Earning a Wisconsin online early childhood education degree provides individuals with the skills necessary to cultivate the minds of young children, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Whether you're a student residing in Wisconsin or from another region seeking an online degree, you can find multiple programs that not only provide excellent academic foundations, but also fulfill the state's certification requirements.
Top Early Childhood Education Programs in Wisconsin
Choosing the right program for your journey to become an early childhood educator is important as it can greatly impact the lives of young learners. To help with this decision, we have compiled a list of some of the best early childhood education programs in Wisconsin.
1. University of Wisconsin Whitewater
At the University of Wisconsin Whitewater, students can enroll in an online bachelor's degree program in early child care and education. This non–licensure degree offers a strong curriculum that is accessible entirely online.
The flexibility of full–time and part–time scheduling options caters to students' individual needs. For the academic year of 2023 to 2024, the cost per credit for this program stands at $395, presenting a competitive choice for potential students.
2. Concordia University Wisconsin
Concordia University Wisconsin offers a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education, available both online and in–person. The program equips students for a Wisconsin teaching license in early childhood education.
Those holding an existing associate degree in education have the opportunity to fast track their education with the potential to complete the program in just five semesters.
The degree necessitates the completion of 120 credit hours. Students will find the cost per credit competitively priced at $475.
3. University of Wisconsin River Falls
The University of Wisconsin River Falls presents a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, a program designed for those with prior credits in the field.
Particularly beneficial for students with an associate degree in early childhood education or child development, this program also offers a pathway to a Wisconsin Early Childhood Teaching Certification (birth to age 8).
The cost per credit for this program stands at $330.24. This rate applies to all undergraduate online degrees offered by the institution and remains consistent regardless of students' residential status.
4. University of Wisconsin Stout
The University of Wisconsin Stout offers an online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, a program designed to equip students with extensive knowledge and teaching skills.
Upon graduation, students will possess the certification necessary to teach children from birth through third grade in both regular education and special education settings within Wisconsin.
The estimated tuition for Wisconsin undergraduate residents for the 2022 to 2023 academic year is set at $9,663, including all fees. Out–of–state students can expect a tuition fee of $17,930, inclusive of all fees as well.
Other Early Childhood Education Programs
University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati extends a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (Birth – Age Five) program, accessible entirely online. Completion of this degree necessitates 60 to 120 credit hours, depending on prior education.
This degree, however, does not grant licensure for teaching Pre–Kindergarten to Grade Five. It caters to both full–time and part–time students, with an entry prerequisite of an associate degree in the field.
Full–time students enrolled in an online undergraduate program at UC Uptown can anticipate a tuition of $6,768.00.
The University of Arizona
The University of Arizona provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education, a degree structured around an accelerated course delivery model.
Each course typically takes five to six weeks to complete, and students generally undertake one course at a time. Completion of the program requires a total of 120 credit hours.
The cost per credit for all undergraduate programs stands at $510.00. It's crucial to note that earning this degree does not automatically result in licensure.
University of Washington
The University of Washington presents an online Bachelor of Arts program in early care and education, providing a strong educational base for a range of career opportunities such as early childhood administration and preschool teaching, among others.
For the 2023 to 2024 academic year, the tuition for this program is set at a rate of $231 per credit, ensuring accessibility for individuals seeking to acquire vital knowledge in the field of early care and education.
Liberty University
Liberty University offers a bachelor's in early childhood education degree, delivered fully online. This program demands the completion of 120 credit hours, providing students with a complete understanding of early childhood education.
Each course within this program is structured to last eight weeks, allowing students to focus on one subject at a time.
Notably, Liberty University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The cost per credit for undergraduate programs during the academic year 2022 to 2023 was $390 for full–time students, and $455 for those opting for part–time study.
FAQs Regarding Early Childhood Education Degrees
When considering a Wisconsin online early childhood education degree, prospective students often have many questions.
Here, we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions to give you a clearer understanding of what an early childhood education degree involves.
What Is the Highest–Paying Job in Early Childhood Education?
The highest–paying job in early childhood education is typically a school principal. Principals lead schools, create positive learning environments, set academic goals, and manage staff.
They usually have advanced degrees in education administration and at least five years of teaching experience. The median annual salary for this role is around $95,310.
How Do You Get Certified in Early Childhood Education in Wisconsin?
To become certified in early childhood education in Wisconsin, there are three main steps. First, earn a bachelor's degree to gain foundational teaching knowledge. Next, complete a teacher preparation program, including meeting testing requirements.
This program equips prospective teachers with practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Lastly, pass a background check to prioritize student safety and well–being.
What Are the Best Majors to Be a Preschool Teacher?
A degree in early childhood education is often considered the most direct and focused pathway to pursuing a career as a preschool teacher.
This specialized degree equips individuals with the knowledge necessary to effectively teach and nurture young children during their crucial developmental years.
What Is the Difference Between Early Childhood Education and Child Development?
Early childhood education focuses on teaching methods for children from birth to eight years old.
On the other hand, child development is a broader field that studies children's psychological, cognitive, and social development. The latter can lead to careers beyond education, including child psychology and pediatric healthcare.
Earn Your Early Childhood Education Degree
Pursuing a Wisconsin online early childhood education degree will take you on a joyful journey of influencing young students. These flexible online learning programs provide the perfect platform for a fulfilling career in teaching.
