At SuperScholar we are passionate about education. There is no more critical time period for a person to learn and grow than in early childhood. Research suggests that majority osf the brain’s neurons are developed in the first few years of a child’s life. This combined with several other factors makes the brain most receptive to growth and learning in the early years. Needless to say, an effective education during a child’s early years lays a strong foundation for future academic success. You can have a huge impact on a person’s life simply by nurturing their mental, emotional, and social growth in the early years.
The Advantages of an Online Early Childhood Education Degree Program
The field of Early Childhood Education is going to continue to grow by double digits. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of preschool teachers, for instance, is expected to grow by 17 percent from 2012 to 2022, and employment of workers in early care and education centers is expected to grow by 14 percent during the same time. This sector is going to continue to need qualified professionals as it grows. Obtaining an online bachelor’s degree in early childhood education can not only help enhance your ability to teach with a high level of competency but it can also help set you apart from the competition. Furthermore, earning the degree in an online format will allow for minimal disruption so that you can continue to tend to your professional and family commitments while working towards a degree.
Our Methodology for This Ranking
Only accredited colleges and universities listed in the National Center for Education Statistics database and offering Associates and Bachelors in Early Childhood Education were considered. Schools that passed this initial criterion were then evaluated based on awards & recognition, market reputation, flexibility, accessibility, and affordability. We believe the resulting list of fifty schools offers prospective students in early childhood education an excellent place to start their search for the school and degree program that is right for them.
#50. Liberty University’s School of Education
Positioned in the Blue Ridge Mountains in the town of Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University is a private university rooted in the Christian faith. Liberty is the largest Christian university in the world, with over 100,000 traditional and online students. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges provides accreditation for the university.
Program Details: The School of Education offers online programs in Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies at the associate and bachelor’s level as well as an online Master of Education in Teaching and Learning – Early Childhood Education. The online Bachelor of Science Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies is a non-licensure program with an options 5th year MAT licensure option. Courses examine theories and methodology of Christian education to assist those who will work in Christian schools, churches, the home, and public schools. The B.S. is 120 credits and has a full-time tuition of $360 per credit.
#49. University of Dayton’s School of Education and Health Sciences
The University of Dayton is a private Roman Catholic, research university in Dayton, Ohio. Nearly 11,000 students are enrolled in programs at the university. The school has a student to faculty ratio of 14 to 1. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School of Education and Health Sciences at the University of Dayton has several online options for students interested in the field of early childhood education. The school offers online programs in Early Childhood Leadership & Advocacy at the certificate, bachelor’s, and master’s level and an online Master of Science in Education in Transdisciplinary Early Childhood Education. The online B.S. in Education in Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy is a completion program that requires that students have an associate degree (or equivalent) in early childhood or a related field to be admitted.
#48. Prescott College
Prescott College is a private, liberal arts school with a motto that states “For the Liberal Arts, the Environment, & Social Justice.” The school as a campus in Prescott, Arizona and just under 1,000 students enrolled. Prescott is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.
Program Details: The college offers a limited residency Bachelor of Arts in Education and Teacher Preparation for students who need a flexible learning environment. Prescott offers core content areas in Secondary Education, Elementary Education, Cross-Categorical Special Education, Early Childhood Education, and Early Childhood Special Education. Students work toward a degree with the help of their faculty advisor to successfully complete core curriculum in their chosen area of study, an individualized degree plan, a three-day residency in Prescott, Arizona and student teaching.
#47. East Carolina University’s College of Human Ecology
For over 100 years East Carolina University has been preparing teachers for effective instruction. This public, research university has a main campus in Greenville, North Carolina. ECU also has two other campuses in the Greenville area – The Health Science Campus and the West Research Campus. Currently nearly 27,000 students enrolled. Accreditation is granted by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Human Ecology at ECU offers an online Bachelor of Science completion program in Birth Through Kindergarten Teacher Education. Note that the completion program is only open to residents of North Carolina. Upon completion of the course work, students are required to complete a year-long student teaching assignment in a public school setting. Tuition and fees are $347 per credit.
