Early Childhood Education serves to develop the potential of the youngest minds in the community. Such important work is more than simply a job. Early Childhood Educators work with children from four or five years of age up to about the age of eight. Working in public or private educational settings, Early Childhood Educators engage with young children, teaching them basic colors, shapes, reading, and math, as well as, play and socialization. A holistic and individual approach to teaching and to student needs sets the educational standard. The worldwide pandemic, according to one study, has necessitated reconsidering some of the methods used in Early Childhood Education. Such innovations will likely affect the field for decades to come. Now is a great time to enter into the important and dynamic vocation of teaching future generations.
According to the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, Early Childhood Education jobs are growing at 7%, which is higher than average. Early Childhood Educators earn on average $30,520 per year.
QUICK LINKS
- Best Online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs
- FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
- LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN
- UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- PURDUE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL
- UMASS ONLINE
- BRANDMAN UNIVERSITY
- BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI
- PARK UNIVERSITY
- INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
- KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY
- FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT KEARNEY
- Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have an interest in helping those with special needs? If so, see our Top 20 Online Bachelor of Special Education Degree Programs
Here are some excellent graduate degree programs: Top 20 Online Master’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs
Best Online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs
METHODOLOGY: The following list is to provide the student with the most up-to-date information regarding the Top Bachelor of Early Childhood Education Online Degree Programs. They are not listed in a particular order for they each are unique and offer individualized programs applicable to your needs. Choose the best one that fits your career aspirations, schedule, and personality! The following points were considered:
- 100% Online or Hybrid availability,
- Programs that primarily focus on a child’s development and learning abilities,
- Focuses on the cognitive, emotional and social development of children,
- Offering high-quality degree programs designed to challenge each student and presents an innovative distance learning format,
- Proper Accreditation,
- Offers certifications or preparations for state licensure, as each program has various degree/certificate outcomes, (Please check with your state for teaching requirements),
- Learning Management Systems to keep you connected with faculty and fellow students,
- Financial Aid opportunities,
- Provides optional field experiences and/or capstone projects.
For more information regarding our process, please see our Methodology page.
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.S. DEGREE PROGRAM-EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
Florida International University is a well-recognized and highly popular online school that offers a Bachelor in Early Childhood Development that focuses on learning development during the early childhood years. Topics include cognitive, language, and social/emotional development of young children, as well as general and early education theory and practices.
Campus Location: Miami, FL
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
Acceptance Rate: 54.1%
Retention Rate: 88%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school (or GED) transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher, and SAT and/or ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Issues in Early Childhood Education
- Special Needs of Children and their Families
- Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis of the Young Child
Degree Outcomes:
This degree prepares graduates for careers in childcare, child development, and early education for children from birth to five years of age. The meaningful and engaging curriculum includes courses on classroom management, development, assessment techniques, family engagement, as well as others that help alumni build positive learning environments for their future students.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM-EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
B.S. DEGREE PROGRAM-MAJOR IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Program Standouts:
Liberty University is one of the most prominent online schools in the country, that produces an enormous amount of vastly popular programs for students of all levels. The Bachelor in Early Childhood Education establishes in the student a firm understanding of early childhood educational development and behavior while evaluating associated methods and interventions.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
Retention Rate: 84%
Acceptance Rate: 29.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school or GED transcripts as well as those from any accredited undergraduate institutions attended, and a completed High School Self-Certification form.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Instructional Practice for Math Teachers
- Wellness in the Early Childhood Setting
- Developmental Psychology
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this fine program have gone on to take career titles at Early Childhood Centers and faith-based organizations, like preschool and elementary teachers as well as tutors. Coursework at Liberty is rooted in the teachings of Christianity, it puts graduates in a unique position to enter into faith and church-focused areas of employment with more ease and flexibility.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN
ONLINE B.S. IN CHILD, YOUTH, AND FAMILY STUDIES

Program Standouts:
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a distinctive online Bachelor in Early Childhood Education in a Mobile Society, which focuses on the child’s experience in a highly mobile family, for example, military or immigrant families. This coursework prepares students to work in a variety of different programs.
Campus Location: Lincoln, NE
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Retention Rate: 83%
Acceptance Rate: 64.4%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, SAT and/or ACT scores, and a personal statement.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Child Development, Birth to 3
- Diversity in the Lives of Young Children and Families
- Health, Safety, and Nutrition
Degree Outcomes:
Some of the areas that UNL graduates work in today include childcare centers and homes, infant/toddler and preschool programs, head start programs, and before and after-school programs for children ages birth to eight. UNL alumni have the ability to produce compassionate and motivating lesson plans.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM-CHILD, YOUTH, AND FAMILY STUDIES
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UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO
ONLINE BS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
This online school’s online Bachelor in Early Childhood Education is intended for students who already hold an Associate in Early Childhood Education, and will massively build on this previously learned knowledge of the discipline. The coursework combines the latest, in theory, research, and practice methods to help children thrive.
