Early Childhood Educators are unique. They have learned how to tap into their inner child, are great listeners, storytellers, creative, structured, and in tune with contemporary issues. We understand the developing mind better than we ever have. We understand that children need to come to safe, structured, and enriching learning environments in order to learn continually develop and grow. Today we better understand young learner physical and nutritional demands- so always look to see a course or component of a program that includes these fundamentals. We understand that the parents are ultimately the number one teachers of children and as it takes a village to raise a single baby, the community also must be on board. The best programs in early childhood education understand this and include a component involving family and community as well. In these online associate’s degrees in early childhood education, you will learn about how to teach, the developing child, how to engage with diverse learners, how to dance singe and paint in the classroom, and how to design beautiful and enriching worlds in which young children can truly flourish. We selected programs that offered quality curricula as well as affordable prices. To get to our net average metric, we calculated the cost of the program along with the average amount of student aid. We found that the programs serving you the best were not only providing quality academic programming, but also access through affordability to their quality programming. This is how we determined the 30 Best Online Associate’s Degrees in Early Childhood Education.
1. Montgomery County Community College
Montgomery County Community College (MCCC) is a public 2-year institution located in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. There are 10,392 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredits MCCC to award associate’s degrees as well as professional certifications. The university provides the full gamut of student support services including remedial help, academic counseling, career counseling, and even credit for life experiences. Their academic offerings both prepare students for life in a 4-year university and provides students with certifications that lead to employable skills. Their most robust programs are in business and health, but MCCC also offers a number of degrees in the fields of education, homeland security, visual arts, engineering, and computer science. There are currently 14 fully online degrees and certificates available.
Montgomery County Community College (Montco) offers an online associate’s degree in early childhood education for the early years: birth through fourth grade. We selected this program for the high quality of academic offerings as well as for the affordable tuition rate. This program has been accredited by the NAEYC and provides course material that is highly relevant and current to the field of early childhood education and development. The associate’s degree is divided into four main components: general education requirements, major courses, electives, and student teaching. For the major, you will take classes that include working with children with special needs, early childhood curriculum, literature in early childhood education, child psychology, and connecting to families schools and communities. The program requires 61 credit hours for completion.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $6,818
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 7:1
2. Eastern Wyoming College
Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) is a public 2-year institution located in Torrington, Wyoming. There are 1,560 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredits EWC to award associate’s degrees and professional certifications. To support student success, EWC offers remedial help as well as academic and career counseling. EWC offers liberal arts programming as well as vocational programming. Students may study machine shop technology, art, pre-veterinary studies, education, aquaculture and so much more. Currently, there are 7 online degrees available including their online associate’s in criminal justice, and online associates in elementary education.
Eastern Wyoming College offers an online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education. We selected this online degree for the affordable tuition rate, and high quality of academic programming. The average cost for this program is just $5,917- one of the lowest we surveyed. The program is also flexible- offered at your own pace, a great fit for working professionals and parents. As part of the curriculum you will learn how to develop engaging curricula for preschool aged- elementary-aged students, promote language learning, reading and learn the latest on child development. If you need a flexible and affordable online associate’s in early childhood education, the program at EWC is a great fit.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $5,917
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
3. Surry Community College
Surry Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Dobson, North Carolina. There are 3,236 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Surry to award associate’s degrees as well as professional certifications. The university offers a wide-range of student support services including remedial help, academic counseling, career counseling, employment services for students, and placement services for graduates. Dual credits and AP credits are accepted.This Community College offers a number of programs that are career-ready as well as set individuals up for success in 4-year programs. The most robust programs are in computer information sciences, engineering, and health. Though students may also study agriculture, business, education, construction, liberal arts, and culinary arts among others. Currently, Surry offers 16 online degrees and professional certifications.
Surry offers an Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education. We selected this online degree for the high quality of academic programming. The degree divides into three main component parts: general education courses, major courses, and a capstone experience. Your major courses include an introductory course in early childhood education, sociology, child development, family and community, Art or music appreciation, and much more. There are a number of elective options woven into the program to help you further tailor your degree to match your interests. This online associate’s degree requires 67 credit hours for completion.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $8,721
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
4. Dawson Community College
Dawson Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Glendive, Montana. There are 329 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accredits DCC to award associate’s degrees as well as professional certifications. To support student success, DCC offers remedial help, academic and career counseling, distance learning opportunities, and even credit for life experiences. This small institution offers a handful of degrees in the fields of agriculture, early childhood education, homeland security, liberal arts, business, welding and music technology. There are four online degrees.
