Early Childhood Education Florida Florida is home to one of the larger education systems in the United States, supporting nearly 2.8 million students, over 4,200 schools and over 163,000 teachers. As a national cornerstone in the spheres of public and private education, one that has emerged as a leader in the South, the Sunshine State has become a popular destination for teachers who want to be on the frontlines of educational innovation, and especially those who want to teach second-language learners, who comprise a rising percentage of the state’s K-12 student population.

With no less than 14schools offering at least one online degree in early childhood education across the state, Florida houses some of the greatest online learning opportunities for early childhood education in the United States. And due to the ever-increasing size of the education infrastructure in almost every state, earning a degree from a top-tier Florida university goes a long way toward establishing one’s credentials as a leader in the industry, and specifically the foundational field of early childhood education.

Requirements for Teaching Licensure
in Florida

The Florida Department of Education issues teaching licenses for early childhood education contingent upon successful completion of the following four-step process.

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Alternative routes can be found here.

Online Education Program Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for online degree programs depend on the degree sought. Students applying for an online bachelor’s degree in early childhood education must have at least a high school diploma, GED, or 60 transferable credit hours from an accredited community college, preferably with an emphasis in education, in order qualify for admission to an undergraduate program. Students applying for an online master’s degree in early childhood education must have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably with a major in education or a related field in order to qualify for admission. Florida’s doctoral programs generally have the same requirements for admission as those for master’s degrees, albeit with the added requirement of a master’s degree to qualify. Most graduate programs in early childhood education require the GRE, although some may not.

Average Salaries
For Common Educator Roles in Florida

  • Preschool Teacher: $30,009
  • Elementary School Teacher: $59,240
  • Middle School Teacher: $58,700
  • Professor of Education: $74,730
  • School Principal: $90,390
  • Special Education Teacher: $59,380
  • High School Teacher: $63,470
  • School Psychologist: $74,290

Scholarships for Future Educators in the State of Florida

T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Scholarship Program

A scholarship worth 90% of tuition and books for Florida residents enrolled in degree programs at qualifying colleges and universities in Florida. Includes travel stipend and paid release.

PDK Jim Frazier Memorial Scholarship

A private scholarship for students who are graduating high school seniors and plan to become teachers.

Minority Teacher Education Scholarship

Provides a scholarship worth $4,000 per year to Florida residents and ethnic minorities who are enrolled in teacher education programs at colleges and universities that participate in the Florida Fund for Minority Teachers.

The 5 Best Online Education Degree
Providers in Florida

Florida has a total of 14 education degree-granting institutions that provide online education degrees. These range from community colleges offering associates in early childhood development or human services, to nationally ranked universities that offer a wide spread of masters level and education endorsement-level programming. While future students may want to go to the “best” online institution in their state for education degrees, they should take some to double check what exact degrees are offered by their institution of choice at the directory of all online education degrees at the bottom of the page. To select the following top five universities, we’ve looked at two factors: the number of fully online education degrees offered by an institution, and an “academic prestige” score. The academic prestige score takes into account metrics such as average amount of financial need received, average class sizes, admissions standards, and the percentage of faculty holding terminal degrees in their field. Also note that the tuition numbers below are just indicators of relatively how expensive or affordable a college is. The tuition numbers below, specifically, are the in-state (where applicable) undergraduate yearlong tuition rates for education degrees. Many universities, however, have similar tuition rates at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

1
University of Florida
In-state Tuition: $11,740
Online Ed Degrees:18

The University of Florida started back in 1853 and is in Gainesville, Florida. It’s a big school with a wide reach, covering a lot of different areas of study. The University of Florida is well-known and consistently ranks among the Top 20 public universities in the country. They keep up with the times by offering online programs in various subjects, including education. Over 55,000 students attend the University of Florida, making it one of the top schools in the state. Over a quarter of these students are working on their graduate or professional degree, adding a lot of energy to the campus community.

Discover excellence in education with the University of Florida’s 18 online degree programs! These programs stand out for offering top-notch degrees in education to students across the United States. UF offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees to online students.  Beyond the traditional master’s programs in education, UF offers innovative degrees for students interested in areas like:

  • Program evaluation in educational environments
  • Education technology
  • Student personnel in higher education

If you’re eyeing a rewarding career in Florida’s high-demand special needs schools, the Bachelor of Health Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a pathway to consider. And for those aiming high, the education program offers five doctoral programs that not only broaden job opportunities but also elevate the earning potential for early childhood educators aspiring to lead their profession. Get ready to embark on a journey of educational excellence at the University of Florida!