Campus Location: Toledo, OH
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 94.4%
Retention Rate: 74%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing an Associate in Early Childhood Education with a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher, and a resumé representing relevant work experience.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Effective Teaching Practices
- Curriculum Adaptations and Strategies
- Education of Talented and Gifted Children
Degree Outcomes:
Many of these graduates from the University of Toledo go on to enhance their degree further in a master’s degree program, and, with the support of this online school, are able to gain acceptance to prestigious programs across the country. Others work in administrative and supportive roles in schools, agencies, and similar organizations.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF TOELDO’S ONLINE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM
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WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITY INDIANA
ONLINE BA IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
Western Governors University is another of America’s most popular purveyors of distance education, and the Indiana campus offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education that has been designed based on research on effective instruction as well as national and state standards.
Campus Location: Indianapolis, IN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 37.7%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts, and a criminal background check.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Professional Practice in Early Childhood Education
- Development and Learning in Early Childhood
- Supporting Young Children through Observation and Assessment
Degree Outcomes:
This curriculum includes several key domains, such as the Demonstration Teaching Domain, that guide students through the most critical aspects of Early Childhood Education, as well as effective learning models and techniques that can be employed in diverse classrooms.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WESTERN GOVERNORS UNIVERSITY INDIANA’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA) IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAM
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APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.S. IN CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT

Program Standouts:
Appalachian State University’s online Bachelor in Child Development – Birth through Kindergarten combines academic research with real-world practicums to better facilitate children’s success during a pivotal developmental time in their lives. Students explore the roles and responsibilities of teachers of young children.
Campus Location: Boone, NC
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Retention Rate: 89%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and an official high school or GED transcripts.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Child Development: Birth-2 years
- Child development: 3-K years
- Child Study and Guidance
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this fine program have gone on to become preschool teachers, special education teachers, daycare directors, and child life specialists. These professionals are leaders in their classrooms, homes, and communities, and provide development and learning opportunities for children and families.
LEARN MORE ABOUT APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT DEGREE PROGRAM-CHILD DEVELOPMENT
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UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
ONLINE B.S. IN HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Program Standouts:
The University of Alabama is a well-known, popular, and highly devoted school that offers a Bachelor in Human Environmental Science, Early Childhood Education in which students gain an understanding of the growth and development of children from birth to age eight.
Campus Location: Birmingham, AL
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - National Association for the Education of Young Children
Acceptance Rate: 91.8%
Retention Rate: 84%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts representing as well as those from any undergraduate institutions attended representing cumulative GPA’s of 2.75 or higher, and SAT and/or ACT scores.
Program Options:
- Early Childhood Education
- Child Development Practitioner
Degree Outcomes:
Depending on their area of concentration, students will enter into a variety of environments and departments surrounding early childhood education. The coursework delves into the understanding of parent/child relationships, as well as the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive implement programs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA’S ONLINE BS IN HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES DEGREE PROGRAM
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PURDUE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL
ONLINE B.S. IN EARLY CHILDHOOD ADMINISTRATION

Program Standouts:
This successful online school provides a Bachelor in Early Childhood Administration that prepares leaders in the early childhood field. The coursework enhances knowledge in growth and development, education and curriculum, business and management, and leadership and advocacy.
Campus Location: West Lafayette, IN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 30%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must contact an admissions representative and submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and an official high school or GED transcripts.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Child Safety, Nutrition, and Health
- Early Childhood and Curriculum Planning
- Creative Activities for Young Children
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from PUG have gone on to pursue opportunities in a variety of fields, whether students want to operate or own their now early childhood program, or even manage an early childhood agency or organization. Graduates have an in-depth understanding of center-based programs servicing young children and the fundamentals of teaching young children.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PURDUE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM-EARLY CHILDHOOD ADMINISTRATION
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UMASS ONLINE
ONLINE B.S. IN EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION CONCENTRATIONS

Program Standouts:
The University of Massachusetts Online is another of the country’s most reputable schools offering distance education programs. The Amherst campus maintains an incredibly strong Bachelor in Early Childhood Education that is well-suited for students both with and without experience in the field.
Campus Location: Amherst, MA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Retention Rate: 91%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, as well as those from any accredited undergraduate institutions, attended representing cumulative GPA’s of 2.5 or higher, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Child and Adolescent Development for the Helping Professional
- Recognizing Family Values and Initiating Intervention
- LGBT Issues in Education
Degree Outcomes:
This remarkable program prepares students for careers within public or private childcare programs such as Head Start, YMCA, 4-H, scouting, and a variety of pre-schools and after-school programs. The coursework develops the knowledge and skills needed to open a private center and programs as well!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UMASS ONLINE’S BACHELOR’S DEGREE EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION CONCENTRATIONS PROGRAM
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BRANDMAN UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.A. IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
This exclusive online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education prepares students to provide the highest quality, inclusive care, and education to children up to the age of 8. The coursework includes fieldwork that helps individuals make practical usage of the theories and methods learned in the program.