#46. Grand Canyon University’s College of Education
Established in 1949, Grand Canyon University is a private, for-profit Christian university located in Phoenix, Arizona. Nearly 55,500 students are enrolled in programs at the school. Grand Canyon is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Education at Grand Canyon University offers an online Master of Education in Early Childhood Education as well as an online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. The B.S. program has content curriculum that focuses on birth through grade 3 and includes teaching methodologies, instructional strategies, theories of early childhood growth and development, assessment techniques, and the impact of family and cultural diversity on early childhood. Students will have two practicum experiences, has embedded practicum experiences, one in birth through age 5 and the other in Kindergarten through grade 3.
#45. Aspen University’s School of Education
Aspen University has been providing motivated students an opportunity to earn career advancing distance-degrees since 1987. With a head quarters in Denver, Colorado, this private, for-profit institution has nearly 500 students enrolled in programs ensuring a small student to faculty ratio of 13 to 1. The university is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).
Program Details: The School of Education at Aspen University offers an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education, a full B.S. in Early Childhood Education, and a B.S. completion program in Early Childhood Education. All three are 100% online. The degrees provides students with a comprehensive education that combines a liberal arts foundation with specialized courses in early childhood education topics related to child development, education theory, and curriculum design. Tuition is very affordable at $150 per credit.
#44. Hufstedler School of Education at Alliant International University
Alliant International University is a private, not-for-profit university with seven California campuses, three international locations and a student body of over 4,000. It was formed in 2001 when two institutions with legacies of providing quality higher education merged: The California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) and United States International University (USIU). The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) provides accreditation.
Program Details: The Hufstedler School of Education offers a bachelor’s degree in Child Development. The courses will prepare students to work in educational services for ages birth through adolescence and early adulthood. This specialized program in the education school will give students the knowledge and skills needed to create and facilitate learning environments for children and families. Courses are offered in a variety of formats including online, on-campus, and in a seminar setting. Check with admissions counselors to confirm which portions can be completed 100% online. Students who earn this degree often take positions such as Preschool or Head Start Teacher, Child or Day Care Provider, Director of Family Development Agency, and After school Program Coordinator, among others.
#43. Post University
Post University is a private, for-profit university based in Waterbury, Connecticut. Originally founded in 1890 as Post College, Post University is now owned by Generation Partners, a firm in Greenwich, Connecticut. The New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) provides accreditation.
Program Details: Post University offers an online Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. This degree can launch students into an accelerated online Bachelor of Science in Child Studies completion program. The B.S. degree completion program adds to the Early Childhood Education Associate’s degree with classroom instruction and field work, as well as greater knowledge of early childhood education practice and the skills to advance in the profession.
#42. Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon Nazarene University has been cultivating well rounded thinkers with a Christian worldview since 1968. This private, intentionally Christian teaching university is located in Mt. Vernon, Ohio. Over 2,200 students are enrolled in courses at the school. The Higher Learning Commission provides accreditation.
Program Details: The university offers an online completion Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education through the school’s through Graduate & Professional Studies division. This B.A. program is for adults who want to attend one online class at a time to complete their bachelor’s degree and earn their teaching license (Ohio residents only). In order to accepted into the program students must either hold an associate degree in Early Childhood from a regionally accredited institution or have completed the equivalent education course work at the bachelor’s degree level. Students must earn a total of 120 hours in order to be awarded with the B.A. degree.
#41. Notre Dame College
Notre Dame College is a Catholic, liberal arts college in Cleveland, Ohio. Nearly 2,300 students are enrolled in courses at the school. Accreditation is provided by the Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges.
Program Details: Notre Dame College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Education online. Students have the options to pursue an Early Childhood Education (ECE) License. This program prepares students for Pre K – 3 education with the skills and knowledge to meet young student’s educational needs. This field-based program in which students relate their developing practice to the Ohio Standards for the Teaching Profession. Tuition for the program is $440 per credit.
