online phd early childhood education

Where Can You Earn A Ph.D. In Early Childhood Education Online In 2024?

Updated: Mar 22, 2024, 1:47pm

A doctorate is the highest degree in early childhood education. Earning a Ph.D. in early childhood education can lead to opportunities as a college professor, an education researcher or a policymaker.

Are you an educator considering doctoral programs? A Ph.D. might be the right fit if you want to blend learning theory, research and evidence-based practices. Doctoral programs build on your current knowledge and skills to expand your expertise in early childhood learning.

Our list includes one university that offers an online Ph.D. in early childhood education (ECE) and meets our ranking criteria. Keep reading to learn more about earning your doctorate in early childhood education.

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National University

From its main campus in San Diego, California, National University offers several online doctoral programs in education, including a Ph.D. in education with a specialization in early childhood education. Coursework emphasizes curriculum, assessment and program administration.

Doctoral students also explore early childhood literacy and the role of schools and communities in early childhood education. The curriculum builds strong theoretical foundations for learners to conduct original research.

At the conclusion of the program, doctoral candidates research and defend a scholarly dissertation that contributes to the field of early childhood education. NU charges $442 per credit for graduate-level coursework. The 60-credit program can be completed in less than four years.

At a Glance

• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses:   Early childhood curriculum and assessment; early childhood literacy and literature; families, communities and schools as partners in early childhood education
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: No

How To Find the Right Online Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education for You

Consider your future goals.

When it comes to earning a doctorate in ECE, you have options. Universities offer both Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs at the doctoral level. The right program for you depends on your goals.

With its emphasis on theory and research, a Ph.D. in early childhood education prepares graduates for academic and research careers. In comparison, an Ed.D focuses on applications of education theory. Graduates with an Ed.D. often work in administrative, policy and planning roles.

If a Ph.D. matches your goals, research the focus area and faculty at different doctoral programs. You should find a program that offers coursework and mentorship opportunities in your specialty area.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

The cost of graduate programs varies widely. On average, public graduate tuition rates reached $11,550 in 2023, according to the National Center for Education Statistics . Private institutions charged an average of around $20,000 per year.

Online programs can save degree-seekers money. National University charges $442 per credit in graduate tuition, totaling about $7,000 per year for the Ph.D. in ECE. However, remote students also need to factor in fees, technology expenses and class materials.

What’s the best way to pay for a doctorate in early childhood education? By choosing an accredited program, you’ll qualify for federal financial aid programs, including federal student loans. Many doctoral students also cover costs by working while in graduate school. Doctoral students should submit the FAFSA to learn about their financial aid options.

Should You Enroll in an Online Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education Program?

Should you earn a Ph.D. in early childhood education online or in person? If you’re weighing whether online college would be a good fit, consider the following questions.

• How much flexibility do you need? Earning your doctorate online often means that you can complete coursework on your schedule. If you work as an educator, an online format might make the most sense for your ECE doctorate.
• Do you meet the admissions requirements? Ph.D. programs in education typically require a master’s degree, and if you hold an Education Specialist degree, you can often transfer credits toward your doctorate. Before applying to programs, research the admissions guidelines to make sure you meet the requirements.
• Is the program accredited? A Ph.D. represents a significant investment in your education. Accredited universities meet the highest standards for academic quality, so make sure you choose an accredited institution.
• What’s your budget? Most ECE doctoral programs require 60 to 90 credits, so the per-credit tuition rate can add up quickly. Calculate the total cost of the degree, including fees, to find an option that fits your budget. Keep in mind that doctoral students at accredited institutions qualify for several forms of financial aid.

Accreditation for Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education Online Programs

Doctoral students should only consider accredited higher learning institutions. College accreditation recognizes schools that follow the best practices in higher education. By choosing an accredited institution, you can trust that you’ll receive a high-quality education. You’ll also qualify for more forms of financial aid.

Educator preparation programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels also typically hold programmatic accreditation. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation is the primary accrediting body for education programs.

When researching colleges, use the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs , offered by the U.S. Department of Education, to check accreditation status.

Our Methodology

We ranked one accredited, nonprofit college offering a Ph.D. in early childhood education online in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of June 2023. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes :

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability :

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience :

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility :

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We listed the only school in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Earning a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education Online

Can you do a ph.d. completely online.