Campus Location: Irvine, CA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Retention Rate: 67%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official high school or GED transcripts as well as those from a college or university representing 12 or more transferable baccalaureate level credits or the equivalent.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Child Growth and Development
- Child, Family, and Community
- Heath, Safety, and Nutrition
Degree Outcomes:
Many graduates from this program go on to enter into prominent master’s degrees that further enhance these students’ skills and knowledge of educating young children. Graduates have advanced knowledge related to best practices for teaching strategies and assessments for infants and toddlers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRANDMAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
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BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.S./B.A. IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
Ball State University has been included on many lists of the top online programs in the country, and the Bachelor in Early Childhood Education is no exception. The coursework is designed to include a variety of aspects that go behind working with young children in educational environments, such as attention to special-needs individuals.
Campus Location: Muncie, IN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 62.1%
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official high school transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Early Childhood Curriculum and Instruction
- Assessment and Observation in Early Childhood
- Literature for Young Children
Degree Outcomes:
This degree program gives students the knowledge and skill to work with students aged birth to 5-years-old. There is an opportunity to minor in special education which further enhances their understanding of the discipline, and Ball State grads work in a wide variety of environments as lead teachers, instructors, and directors.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BALL STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BA OR BS DEGREE PROGRAMS
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UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI
ONLINE BS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
The University of Cincinnati provides excellent online programs that are recognized by prestigious journalistic resources such as USA Today which honored the Bachelor in Early Childhood Education as one of the best in America. Students learn to become effective teachers in preschools, Head Start programs, child-care centers, and more.
Campus Location: Cincinnati, OH
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Acceptance Rate: 76.5%
Retention Rate: 86%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, responses to essay prompts, official high school transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Introductory Child Development
- Classroom Organization and Guidance
- Families, Communities, and Schools
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from the University of Cincinnati have the ability to teach children in a variety of settings and understand the ethical nature of early childhood theory and its application to the educational setting. The exciting curriculum allows students to gain an understanding of creative approaches to their career.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM-EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION.
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PARK UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BS IN EARLY CHILD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
Park University’s online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education is designed for aspiring teachers, administrators, and educational advocates who seek a career in early education. The curriculum “instills a lifetime of love of learning” in this discipline, and the faculty members are dedicated to student growth as future professionals.
Campus Location: Parkville, MO
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Retention Rate: 68%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher, two completed faculty disposition forms, and SAT and/or ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Family Involvement in Early Childhood Education
- Social and Emotional Learning in Early Childhood Education
- Infants and Toddlers Practicum
Degree Outcomes:
Some titles that Park University graduates have gone on to take titles such as early childhood teacher, head start teacher, early childhood director, early childhood consultant, and family advocate. Practicums and internships give students the field experience to apply theories and practices well in the real world.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PARK UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM-EARLY CHILD EDUCATION
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INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
Indiana Wesleyan University is one of the most prestigious online schools available and offers an excellent undergraduate degree program in Early Childhood Education that emphasizes the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of an early childhood educator working with children from birth through age 8.
Campus Location: Marion, IN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - Council for Christian Colleges and Universities
Retention Rate: 72%
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, high school or GED transcript and those from any accredited undergraduate institutions attended, a criminal background check, state basic skills proficiency exam scores, and a completed Candidate Disposition Admission assessment.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Educational Psychology for Early Learners
- Literature Focused on Preschool Environments
- Preschool Curriculum Instruction, Assessment
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this program demonstrate the ability to promote child development and learning, build family and community relationships, and use developmentally effective approaches to produce an effective learning plan and educational environment. Students gain beneficial networking connections with their peers and instructors.
LEARN MORE ABOUT INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAM
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KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
This online school is incredibly popular and well-liked by the students, which can be seen as reflected in the strong retention rate below. The Bachelor in Early Childhood Education is designed for students who are seeking out teaching and administrative positions, and working with parents, community agencies, and young children from birth through kindergarten.
Campus Location: Manhattan, KS
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
Acceptance Rate: 94.1%
Retention Rate: 84%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, and SAT and/or ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Exceptional Development in Early Childhood
- Language Development
- Reflective Practice: Infants and Toddlers
Degree Outcomes:
These individuals have the knowledge and skill to build classrooms and environments for an individual’s birth to kindergarten. KSU offers its students and alumni access to career resources that align individuals with the preferred areas of employment and connect them with other professionals and agencies in the field.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
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FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
Fort Hays State University has been repeatedly recognized as one of the most excellent online schools available and offers a unique Bachelor in Early Childhood Unified. This “unified” portion of the degree program provides a focus on Special Education coursework, preparing students to work in both areas.