#40. Pacific Oaks College’s School of Education
Founded over 60 years ago by a group of Quaker families committed to the values of inclusion, social justice, and the intrinsic worth of every human being, Pacific Oaks College is a private, not-for-profit, nonsectarian school in Pasadena, CA. Slightly over 1,000 are enrolled in programs at the college. Pacific Oaks College is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: The School of Education at Pacific Oaks College offers an online bachelor’s completion program in Early Childhood Education, as well as an online master’s in Early Childhood Education. All POC programs take a culture-centered, experiential approach to learning. Students interested in enrolling in the bachelor’s completion program must have at least 60 credit hours of prior coursework from a regionally accredited college or university. The program can be completed in two years or less. The online master’s degree can be completed in one year of full-time study, or two years of part-time study. Required fieldwork for both the bachelor’s completion and the master’s program may be completed at a site convenient to the student pending the approval of the site, supervisor, and college.
#39. University Removed
The university that was ranked #39 requested to be removed from the ranking.
#38. Florida International’s College of Education
Florida International University is a public research university located in Miami, Florida. There are over 47,000 people in this diverse student body. Accreditation is provided by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Education offers a 120 hour Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. The degree is a fully online program that focuses on the learning and development the development of the whole child, birth through age five. Undergraduate students in online programs at FIU are assigned a success coach and have access to tech support 24/7. Tuition is $157.36 per credit for residents of Florida and $333 per credit for non-residents.
#37. Fresno Pacific University’s College of Education
Fresno Pacific University is a private school with roots in the Mennonite Brethren Church. The programs are greatly influenced by the Christian heritage of the university. The school has a five centers and campuses in California. Nearly 3,400 students are enrolled in programs at the university. FPU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Program Details: The School of Education offers an online completion Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Development with an emphasis on ages birth through eight. This is an 18 month program for adult learners that requires students to have a minimum of 60 applicable credits in order to be admitted. Students in this program join a diverse cohort of 12-24 adults to progress through the program and facilitate a sense of community. New cohorts are formed each spring (February) and fall (August). Tuition for the entire program is $19,110.00.
#36. Kendall College’s School of Education
Kendall College is a for-profit college with programs in business, culinary arts a hospitality, and education. The headquarters is in Chicago, Illinois. Nearly 1,700 students are enrolled in programs at the college. Regional accreditation is provided by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Details: The School of Education at Kendall College offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education in an Illinois with a handful of concentrations: Administration and Leadership, Childhood Nutrition, English as a Second Language (ESL), Grant Management, Infants and Toddlers, Small Business Management, and Special Education. This 180 to 183-credit hour program has a non-licensure track and an Illinois teacher licensure track. Tuition for students in education programs has a 2015-2016 cost of $275 per credit.
#35. Concordia University – St. Paul
Originally founded in 1893 to prepare high school students for the ministry, Concordia University gradually grew a four-year, coeducational university. Concordia University St Paul is one of the ten-member Concordia University System, a university system overseen by the Missouri Synod of the Lutheran Church. The Higher Learning Commission provides regional accreditation for the academic programs.
Program Details: Students interested in Early Childhood Education can earn a quality education by combining a couple of online options at Concordia University – St. Paul. First, they should enroll in the 64-credit online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education program. Once the A.A. program is completed students can complete a 42-credit online B.A. in Child Development. Courses in both programs are offered online in seven week-long sessions out of the Teacher Education area of study. Online students at Concordia have access to tech help 24/7. Tuition is $420 per credit. Check with an admissions counselor to see if any more credits are required to complete a B.A. that will effectively prepare students for the Early Childhood Education Sector.
#34. Metcalf School of Education at California Baptist University
California Baptist University is a private, Christian university located in Riverside, California. CBU also offers degree programs in San Bernardino and online. The school has nearly 7,200 students enrolled. The Western Association of Colleges and Schools provides accreditation.
Program Details: The Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education at California Baptist University offers an online accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Studies with a specialization in Early Childhood Intervention. This program prepares soon-to-be teachers to effectively nurture and educate students who are non-disabled and disabled ages zero to eight. This is an online degree that combines Cisco and Blackboard technologies in a way that allows for face-to-face instruction in real time through the internet.
