Most Affordable Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2023
Writer
Editor
Writer & Reviewer
Share this Article
- Early childhood education focuses on theories and instructional approaches for teaching young children.
- Education degrees are generally less expensive than degrees in other subjects.
- Graduates work in preschools, childcare centers, and as educational specialists.
- The top-paying jobs in early childhood education can pay up to $98,000.
Have you ever felt a sense of pure joy when you helped a young kid learn something new? Maybe it was teaching them how to write their name or ask for something they wanted.
That's a feeling that early childhood educators get to experience all the time at work. They're trained to work with children in various settings — such as preschools or childcare centers — and teach them foundational skills that will help set them up for success later in life.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
The best jobs for early childhood educators often require a bachelor's degree. Fortunately, many schools offer affordable degrees to make the investment worthwhile.
Is an Online Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Affordable?
Getting a bachelor's in early childhood education doesn't have to break the bank. In fact, online bachelor's in education degrees are cheaper than other online bachelor's degrees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Plus, there are ways to make the degree more affordable.
"There are scholarships for persons interested in studying early childhood education. Some early childhood centers even provide tuition reimbursement to students seeking an early childhood degree. And lastly, loan forgiveness can be another option for students who teach in areas of high need (e.g. rural school district)."
— Sarah Jean Baker, BA in Early Childhood Education, Concordia University
Average Annual Cost of a Bachelor's Degree
Average Online Bachelor's in Education
$6,345
Average Online Bachelor's (All Degrees)
$8,222
Benefits of Getting an Affordable Degree
-
Increases access to worthwhile degrees -
Reduces the chances of cost barriers -
Justifies the investment in college education -
Higher chance of a satisfying return on your investment -
Ability to save money for other life-related expenses -
Less likely to take on high amounts of debt
Featured Early Childhood Education Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Most Affordable Online Early Childhood Education Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $231
Out of State | $231
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
UW's online early childhood education degree, with community-based learning practice and applied assignments, offers asynchronous courses that you can access any time.
Courses survey topics such as equity in early care and education, research, and social policy. You'll also study early childhood curriculum and child observation and assessments. UW's community-based component requires 3-5 hours of field experience per week in a classroom.
To apply, you'll need at least 45 transferable credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA. You must also submit a personal statement, resume, and transcripts.
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $229
Out of State | $346
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
FIU's early childhood education program pairs you with a success coach. This coach helps you connect to tutoring services, library resources, and career services while you study online.
The early childhood education program at FIU starts in the spring, summer, or fall. First-year students must submit SAT or ACT scores with high school transcripts. And transfer students need at least 60 transferable credits, as well as transcripts.
National University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $370
Out of State | $370
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | The Western Association of Schools and Colleges
NU's early childhood education degree offers a pathway into teaching with four-week courses that start every month.
The early childhood education program at NU teaches you about ethical and legal issues, early cognition, and infant and toddler care. You'll also study about early language and literacy, designing curriculum, and partnering with families.
Eligible students can receive the NU Key Grant to get 50% off their tuition.
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $104-$117
Out of State | $401
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
In FSCJ's early childhood education program, you can put theory into practice through supervised field experience, reading practice, and an internship.
Admitted students start in spring, summer, or all terms. To apply, you must also complete prerequisites with a minimum 2.5 GPA, pass a background check, and pass the Florida Teacher Certification General Knowledge Exam.
Plus, FSCJ's program offers internal scholarships, departmental scholarships, and the Florida Fund for Minority Teachers provides extra financial aid.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $184
Out of State | $369-$816
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
UNCG's early childhood education degree gives associate degree-holders the chance to either earn a teaching license or focus their studies on early care and education. This cohort-model program features asynchronous and synchronous coursework. You'll complete three practicum courses and a student teaching experience.
You need at least a 2.6 GPA and a minimum 3.0 GPA for the student teaching experience. The main campus program accepts applicants as first-year or transfer students.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Browse programs Discover matches Request info
Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
Fayette, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $270
Out of State | $270
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | The Higher Learning Commission
CMU's degree in early childhood education provides you with the chance to get certified as an early childhood professional. Throughout CMU's online program, you can study infant and toddler curriculum methods, classroom management, and screening and diagnosis. Plus, you must complete five practicums and a capstone project.
