Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Updated March 11, 2024
Edited by
Do you need the professional credibility an online associate degree in early childhood education can provide? Discover more about earning this degree.
Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Overview
Early childhood educators help shape the next generation of global citizens. These professionals may work in childcare centers, preschools, after-school programs, kindergartens, or other facilities where children live, play, or study.
While some careers in this field require only a high school education, more lucrative professions often demand postsecondary degrees. An online associate degree in early childhood education can launch your career with children or prepare you to advance to a leadership role.
This degree equips students with in-market skills such as differentiated instruction and behavior management strategies. Students also learn child psychology, educational theory, and instructional methodologies.
After graduating with this degree, you can transfer into a bachelor's program in early childhood administration or another major. You might also pursue professional certifications in the field.
Choosing an Online Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Program
Take your time when selecting where to earn an online associate degree in early childhood education to make sure you find the right program. Many options exist – with a little patience and research, you can find a school that matches your specific needs.
If cost is a primary factor in your decision, you may want to start your search with public, in-state programs. These typically offer the most affordable tuition rates.
However, some distance programs offer the same tuition rate to all online students, regardless of residency status. The list below describes a few other factors worth considering when looking at associate programs.
-
Program Cost: Tuition and fees vary depending on the school and program, as do the number of credits required to graduate and the transfer credits allowed. Online courses may or may not cost the same as on-campus courses. Make sure to compare the per-credit costs for each program that interests you. -
Transfer Policies: If you wish to transfer credits into your associate program or ensure that your degree will transfer to a bachelor’s program at another institution, it is important to look into each school’s transfer policies. Most schools limit the number of transfer credits they accept. Additionally, many two-year college have agreements with four-year colleges, ensuring smooth transfer of associate degree credits. -
School Size and Type: Class size and the student-to-teacher ratio can vary widely according to the type of school you attend. For example, large universities may rely on larger classes taught by graduate students, while smaller schools may offer smaller class sizes with greater individual attention. Look into the average class sizes of online courses to ensure you will receive the classroom experience you need. -
Program Length: Online programs frequently offer flexible delivery options, including part-time, full-time, and accelerated formats. Most associate degrees take full-time learners two years to complete. -
On-Campus Requirements: Some online programs do require occasional on-campus meetings, such as orientations or weekend residencies. Make sure that you can travel to campus as needed or select a program that does not require any on-campus commitments.
The Best Online Associate Programs for Early Childhood Education
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Gulf Coast State College
Panama City, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Panama City, Florida, Gulf Coast State College offers five online associate degree programs, including an associate in early childhood education program. Students in the early childhood education program prepare for the demands of the education field through instructive study and industry-relevant coursework. Students seeking further education can apply their early childhood education credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Early childhood education degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. The college supports its online learning community through online-specific resources, such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Online students can expect to receive an average of $5,005 in financial aid awards. Typically, 72% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 8% receiving loans.
Gulf Coast State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Panama City, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,750
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,064
#2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Fennimore, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a flexible associate degree program in early childhood education? Consider Southwest Wisconsin Technical College's online associate in early childhood education. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an education-specific career. Typically, students can apply their associate degree credits toward future educational endeavors, like a bachelor's degree.
Enrollees benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance with virtual library services and academic tutoring resources.
Typically, students are awarded $4,336 in financial aid. About 78% of incoming students receive financial aid awards and about 28% receive student loans.
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Fennimore, Wisconsin
Admission Rate: Data not available
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,095
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,143
#3 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Renton Technical College
Renton, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Renton Technical College hosts three online associate programs, including an associate in early childhood education. The program prepares students for the demands of the early childhood education field through foundational and advanced coursework. Early childhood education students can apply their course credits toward future educational opportunities, such as a bachelor's degree.
Early childhood education degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. The online learning community connects students with virtual library resources and academic tutoring.
Distance learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, with the average award package being $6,365. Of its enrollees, the college reports that 69% receive financial aid and 7% receive loans.
Renton Technical College at a Glance:
Type of s=School: Public, four-year
Location: Renton, Washington
Admission Rate: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,688
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,137
#4 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus, Chaminade University of Honolulu boasts a highly ranked online associate in early childhood education, one of four online associate degree programs. The associate in early childhood education is an online program that prepares students for the early childhood education field through comprehensive coursework. Upon completion, students can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.
While enrolled, early childhood education students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Online students can further access virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Students benefit from financial aid, with 99% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.
Chaminade University of Honolulu at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Admission Rate: 95%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $26,020
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $26,020
#5 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Eastern Wyoming College
Torrington, WY - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Eastern Wyoming College, located in Torrington, Wyoming, supports five online associate degree programs, including an AA in early childhood distance learning. Early childhood education students prepare for a career in early childhood education through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree, certificates, and educational credentials.
A leader in student success, the college connects students with career services, academic advising, and other resources. The institution also provides online enrollees with virtual library services and academic tutoring resources, including writing tutoring.