#33. Southwestern College Professional Studies
Southwestern College is a private school in Winfield, Kansas. The college was founded in 1885 and is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Approximately 1,600 students are enrolled. Accreditation is provided by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Details: The Professional Studies sector of Southwestern College provides a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education for students interested in teaching ages birth through 8. The program includes courses in special education. This 124-credit program has online classes but requires a student teaching experience. The Professional Studies degrees are intended for working adults. Thus, in order to be admitted to the B.A. in Early Childhood Education, students must have at least three years of post-high school work experience, at least six hours of post-high school credits, and no lower than a GPA of 2.5.
#32. University of West Alabama’s College of Education
Charted as a church-related female academy in 1835, the University of West Alabama is now a public, co-educational, four-year university in Livingston, Alabama. Nearly 4,500 students are enrolled in courses at the university. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges provides accreditation.
Program Details: The College of Education at the University of West Alabama offers an online Bachelor in Science program in Early Childhood Development. In an effort to maximize the effectiveness of the education, the standards are maintained by cooperating with the Alabama State Department of Education, the Alabama Education Study Commission, the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification. Tuition for online undergraduate degrees is $429.00 per credit.
#31. Mayville State University
Mayville State University is an institution of higher learning in Mayville, North Dakota. Slightly over 1,000 students are enrolled in programs at the university. The Higher Learning Commission provides accreditation for academic programs at MSU.
Program Details: MSU offers two online/hybrid programs in Early Childhood Education. The degrees include a B.A. in Early Childhood Education and a B.S. in Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. Students must participate in on-campus classes for two summer sessions in order to ensure the high standards of the programs. The rest of the degrees can be earned completely online. Tuition for distance degrees is $275 per semester hour credit regardless of state of residency.
#30. Arkansas Tech University’s College of Professional Studies
Arkansas Tech University is a comprehensive research university located in Russellville, Arkansas. Founded in 1909 as an agricultural high school, ATU gradually grew into a college and finally a university in 1976. Arkansas Tech University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Professional Studies offers two online options for students interested in a career in early childhood education. Students can choose to earn an online Associate of Science with a specialization in Early Childhood Education. Students can also pursue an accelerated Bachelor of Professional Studies with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. The bachelor’s program is a completion degree so students must enter the program with at least 60 applicable credits. Most students can complete this 124-credit hour bachelor’s program in only 18 months.
#29. University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s School of Education
The University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point is a public university in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Nearly 10,000 students are enrolled in programs at this award-winning institution. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Students with the capability of traveling to Stevens Point, Wisconsin have an excellent opportunity to earn a quality online/hybrid bachelor’s degree with a major in Early Childhood Education. This Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education is offered out of UW Steven Point’s School of Education and focuses on learning how to effectively teach children, ages birth through age 8. The program requires some weekend visits to the campus in Stevens Point.
#28. Bluefield College’s School of Education
Located in Bluefield, Virginia, near the West Virginia border, Bluefield College is a small, Christ-centered liberal arts college. Under 1,000 students are enrolled in the university. Bluefield College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate and masters degrees.
Program Details: Bluefield’s School of Educations provides a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education which is delivered 100% online. The degree prepares students to teach children ages birth to age eight in high-quality and does not include teacher licensure. Internships are a critical part of Bluefield’s program. Early in the program students must observe an approved age appropriate classroom. During the last year of the program, students majoring in Early Childhood Education will complete 120 hours of field experience.
#27. Vanguard University
Originally established in 1920 as a training school for Christian workers, Vanguard University is a comprehensive university affiliated with the Assemblies of God. The university is located in Costa Mesa, California and has an enrollment of nearly 2,500 students. The Western Association of Schools and Colleges provides regional accreditation for the academic programs.
Program Details: Vanguard offers accredited online degrees in Early Childhood Education (ECE) at the associate and bachelor’s level. The programs are taught in an accelerated 8-week format maximizing flexibility and accessibility. All the ECE courses are taught from a Christian worldview by experienced early childhood educators who provide individual teacher support. The school also offers an online 30-credit certificate in ECE which can prepare students to have a firm foundation of knowledge in the early education field. Students can use the certificate as a launching pad into the A.A. or the B.A. program. The degrees and courses are aligned to meet the formal training requirements for Head Start, State Preschools, Association of Christian Schools International’s (ACSI), CDA Credential and for those who work in private centers and as family child care providers.