Dawson Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. We selected Dawson for its outstanding curriculum, and affordable price.
Like most of our selections, this program does require a theoretical as well as a practical component. To fulfill the practicum,students are required to complete a minimum of 300 supervised working hours. During the course you will learn how to create engaging and meaningful curricula for early learners, design and positive and fun learning environment, engage special needs children, assess learners, set appropriate goals, and work effectively with other staff, family, and members of the community. This is a comprehensive associate’s degree in early childhood education.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $10,364
- Student to Faculty Ratio:13:1
5. Haywood Community College
Haywood Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Clyde, North Carolina. There are 1,344 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 10:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Haywood Community College to award associate’s degrees as well as professional certifications. To help students succeed, Haywood offers a wide array of support services including remedial help, academic counseling, on-campus daycare, and distance education opportunities. Their academic offerings are wide ranging and including degrees and certifications in early childhood education, horticulture, fiber, textile and weaving, welding, cosmetology, and criminal justice. Their most popular programs are in the fields of early childhood education, criminal justice, and accounting. There are 8 online degrees.
Haywood offers a number of online associate degrees including their Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education. We selected this online degree for the affordable tuition rate and the quality of programming and flexibility. The average price for this program is just $7,866. Student may also elect to pursue their online Early Childhood Education Associate’s degree with an emphasis in Administration. Regardless of choice, both program lead to a greater opportunity in this high needs field.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $7,866
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
6. Northeast Community College
Northeast Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Norfolk, Nebraska. There are 5,086 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredits to institution to offers associate’s degrees as well as professional certifications. NCC offers the full gamut of student support services like distance education opportunities, remedial help,counseling for academics and careers, employment opportunities, placement for graduates and even credit for life experiences. When it comes to academics NCC offers one of the largest academic offerings of all the schools we have surveyed. In fact, students may student everything from agriculture to visual arts. There are nearly 20 online degrees available including their online associate in accounting, and online associate in elementary education.
Northeast offers an online associate’s degree in early childhood education. Students may select from either an associate’s of applied sciences or an associate’s of arts degree. We selected this program for the affordable tuition rate and quality of academic programming. The program is divided into two main component parts: general education, and core courses. The core courses include programming in early language and literacy, infant and toddler development, children with exceptionalities, health safety and nutrition, pediatric basics, curriculum planning, and more. This program does include a practicum experience. If you are looking for a thorough course in early childhood education, this is a great option.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $8,696
- Student to Faculty Ratio:17:1
7. James Sprunt Community College
James Sprunt Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Kenansville, North Carolina. There are 1,219 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 10:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits James Sprunt to award associate’s degrees and professional certifications. The institution offers the full gamut of student support services including remedial help, academic and career counseling, employment for student, and credit for life experiences. When it comes to academics, James Sprunt provides a number of vocational degree options such as their associate’s degree in viticulture and enology, livestock management, early childhood education, information technology, and criminal justice among others. There are 2 online degrees and professional certificates available- both are in early childhood education.
James Sprunt offers an Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Teaching. We selected this program for the high quality of the academic offerings as well as the affordable tuition rates. In addition to general education courses, students will study core course material that includes an introduction to early childhood education, literacy, child development, and more. The average price for tuition is approximately $7,000 dollars.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $7,086
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 7:1
8. Blue Ridge Community College
Blue Ridge Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Flat Rock, North Carolina. There are 2,122 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 7:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Blue Ridge to award associate’s degrees and professional certifications. The college offers a number of services that lend support to their students like remedial help and academic and career counseling. The college offers vocational programming as well as high-technical and traditional degrees. Their most robust programs are in engineering, business, mechanics, and computer and information sciences. There are currently 12 online degrees and professional certifications available.
