Preschool teachers work with children that are usually ages three to five. They may work in a public school setting, a private preschool setting, or a daycare setting.
To become a preschool teacher, you typically need a degree in early childhood education. You may also need a license or certification.
Keep reading to discover the top online schools for becoming a preschool teacher and how to choose the one that works best for you.
Top Online Schools for Becoming a Preschool Teacher
A few colleges and universities around the United States offer online early childhood education programs. We've listed our top picks below in alphabetical order.
1. Ball State University
Ball State University is a public research university in Muncie, IN. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education through its Teacher's College.
This is a degree completion program for students who have already earned their associate degree in early childhood education.
Students learn theories in child development, practice effective teaching techniques, and gain an understanding of diverse family structures and backgrounds. Courses include:
- Learning and Assessment in Early Childhood
- Planning for the Elementary and Early Childhood Classroom
- Promoting Prosocial Behavior in Young Children: Guidance and Cultural Factors
- Teaching in the Pre-Kindergarten/Kindergarten Program
Students also select a minor to complete their degree, such as early intervention, autism spectrum disorder, early childhood special education, or psychology of human development.
120 total credits are required, which includes credits transferred from an associate program. The degree is fully online and meant to be flexible for working students.
2. Chaminade University of Honolulu
Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private university in Honolulu, HI.
Its School of Education and Behavioral Sciences offers an online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education.
This program teaches students how to make learning fun and engaging with lessons that strengthen cognitive, emotional, and physical development.
The degree requires 120 total credits. Courses offered in the curriculum include:
- Children's Literature
- Developmentally Appropriate Practice
- Health & Family Issues in Early Childhood Education
- Music, Art, & Creative Movement in Early Childhood Education
While this program offers courses completely online, it also requires students to complete in-person fieldwork experience.
3. Florida International University
Florida International University is a public research university in Miami, FL.
It offers a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education through its College of Arts, Sciences, & Education.
The program covers the development of the whole child by focusing on learning and development during the early childhood years.
120 credits are required for this degree in courses such as:
- Art in Early Childhood
- Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis of the Young Child
- Early Childhood Educational Programs
- Play and Development of Social Competence
This degree is fully online and offers start dates in the fall, spring, and summer.
4. National University
National University is a private university based in San Diego, CA. It offers a range of online programs, including a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education.
The program gives students the tools and skills to make an impact in the lives of young learners. It focuses on academic, social, and emotional development.
Students must earn 180 quarter credits, the equivalent of 120 semester credits. The curriculum includes courses such as:
- Early Language and Literacy
- Literature and Young Children
- Nature, Numbers, and Technology
- Observing, Assessing, and Planning
Courses are offered in four-week blocks and enrollment is open year-round, allowing students to complete the program faster.
All courses in the program are fully online, however, students will need to complete field experience in an approved setting of their choosing.
5. University of Washington
The University of Washington is a public research university in Seattle, WA. Its College of Education offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Early Care and Education.
This program builds on your knowledge of children's learning and provides opportunities for you to apply your learning, knowledge, and skills in early learning settings.
Both part-time and full-time schedules are available. Courses in this program include:
- Child Observation & Assessment
- Early Childhood Curriculum
- Fostering the Development of Young Children's Mathematics & Science Knowledge & Skills
- Laying the Foundation for Reading: Supporting Language & Literacy Development in Preschool
Courses for this program are fully online, but students will need to participate in fieldwork. This can be through their workplace or in a volunteer setting.
How to Choose the Right Online School for Becoming a Preschool Teacher
There are several things to consider when choosing an online program to become a preschool teacher. These include:
- Availability:
- Field Experience
- Licensure
- Schedule
- Tuition
For any degree program, the college or university needs to be accredited. Regional accreditation is generally preferred over national accreditation.
FAQs About Online Schools for Becoming a Preschool Teacher
Below, you'll find the answers to frequently asked questions about online schools for becoming a preschool teacher.
How Long Does It Take To Complete an Online Program to Become a Preschool Teacher?
The length of an online program to become a pre-k teacher depends on the level of degree. Associate degrees usually take two years, while bachelor's degrees usually take four.
Do I Need a License to Work as a Preschool Teacher?
Whether or not you need a license will depend on the state you're in, as licensing requirements vary by state. It will also depend on whether you're working in a public or private school.
States that don't require licensure may require teachers to hold the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential offered by the Council for Professional Recognition.
Can I Earn My Degree to Become a Preschool Teacher Fully Online?
A few programs around the country allow you to earn your degree in early childhood education fully online.
Some programs offer fully online courses but require in-person practicums.
Become a Preschool Teacher
Students can become preschool teachers through online programs in early childhood education.
When choosing a program, you'll want to consider things like on-campus or fieldwork requirements.
With the guide above, you can be on your way toward earning an online degree to become a preschool teacher today.