A masters in early childhood education is for students and professionals who want to help babies and young children develop crucial skills and overcome challenges.
During this program, you can learn how to provide support and instruction for children from birth through age 8. You’ll study how people develop skills in literacy, math, and communication from the earliest stages of their lives.
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Finding the right masters program could be the next step in your journey as an early childhood education specialist.
Online Masters in Early Childhood Education Programs
Earning a masters in early childhood education online is a strategic degree path if you love working with small children.
This degree program is designed to help students gain knowledge and practical skills that allow them to work more effectively with newborns, toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary schoolers. If you enroll in an online early childhood education degree program, you may study subjects like:
- Human development
- Equity
- Instructional methodologies
- Curriculum design
- Diversity
- Literacy
- Research methods
These courses can help you gain a greater understanding of how children’s brains and behaviors develop and change over time. Early childhood education coursework also offers insights into the best practices for teaching young children of different ages.
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Online early childhood education masters programs help prepare students to become education administrators, counselors, curriculum designers, and social workers. Other graduates work as preschool or daycare directors, preschool teachers, kindergarten teachers, and early elementary school teachers.
A master’s in early childhood education is also helpful preparation for work as an instructional coordinator. These professionals help develop classroom curriculum that will be interesting and engaging for students, and they may also assist teachers with implementing new strategies.
Potential employers for graduates of early childhood education programs include:
- Public and private preschools
- Public and private elementary schools
- Daycares
- Community organizations
- Social work agencies
Rather than taking a position with a specific employer, some early childhood education professionals work as independent consultants, offering their expertise to parents, policy developers, and education departments.
Online degrees in education leading to a master’s degree may also be a strategic stepping stones for professionals hoping to earn a doctoral degree, such as an online PhD in Early Childhood Education, for example.
Early Childhood Education Careers and Salaries
A master’s degree in early childhood education may help pave the way toward a range of education careers. Graduates of these programs often go on to become teachers, principals, directors, and curriculum developers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median salaries of some common careers for early childhood education professionals.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| K-12 School Principals | $98,420 |
| Social and Community Service Managers | $74,000 |
| Instructional Coordinators | $63,740 |
| Special Education Teachers | $61,820 |
| Elementary School Teachers | $61,400 |
| Kindergarten Teachers | $60,900 |
| Social Workers | $50,390 |
| Preschool and Childcare Center Directors | $47,310 |
| Preschool Teachers | $30,210 |
| Teacher Assistants | $29,360 |
Although it’s possible to become a preschool teacher without an advanced degree, completing a master’s program may help you increase your earning potential or advance into an administrative role.
During an early childhood education program, students learn about the development and diverse needs of young children. These skills are appealing to many kinds of employers who work with children whose ages range from infants to 8-year-olds.
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Some teaching positions, such as elementary teachers and special education teachers, require state teaching licenses.
MA in Early Childhood Education Curriculum & Courses
The curriculum of early childhood education online masters programs typically focuses on learning theories, strategies, and methods. Some of the common courses offered during these degree programs include:
- Instructional Methodologies for Young Children: In this course, you’ll learn about different teaching methodologies to use with students in daycares, preschools, and elementary schools.
- Equitable Learning Environments: Students in this class explore strategies for creating equitable environments for children who have disabilities.
- Emergent Literacy: The focus of this class is teaching language and literacy from birth through kindergarten, with a focus on phonetics, alphabetic instruction, and decoding.
- Diversity and Human Development: This class centers on different learning theories and their connection to diversity and multiculturalism.
- Foundations of Early Childhood Education: This course presents an overview of the history and the current status of early childhood education.
- Integrated Literacy: In this course, you’ll learn about language and literacy education for students in kindergarten through third grade.
- Mathematics in Early Childhood Education: In this class, you’ll learn about methods for teaching and assessing math skills in young children.
- Research Methods: You’ll learn about key vocabulary, studies, and theories of childhood education and how to conduct accurate research.
- Curriculum: In this course, you’ll learn how to develop meaningful learning experiences for diverse populations of young children.
- Family and Community Partnerships: This class focuses on the partnerships between families, schools, and their local communities.
Many early education master’s programs conclude with a capstone project. Degree programs that prepare students for state licensure may also include a practicum or student teaching experience.
Admissions Requirements
Here are some common admissions requirements for an early childhood education master’s online program:
- Test scores. If required, you’ll submit minimum scores from the GRE.
- CV. You’ll submit a list of your professional and education experience, including publications and volunteer work.
- Transcripts. You’ll submit official transcripts from any prior academic institutions.
- Recommendations. You can request recommendations from previous instructors or supervisors who are familiar with your skills.
- Personal statement. You may be asked to write a brief essay explaining your future goals and interest in the program.
Some colleges also request a phone or video interview.
Early Childhood Education Graduate Programs Accreditation
When comparing online early childhood education graduate programs, it’s crucial to consider whether a school has national or regional accreditation, both of which involve passing a thorough quality assessment.
Regional accrediting bodies have very high standards for curriculum and faculty, so a school that has met the bar for accreditation is likely to offer a trustworthy academic experience. As a result, employers often have a more favorable response to degrees from regionally accredited schools.