The average student is awarded $6,355 in financial aid, to offset the cost of an education. The college reports that 94% of students are awarded financial aid, with 7% awarded student loans.
Eastern Wyoming College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Torrington, Wyoming
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,970
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,910
#6 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Kennebec Valley Community College
Fairfield, ME - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Fairfield, Maine, Kennebec Valley Community College provides online education across 13 associate degree programs, including its AAS in early childhood education program. Students in the early childhood education program benefit from industry-relevant coursework, preparing them for future careers in education. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Learners can access career services, academic advising, and other support options during their studies. Additional institutional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Students seeking to defray the cost of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $5,284 in financial aid awards. Approximately 83% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 32% receiving student loans.
Kennebec Valley Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Fairfield, Maine
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,820
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,640
#7 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Northeast Community College
Norfolk, NE - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Northeast Community College supports 13 online associate degree programs, including its associate in early childhood education program. Students in the program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Graduates seeking to advance their education can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Enrollees benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Other institutional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.
The average student is awarded $4,456 in financial aid, to offset the cost of education. Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 90% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 21% opting for student loans.
Northeast Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Norfolk, Nebraska
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,970
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,170
#8 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Concordia University St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Concordia University St. Paul, the AA in early childhood education program is one of two online associate degree programs offered online. Students can build their knowledge of the early childhood education field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Typically, students can apply their associate degree credits towards future educational endeavors, like a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
The institution reports that 98% of all enrollees receive financial aid, and 58% receive student loans.
Concordia University St. Paul at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota
Admission Rate: 98%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $22,800
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $22,800
Transfer Credit Accepted: Accepted
#9 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Georgia Military College
Milledgeville, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Georgia Military College supports 25 online associate degree programs, including its associate in early childhood education program. Early childhood education students prepare for a career in early childhood education through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students seeking further education can apply their early childhood education credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other support options during their program. Distance learners can further benefit from virtual services such as library access, writing workshops, and other academic tutoring.
On average, students receive $5,742 in financial aid. The college reports that 92% of students are awarded financial aid, with 33% receiving student loans.
Georgia Military College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Milledgeville, Georgia
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,165
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,165
#10 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a flexible online associate program in early childhood education should consider Liberty University. Students in the early childhood education program benefit from industry-relevant coursework, preparing them for future careers in early childhood education. Upon completion, students can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.
While enrolled, early childhood education students can access college resources geared toward student success. Further resources available to online learners including virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Students benefit from financial aid, with 99% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
Admission Rate: 51%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,417
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,417
#11 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
St. Petersburg College
Clearwater, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
St. Petersburg College's AS in early childhood education is one of 15 associate degree programs offered remotely. The early childhood education program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an early childhood education-specific career. Students seeking to advance academically can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other support services during their program. Distance learners can benefit from resources such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Typically, enrollees receive $8,559 in financial aid awards. Approximately 73% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 25% receiving student loans.
St. Petersburg College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Clearwater, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774
#12 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Spokane Falls Community College
Spokane, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Spokane Falls Community College, the associate in early childhood education is one of five associate degrees offered online. Enrollees gain foundational knowledge and skills relevant to the early childhood education field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students can also transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree at a four-year school.
The college connects early childhood education students with career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance from virtual library services and academic tutoring resources.
Typically, enrollees receive $6,270 in financial aid awards. Students can expect to qualify for financial aid or loans, as 61% of enrollees are awarded aid and 23% receive loans.
Spokane Falls Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Spokane, Washington
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,875
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,680
#13 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Minnesota State College Southeast
Winona, MN - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners looking for a flexible online associate degree program in early childhood education should consider Minnesota State College Southeast. Students in the AAS in early childhood education program prepare for the demands of the early childhood education field through instructive study and industry-relevant coursework. Students seeking to advance their education can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Early childhood education degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. Distance learners can further benefit from virtual services such as library access, writing workshops, and academic tutoring.
On average, students receive $4,518 in financial aid. Typically, 82% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 33% receiving loans.
Minnesota State College Southeast at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Winona, Minnesota
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,020
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,020
#14 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Chippewa Valley Technical College
Eau Claire, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Chippewa Valley Technical College, located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, boasts 13 online associate degree programs, including its highly ranked associate in early childhood education program. Students in the Early Childhood Education program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing them for the demands of an early childhood education career. Graduates seeking to advance in further studies can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Students can access numerous college resources such as career services and academic advising. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
Students seeking to defray the cost of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $5,251 in financial aid awards. Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 78% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 27% opting for student loans.
Chippewa Valley Technical College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,095
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,143
#15 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
Tallahassee Community College
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tallahassee Community College's associate degree in early childhood development, education, and management is one of three associate degree programs offered remotely. Students in the early childhood education program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Typically, students can apply their associate degree credits toward future educational endeavors, like a bachelor's degree.
The college prioritizes student success through career services, academic advising, and other resources. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
Online learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, receiving an average of $4,518 in aid. The college reports that 68% of students are awarded financial aid, with 25% receiving student loans.