Blue Ridge offers an online Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. Students may pursue either the career entry pathway or the transfer program pathway that leads to transfer into a 4-year program and the early childhood licensure or non-licensure programs. All students will study child development, creative activities, active play, children with exceptionalities, infants and toddlers, language and literacy and more. We selected this program for the comprehensive and outstanding curriculum as well as for the affordable tuition rate. The average cost for this course is $7,805. Blue Ridge Community College’s Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education is nationally accredited by the NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $7,805
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1
9. Laramie County Community College
Laramie County Community College is a public 2-year college located in Laramie, Wyoming. There are 4,399 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredits LCCC to award associate’s degrees as well as professional certifications. The university offers free counseling, academic assistance, physical fitness facilities, and placement for graduates. Programs are transferable to over 20 schools including the University of Wyoming. There are hundreds of degrees offered including vocational programs, programming in the liberal arts, performing arts, education and more. There are currently 15 online degrees and professional certifications available.
Laramie County Community College offers an online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education. We selected this program for the highly affordable tuition rate which is $6,100 and for the quality of the academic programming. The program requires 60 credit hours for completion and will take two years to complete. The program is divided into three main parts: general education programs, major programs, and a practicum experience. For your major your will study: An Introduction to Special Education, STEM Courses, Early Childhood Administration, and Child Development. For anyone looking to enter into the field of early childhood education, this is the program for you.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $6,100
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
10. Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) is a private Christian university located in Waxahachie, Texas. There are 2,064 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission accredits SAGU to award both undergraduate and graduate degrees. According to U.S. News SAGU ranks as the 96th best university in the region and among the top 300 for best online graduate education programs. Their student support services include employment for students and academic and career counseling. There are over 30 online degrees and professional certifications available.
SAGU offers an Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education. We selected this program for the high quality of academic offerings. The curriculum is up-to-date and offers courses in curriculum design, child development, instruction, assessment of children, teaching to diverse learners and so much more. Though not our most affordable pick, the high calibur of programming certainly adds value to this online degree.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $24,463
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
11. Liberty University
Liberty University is a private evangelical Christian University located in Lynchburg, Virginia. There are 75,044 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 18:1 The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Liberty University to award comprehensive degree programs and professional certifications. According to U.S. News Liberty University ranks among the top 300 schools in the nation. 184th for best online bachelor’s programs, and 190th for best online graduate education programs. To support their students Liberty offers remedial help, academic counseling, career counseling, and even credit for life experiences. The reason for the massive enrollment numbers is likely the huge number of online programs available. Liberty currently offers well over 100 online degrees and professional certifications.
Among their many online options includes Liberty’s online Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. We like this program for the high value. Military students do receive a deep discount. In general, Liberty provides online programs that are tailored to suit the needs of non traditional learners and really ultimately prepare their students for their first career or career advancement. This program is offered 8 times throughout the year, and courses are eight-weeks in length. The program requires 60 credit hours for completion and is divided into two main components: general education requirements and core course material. Whether you’re looking to continue on and finish a bachelor’s or initiate your career in early childhood education, this is a great option.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $26,954
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
12. Muskegon Community College
Muskegon Community College is a public 2-year university located in Muskegon, Michigan. There are 4,311 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 19:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredits Muskegon CC to award associate’s degrees and professional certifications. To ensure student success, MCC offers remedial help, academic counsel as well as career counseling and credit for life experiences. This community college has a high percentage of students who transfer into 4-year institutions and offers a number of the programs that you would expect to find at a 4-year university with a few vocational programs such as their certification in welding and degree in corrections. Among their academic programs MCC offers associate’s degrees in the fields of engineering, health, computer programming, business, and education. There are over 175 online courses offered through Muskegon CC.
Muskegon CC offers an online Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education. The focus is on children from birth to age eight. The program itself is a combination of instruction and field work. You will learn how to develop an anti-bias curriculum that is developmentally appropriate for young children and is a good fit for individuals who are looking to transfer to a bachelor’s program. We selected this online associate’s because it is both academically excellent and affordable.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $4,395
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
13. Clarion University of Pennsylvania
Clarion University of Pennsylvania is a public 4-year university located in Clarion, Pennsylvania. There are 5,225 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 18:1. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredits Clarion to award comprehensive degrees and professional certifications. According to U.S. News Clarion University of Pennsylvania ranks as the 137th best university in the region, 46th top public school, 66th best school for online bachelor’s programs, and 125th best school for online graduate education programs. The university offers the full gamut of student support services: remedial help, academic counseling, career counseling, and credit for life experiences. The academic focus appears to primarily center around high demand careers with degree offerings largely in the fields of education, health, and business though there are an array of degrees in the liberal arts, engineering, and physical sciences as well as the performing Arts. Currently Clarion offers 21 online degrees and professional certifications.
