Online Early Childhood Education Degrees (BA/BS) in the U.S.

Making the right choice for your education is crucial. With that in mind, we have curated a list of some of the top U.S. online early childhood education degrees.

1. Liberty University

Liberty University, an accredited institution, offers an online Bachelor of Science in early childhood education degree.

Designed for flexibility, the program is a non-licensure track, perfectly suiting those seeking employment in Christian schools, childcare facilities, and other early childhood education settings.

To earn this degree, students must complete 120 credit hours. The program is a cost-effective solution for those looking to advance their careers; as of the 2022/2023 academic year, the cost per credit hour for a full-time student is $390.

2. Ball State University

Ball State University stands out by offering an online Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in family and child: early childhood education.

Regardless of geographic location, students nationwide have the opportunity to enroll thanks to the program's fully online nature.

While the program itself is a non-licensure track, students desiring licensure can also complete the online License in Transition to Teaching program for elementary education (K-6).

The tuition for Indiana residents is $326 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $544 per credit hour.

3. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers two distinct tracks for those interested in early childhood education. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in early childhood education or a Bachelor of Science in early childhood special education.

Upon completion, both programs yield eligibility for an initial teaching license, adding a layer of professional credibility to graduates' profiles. These programs require students to complete 120 credit hours, with each credit hour priced at $455.

4. Kansas State University

Kansas State University's commitment to flexible and accessible education shines with its bachelor's in early childhood education.

This program, fully delivered online, requires the completion of 120 credit hours with an estimated cost per credit hour of $450.

After graduation, students are eligible to apply for a Kansas State Teaching Licensure to teach Early Childhood Unified (B-K). This license is transferable to other states, though additional testing may be required.

5. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati caters to aspiring educators with its online Bachelor of Science in early childhood education. Depending on the student's prior education, the program requires the completion of 60 to 120 credits.

With options for both part-time and full-time scheduling, this program offers unparalleled flexibility to fit learners' unique schedules. As of the most recent academic year, the cost per credit is $586 for non-residents and $571 for residents.

6. University of Washington

The University of Washington offers a Bachelor of Arts in early childhood care and education. This program can be completed entirely online, offering both full-time and part-time schedules.

Students opting for a full-time schedule can complete the program in as few as two years, while part-time students can finish in three years.

The curriculum prepares graduates to work effectively in diverse early learning settings and engage with families and communities. For the 2023/2024 academic year, the cost per credit hour is $231.

7. Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers an online Bachelor of Applied Science in early childhood education.

As a testament to its commitment to flexible and accessible learning, the program can be completed fully online, accommodating students regardless of location or schedule.

To earn this degree, students are expected to complete 120 credit hours. The tuition for online students pursuing this program is notably affordable at $11,160 per year.

8. Aspen University

Aspen University offers an online Bachelor of Science in early childhood studies that adheres to the professional standards set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Graduates from this program may pursue opportunities in various settings, including preschools and early childhood education programs, putting their knowledge and skills into practice.

The total tuition cost for this program is $21,600, not including fees. With a unique payment structure, Aspen University offers students the flexibility of paying $250 per month over a span of 100 months.