Online Universities with Early Childhood Education Programs: How to Choose

For those wishing to teach young children, many universities offer online bachelor's and master's degree programs. Some of these programs combine online study with hands-on training through student teaching internships. Because state teacher licensing boards often require this practical experience, students may have to choose an online university with campuses in their area.

How to Select an Online University

Award Levels

Bachelor's and master's degrees are available through online universities for those wishing to teach children aged preschool to three. Bachelor's degrees typically require field experience, such as student teaching, to complete degree requirements. These are known as hybrid programs as some coursework is done online, while other work is performed in-person. Master's degrees may or may not have student teaching requirements.

Flexibility

Whether hybrid or available only over the Internet, online programs are generally tailored to meet the student's schedule. Schools may provide mentors to help the student with arranging his or her schedule and choosing the site for completing student teaching requirements.
Classes may often be taken at a self-directed pace; although there are assignment deadlines, students may choose when and where to log-in to the program's website to complete assignments, access study materials and communicate with instructors and classmates.

Programs

Online programs in early childhood education can vary according to school, but most involve accessing coursework and study materials through an online portal. Here, students can access their individual classes, talk with their teachers and interact with their classmates.
Homework is often submitted through the class's website and many schools offer online access to student services and resources, such as bookstores, libraries and online research databanks.
Typically, students are required to have a computer and Internet access. Software can vary according to program, but most require some type of word processing program and presentation application. Other types of required technology may include webcams, microphones and instant messaging programs.

Licensing

All public school systems and some private schools require teachers to obtain state licensing. Licensing requirements include completion of a state-approved education program. Some school systems may require early childhood teachers to obtain specialized training, certification or additional education in their field of specialization.

List of Online Early Childhood Education Programs

Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education

Students can obtain an online bachelor's degree with an emphasis in early childhood education or early childhood education and leadership. In these programs, students apply what they have learned online to practical situations in student teaching. Seminars and coursework are usually viewed over the Internet, while hands-on training is acquired in a classroom.

Online Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education

Students in Bachelor of Arts Degree programs are often required to general liberal arts courses as well as courses related to teaching. Coursework focused on education can include teaching foundations, effective teaching practices and early childhood education methods. Often these are hybrid programs that require students demonstrate proficiency in the classroom before they can graduate

Online Master of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education Degree

Not all master's programs prepare the student for a license, some programs are designed to increase a licensed teacher's skills in the classroom.. Other programs prepare teachers for licensure with student teaching internships. Examples of classes include educational psychology, early childhood teaching methods and strategies for teaching math to young children.