You can apply for the early childhood education degree with at least 60 transfer credits. You'll need at least a "C" grade in all prerequisites and an ACT score of 22.
Charter Oak State College
New Britain, CT - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $319
Out of State | $419
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | New England Commission of Higher Education
Charter Oak's bachelor's degree in early childhood education lets you concentrate your studies in five areas. Options include early childhood teacher credential, infant and toddler, preschool, Montessori, or program administration and leadership.
The lessons in Charter Oak's program focus on teaching methods for children from birth to five years old. To put classroom learning into practice, you must complete 170 pre-practicum hours and 400 practicum hours. Requirements also include a capstone experience and a cornerstone seminar.
Northwestern College
Orange City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $340
Out of State | $340
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
NWC in Orange City, Iowa attracts future educators with its early childhood education degree. It takes two years to complete and offers flexible practicum requirements. The early childhood education program at NWC incorporates faith through courses on the Christian story and core requirements in childhood learning.
This non-licensure program accepts students with an associate degree. Iowa financial aid programs, such as the TEACH Early Childhood Scholarship and the Child Care WAGE$ Program, can help you pay your tuition.
University of Mount Olive
Mount Olive, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $747
Out of State | $747
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
UMO offers a degree in early childhood education that's rooted in Christian values with practicum experiences throughout. The UMO early childhood education program also offers a path to licensure.
The coursework provides a foundation in topics such as children's social development, curriculum development, and literacy and literature.
Upon graduation, you can become a preschool teacher, childcare center director, and elementary school teacher.
Northwest Florida State College
Niceville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $123
Out of State | $124
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Earning an early childhood education degree at Florida's NWF — a program for associate degree-holders — takes two years. NWF's early childhood education degree requires you to complete 120 credits. It all culminates with a 450-hour internship which lets you put theory into practice.
To apply, you'll need an associate degree in early childhood education and at least 18 credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA. NWF accepts applications year round.
What Can You Expect from an Online Early Childhood Education Degree?
About the Degree: Early childhood education focuses on teaching children up to 8 years old. And it combines theory, teaching methods, and field experience.
Length: Full-time students typically graduate in four years, while part-time students may finish in about six years.
Career Paths: Graduates often work in childcare centers, preschools, public schools, and private programs as teachers, education specialists, consultants, and administrators.
Affordability: Education degrees are generally cheaper than other degrees. Federal and state aid, as well as student loans, can make them more affordable.
"A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education provides one with knowledge and skills to be an excellent teacher for young children. Teaching young children is not an easy task — it requires intellectual work on the part of the early childhood teacher."
— Sarah Jean Baker, BA in Early Childhood Education, Concordia University
Read More: Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs
Read More: What Do Early Childhood Educators Do?
How Can You Pay for Your Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education?
While early childhood education programs can be affordable, a college degree is rarely cheap. But you have a few options to help pay for your bachelor's, including federal student aid and student loans.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should be your first step when looking for financial aid. As mentioned in our financial aid and FAFSA guide, this application can lead to loans, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships.
Loans
As found in our college loans guide, you have access to several loan types, including federal and private loans. You may qualify for subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Plus, early childhood educators may be eligible for the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program.
Grants
Our scholarships and grants guide outlines the various grants available to those with financial need. This list includes Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. Prospective teachers may also qualify for the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant.
Work-Study Programs
Federal work-study programs provide paid work experiences for students who demonstrate financial need. In line with our federal work-study guide, these jobs offer funding, targeted experience, and flexible schedules. The available work-study jobs depend on the school, and positions may be available on campus or in the community.
Scholarships
According to our scholarship guide for college students, you can search for scholarships in various ways. These financial aid programs come from the federal, state, and local governments, as well as specific colleges, universities, and organizations. Early childhood education students can access scholarships through various national education organizations, such as the National Education Association.
Education Scholarships Available to You:
- Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant
- Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship
- Bright Futures Scholarships
What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education?
You can be a teacher and help young children unlock their learning potential. Or, you can take on more administrative roles as a daycare or preschool center director.
While the most common jobs don't pay a lot, there is one big upside. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for preschool teachers should grow by 15% — much faster than average — by 2031. That means you'll have plenty of job security for years after graduation.
