Online associate degree programs offer an excellent solution for those eager to start a career in early childhood education and seeking a flexible alternative to traditional learning. These programs make it possible to earn your degree from anywhere in the world, with curriculums focused on foundational teaching methods, child development, and practical classroom strategies.
Graduates often pursue careers as preschool teachers (median salary of $37,130) or social services assistants ($41,410). With an average annual tuition of just $3,885, an online associate degree is an affordable path to begin your professional journey in this essential field.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Early Childhood Education degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 38 Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Pitt Community College
Intelligent Score: 98.59In-state: $14,522
Out-of-state: $19,130
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 480 or higher
ACT: 18-22
Resident: $76
Non-Resident: $268
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
72
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Intelligent Score: 96.54In-state: $17,008
Out-of-state: $27,928
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: 16-22
$159
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Northeast Community College
Intelligent Score: 96.07In-state: $16,023
Out-of-state: $17,313
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: 12-29
Resident: $108
Non-Resident: $151
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Pima Community College
Intelligent Score: 95.78In-state: $19,424
Out-of-state: $25,978
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $92
Non-Resident: $223
Online, On-Campus
National Association for the Education of Young Children
60
Minnesota State College Southeast
Intelligent Score: 95.1In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$209
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Indiana Wesleyan University
Intelligent Score: 94.08In-state: $28,184
Out-of-state: $28,184
In-state: $13,512
Out-of-state: $13,512
SAT: 1010-1200
ACT: 21-27
$305
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Montgomery College
Intelligent Score: 93.56In-state: $32,142
Out-of-state: $35,922
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 500 or higher
ACT: N/A
Resident: $134 - $273
Non-Resident: $380
Online
National Association for the Education of Young Children
60
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Intelligent Score: 93.04In-state: $16,438
Out-of-state: $22,582
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
Resident: $76
Non-Resident: $268
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
71
University of Cincinnati
Intelligent Score: 92.65In-state: $9,723
Out-of-state: $25,057
In-state: $13,224
Out-of-state: $13,224
SAT: 1120-1330
ACT: 23-29
$376 - $564
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Southwestern Oregon Community College
Intelligent Score: 91.85In-state: $17,619
Out-of-state: $17,619
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
$109
Online
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
98
Truckee Meadows Community College
Intelligent Score: 90.62In-state: $25,570
Out-of-state: $33,047
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 1270
ACT: 26
In-State: $189
Out-of-State: $284
Online, On-Campus
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
60
UAF Community & Technical College
Intelligent Score: 90.19In-state: $7,224
Out-of-state: $23,072
In-state: $10,773
Out-of-state: $10,773
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $234
Non-Resident: $800
Online
National Association for the Education of Young Children
60
Haywood Community College
Intelligent Score: 88.7In-state: $18,377
Out-of-state: $24,521
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 480 or higher
ACT: 18 or higher
Resident: $76
Non-Resident: $268
Online
National Association for the Education of Young Children
71
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 87.05In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$390
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
60
NHTI - Concord's Community College
Intelligent Score: 86.96In-state: $23,468
Out-of-state: $31,718
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $215
Non-Resident: $490
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
60-62
Casper College
Intelligent Score: 86.85In-state: $15,868
Out-of-state: $20,908
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $147
Non-Resident: $357
Online
Higher Learning Commission
61
Colorado Northwestern Community College
Intelligent Score: 86.69In-state: $20,388
Out-of-state: $22,892
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 470 or higher
ACT: 17 or higher
Resident: $263
Non-Resident: $401
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Spokane Falls Community College
Intelligent Score: 86In-state: $24,850
Out-of-state: $26,200
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
Resident: $119
Non-Resident: $306
Online
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
86-92
What You Should Know About an Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Degree
Early childhood education traditionally covers birth through about age 8. Preschool teachers focus on teaching basic skills such as identifying colors, numbers, letters, and shapes, while kindergarten and elementary school teachers focus more on math, reading, and writing. Elementary school teachers often also need a bachelor’s degree.
Only apply to schools approved by a DOE-recognized accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). If your school isn’t accredited, you may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
If you’re interested in a job in early childhood education and want to work in a public school, you will need a state teaching license or ECE certificate.
Finding the Right Online Program
Here are some questions to ask when researching online associate in early childhood education programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Most associate degree programs require a high school diploma or equivalency. Students must often complete general education college courses in math, English, and science. You might also need to maintain a certain GPA and be able to pass a criminal and character background check.
- How long does it take to earn this online degree? Associate degree programs are typically offered at community colleges and require about 60 credit hours. Students generally complete these requirements in two years, taking 12 to 18 credit hours per semester.
Once you’ve decided on a program, you should contact the admissions department at the school you want to attend to learn about its process and requirements.
Also, research your financing options. Make sure to note what scholarships, grants, and other financial aid programs you might qualify for and the deadlines for each.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Programs
What career opportunities are available with an online associate in early childhood education degree?
Most graduates with this degree pursue roles as preschool teachers and social services assistants. These positions are vital for fostering early childhood development, and providing young learners with the foundation they need for lifelong success. Preschool teachers shape critical cognitive, social, and emotional skills, while social services assistants support families and children through essential programs.
With these roles projected to remain in steady demand over the next decade, this degree offers a stable and meaningful career path for those enthusiastic about making a difference in children’s lives.
Are online associate in early childhood education degree programs as credible as on-campus programs?
You’ll likely receive the same high-quality education regardless of whether you pursue your degree online or in person. Many institutions design their online programs to mirror in-person curriculums, offering the same level of coursework, access to experienced faculty, and practical training opportunities.
Accreditation is key to credibility as it ensures programs meet high educational standards. All of our top picks are regionally accredited, guaranteeing the quality and recognition of your degree.
How long does it take to complete an online associate in early childhood education degree program?
Full-time students typically complete this degree program in about two years, while part-time learners may take longer. This allows for greater flexibility to balance a full-time job or family responsibilities with your education. Some programs offer accelerated options, giving students more time to dedicate to their studies to graduate in as little as 18 months.
Are there specialization options within online associate in early childhood education degree programs?
While some associate programs in early childhood education may offer specialization options, they’re not common. These programs typically focus on foundational knowledge and skills for early childhood development and teaching. Pursuing a bachelor’s in early childhood education may be a better option for those seeking a specialized degree. Bachelor’s programs often include specializations like special education, curriculum development, child psychology, or administration in early childhood settings.
What is the cost of an online associate in early childhood education degree?
For the 2022-2023 academic year, the average tuition for two-year degrees was $3,885. Expenses can differ depending on the type of institution — public or private — and your residency status, with out-of-state students often seeing higher fees. The time it takes to complete your degree also affects the overall cost; extending your studies may increase tuition expenses. Despite these variables, online learning remains affordable for many, as it eliminates housing and commuting costs, making higher education more budget-friendly.
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