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In addition, it is typically easier to transfer credits from these programs if you decide to change schools or pursue a doctoral degree.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial aid opportunities can help qualifying students reduce the upfront cost of tuition. The first step for many prospective graduate students is to submit a FAFSA, an application that determines whether you are eligible for federal loans, grants, and work studies.
Some state governments also offer their own opportunities for financial support to in-state students. Scholarships are another critical source of aid for many students. To find scholarship programs that align with your field of study and personal circumstances, you can search an online database or reach out to the financial aid office at your preferred school.
Working professionals may also be able to receive aid from their employers. Many organizations offer tuition reimbursement or assistance to employees who want to pursue higher education.
Is Early Childhood Education a Good Career?
Yes, early childhood education is a good career for many professionals. This area of employment includes a wide range of teaching and administrative positions that work with young children.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many of the roles in the field have median salaries that are above the median wage for all occupations. For instance, the median salary for preschool and childcare center directors is $47,310, and the median for K-12 principals is $98,420.
Some early childhood education specialists work behind the scenes as a curriculum designer or instructional coordinator. The median annual salary for instructional coordinators is $63,740 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What Can You Do with a Masters in Early Childhood Education Online Degree?
Graduates of early childhood education master’s degree online programs might work in the classroom as preschool teachers, kindergarten teachers, early elementary school teachers, or special education teachers. Some teaching positions require licensure. Some professionals take on leadership roles as preschool directors, principals, or program directors.
Graduates may also become counselors and social workers who specialize in working with young children. Other possible careers in early childhood education are instructional coordinator and curriculum specialist. These roles involve creating effective lessons and learning activities for students. They may also work with teachers or administrators to implement the curricula.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education Online?
The amount of time required to earn a master’s degree in early childhood education depends on the structure of the program and your enrollment status. In general, these degrees may require between 30 and 40 credit hours.
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If the program has no thesis or student teaching requirement, a full-time student who takes summer classes can typically graduate within 1 year. Programs that include practicums or thesis projects may require 2 years of study or more. Students who attend part-time may need a longer timeframe to graduate.
What’s the Difference Between an Elementary Education vs. Early Childhood Education Master Degree?
Elementary education and early childhood education masters programs have some overlap, but each has a unique focus.
| Masters in Early Childhood Education | Masters in Elementary Education |
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Early childhood education professionals work with very young children, from birth up to age 8, while elementary education professionals work with a slightly older age range.
Is a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education Online Worth It?
Yes, a master’s degree in early childhood education online is worth it for many students. Many professionals find this area of work fulfilling, particularly those who enjoy supporting and helping young children.
Master’s degrees in this field are applicable to many possible careers, including teachers, childcare center directors, education administrators, and curriculum specialists. Overall employment for education, training, and library occupations is expected to grow by 7% over the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
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Steady job growth is also projected for careers related to early childhood education in particular, including principals (5% job growth) and preschool and childcare center directors (8%).
Universities Offering Online Master of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Arizona State University offers a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education program online. The program seeks to deepen the understanding of childhood development and innovative teaching methods.
The program aims to help prepare for entry into roles like child advocate, school program administrator, curriculum designer, or educational consultant. Classes typically run for 7.5 weeks. The program requires the completion of 30 credits.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Biola University offers a program partially online for a Master of Arts in Education with a specialization in Early Childhood. Some courses may require on-campus attendance. The program aims to provide research-driven teaching. The program requires the completion of 73 total credit hours, and, on average, programs may be completed in 2 to 3 years of full-time study.
Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
California Baptist University offers an online program for a Master of Education with a specialization in Early Childhood. Potential courses include Curriculum Theory and Development, Early Childhood Literacy, and Survey of Educational Research. With full-time attendance, the program’s 33 required credit hours are often completed in 12 months.
California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
Campbellsville University offers an online program for a Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education. The program is designed to provide knowledge and skills needed to work with preschool to kindergarten-aged children. Courses usually span 8 weeks each and, on average, the 33 required credits are completed in 2 years of full-time study.
Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Capella University offers a Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. The program aims to help prepare to obtain licensure, develop curriculum, conduct research, and support students’ social, mental, and physical growth. The program requires the completion of at least 46 credit hours.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Champlain College offers a non-licensure Master of Education in Early Childhood Education program online with concentrations in Special Education, Teaching, or Administration for Early Childhood Education.
The program requires the completion of 30 credits that aim to teach skills needed for assessing children’s development, observing and recording child behavior, working with children with special needs, and applying early childhood education professional standards.
Champlain College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Concordia University–St. Paul offers a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education program online. The program is intended for practitioners actively working or volunteering with children in educational settings. Courses typically cover topics like curriculum development, research methods, teaching theory, observation and assessment, ethics, and family systems.
Concordia University – Saint Paul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Grand Canyon University offers a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education program online. The program is designed to help prepare for licensure or to advance within the education profession. Classes meet primarily online, but learning is complemented by in-person teaching experiences. Up to 12 of the 47 required credits may be transferred in from other institutions.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Jacksonville State University offers a fully online program for a Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. The program focuses on developing skills needed to teach preschool to 3rd grade. The curriculum tends to cover classroom management, research, and student interventions. The program requires the completion of at least 33 credits while maintaining a minimum 3.25 GPA.
