Best Online Early Childhood Master’s Programs

Teaching will always be a secure career choice. Nationwide, early childhood education positions will continue to be in demand for the next decade — in some states more than others.

Earning a master’s in early childhood education online offers flexible training to become a kindergarten teacher, an elementary school teacher, a preschool teacher, or a daycare director. Additional certification can open you up to even more career opportunities.

The best online early childhood education master’s programs combine strong academics with ample hands-on training.

10 Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Programs

Master’s in Early Childhood Education: Program Overview

  • A master’s in early childhood education usually lasts around two years.
  • Generally, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and a 2.5-3.0 GPA to get admitted.
  • You can expect to pay anywhere from around $300 to $1,500 per credit for your master’s in early childhood education.
  • You’ll study elementary curriculum design, instructional methods, and early literacy.
  • Common master’s in early childhood education concentrations include special education and leadership and advocacy.

Choosing an Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Program

When choosing between online master’s in early childhood education programs, evaluate each of your prospective program’s strengths, requirements, and specializations.

For example, some programs provide a set curriculum, whereas others let you customize the degree. Additionally, some programs may require a capstone, while others may allow you to choose between writing a thesis or gaining work experience.

Some online early childhood education degrees offer concentrations or specializations in areas like administrative training. These concentrations may appeal to educators who want director-level positions.

Other specializations include special education and inclusive education.

By researching online early childhood education degree programs, you can find one that fits your interests, career goals, and budget.

What to Expect From an Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education

With so many online degree options, you must consider the variations between early childhood education programs. Some may require a practicum or field experience, while others may not.

In some states, an online early childhood education master’s degree may meet the qualifications for a teaching license. Because each program is different, you should closely research your top choices.

Most master’s programs in early childhood education provide core courses in assessing young children’s learning, play-based learning, and leadership in early childhood education.

You can expect to take the following courses:

  • Assessment in Early Childhood Education: Assessment classes focus on developmentally appropriate assessment strategies for working with young children.
  • Documenting Children’s Learning: This course helps you document children’s individual and group learning experiences. You’ll also reflect on children’s group learning skills.
  • Play in Early Childhood Education: Play is important in early childhood learning. This course examines stages of play, theories behind play-based learning, and research on play.

Certifications and Licenses You Can Get With a Master’s in Early Childhood Education

By earning a master’s in early childhood education, you can meet the qualifications for many optional credentials below. Certifications generally require meeting certain educational requirements and passing an exam, though criteria differs by state.

Child Development Associate Credential

The Council for Professional Recognition provides this credential for candidates who meet all professional requirements, including experience working with children from birth to age 5.

You must have a minimum of a bachelor’s in early childhood education.

Certified Childcare Professional

The National Early Childhood Program Accreditation offers certification as a childcare professional for candidates with childcare experience at a licensed childcare provider.

While the credential does not require a master’s degree, graduates with a master’s in early childhood education can meet the qualifications. Several states use this certification for director-level positions.

Popular Careers for a Master’s in Early Childhood Education

With an early childhood education degree, you can pursue several career paths, working with children from birth to age 8.

You can stay in the classroom as a preschool teacher, childcare worker, or early childhood special education teacher. Or, you can move into administration.

In certain states, preschool directors must meet educational requirements, such as earning an advanced degree.

Here are three popular jobs you can pursue with a master’s in early childhood education. All salary and job growth data below comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Preschool Teachers

Preschool teachers care for children before they enter kindergarten, teaching language, motor, and social skills. These professionals can work at both public and private schools.

Although entry-level positions only require an associate degree, a master’s degree can qualify you for leadership positions.

Median Annual Salary (May 2024)
$37,120

Projected Job Growth Rate
4% increase from 2024-2034

Preschool and Childcare Center Directors

Preschool directors and childcare center directors supervise staff, design programs, and oversee daily activities. While a bachelor’s degree meets the entry-level requirements for this role, some states require additional education.

Median Annual Salary (May 2024)
$56,270

Projected Job Growth Rate
-3% decrease from 2024-2034

Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, physical, and/or emotional disabilities. Some of these teachers focus on early childhood special education, working with children from birth to age 8.

Median Annual Salary (May 2024)
$64,270

Projected Job Growth Rate
-1% decrease from 2024-2034

Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s in Early Childhood Education Programs

What are the highest-paying jobs with a master’s in early childhood education?

Early childhood education specialists and kindergarten and elementary school teachers rank as some of the highest-paying positions in early childhood education.

According to the BLS, kindergarten and elementary school teachers make a median annual salary of $62,310 as of May 2024. Preschool, elementary school, middle school, secondary school, and special education teachers earn a median annual salary of $61,960.

Special education teachers also earn some of the top wages, with a median pay of $64,270.

Do you need a bachelor’s degree in education to get a master’s in early childhood education?

You typically need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college to get admitted into an early childhood master’s program.

That said, admission requirements can vary widely by school. You may need a bachelor’s degree in education, for example. Additionally, some colleges may require that you also hold a valid teaching certificate or be in the process of seeking teaching licensure.

If colleges do not require a teaching certificate, they may ask that you have relevant work or volunteer experience.

How much is a master’s in early childhood education?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate students at public institutions paid an average of $12,394 in tuition and fees in 2020-2021. Graduate students at nonprofit colleges paid a much higher average tuition of $28,445.

Many variables determine your total cost of college. For instance, some online programs may be cheaper because they offer in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of where they live.

All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the TBS Rankings Team.