#26. Park University’s School for Education
Park University is an independent, non-profit private institution of higher education with a residential campus in Parkville, Missouri. The university also holds courses out of 42 centers in 21 states and online. Nearly 18,800 students are enrolled in programs at the university. Park is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The School for Education has two online Bachelor of Science in Education Studies programs for those interested in working in the early childhood education sector. Students interested in administration and leadership positions in Head Start programs, child care centers, private preschools, and family child care should look into the Early Childhood Education and Leadership program. Students interested more in the curriculum development and teaching side should consider the Early Childhood Education Teaching Young Children program.
#25. Michigan State University’s College of Social Sciences
Michigan State University was founded in 1855. This public research university is located in East Lansing, Michigan and has over 49,000 students are enrolled. Accreditation is provided by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The university offer’s a unique online/hybrid Bachelor of Arts in Early Care and Education degree. The College of Social Science collaborates with the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (GPIDEA) and offers this program by faculty from multiple land-grant universities: Michigan State University, Texas Tech University, Iowa State University, University of Nebraska, University of Missouri. South Dakota State University, and Oklahoma State University. The curriculum for the 120 credit undergraduate degree focuses on the intellectual, social, emotional, and biological development of children so that students can effectively serve as teachers and early childhood center directors.
#24. University of Washington’s College of Education
The University of Washington is a public, research university positioned on the edge of Lake Washington in Seattle, Washington. Nearly 44,000 students are enrolled in programs at the university. Accreditation is provided by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Program Details: The College of Education at UW offers a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and Family Studies. This 100% online completion program can be completed in as few as two years. Core and elective courses in this program are shaped by the most current research from the National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning and the Haring Center. Students must have completed a minimum of 70 transferable quarter credits from regionally accredited colleges or universities in order to be admitted to the program. Costs for the 2014–2015 school year are $166 per credit.
#23. Eastern Oregon University’s College of Education
Located in La Grande, Oregon, Eastern Oregon University is one of seven state-funded, four-year universities of higher education in the State of Oregon. Around 4,100 students are enrolled in the university. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities provides accreditation.
Program Details: The College of Education offers a 100% online major in Early Childhood Education. The degree is a non-licensure program designed to prepare students for working with young children from birth to age eight. Students can complete the 60 quarter-credits in this major in as few at two years. Students need to earn a minimum of 180 applicable quarter-credits to be awarded with a bachelor’s degree at EOU.
#22. University of Alabama’s College of Human and Environmental Sciences
The University of Alabama is a public research university located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and is the flagship of the University of Alabama System. Nearly 35,000 students are enrolled in programs at the Tuscaloosa campus. Accreditation is provided by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Program Details: The College of Human and Environmental Sciences at University of Alabama offers an online Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences (HES) with a major in Early Childhood Education. This 120 hour, degree-completion program focuses on the growth and development of young children birth through age five. Students will be trained to apply developmental principles in the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs for young children. The university offers a second 120 hour, online completion program out of this department that focuses exclusively on training those who work in Head Start Agencies. The degree is a B.S. in HES with a major in Child Development Practitioner.
#21. Ball State University’s Teachers College
Ball State University is a public research university in Muncie, Indiana. Over 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled in the school. The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools provides accreditation.
Program Details: The award-winning Teachers College at Ball State offers an online degree completion program in Early Childhood Education. This Bachelor of Science program is focused on preparing students to work with children birth through age five. Courses are taught by early childhood faculty that facilitate the on-campus programs. In order to be admitted into the program students must have an associate degree in early childhood education (including a practicum) or a minimum of 45 applicable credits. Per hour tuition is $284 for residents of Indiana and $499 for non-residents.
#20. Rasmussen College’s School of Education
Rasmussen College was founded in 1900 by Walter Rasmussen in Minneapolis, Minnesota as a school of business. This private, for-profits school has grown to provide a robust offering of degrees from campuses in Minnesota, Illinois, North Dakota, Florida, and Wisconsin, as well as an online. Rasmussen College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
Program Details: Rasmussen College offers an online Early Childhood Education Leadership Bachelor’s degree. This is a non-licensure program that can be completed in as few as 18 months. The Early Childhood Education Leadership Bachelor’s degree is aligned with national standards and enables focus on one of two concentrations: leadership and administration or pre-kindergarten teacher. Students have the option to take faculty-led, self-paced courses to help save money. Rasmussen refers to this option as Flex Choice.