Clarion University offers an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education. We selected this online degree for the high quality of academics and high value. The program divides nicely between general education requirements and your major. The major focuses on current issues in childhood development and education and includes courses like: child development and learning, creative activities in ECH, observation and assessment, building family and community partnerships, early childhood and literacy, exceptionalities, and leadership in early childhood settings.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price:$18,409
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
14. College of the Ouachitas
College of the Ouachitas (COTO) is a public associate’s college located in Malvern, Arkansas. There are just 1,272 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredits COTO to award associate’s degrees and professional certifications. The student support services include remedial help, academic and career counseling, and even credit for life experiences. When it comes to their academic offerings Carnegie classifies the school as highly vocational/ and nontraditional. It’s apparent that COTO focuses on the needs of nontraditional learners providing high quality associate’s degrees offering degrees in fields like business, health, homeland security, mechanic repair, education, and computer information sciences. There are over 15 online programs offered.
COTO offers an online Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. Unlike Associate of Arts degrees that focus primarily on preparing a student for four-year programming, an AAS degree prepares students for employment. Many AAS degrees transfer but not all universities accept these programs. We highly recommend checking ahead. That being said, this program is an excellent fit for any individual who is looking to get to work in the field of ECE. The courses include: foundations, Art and Music for Preschool, Child Development, Health Safety and Nutrition, Parenting, Special Education in Preschool and more. This program does require a practicum.
- Average Net Price: $7,205
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
15. NHTI- Concord’s Community College
NHTI – Concord’s Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Concord, New Hampshire. There are 3,668 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1. The New England Association of Schools and Colleges accredits NHTI to award associate’s degrees and professional certificates. To support their students, NHTI offers the full gamut including remedial help, academic counseling, career counseling, and credit for life experiences. This is a great college for individuals looking to take two years and then transfer into a 4-year university as NHTI offers associate’s degrees that work for many universities. You will find programming in architecture, CIS, special education, nursing, liberal arts, sports and fitness, and much more. NHTI currently offers 10 online degrees and certificates.
NHTI offers an Associate of Science with a major in Early Childhood Education. We selected this course for its excellent academic quality as well as for the affordable tuition rate. The program is divided into three main component parts: general education, major classes, and practicum. Among the many exciting courses you will study: Using Children’s Literature to Support Young Children’s Language and Literacy, Growth and Development of the Young Child, Health and Nutrition for Children, Teaching Young Children With Exceptionalities, Child Family and Community and more. If you are looking to initiate your life in the academic setting, the online associate’s in early childhood education from NHTI is a great place to start.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $16,048
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
16. South Texas College
South Texas College is a 4-year institution located in McAllen, Texas. The college mostly offers associate’s degrees. Though, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits South Texas to award associate’s and bachelor’s degrees as well as professional certifications. There are 31,321 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 22:1. When it comes to academic programming, there are no shortage of options. STC offers dozens of degrees in a wide range of fields including programming in business administration, engineering, foreign language, physical therapy, secondary education, and more. The support student success, students may access remedial services, as well as academic and career counseling. Currently, STC offers 24 online degrees and professional certificates.
STC offers an Associate of Arts in Teaching where students may choose from a focus on elementary, middle, or high school education. This program requires 60 credit hours for completion and costs an average of $1,825. Yes, you read this correctly. This program is the most affordable of all the courses we surveyed. Like with most associate degree programs, you are required to complete both general education courses and courses that focus on your major. We like this program for any individual looking for a cheap route towards a new career in ECE.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $1,825
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1
17. Bay Mills Community College
Bay Mills Community College (BMCC) is a public college located in Brimley, Michigan. There are just 448 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredits BMCC to award associate’s degrees as well as professional certifications. BMCC is actually a tribal college and focuses on providing quality educational opportunities to ethnic minorities and specifically to maintain Anishinaabek culture and language. The academic focus naturally includes Native American studies and also programming in business management, construction trades, education, health, natural conservation, kinesiology and much more. There are 4 programs taught online.