Yes, you can complete a Ph.D. in a fully online format. Most online Ph.D. programs in early childhood education offer coursework in a virtual format, with no in-person requirements. In contrast, an Ed.D. in early childhood education typically includes an in-person practicum.

What can you do with a Ph.D. in early childhood education?

A Ph.D. in early childhood education prepares graduates for careers in academia. For example, you can become a college professor. The degree also leads to research and policy roles.

How long does it take to get a Ph.D. in early childhood education?

Earning a Ph.D. in early childhood education generally takes four to five years, depending on the program. Doctoral students complete coursework and a research-based dissertation project.

What is the highest degree in early childhood education?

The highest degree in early childhood education is a doctorate. Graduate programs in education typically offer an Ed.D. and a Ph.D. at the doctoral level.

What is the difference between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.?

Ed.D.s and Ph.D.s are both doctoral degrees. An Ed.D. emphasizes practice and prepares graduates for hands-on careers, while a Ph.D. emphasizes research and typically leads to roles in academia or research.

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Genevieve Carlton holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern University and earned tenure at the University of Louisville. Drawing on over 15 years of experience in higher education, Genevieve provides practical, research-based advice on college degrees, career training and other higher education topics.

2024 Guide to a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education Online

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Early Childhood Education Ph.D. Program Overview

Students pursuing a doctorate in early childhood education online should note that schools’ requirements vary. Private and nonprofit schools may possess different admission requirements than public schools. Similarly, accredited programs may offer slightly different curriculum paths.

Furthermore, program outcomes may also vary depending on the school’s learning goals. While the number of online programs continues to increase, early childhood Ph.D. students should only consider accredited programs. The subsections below contain more detailed information about what students can anticipate.

Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

The best doctorate in early childhood education online programs often require a master’s degree in a similar field with a 3.0-3.5 GPA. Students without these qualifications may need to complete additional coursework to qualify. Additionally, schools may require two or more years of field and research experience.

Typical application processes include a fee, official transcripts, a resume, and recommendation letters from professional or academic references. Institutions often request samples of students’ writing, which can include publications or previous course papers. Otherwise, students may submit personal statements, which overview accomplishments and career objectives.

Schools may also request standardized test scores, such as the GRE or Praxis exam. International learners should also submit scores for an English proficiency exam. Competitive programs may require interviews prior to admission. Students can interview in person, on the phone, or through virtual tools like Skype or Zoom.

A doctorate in early childhood education online often requires 48 credits at minimum. However, students who hold master’s degrees in unrelated fields or students completing a joint master’s and Ph.D. program may need to complete additional coursework, which can extend their overall program length. Longer programs may require as many as 90 credits. Additionally, the best early childhood education doctoral programs offer multiple concentration areas through elective selections. This additional curriculum can extend program lengths.

Early childhood Ph.D. programs often require students to complete fundamental advanced coursework at the beginning of their program, prior to beginning dissertation coursework. These courses focus on philosophy and ethics in early childhood education, study advocacy, policy, and leadership in the field. Other topics include curriculum inquiry, professional learning and leadership, or contemporary research of teaching effectiveness.

Programs may allow students to take foundational coursework mixed with field experiences that mingle with dissertation-related coursework. For instance, universities offer doctoral seminars and independent studies. However, the final program tasks focus on dissertation work.

Dissertation often includes research courses, such as human inquiry, mixed methods research, directed research, and qualitative research. Additional criteria for the best online doctoral programs in early childhood education can include an assessment, portfolio, literature review, and internship.

Degree Options & Potential Careers

Individuals with a doctorate in early childhood education online possess the knowledge and skills to support others as subject-matter experts. This degree emphasizes areas employers seek, including psychology, data analysis, and policy development.

Employers view applicants with a Ph.D. in early childhood education as subject-matter experts in comparison to applicants with a master’s degree . The best candidates possess classroom experience and a passion for working with students through age eight. Lucrative career opportunities include educational program directors or admission coaches. This page discusses requirements for online early child Ph.D. programs in addition to accrediting bodies and professional organizations.