#19. Brenau University
Originally founded in 1878 as a school for women, Brenau University has grown to be a co-educational university with nearly 2,800 students enrolled. This private, nonsectarian university is located 45 miles northeast of Atlanta in Gainesville, Georgia. Accreditation is provided by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Program Details: The Adult and Graduate Studies division at Brenau offers a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Bridge program. This program is comprised of seven courses that are designed to prepare students to enter the bachelor’s program. The bachelor’s program is a 19-course, 63-credit hour degree completion program that prepares students for effectively teaching pre-school through grade five. Students enroll in one class at a time in this accelerated program. Most classes are offered 100% online.
#18. University Removed
The university that was ranked #18 requested to be removed from the ranking.
#17. Regent University’s College of Arts and Sciences
Regent University is a private, Christian school of higher education located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Nearly 5,700 students are enrolled in programs at the university. Accreditation is provided by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Program Details: The College of Arts and Sciences has a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. This 120 hour degree is a nonlicensure program. Regent’s program provides both the comprehensive study of education and business operations on the foundation of Christian values. In other words, not only will students be prepared to effectively teach and nurture children ages birth through 8, they will also learn the fundamentals of business and personnel law, marketing and management necessary to own and/or operate an early childhood center. The classes are taught in 8-week session. Tuition for online courses is $395 per hour.
#16. Riley College of Education and Leadership at Walden University
Walden University is a private for-profit institution of higher education that is a leader in the world of online higher education providing education to over 50,000 students annually. The headquarters is in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Walden is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership offers an exclusively online Bachelor of Science program in Child Development. Students interested in the field of early childhood education can choose to enroll in three concentrations: Preschool, Infant/Toddler, or a dual concentration in Preschool and Infant/Toddler. Since the program is a Child Development degree, graduates will not only learn about effective teaching techniques but will also grow to understand the factors that impact a child’s development such as family and community relationships, cultural and linguistic influence, and more.
#15. Lewis-Clark State College’s Business Technology & Service Division
Sitting near the point where the Snake River and the Clearwater River converge in Lewiston, Idaho, Lewis-Clark State College is a public, comprehensive four-year college. Around 4,300 students are enrolled in courses at the college. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities provides accreditation.
Program Details: Lewis-Clark’s Business Technology & Service Division provides online programs in Early Childhood Development at the associate and bachelor’s levels. The Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Developement is a 61-64 hour program. The Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development is a 128 hour program. Students are taught how to write developmentally appropriate lessons plans to teach basic concepts in a wide variety of curriculum areas including literacy, math and science. While the program is online, students are required to participate in a practicum in an approved classroom. Tuition per semester is $6,000 for residents of Idaho and $17,000 for non-residents.
#14. Southern Oregon University’s School of Education
Southern Oregon University is a public university specializing in liberal arts, sciences, select graduate and professional programs. The university was founded in 1926 and is located in Ashland, Oregon. Around 6,000 students are enrolled in courses at the school. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities provides accreditation for degrees granted at SOU.
Program Details: The School of Education at Southern Oregon University offers an online completion Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Development. Students simply complete general education requirements as well as early childhood prerequisite courses then transfer to SOU to complete the degree online. This program can launch students into careers such as a preschool teacher, a Head Start Program teacher, an administrator, a family advocate, an early interventionist, and more!
#13. Winston-Salem State University’s College of Arts, Sciences, Business, & Education
With a founding date of 1892, Winston-Salem State University has a rich heritage of cultivating well rounded students who excel in leadership and service. While this public university is a historically black institution, it currently has a diverse student body of over 6,100 students. The campus sits in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Winston-Salem State is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees.