Daycare Director Preschool Center Director Special Education Teacher |
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers Preschool Teacher Education Specialist |
"A career in early childhood education means you have a daily opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of children and have a more lasting impact on future generations."
— Michele Lucia, BS in Childhood Development, Walden University
Read More: Most In-Demand Education Careers
Read More: What Courses Will I Take in a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Program?
Everything Else You Need to Know About Affordable Early Childhood Education Programs
There's a few steps you need to complete before you can enroll. Depending on your school or program, you may need a letter of recommendation or a college application essay. The following tips can help make the application process as smooth as possible.
While every online bachelor's in early childhood education has its own unique admission requirements, you'll typically need a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some schools will require you to meet a minimum GPA for entry, too. And you may also need to meet certain technological requirements.
Application
The standard college application usually includes the following items listed below, as per our undergraduate application guide. You can submit your application directly to your schools of interest or to multiple schools at once through a service like the Common Application.
Test Scores
Some applications require you to include the results from your college entrance exams. Applicants typically submit SAT or ACT scores when applying to undergraduate programs. Though many schools have granted test waivers for all incoming students, you may still need competitive scores to be accepted to your intended schools and programs.
Letters of Recommendation
Most schools require prospective students to submit three letters of recommendation as part of their application. These letters from current or former teachers or employers address the candidate's strengths and potential. Start asking for letters of recommendation early and provide your references with clear deadlines.
Essays
College application essays give you space to talk about yourself and add personality to your paperwork. Undergraduate applicants typically write about their personal and academic journeys. Some schools and programs may require you to answer specific questions in their essays.
Official Transcripts
You'll need to submit official transcripts along with your applications. Transcripts provide schools with information on your grades and prerequisite training. If you're transferring from community college to university, transcripts can help schools issue transfer credits.
Early childhood education programs will give you an understanding of child development, how to adapt to their learning styles, and become a positive influence through theories and practices.
Child Development
Young children go through rapid growth and development in the years after birth. You'll learn about social, emotional, physical, speech, and communication development.
Language and Literacy Development
Children need help learning to use language to communicate their thoughts and feelings and develop the ability to read and write. This course teaches you strategies to develop these skills, including singing, storytelling, and drawing.
Curriculum Planning
Early childhood educators create and design curricula for their students. You'll learn how to plan activities, select materials, and use effective teaching strategies throughout the school year.
Assessment and Evaluation
Teachers assess and evaluate children to keep parents informed and support them as they grow. This class focuses on observing children and how they learn, react, and interact with new situations. You'll then reflect on the students' successes and areas that need growth.
Social and Emotional Learning
Young children take a while to grasp socialization skills and understand their emotions. You'll learn how to help them work on self-awareness, self-control, and everyday challenges and interactions.
You can settle with a bachelor's degree or build on what you know with more education. A master's in early childhood education can further your teaching credentials or prepare you to become an administrator, specialist, or consultant who earns even higher salaries.
How Do You Choose an Affordable Early Childhood Education Program?
-
Cost -
Program Format -
Location -
Accreditation -
Student Support
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Online Early Childhood Programs
Is a bachelor's in early childhood education worth it?
Yes. You can help set young learners up for lifelong success while pursuing a stable career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that early childhood education jobs will grow much faster than average, meaning you'll have better job security than others.
A bachelor's in early childhood education also sets you apart from others. Since some states only require preschool teachers to have an associate degree, your education will make you a much stronger candidate. You'll also qualify for higher-level positions like preschool and childcare center directors.
Are early childhood education programs cheap?
In general, education programs can be cheaper than other programs. According to the NCES, the median annual tuition for education programs is $8,485. The median cost for all other degrees is $9,426. But keep in mind that the cost of early childhood education programs varies by school. Some may be far cheaper or more expensive than others.
How much money will you make with a degree in early childhood education?
You can make between $30,000-$98,000 with a degree in early childhood education, according to the BLS. But pay varies depending on your job and industry. Preschool teachers in public and private elementary and secondary schools earned a median salary of $48,190 as of May 2021. And the top earners make more than $58,000. Plus, preschool and childcare center directors earned a median salary of $62,320 in May 2021, but these professionals can qualify for jobs that pay up to $98,000.