2
University of South Florida
In-state Tuition: $11,004
Online Ed Degrees:14

Step into educational excellence with the University of South Florida (USF).  USF is a public research university founded in 1956 and based in Tampa, Florida. Spread across three locations in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee, USF’s fourteen colleges are renowned for producing top-tier graduates in public health, education, and information studies in the Southeast. Particularly, its education program shines as a leader, consistently ranking among the top 100 schools in the United States.

USF offers some of the best graduate programs in education in Florida. They offer 14 online graduate degrees covering areas like:

  • Autism spectrum disorder and severe intellectual disabilities
  • Career and technical education
  • Learning design and technology

But the options don’t stop there. USF’s M.A. programs in Reading and Physical Education provide unique opportunities for individuals interested in teaching language arts or physical education. What sets these programs apart is their flexibility, allowing students to teach or work either full- or part-time from the comfort of their homes. With these options, the University of South Florida is the perfect fit for busy Floridians looking to enhance their educational resumes and take the lead in their professions.

3
Florida State University
In-state Tuition: $14,003
Online Ed Degrees: 16

Established in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in the state.  FSU is located in Tallahassee and serves almost 45,000 students.  Not only is FSU considered one of the top value schools in the country according to US News and World Report, they are also one of the best colleges for veterans!

Florida State University offers 16 online graduate degrees in education.  The online Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction has 11 concentration areas.  These include:

  • Early childhood education
  • Early childhood special education
  • Autism spectrum disorders

FSU also offers two EdD programs in areas like Educational Leadership and Policy and Instructional Systems/Learning Technologies.  Tuition rates for FSU are also below the national average!  With these extensive program options and affordable tuition rates, it’s no wonder that FSU is one of our top choices for an online degree in education!

4
University of Central Florida
In-state Tuition: $13,108
Online Ed Degrees: 13

Get ready to dive into the exciting world of education at the University of Central Florida (UCF)!  Established in 1963 and located in Orlando, UCF holds the title of the largest public research university in Florida based on enrollment, boasting a student body of over 68,000.  Known for its stellar aerospace and engineering schools, UCF also takes the lead with top ranking degree programs in education.  The College of Education and Human Performance at UCF secures a spot among the Top 100 Best Colleges of Education in the United States.  A growing number of UCF students are opting for online classes and degrees.

When it comes to online education, UCF shines with 13 degrees in education.  They offer some of the best graduate programs in education in Florida. Degree programs include:

  • Master of Arts in Career and Workforce Education
  • Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education
  • Master of Arts in Educational Leadership

Interested in working with technology in education? UCF’s Master of Arts in Applied Learning and Instruction and the Master of Arts in Instructional Design and Technology present unique opportunities for those interested in teaching teachers and students how to use technology to reach their educational goals. The best part? These programs offer flexibility, allowing students to teach or work full- or part-time. If you want to enhance your educational resume and take charge of your profession, UCF is the perfect fit.

5
Florida Atlantic University
In-state Tuition: $9,711
Online Ed Degrees: 6

Considering a degree in education? Look no further than Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Established in 1879, FAU is a public research university situated in Boca Raton, Florida. With an enrollment of nearly 30,000 students, the majority study at one of its six campuses in the southern half of the state. About 6% opt for online learning through distance education and lifelong learning initiatives, including the Lifelong Learning Society, which has expanded access to course materials for over 19,000 adult learners, working professionals, and senior citizens.

If you’re interested in a career in education, FAU’s got you covered with six online master’s degrees. Among them is the Master of Education in Educational Leadership and the Master of Education in Instructional Technology. FAU goes the extra mile with specialized options like the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction focused on multicultural education. These programs are perfect for experienced educators who want to advance their career.  These degrees offer excellent value for online students who want a quality education that aligns with their goals.

Directory of Online Education Degree
Providers in Florida

University of FloridaGainesville, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 18
University of FloridaTUITION$11,740


UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Bachelor of Arts in Education Sciences
  • Bachelor of Health Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders

GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Arts in Music Education
  • Master of Arts in Art Education
  • Master of Arts in Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Computer Science Education
  • Master of Education in Educational Leadership
  • Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Teacher Leadership for School Improvement
  • Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Education Technology
  • Master of Arts in Education – Program Evaluation in Educational Environments
  • Master of Education in Reading Education
  • Master of Arts in Education – Reading Education
  • Master of Education Special Education – Teach Well
  • Master of Education in Student Personnel in Higher Education
  • Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
  • Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Educational Technology
  • Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration
  • Doctor of Education in Computer Science Education
  • Doctor of Education – Teachers, Schools, and Society
University of South FloridaTampa, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 14
University of South Florida Main CampusTUITION$11,004


GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Severe Intellectual Disabilities
  • Master of Arts in Career & Technical Education
  • Master of Arts in Physical Education
  • Master of Arts in Reading Education
  • Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education
  • Master of Arts in Special Education
  • Master of Arts in Teaching – Elementary Education
  • Master of Arts in Teaching – Exceptional Student Education
  • Master of Science in Learning Design and Technology
  • Master of Education in Instructional Technology
  • Master of Education in Educational Leadership
  • Master of Education in Secondary Education w/ Emphasis in TESOL
  • Education Specialist in Instructional Technology
  • PhD in Career & Workforce Education
Seminole State College of FloridaSanford, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 3
Seminole State College of FloridaTUITION$3,144


UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Associate in Science – Early Childhood Education
  • Associate in Arts – Educational Sciences Pathway
  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Florida State UniversityTallahassee, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 16
Florida State UniversityTUITION$14,003


GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Early Childhood Education
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Early Childhood Special Education
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – English Education
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Foreign and Second Language Education
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Mathematics Education
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Science Education
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Social Science Education
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction -TESOL
  • Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction – Visual Disabilities Studies
  • Master of Science in Educational Psychology
  • Master of Science in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies
  • Education Specialist – Educational Leadership and Policy
  • Doctor of Education – Educational Leadership and Policy
  • Doctor of Education – Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies
University of Central FloridaOrlando, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 13
University of Central FloridaTUITION$13,108


GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
  • Master of Arts in Instructional Design & Technology
  • Master of Arts in Applied Learning and Instruction
  • Master of Arts in Career and Workforce Education
  • Master of Education in Elementary Education
  • Master of Education in Reading Education
  • Master of Education in Secondary Education – English Language Arts
  • Master of Education in Secondary Education – Mathematics Education
  • Master of Education in Secondary Education – Science Education
  • Master of Education in Exceptional Student Education
  • Master of Arts in Teaching – English Language Arts Education
  • Master of Arts in Teaching – Art Education
  • Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Florida Atlantic UniversityBoca Raton, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 6
Florida Atlantic UniversityTUITION$9,711


GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Education in Instructional Technology
  • Master of Education in Special Education
  • Master of Education in Educational Psychology
  • Master of Education in Educational Leadership
  • Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Multicultural Education
  • Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – TESOL
Saint Leo UniversitySaint Leo, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 8
Saint Leo UniversityTUITION$20,390
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies – Early Childhood Development
  • Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies – Education and Children
  • Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies – Education and Adolescents
  • Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
GRADUATE DEGREES
  • Master’s in Education – Educational Leadership
  • Master of Science in Instructional Design
  • Master of Education in Instructional Leadership
  • Doctor of Education in School Leadership
Florida Gulf Coast UniversityFort Myers, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 8
Florida Gulf Coast UniversityTUITION$10,834


GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Arts in Instructional Design & Education Technology
  • Master of Arts in Educational Leadership – Higher Education Concentration
  • Master of Arts in Educational Leadership – P-12 Education Concentration
  • Master of Arts in School Counseling
  • Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction – Elementary Education Concentration
  • Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction – Reading Education Concentration
  • Master of Education in Educational Leadership
  • Master of Education in Special Education
University of North FloridaJacksonville, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 2
University of North FloridaTUITION$11,338


GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Early Childhood Educational Leadership
  • Master of Science in EdTech – Training and Development
Lynn UniversityBoca Raton, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 5
Lynn UniversityTUITION$38,728
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education
  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Grades K-6)
GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Education in Exceptional Student Education
  • Master of Education in School Administration K-12
  • Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Florida International UniversityMiami, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 6
Florida International UniversityTUITION$9,881


UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education – Early Childhood Development
  • Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Student Education – Special Education, Educational Foundations, and Policy

GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Science in Educational Leadership
  • Master of Science in Higher Education Administration
  • Master of Science in Music Education
  • Master of Science in Special Education – Autism Endorsement Specialization
Florida Southern CollegeLakeland, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 4
Florida Southern CollegeTUITION$27,324
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
GRADUATE DEGREES

  • Master of Arts in Transformational Curriculum and Instruction
  • Master of Education in Transformational Curriculum and Instruction
  • Master of Education in Educational Leadership
Indian River State CollegeFort Pierce, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 3
Indian River State CollegeTUITION$5,019


UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Bachelor of Science in Education – Exceptional Student Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements
  • Bachelor of Science in Education – Elementary Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements
  • Bachelor of Science in Education – Middle Grades Mathematics Education
Tallahassee Community CollegeTallahassee, FLOnline Ed Degrees: 1
Tallahassee Community CollegeTUITION$3,138


UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

  • Associate in Science in Early Childhood Development, Education and Management