One of the online offerings at BMCC is Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education (ECE). The program focuses on birth to age eight. We selected this online degree both for the affordable tuition rate and the high quality of academic programming. The program requires approximately 65 credit hours to complete and will take 2 years. Like with most associate’s degrees the program is divided into three main components: general education requirements, electives, and your major. As a tribal university, you have the unique option to choose between public speaking and the Ojibwe Language as part of your communication elective. The major courses include health, safety and nutrition for the early stages, family engagement, special education, curriculum and development and social and emotional needs of children. Students may elect to finish their bachelor’s program with BMCC.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $6,042
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
18. Lewis-Clark State College
Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) is a public 4-year institution located in Lewiston, Idaho. There are 3,746 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accredits Lewis-Clark State College to award associate’s and bachelor’s degrees as well as professional certifications. To aid in student success, LCSC offers a wide array of student support services that include remedial help, academic counseling, career counseling, and credit for life experiences. When it comes to academics the focus is on high demand fields like business, and education. The college also offers a nice range of programs that are both vocational and technical. There are 9 online programs available.
Among those 9 online programs is the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development. This online degree prepares you to work as an early childhood assistant teacher, parent educator, and more. The program requires 65 credit hours for completion and costs $11,482 per credit hour. Though one of our more expensive picks, this program makes up for cost with the high quality of the academic offering- preparing you for any entry-level job in the fields of early childhood education. We like the ratio of general education courses to major courses- where to majority of your time is spent focuses on relevant essentials like health safety and nutrition, infant toddler development, exceptional children, curriculum development and so much more. This is an excellent choice for anyone interested in initiating their career in ECE.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $11,482
- Student to Faculty Ratio:13:1
19. Central Texas College
Central Texas College is a public 2-year institution located in Killeen, Texas. There are 15,672 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Central Texas College to award associates degrees and professional certifications. The study body is primarily non-traditional and benefits from the myriad of support services including credit for their life experiences, military support, employment for students, on-campus daycare, and academic and career counseling. There are a huge range of programs available both vocational and technical such as early childhood education and teaching, business administration, engineering, substance abuse/ addiction counseling, general studies and more. The majority of their programs are also offered online.
Central Texas College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Child Development. We selected this online program for the affordable tuition rate which is approximately $5,203. The focus is similar to other programs in early childhood education and includes course work in administration, special education, families school, and community, creative arts for early childhood, and more.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $5,203
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
20. Pima Community College
Pima Community College is a public 2-year institution located in Tucson, Arizona. The total enrollment is over 50,000 students. There are a total of 8 campuses and centers all serving the Tucson metropolitan area. The university offers over 5,000 degrees and professional certificates in a wide range of fields. Most of the students are part-time non traditional students. The academic offerings are both transferable to 4-year programs and occupational. To support their students Pima provides tutoring, transfer assistance, services for individuals with disabilities, scholarships, and counseling. As you may have guessed from a school that enrolls over 50,000 students, there are a massive number of programs available in the Arts, in business, education, health, social sciences, engineering, and more. Students may study on-campus or online at their own pace. What sets this school apart is their incredibly flexible options that seem to really suite the needs of nontraditional working students.
One of the many online offerings is the Associate of Arts with a concentration in Early Childhood Education. This program does transfer to a four-year degree. We like this online associate’s degree for the affordable tuition rate and the flexible pace. Students are required to complete 60 credit hours of general education and programming in child guidance and child growth and development. This course gives you a lot of freedom to choose your electives. We think this program is best suited to individuals looking to transfer into a 4-year program.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $4,479
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1
21. Great Basin College
Great Basin College (GBCNV) is a public 4-year institution located in Elko, Nevada. There are 3,244 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities accredits Great Basin College to award associate’s and bachelor’s degrees as well as professional certifications. To aid in student success, GBCNV provides tutoring, academic, personal, and career counseling an even credit for life experiences. When it comes to academic offerings GBCNV offer a wide selection from agriculture to welding. The most robust offerings are in the field of engineering, education, and health. There are currently 46 online degrees available.