Tallahassee Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 25-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,002
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,982
Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Early Childhood Education Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Accreditation for Online Early Childhood Education Associate Degrees
Colleges often consider accreditation when determining whether they will accept transfer credits, and employers may expect job applicants to hold a degree from an accredited institution.
When exploring online programs, you can look for institutional and programmatic accreditation. Institutions may hold regional or national accreditation. Both the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education coordinate accreditation, recognize accrediting bodies, and maintain lists of accredited schools.
In addition to institutional accreditation, programs can hold specialized accreditation to demonstrate that they meet standards in the field. Early childhood education programs may hold accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, while teacher preparation programs may hold Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accreditation.
Courses in an Online Early Childhood Education Associate Program
Introduction to Early Childhood Education
This course introduces the theoretical and historical foundations of early childhood education. Topics include national, professional, and ethical standards; state regulations; career options; and program types. Students explore methods that can be used to create safe, appropriate, and responsive environments and activities for young children.
Child Development
This course explores the physical, social-emotional, and cognitive changes that occur in the first five years of life. Students learn to identify the skills young children typically acquire during this time and ways to support growth and optimize developmental outcomes.
Health and Wellness
This course emphasizes the health-related aspects of child development and age-appropriate behavior management techniques. Future caregivers learn to identify potential challenges children in their care may face. They also develop strategies to provide appropriate care, communicate with families, and promote wellness.
Exceptional Children
In this course, students explore ways to work with parents and other professionals to care for children with special needs, including those with physical/cognitive disabilities and gifted/talented children. Topics include methods for modifying the physical environment to ensure inclusion and strategies for adapting activities and instruction.
Language and Literacy
This course provides an overview of normal language development in young children. Students explore strategies to facilitate language development, identify appropriate children’s literature and its purpose, and present literature to young children in engaging ways.
Early Childhood Education Careers and Outlook
Many early childhood education majors may see themselves teaching preschool, leading a daycare, or serving as a teacher's assistant in a kindergarten classroom. An associate degree may be the ticket to qualifying for one or more of these jobs.
In fact, early childhood education can get you started in a variety of careers. However, the selection of careers listed in the table below offers a representative sample of what you can expect from this major after graduation.
| Early Childhood Education Career | Median Annual Wage (2023) |
|---|---|
| Preschool Teachers | $35,330 |
| Teacher Assistants | $30,920 |
| Childcare Worker | $28,520 |
| Recreation Worker | $31,680 |
| Social and Human Service Assistants | $38,520 |
Like many professional fields, early childhood education typically rewards advanced degrees with higher salaries.
Educational Paths for Early Childhood Education Degrees
After earning an online associate degree in early childhood education, you may decide to continue your education by earning a bachelor’s degree. Some schools require their employees to hold at least a bachelor’s degree, especially if they want to teach kindergarten or higher grades.
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree can also pursue some leadership positions, increasing their salary potential and allowing workers to gain access to benefits like employer-paid healthcare. The three degrees below rare potential educational pathways aspiring teachers can follow.
Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
The upper-level courses in a bachelor’s in early childhood education program go into greater depth than associate-level courses. These programs may prepare you to earn teacher licensure in your home state, qualifying you to work in a public elementary school.
Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education with a Montessori Education Concentration
The Montessori method revolutionized the education of young children by focusing on a child’s natural curiosity and emotional development. Montessori teachers receive specialized training during their teacher education programs, qualifying them for both traditional and Montessori classroom settings.
Bachelor’s in Physical Education
A child’s physical development proves just as important as their intellectual and emotional development. Physical education programs may satisfy the requirements for teacher licensure in your home state, opening the door to more career opportunities and a higher salary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Education Associate Degrees
What is the best degree for Early Childhood Education?
The best early childhood degree depends on your career goals. An associate degree qualifies you to teach preschool or serve as a teacher's assistant. If you want to teach elementary education, however, you need at least a bachelor's degree in the field. Professionals who plan to serve as principals, counselors, or instructional leaders may need a master's degree or higher.
How long does it take to get a degree in Early Childhood Education?
An associate degree in early childhood education typically takes two years. A bachelor's degree usually requires four years although students with AP, CLEP, early college, or other transfer credits may finish in less time. An online associate degree in early childhood education, if largely asynchronous, could be a program you complete in less than two years depending on your other obligations.
Is an associate degree in Early Childhood Education worth it?
The average two-year public institution charges $4,000 for tuition and fees per year according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics. In August 2023, according to Payscale, people with an associate degree in early childhood education earned an average of $14.05 per hour. Is that return on investment worth it to achieve your personal and professional goals?
What is the difference between a CDA and an associate degree?
A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and an associate degree in early childhood education are both educational pathways, but they differ in terms of their scope, depth, and purpose. A CDA requires specific educational and professional experience, which each state determines separately. An associate degree requires two years of academic coursework in general education and the major field.
Popular with our students.
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