Campus Location: Hays, KS
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 88.6%
Retention Rate: 71%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts representing an exemplary GPA, and SAT and/or ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Behavior Strategies and Support
- Technology Applications in Special Education
- Child Care Management and Administration
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this program have the ability to work in and establish unified programs that provide a space for regular and special education classrooms from birth to the third-grade level. The program offers distinctive learning opportunities for students to apply what they learn in real classrooms with professionals in the discipline.
LEARN MORE ABOUT FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAM IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
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UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT KEARNEY
ONLINE BS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Program Standouts:
This online school provides an online undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education that prepares students to work with individuals from birth to age 8. UNK operates close partnerships with Nebraska schools and early childhood education programs, giving students numerous opportunities to interact in field experiences.
Campus Location: Kearney, NE
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 81.7%
Retention Rate: 80%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher, and PRAXIS scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Methods of Inclusive Education: Birth to Age 3
- Child Care Administration
- Nutrition, Health, and Safety for Young Children
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from UNK are prepared to work in the following settings: infant-toddler programs, 0-3 sixpence programs, early intervention, early head start, head start, preschools (public or private), early childhood special education, and K-3 classrooms. With the networking connections and experiences gained at this online school, the student will have the background and skills to achieve magnificent career goals.
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT KEARNEY ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE EARLY CHILDHOOD-INCLUSIVE PROGRAM
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CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BA IN EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES

Program Standouts:
The California Baptist University’s Bachelor in Early Childhood Studies focuses on young children’s growth and development including cognitive, social, emotional, and perceptual-motor development. Students become familiar with various assessments and developmentally appropriate learning environments.
Campus Location: Riverside, CA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 77.1%
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official high school transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Applicants must also contact an admissions representative.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Cross-Cultural Perspectives of Young Children Including Children with Disabilities
- Research Seminar in Early Childhood Including Early Childhood Intervention
- Perceptual Motor Development in Infancy and Early Childhood
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this program demonstrate the ability to: effectively present information orally and in writing, apply theories of all kinds relating to early childhood intervention and education, and create learning environments for young children including those with disabilities.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BA IN EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
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WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.S. IN BIRTH THROUGH KINDERGARTEN

Program Standouts:
This degree program is designed for students who have already obtained an Associate degree and are interested in pursuing a career in the Birth-Kindergarten Bachelor of Science Program. The curriculum offers three unique concentration options that give individuals access to a variety of career paths within the field.
Campus Location: Cullowhee, NC
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 38.8%
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher, a personal essay or bio sheet, and letters of recommendation.
Program Options:
- Professional Education
- Early Childhood
- Alternative Licensure
Degree Outcomes:
Many students go on to work in areas other than public and private schools and rather work more closely with children and their families in different capacities, in their homes, and at clinics. Depending on the specialization in which students choose to concentrate, they will have access to various positions of employment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE B-K PROGRAM
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I pursue a career in Early Childhood Education? Yes…
As learning the fundamentals at home is not always an option, early childhood education teachers are much needed to introduce the basics, such as counting and the alphabet, to young learners. Children can also gain valuable social and communication skills, in addition to, receiving a lifelong desire for learning. In a pre-school setting, you can be a mentor in a child’s life, offering them a safe learning environment, encouragement, and a foundation to build upon.
Earning a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education can be obtained through an online distance learning format or through a hybrid program, allowing you to do classwork online and the opportunity to participate in on-campus activities. Generally, the program will take four years to complete, depending on your dedication or previous educational transfer of credits.
Coursework within your online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education degree program should include early childhood development (infant to toddler), diversity and cultures, education technology, administrative duties in early childhood education programs, as well as, nutrition and health. You will also learn about using creativity in developing a curriculum to maintain interest and attention, along with, how to efficiently observe and evaluate each student and their needs.
What sort of licensure will I need to complement my online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education degree?
All public school teaching positions require licensure by the state in which they are employed. As with all careers requiring licensure, it is best to know your state’s requirements so you can obtain the appropriate educational degree, as well as, the necessary certifications before your sign on to an online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education degree program.
Should I expect to Student Teach while completing my online bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education?
To begin, your online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education degree program will, most likely, require a student teaching or internship component to graduate. You can consult with established teachers, obtain networking opportunities, and learn how to create exciting and innovative curriculum.
What are the other benefits of student teaching? To many, standing in front of a group, (even if only toddlers), can be intimidating. You will welcome the experience your student teaching will provide. In addition, perhaps through an internship teaching program, you can determine if becoming an educator is genuinely for you. A successful student teaching experience should leave you with the confidence you need to excel in early childhood education.