Among the main online degrees offered is their online Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. We selected this online degree for the high quality of programming and affordable tuition. The program is divided into two main components: general education classes an your major. The following classes are part of your major: human growth and development, positive interaction and guidance, observation and assessment, environment and curriculum, family and community relationships, and leadership and professional development. The programs requires 62 credit hours for completion.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $12,230
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
22. Minnesota State College Southeast
Minnesota State College Southeast (MSCS) is a public 2-year institution located in Winona, Minnesota. There are 1,920 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredits MSCS to award associate’s degrees as well as professional certifications. To support learning the college offers tutoring, academic counseling, career counseling, employment for their students, and even credit for life experiences. This is a high-vocational and technical high-traditional institution offering programming in business, child care, massage therapy, criminal justice, cosmetology, CAD and early childhood education There are currently 33 programs available online.
MSCS offers both an Associate of Applied Science and an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education. The AS is 60 credit hours long and includes technical requirements as well as liberal arts requirements. The technical component focuses on fundamentals of child development, health, safety, and nutrition for young children, infants and toddlers, inspiring play and active inquiry and much more. This online degree is a great fit for students looking to transfer into an online bachelor’s program. The AAS degree focuses primarily on the technical components of the program and less on the liberal arts courses. In general an AAS is better suited for students who have no plans to transfer into a bachelor’s program.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $11,960
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
23. Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute
Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) is a public 2-year institution located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. There are just 366 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. SIPI is a tribal college- with a focus on preserving Native American culture and language. Their student support services include tutoring and on-campus daycare. As you may have imagined, the academic programs are small, but what SIPI does offer are highly advanced technical as well as liberal arts and business degrees. You can study engineering, culinary arts, accounting, business administration, early childhood education and more. There are two programs offered online.
SIPI offers an online Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education. The program was selected for the affordable tuition rate and for the quality of its programming. All students will study five key areas to fulfill their general education requirements: humanities, social/behavioral science, laboratory science, math and math II. The majority of programming focuses on early childhood education requirements and culminates with a practicum for grades Pre-K to 3rd. This a versatile program recommended for students looking to pursue a career or a bachelor’s degree.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $6,978
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
24. Palo Alto College
Palo Alto College is a public two-year college located in San Antonio, Texas. There are 9,368 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 29:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits PAC to award associate’s degrees and professional certificates. The college offers the full gamut of student support services including tutoring, on-campus daycare, academic counseling, career counseling, credit for life experiences and much more. When it comes to academics, PAC offer a vast range of offerings- everything from anthropology to dance. There is a robust transportation program that offers fantastic programming in aviation and air traffic control. The college is definitely military friendly. PAC currently offers 20 online degrees and professional certifications.
PAC offers an Associate of Arts in Teaching with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. We selected this online degree for the high quality of academic and affordable tuition which is less than $7,000 on average. This is a 60 credit hour degree that will take two years to complete. In addition to your general education requirements, students are engaged in key core courses that will help you initiate your career in ECE including math and science of young learners, teaching to special populations, and more. This program is a great fit for individuals who are looking to transfer to a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $6,795
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 28:1
25. Fayetteville Technical Community College
Fayetteville Technical Community College (Fay Tech) is a public 2-year college located in Fayetteville, North Carolina. There are 11,660 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 19:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Fayetteville to award associate’s degrees and professional certifications. To support student success, Fay Tech offers the full gamut of services including: credit for life experience, tutoring, daycare, career counseling, and more. The Carnegie classification is that of a high transfer mixed traditional/ nontraditional school which is certainly reflected in their academic offerings. Student have the option to study health, engineering, business, horticulture, computer information sciences and many technical degrees. Currently, there are 28 online degrees and certifications offered.
Fay Tech offers an online associate’s degree in early childhood education. This program is part of their public services department. We like this course for the high quality of academic programming and affordable tuition rate. The program focuses on child development and growth, nutritional and physical needs of children, communication skills, and community and parent communication skills. The average cost for this program is just $7,413. You may choose to follow either a non-licensing transfer track or a licensed transfer track. This is a good fit for any individual who plans to transfer into a 4-year program.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $7,413
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
26. Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is the parent institute of technical community colleges located across the state of Indiana. This campus is located in Indianapolis. There are 75,486 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1. The Higher Learning Commission accredit Ivy Tech to award associate’s degrees and professional certifications. The college provides a ton of support for their students through tutoring, academic counseling, career counseling, and even credit for life experiences. Their academic offerings are massive and students may select programming in the fields of health, engineering, construction, education, business, computer information science, the performing Arts and so much more. Ivy Tech offers over 50 online degrees and certifications.