Jacksonville State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Kennesaw State University offers a fully online program for an M.Ed. with a major in Early Childhood Education. The program is designed to help with entry into careers such as childcare director, elementary school teacher, researcher, education writer, or curriculum consultant. The 36 required credits may be completed in only 13 months of full-time attendance.
Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Liberty University offers a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education program online. Potential courses include Elementary Curriculum, Educational Research, and Advanced Child Development. Classes are typically 8 weeks long. Up to 18 of the 36 required credits may be transferred in from outside institutions. The program may be completed in as little as 1.5 years.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The online program for a Master of Arts in Teaching at National Louis University offers a specialization in Early Childhood Education. Potential courses include Infancy and Childhood, Early Literacy Methods, and STEM in Early Childhood. The program is designed to help meet requirements for initial teacher licensure. The curriculum consists of 45 total credits.
NLU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The New York Institute of Technology offers a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education program online. The curriculum tends to place particular emphasis on diversity, classroom technology, and research. Potential roles the program aims to help prepare for include preschool administrator, elementary teacher, and childcare professional.
NYIT is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
Northwestern College offers a Master of Education in Early Childhood program online. Common courses include Teaching with Technology, Issues in 21st Century Education, and Educational Research Methods. Classes are typically 8 weeks long, and on average, the 33 required credit hours are completed in 2 years of full-time study.
Northwestern College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Portland State University offers an online program for a Master of Education in Early Childhood Inclusive Education. Concentrations include Infant Toddler Mental Health, Constructivism, Early Childhood Special Education, and Distributed Pathway. The program consists of 45 credits, which may be completed in as little as 2 years with full-time attendance.
Portland State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Stephen F. Austin State University offers a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education program online. The curriculum commonly covers topics like child growth and development, classroom practice, learning methodology, research, and leadership. Classes tend to be taught synchronously, and on average, the 36-credit program is completed in 2 years.
Stephen F. Austin State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Texas Woman’s University offers a program for a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education. Specializations include Curriculum Development or Leadership and Advocacy. Classes meet mostly online, though hands-on learning experiences in the field may be required. The 31 required credit hours may be completed in just 1 year.
Texas Woman’s University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Alabama–Birmingham offers a Master of Arts in Education in Early Childhood Education for ages birth to 3rd grade. Courses typically cover pedagogy, literacy, language development, diversity, and research methods.
A previously completed bachelor’s in early childhood education and a valid teaching license are required for entry into the master’s program. The curriculum requires the completion of 33 credit hours.
The University of Alabama – Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Dayton offers an online program for an MS in Education with a concentration in Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy. Common courses include Educational Leadership, Supervision and Professional Development, and Leadership in Diverse Communities.
The program is designed to teach knowledge and skills needed to pursue advanced teaching or administration roles in early childhood education environments.
The University of Dayton is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill offers a hybrid program for a Master of Education in Early Childhood Intervention and Family Support. Most classes use a blend of synchronous and asynchronous online and in-person lesson formats. This program is designed for experienced teachers and requires the completion of 36 credit hours.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of North Dakota offers an online program for a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education. The program is designed to help prepare for entry into careers such as teaching, administration, curriculum specialist, early interventionist, or professor. The program typically offers admission for the fall, spring, and summer terms, and requires the completion of 32 credits.
The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The University of Toledo offers an MEd in Early Childhood Education program online. Potential classes include Behavior Management, Curriculum Adaptations and Strategies, Literacy Assessment, and Effective Teaching Practices. The program is designed to help prepare for entry into non-licensure roles within the education profession. The curriculum consists of 30 credits.
The University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The online program for a Master of Education at the University of West Alabama offers a concentration in Pre K to grade 3 Early Childhood Education. Courses typically cover topics like lifespan development, educational technology, research methods, and teaching theory. Classes tend to be 8 weeks long. On average, the program’s 34 required credits are completed in 1 year of full-time attendance.
The University of West Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of South Alabama offers a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education program online. The program was designed for those having completed a bachelor’s in teaching and holding a valid teaching license. The program requires the completion of 30 credit hours.
The University of South Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Walden University offers an MS in Early Childhood Studies program online. Concentrations include Administration, Management and Leadership, Early Childhood Administration, and Teaching and Learning in Early Childhood Settings. Depending on the chosen concentration, some courses may require some in-person attendance. The average time to completion for this 30-credit program is 20 months of full-time study.
Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your Master of Early Childhood Education Online
Earning an early childhood education masters degree online could allow you to advance your professional skill sets according to your own schedule.
Early childhood education is a growing field with a wide range of career opportunities. Completing a masters could help you grow your qualifications as a teacher, administrator, or instructional coordinator. Professionals in this area have expertise in teaching techniques, disabilities, and learning styles. They often study how to connect with and offer guidance to children who may be facing physical, emotional, and social challenges.
You can take the next step toward career advancement by researching available masters programs in early childhood education from accredited schools.
