Compare accredited online ECE programs leading to teaching licensure, childcare director credentials, and administrative roles. Find NAEYC-recognized schools with FAFSA eligibility and flexible schedules for working educators.
Top Online Early Childhood Education Programs 2025
University
Degree Level
Annual Tuition
FAFSA
Licensure Track
Western Governors University
BS Education (Early Childhood)
$7,440/yr
✓ Yes
✓ Teaching License
Liberty University
BS / MEd
$11,700/yr
✓ Yes
✓ Teaching License
Southern New Hampshire Univ.
BS Education
$9,600/yr
✓ Yes
Non-Licensure available
Grand Canyon University
BS Early Childhood Education
$8,500/yr
✓ Yes
✓ Teaching License
Concordia University Chicago
BA / MA Early Childhood
$13,000/yr
✓ Yes
✓ Teaching License
Advertisement
Early Childhood Education Careers
👶
Preschool Teacher
Requires associate's or bachelor's degree. Median salary $39,520. Demand driven by Head Start program growth and childcare expansion.
Avg $39K
🏫
Kindergarten / Elementary Teacher
Bachelor's + teaching license required in most states. Median salary $61,350. Stable public school employment with pension benefits.
Avg $61K
📋
Childcare Center Director
Bachelor's preferred; some states require it. Median salary $63,000. Manages staff, curriculum, budgets, and regulatory compliance.
Avg $63K
📚
Curriculum Specialist
Master's preferred. Develops educational materials and training programs. Median salary $74,620. Growing demand in ed-tech and curriculum publishing.
Avg $74K
Advertisement
Early Childhood Education FAQ
Yes — many states accept online teacher preparation programs for initial licensure, provided the program is state-approved and nationally accredited (CAEP or NAEYC recognized). Western Governors University, Liberty University, and Grand Canyon University are known for state-approved online teacher prep programs. Always verify your state's requirements before enrolling.
The CDA (Child Development Associate) is a nationally recognized entry-level credential for childcare workers, earned through 120 hours of formal training and 480 hours of experience. A bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education provides deeper pedagogical training and is required for public school teaching licensure and program director roles.
Online ECE bachelor's degrees cost $7,440–$14,000 per year at accredited schools. Western Governors University's flat-rate competency-based model is one of the most affordable options. Federal FAFSA aid (Pell Grants, loans) is available at all regionally accredited programs.
Yes. The TEACH Grant provides up to $4,000/year for students pursuing careers in high-need teaching fields — including early childhood education — at Title I schools. Recipients must commit to 4 years of teaching in a high-need field or school. The grant converts to a loan if the service obligation is not fulfilled.