Program Details: The College of Arts, Sciences, and Education at Winston-Salem State provides a distance degree with a major in Birth to Kindergarten Education (BKE). The BKE program is a 120 semester hour undergraduate program with an online concentration in Early Intervention and Preschool. Ninety-nine percent of the courses are offered online. Like many online programs, Winston-Salem uses the online environment called Blackboard to host the instructional material. Although most aspects of an online courses are asynchronous students are expected to meet certain deadlines. Tuition for online courses is $106.22 per hour for residents of North Carolina and $428.18 per hour for non-residents.
#12. University of Cincinnati’s College of Education, Criminal Justice, & Human Services
The University of Cincinnati is a comprehensive research university with a main campus in Cincinnati, Ohio. The school part of the University System of Ohio and has over 34,000 students enrolled. The Higher Learning Commission provides accreditation.
Online Programs: The College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services at the University of Cincinnati offers an a handful of online options for student interested in early childhood education. Students can earn an online associate’s degree with a focus in Infant-toddler, Preschool, or Administration. Students can also get an online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (birth – age 5) with the same choice of focus areas. The online bachelor’s program does not require an SAT or an ACT score to be admitted.
#11. Kaplan University’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Kaplan University has a rich tradition of providing coursework that prepares students for the workplace. This for-profit university has nearly 45,000 students enrolled. Regional accreditation is provided by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Kaplan offers an accredited online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development. This 180 quarter-credit non-licensure program prepares students with a strong foundation in child growth and development, ethics, health and nutrition, lesson planning, and beyond. Students learn in a flexible online environment, with access to the Kaplan Online Library, and are provides with dedicated advisers to help with course selection, graduation, and job placement. Tuition is $371.00 per credit.
#10. Western Carolina University’s College of Education and Allied Professionals
Nestled near the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina in the town of Cullowhee, Western Carolina University is a public university and a member of the University of North Carolina system. Over 10,000 students are enrolled in the university. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools of the Commission on Colleges provides accreditation.
Program Details: Students who have earned all required transferable credits can earn an online completions Bachelor of Science degree in Birth Through Kindergarten. This completion program has a non-licensure concentration in Early Childhood and a licensure concentration in Professional Education. This is a competitive program in which only 30 students are usually admitted per semester. Apply early. Distance courses in this program are taught in an asynchronous environment.
#9. National University’s School of Education
From its founding in 1971, National University has provided quality education that is accessible. This private non-profit university has over 18,000 students enrolled. The school operates out of campuses throughout California and Nevada as well as several online centers in Florida, Georgia, and Virginia. Accreditation is provided by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Program Details: The School of Education at National University offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education (BAECE). The degree is 180 quarter units and has been designed to include the competencies and guidelines as established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Child Development Associates National Competency Standards (CDA). The program has three optional concentrations: Early Childhood Administration, Infant and Toddler, and Teacher Education.
#8. University of Massachusetts Amherst’s College of Education
The University of Massachusetts is a public research and land-grant university with a flagship campus in Amherst, Massachusetts, three additional traditional university campuses in Boston, Dartmouth, and Lowell and a medical school. Around 28,500 students are enrolled in the main campus. The New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) provides accreditation for all degrees granted at UMass.
Program Details: UMass offers a 100% online degree completion bachelor’s program in Early Care and Education. This flexible degree completion program gives students the chance to transfer in or earn up to 100 credits for prior learning and experience. Application deadline is April 15 for the fall and October 1 for the spring. Tuition is $385 per credit.
#7. Albright School of Education at City University of Seattle
In 1973 City University of Seattle was founded to provide exceptional higher education for working adults. Though the flagship campus is in Seattle, Washington, CityU offers more than 60 degrees and certificates at 28 locations around the world. This not-for-profit university is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Program Details: City University of Seattle’s Albright School of Education offers an online and an only hybrid Bachelor of Arts in Education. Students enrolled in the180 quarter-credit program have an option to create a dual endorsement by adding early childhood education as well as a few other programs. CityU of Seattle’s Albright School of Education is accredited by the Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board. Tuition for this program is $340 per credit.
#6. Wilmington University’s College of Education
Wilmington University is a private, non-sectarian university that has been offering courses since 1968. Located in New Castle, Delaware, the school now has over 18,000 students enrolled each year. Accreditation is provided by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association (MSCHE).
