oil and natural gas fields discovered is 475. In the coming decades, the Khanty-Mansi region will remain the main resource base of hydrocarbons in Russia.

Tourism in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra

Yugra has unique natural, cultural and historical resources for the development of recreation and tourism. On the territory of the region there are historical and cultural monuments, as well as modern infrastructure for lovers of cultural, educational, recreational tourism, and outdoor activities. International events (sports competitions, festivals and forums) help to open this place to foreigners as an amazing corner of the globe.

Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra has a number of wonderful natural sites worthy of attention: two nature reserves (“Malaya Sosva” and “Yugansky”), four nature parks (“Samarovsky Chugas”, “Siberian ridges”, “Numto”, “Kondinskie lakes”), ten monuments of nature, archeological complexes (“Barsova Mountain”, “Saygatino”, Sherkaly settlement).

Holidays of the northern peoples are also popular among tourists: Reindeer Herder’s Day, Day of indigenous Peoples of the North “Crow day”, Fisherman’s Day, Bear holiday and others.

Active and extreme types of tourism (skiing, snowboarding, kiting) are gaining in popularity. There are seven ski resorts in the region. In summer, travelers can go rafting on mountain rivers of Siberia. Tourists can also go on a special oil tour that includes a visit to the oil-producing companies. They learn about the oil industry and the history of oil exploration in Siberia.

Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra is a region of endless charm of the beautiful nature and modern tourist facilities. True lovers of northern landscapes and local cultures will be able to fully enjoy the incomparable scenery and generous hospitality in Ugra.

Khanty-Mansi okrug of Russia photos

Khanty-mansi autonomous okrug scenery.

Road through autumn forest in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug

Deep winter snow is not a problem in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug

Author: Chernenko

Yugra scenery

Author: Sergej Fedotov

Pictures of Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug - Yugra

Winter in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug

Orthodox church in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug

Author: Alexey Borodko

Church in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug

Author: Peter Sobolev

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