EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAMS

early childhood education degree online

A degree in early childhood education can be gained at a certificate, associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level. Though a preschool/kindergarten certification still exists in some areas, the majority of programs are specific to preschool only. Many people prefer to go the certification route. Numerous colleges offer a certificate in early childhood education. Although the certification programs do not result in a degree, the credits can later be used towards a degree if future education is desired. In addition, a specialized field known as preschool special education is available.

Search Education ProgramsSearch through thousands of schools that offer the educational program you are looking for, simply select the program from the drop down below Some students prefer earning an early childhood education degree online rather than on-campus. Online courses are generally more accommodating and give students the ability to set their own learning schedule. This is very helpful for busy students who have jobs or families. The below information can prove to be helpful in your search for the right degree program:

Flexible Schedule

Since online students are not required to physically attend class on a college campus, they are able to maintain a desired amount of flexibility in their schedules. Online students have the opportunity to complete coursework whenever and wherever. This is essential for working students, since they will not be required to restructure their work schedules.

Accessibility and Convenience

Online schooling allows students to partake in a degree program, regardless of their geographic location and proximity to school. This increases the amount of opportunities available to a prospective students. Since students do not need to choose a program based on campus location, they have more degree plans to choose from.

Tuition and Costs

When considering higher education, cost is a big factor. Online degree programs seem to appeal to many students as overall costs can be less when compared to a traditional brick and mortar school. Consider the following:

• No costs associated with room and board, commuting, on-campus meals, relocating, and parking passes.
• Online students will not need to quit their job or dramatically decrease the amount of hours they work. This allows students to maintain a source of income.
• With online degree programs, students are able to continue making money without having school impede on their work schedule.
• FAFSA can still be of assistance when attending an online college or university.

Fast Completion

Many online early childhood education degree programs are self-paced. With that said, students find it possible to complete requirements faster than they would at a traditional college. Most brick and mortar colleges and universities offer classes in the fall and spring with limited classes in the summer. On the other hand, online schools usually allow students to complete classes all throughout the year. If a condensed time-frame is something that interests you, be on the lookout for accelerated online degree programs.

Accreditation and Reputation

Before choosing an online degree program, it is imperative to know that the school you wish to enroll in is accredited and reputable. Accreditation is a process of authentication of which a college or university is evaluated. After a school or program has successfully been evaluated by a board representing the field, they can be deemed accredited. Accreditation status can usually be seen on school or college websites. You can learn more about accreditation here.

Program Curriculum

The curriculum of a strong online degree program should be similar to that of a traditional college or university. Good programs should be able to provide an organized curriculum. You may anticipate to expect the following:

• Deadlines and accountability markers to help students stay up to date and on top of their work. You may find an organized sequence of assignments, presentations, tests, quizzes, forum participation requirements, and reading reflections.
• Depending on the degree level, there should be a cumulative exam, thesis, dissertation, portfolio, or final project.

SOURCES: https://www.teacher.org/degree/early-childhood-education/