Program Details: The College of Education at Wilmington University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Education Studies with a concentration in Early Care and Education (birth – grade 2). This is the entry-level major for all students seeking a Bachelor’s degree in education. Note that education Studies degrees do not qualify recipients for state licensure and/or certification. The B.S. in Education Studies is a 120 credit program that costs $338 per credit regardless of residency. The courses in this program are primarily facilitated by the same professors at the on-campus program.
#5. Mississippi State University’s College of Education
The flagship campus of Mississippi State University, a comprehensive public university, is located in Starkville, Mississippi. The university has other campuses in Meridian, Biloxi, and Vicksburg, Mississippi. Nearly 22,000 students are currently enrolled in MSU. The school is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Mississippi State University provides an online Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood out of Department of Curriculum, Instruction, & Special Education and the Center for distance Education. While the courses are facilitated 100% online, the degree requires students to complete field experiences during the school day for 2-6 hours per week during the Junior year. Furthermore, the final semester requires a classroom student teaching internship. Most of the courses are facilitated by award winning, full-time MSU professors.
#4. Granite State College
Granite State College is a public college with a main campus in Concord, New Hampshire and other regional campuses in the state. The college is a member of the University System of New Hampshire. Founded in 1972, the school has grown to currently serve around 2,000 students. The New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) provides accreditation for degrees.
Program Details: The college offers an online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. The program will help students retrieve the training necessary to get certified in both Early Childhood Education (N – 3) and Early Childhood Special Education (Birth – 8). Each bachelor’s degree at Granite State takes about 40 classes to complete. The school has a liberal transfer policy allowing for a number of approved credits to be transferred into the program. At times, students can even use real world experience to obtain school credit. Tuition for undergraduate programs at the college is $285 per credit for residents of New Hampshire and $315 per credit for non-residents.
#3. Kansas State University’s College of Human Ecology
Kansas State University is a public research university with a main campus in Manhattan, Kansas and extension campuses in Salina and Olathe. Nearly 25,000 students are enrolled in the university. Accreditation is provided by Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association (NCA) of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: The College of Human Ecology offers an online Bachelor of Science completion program in early childhood education out of the School of Family Studies and Human Development. The degree prepares students for careers working with children from birth to age 6. The interdisciplinary curriculum emphasizes educational programming for children and families, the developmental processes throughout the life cycle, interpersonal relationships, and intervention for speech, language and hearing problems. While out-of-state students are not eligible for state of Kansas licensure (unless they desire to relocate), they can still obtain a bachelor’s degree in family studies and human services with an emphasis in early childhood education. To be admitted, students must have 30 applicable credits upon entry. The degree is 121 total hours. Tuition is $398 per credit.
#2. Fort Hays State University’s College of Education and Technology
Fort Hays State University is a public university located in Hays, Kansas. Nearly 13,500 students are enrolled courses at the school. Accreditation is provided by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the school is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Details: Fort Hays State University is becoming a leader in the online higher education world. The school is regularly seen in lists of best online academic programs. Nearly 8,000 students from 20 countries are enrolled in virtual programs at the school. The College of Education and Technology offers a variety of distance degrees for educators. The Bachelor of Science in Education: Early Childhood Unified is specifically focused on training individuals to work with children birth through 8 years old. Most of the classes are taught by the same professors as the on-campus courses. Tuition is $186.50 per credit.
#1. University of Nebraska at Kearney’s College of Education
Founded in 1905 under the name of Nebraska State Normal School, the University of Nebraska at Kearney a four-year public university with a highly rated program for future teachers. Approximately 7,000 students are enrolled in the university which ensures a relative small student to faculty ratio of 16 to 1. The Higher Learning Commission provides accreditation.
Program Details: The College of Education at UNK offers an online degree completion program for those interested in early childhood education. Students who complete this program will be awarded with a Bachelor of Arts in Education with an Early Childhood Inclusive major. There are two specialization in this degree program – Birth through Kindergarten and Age 3 through Grade 3. Since this is a degree completion program which students will need to complete most of their general studies courses at a community college or another 4-year college prior to transferring to UNK. Tuition for an undergraduate degree in the the College of Education at UNK is $227 per credit for residents of Nebraska and $393 per credit for non-residents.