What Are the Goals of a Bachelors Program in Early Childhood Education?
Applicants to online bachelor's programs in early childhood education need a high school diploma or the equivalent. Some programs require a minimum GPA and prerequisite coursework for admission.
Courses in bachelor's in early childhood education programs typically cover child development. Learners also study childhood creative development and special needs in early childhood development. Students complete general education coursework in math, English, and social and behavioral sciences.
Early childhood education bachelor's degree-holders can pursue careers as preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school teachers. Graduates can also become childcare workers, special education teachers, and school counselors.
Why Get a Degree in Early Childhood Education?
For learners who enjoy working with children, a degree in early childhood education can lead to rewarding careers impacting future generations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for preschool teachers to increase 18% from 2020-2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Early childhood educators can pursue a variety of positions. Elementary and secondary school teachers earn a mean annual salary of $50,520, according to BLS data. Daycare workers earn a mean wage of $32,190 per year.
The flexibility of online bachelor's programs in early childhood can benefit students with jobs or family responsibilities.
Featured Online Early Childhood Education Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Top Online Bachelor's Programs in Early Childhood Education
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.How Much Does an Early Childhood Education Degree Cost?
The cost of an early childhood education bachelor's degree varies by school. According to EducationData.org, a bachelor's degree costs an average of $35,720 per year. In-state residents pay an average of $9,580 per year for tuition. Out-of-state learners pay an average tuition of $27,440 per year.
Most full-time students earn their bachelor's degree in early childhood education in four years. Associate programs typically require two years.
Many schools offer early childhood education programs online and in person. Online bachelor's programs allow learners to work full time while pursuing their degree. In addition, distance learners save money on transportation costs and living expenses.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online students often save on costs associated with transportation, childcare, and housing. In addition, some schools let online learners pay in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency.
However, some schools charge online students an online access fee or a per-credit technology fee. Learners must also pay for books and supplies. Other expenses include graduation fees. Graduates may need to pay to obtain teaching licensure.
How Much Do Early Childhood Education Majors Make?
Early childhood education degree-holders can pursue careers as preschool, elementary school, and special education teachers. Elementary school teachers earn a median salary of $60,660 per year. Graduates can also choose careers in childcare and become childcare center directors. These professionals earn a median annual salary of $49,160.
Some positions, such as preschool teacher, do not require a bachelor's degree. However, a bachelor's degree can make candidates more competitive and may lead to higher earning potential. Management roles and specialized positions, such as childcare center director and school psychologist, may require a bachelor's or master's degree.
Courses in Early Childhood Education
Curricula for early childhood education students vary by program. However, learners typically complete general education courses in math and English composition. During their final two years of study, degree-seekers focus on major coursework. Students may concentrate in an area such as special education. Many programs require a hands-on practicum.
Coursework in early childhood education programs helps learners develop critical thinking skills. They also hone classroom management and curriculum building skills. In addition, students explore diversity and inclusion. Available classes vary by program. However, the following courses provide a sample early childhood education curriculum.
Integrating the Arts Into Early Childhood Education
This course covers the role of dance, music, drama, and visual arts in education from pre-K to fourth grade. Students gain artistic experience and learn how to use the arts to connect with children in the classroom. Students also learn about the history and pedagogy of art forms.Child Growth and Development
Students in this course examine aspects of human development, with an emphasis on pre-K through age eight. Topics include the development of young English language learners and children with disabilities. Students learn to work with children from diverse backgrounds. Degree-seekers gain field experience at a local school.Infant and Toddler Care and Education
Students use knowledge of child growth and development to plan, implement, and evaluate educational curricula for infants and toddlers. They learn strategies for adapting curricula to include young students with developmental needs and disabilities.
How to Become an Elementary School Teacher
Elementary school teachers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. Those who teach in public schools must also hold a state teaching license.
Before students arrive, elementary school teachers prepare the classroom and perform administrative tasks. They may also provide tutoring. Educators typically teach many classes during regular school hours. They may meet with fellow teachers in the afternoons. Elementary school teachers grade student work, respond to emails, and prepare lessons during evenings and on weekends.
Licensure for Early Childhood Education
Licensure requirements for early childhood educators vary by state. Some states require preschool teachers to hold child development associate (CDA) certification. Candidates for CDA certification take a multiple-choice exam and must have completed coursework and field experience. Candidates also undergo an observation session. All states require certification and licensure for public kindergarten and elementary school teachers.
The CDA certification fee costs $425 for online applications and $500 for paper applications. States may offer income-based scholarships to eligible candidates. The certification requires renewal every three years. Renewal costs $125 for online applications and $150 for paper applications.
Featured Online Special Education Programs
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Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Education
What kind of jobs can you get with an early childhood education degree?
An early childhood education degree qualifies graduates for jobs as preschool and elementary school teachers, nannies, and childcare workers. Graduates can also become school counselors and school psychologists.
How long does it take to become an early childhood educator?
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Most full-time students earn their early childhood education bachelor's degree in four years. However, some states allow associate degree-holders to become preschool teachers.
What degree do I need to be a kindergarten teacher?
Kindergarten teachers need a bachelor's in early childhood education. They also need a state teaching license.
