Online Associates in Early Childhood Education

An associates in early childhood education online degree prepares graduates for entry-level educator positions working with young children.

Early childhood educators use their specialized knowledge and skills to create learning environments for children aged newborn through eight years. The emphasis of these positions is on enhancing the children's social, cognitive, emotional and physical skills. Early childhood educators work with children in preschools, day cares and elementary schools.

Earning an Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Online

Enrolling in an associate degree in early childhood education online allows you to work at your own pace, while earning your degree conveniently. Online courses are broken down into clear lessons and instructions that are easy to follow and lead you from topic to topic. As with classroom-based learning, online coursework includes reading and research assignments, practice exercises and exams.

The online format means that you can advance your career without leaving your current lifestyle. Interactions with faculty and other classmates ensures that you are prepared for a rewarding career in early childhood education.

Colleges with Online Associates in Early Childhood Education Degrees

Post University

Online Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education Online Program

A.S. in Early Childhood Education

Santa Barbara Business College Online

Online Associates in Early Childhood Education Degree

AS - Early Childhood Education

Penn Foster

Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Online Program

Associates of Arts in Early Childhood Education

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Who Should Earn an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education?

If you are interested in nurturing young children and helping them develop the social, emotional and cognitive skills to succeed, then consider an associates degree program in early childhood education. Early childhood educators play an important role in development of children. In addition to implementing lessons that help children develop motor, social and language skills, they also teach children music, art, reading and other topics. Children develop at different speeds, so early childhood educators must understand the needs of children and adapt the lessons to help them best succeed.

Coursework for Associates in Early Childhood Education Program

The coursework for associates in early childhood education degree focuses on the many aspects of teaching young children, including child development and psychology, language and literacy development, health and nutrition, and planning lessons for children. Some programs enhance the degree by including an onsite practicum working with children at a site near you. In addition, US states have varying teacher licensing and education certification requirements for early childhood educators. Be sure to check with your state for specific details before enrolling in any associate's degree program. Also, a background check may be required before beginning to work at any facility with children.

Salary & Jobs with an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education

Graduates of an associate's degree program in early childhood education are prepared for entry-level positions at child care centers, Head Start early intervention programs, nursery schools and some kindergartens. They may also be qualified to work as para-educators in elementary schools, under the guidance of a certified classroom teacher. Graduates are also prepared to continue their education in a four-year bachelors in education degree program.

According to the BLS 2010 statistics, the job prospects for preschool teachers are excellent, with faster than average growth. The average salary for preschool teachers was $23,870 in May 2008. Childcare workers should see average job growth, with an average hourly wage of $9.12 in May 2008.