Ivy Tech offers an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education. We selected this online degree for the high quality of the academic offerings and the affordable tuition rate. The average cost for students is just $6,423. This online course focuses on children ages birth to eight. In addition to theoretical knowledge, students will gain experience hands-on in classrooms through observation and instruction. Ivy Tech provides options for students to either carry on an complete a 4-year program in early childhood education or pursue gainful employment through one of their certificate programs.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $6,423
- Student to Faculty Ratio:17:1
27. Florida Gateway College
Florida Gateway College (FGC) is a public 4-year institution located in Lake CIty, Florida. There are 3,292 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits FGC to award associate’s, and bachelor’s degrees as well as professional certifications. The college offers the following student support services: credit for life experience, tutoring, academic counseling, career counseling, and employment. The academic offerings are primarily vocational/ high need. You can study welding, business, CIS, education, homeland security, mechanical repair, culinary services and so much more. There are 9 online degrees and certificates available.
FGC offers an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education. We selected this online degree for the high quality of the academic offerings. The program is NAEYC accredited, and requires just 60 credit hours to complete. Among the exciting classes you will study child development, childhood nutrition, diversity for educators, infants and toddlers, learning through play and so much more. This is an excellent choice for enthusiastic individuals looking to initiate their studies in early childhood education. FGC even offers a bachelor’s program.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $4,942
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
28. Northampton County Area Community College
Northampton County Area Community College (Northampton) is a public 2-year university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. There are 9,921 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 19:1. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredits Northampton to award associate’s degrees and professional certificates. When it comes to student support services Northampton offers remedial services, academic counseling, career counseling, and credit for life experiences. Their academic offerings include programming in business, CIS, education, engineering, health, and the visual and performing Arts. There are a number of fantastic technical and vocational options as well. Currently, Northampton offers 18 online degrees and professional certifications.
Northampton offers an online Associate of Applied Science in Child Development. The program itself requires just 62 credit hours for completion and includes programming in early childhood development and learning, special education, child family and community, language and literacy, performing arts and more. The cost of this program is $8,136 on average. If you are looking to start your career in ECE, this may be the program for you.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $8,136
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
29. Tallahassee Community College
Tallahassee Community College is a public 4-year institution located in Tallahassee, Florida. There are 11,782 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 25:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits TCC to award associate’s and bachelor’s degrees as well as professional certifications. To support their students TCC offers remedial help, academic and career counseling, employment, military support, distance learning opportunities, and even credit for life experience. Their academic offerings focus on a few key areas of study typically in high need fields like health, engineering, CIS, business, and homeland security. There are 4 programs available online.
TCC offers an Associate of Science in Early Childhood. We selected this program for the high level of academic excellence and for the affordable tuition which is on average $4,092. The program requires 60 credit hours to complete and may be completed in 2 years at a full-time pace. Students have the option to transfer this degree and continue on into a bachelor’s program. Among the many exciting courses you will take: Education of the Young Child, Directed Observation, Educational Field Experience, Early Childhood Development, Home School and Community in Early Childhood Education.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $4,0i92
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 25:1
30. Georgia Military College
Georgia Military College is a public 4-years institution located in Milledgeville, Georgia. There are 8,595 students enrolled, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 22:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits GMC to award associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. The student support services include military support, tutoring, distance learning opportunities, and academic and career counseling. All but two of GMC’s programs are offered online their most popular programming is in the liberal arts, business, health, and education.
GMC offers an online Associate of Arts and an online Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education. We like this program for the affordable tuition rate. You will learn about the contemporary issues affecting early childhood education today and problem-solve both theoretically in the classroom and hands-on outside of the classroom. The focus is on teaching to diverse learning and teaching and learning skills. Upon completion of this program, you will be qualified to teach in grades PreK-5. The average cost for this program is $6,659.
- Homepage
- Average Net Price: $6,659
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1
