Early childhood education (ECE) programs cover education theory and instructional methods for children through age eight. An online master's in early childhood education provides instruction on how to teach children from preschool through second grade. Students may also study infant-toddler education, which is normally facilitated by parents for children from birth to age two.
ECE professionals include teachers, paraeducators, child care center personnel, special education teachers, psychologists, and social workers. Earning a master's in early childhood education degree prepares aspiring teachers to lead children as they develop cognitive and social skills.
This ranking lists our picks for the top five online master's in early childhood education programs. For more generalized information about distance learning visit our ranking of the top online colleges.
Featured Online Master's in Early Childhood Education
Top 5 Master's in Early Childhood Education Programs
Our editors started with a list of 35 colleges and then used our customized ranking methodology to shortlist the top five. We narrowed these initial findings by applying factors such as affordability (average net price is capped at $35,000), program customization, return-on-investment, and career prospects. Finally, we used information from U.S. News & World Report and from each school's website to apply the rating and ranking methodology above. In the event of a tie, the school with the lower tuition receives a higher ranking.
15$545 per credit hour as of November 2021M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) Online
Clemson University's master of education in teaching and learning serves those who already hold teaching positions and suits educators from preschool to high school. The degree does not lead to initial teacher certification, but those who already hold teacher certification can complete the program within 18 months, allowing them to advance their careers quickly.
In addition to its 18 hours of core coursework, the program offers three tracks, depending on a teacher's preferred area of expertise. The program does not offer a general education degree option. Available tracks include STEAM, experiential learning for early childhood, and instructional coaching. Each track includes four courses, for a total of 12 credit hours. The school limits how many students can be enrolled in each track at the same time.
Clemson University does not offer separate in-state tuition or reciprocity tuition. All students pay the same tuition and fees, regardless of residency.