Program Outcomes

A doctorate in early childhood education online prepares students to excel in administrative or leadership roles. Course content emphasizes child development , including social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. This research-intensive program trains students to conduct qualitative and quantitative research initiatives, which professionals can use to structure early childhood curricula. Professionals can also use research skills to develop solutions to current issues in the field.

A Ph.D. in early childhood education creates professional opportunities that require critical thinking and effective decision making. Students employ these skills when developing modes of inquiry, debunking complexities within educational policy, initiating organizational change, or collaborating with staff and student families.

Early childhood education doctoral students engage in multiple field experiences with their target population. Real-world settings and scenarios allow students to apply what they’ve learned under the supervision of seasoned professionals. Dissertation work also creates opportunities for competency-based learning in applied settings, while reinforcing research skills.

Should I Earn an Online Doctorate in Early Childhood Education?

Earning a doctorate in early childhood education online requires a significant time commitment. Students should outline their ideal career to determine if this degree meets their goals. For instance, a Ph.D. in early childhood education provides research-based methods and skills that help professionals identify possible causes of current issues. Students also learn how to design experimental or theoretical models, identify information sources, develop organizing principles to evaluate data, and generate solutions to current gaps in the field.

The best programs typically provide mentorship and supervision through multiple field experiences, which allow students to perfect their research and problem-solving process before entering the job market. Supervision also helps Ph.D. students develop efficient processes and effective workflow.

Additionally, doctoral programs allow professionals to pursue niche areas that interest them. Colleges and universities provide fundamental, advanced coursework. Afterward, students write a dissertation around their interests. A doctorate in early childhood education is one of the field’s most highly recognized credentials. As a terminal degree, graduates qualify for multiple leadership opportunities in various settings. Graduates may also bolster credibility by publishing journals, academic findings, and participating in conferences.

Professionals with an early childhood education doctorate qualify for senior leadership positions that require education, experience, and an in-depth understanding of the field.

What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Early Childhood Education?

Candidates with a doctorate in early childhood education qualify for elite roles in leadership, which may include positions like childcare center program director, director of education programming at public or private preschools, preschool admission coach, a college or university professor, or a school superintendent.

Professional settings for these roles vary. For instance, some professionals may remain in classroom settings within a private or public institution. School administrators work outside classroom settings in private or public sectors of elementary schools. Their roles require collaboration with the superintendent or school board members, which may occasionally remove them from the school building.

Some roles require travel between schools and government facilities. For instance, superintendents collaborate with the department of education to stay abreast of laws and policies. Some professionals may choose to work with the government full time as a consultant. This role requires subject-matter experts who can help teachers and administrators in educational facilities improve their teaching methods and processes.

Contrastingly, Ph.D. graduates who enter academia may work for nonprofit, for-profit, or public colleges or universities. Outside the classroom, academia professionals also gain access to research opportunities, which allow professionals to collaborate with other experts to improve the early childhood education field. Research projects also often lead to scholarly publishing. Additionally, postsecondary work can lead to curriculum development for future practitioners in the field.

Overall, a doctorate in early childhood education online creates opportunities for elite roles. While professionals can work within school environments, the greater education field needs highly qualified, passionate professionals who can improve other areas of the field. Therefore, job opportunities exist in the public, private, and government sectors. Professionals can also access opportunities at the postsecondary level, within hospitals, or pursue self-employment through consultant work.

School Superintendent

Elementary, middle, or high school principal, postsecondary teacher, education administrator, education consultant, accreditation for online early childhood education doctorate programs.

Postsecondary accrediting agencies exist to establish a minimum quality standard. This helps validate students’ competencies and skills. Students earning a doctorate in early childhood education online should consider programs with  Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation  (CAEP) accreditation. CAEP evaluates educator preparation programs for their content, field experience requirements, and selectivity.

Students interested in academia careers might also consider programs accredited by the  Council for Higher Education Accreditation  (CHEA), which requires excellent academic quality standards. Additionally, the  U.S. Department of Education  collects data, enforces statutes, and distributes funds. Students can access online databases of recognized accrediting agencies and all accredited schools.

Early Childhood Education Professional Organizations

The education industry experiences constant change, development, and innovation. Therefore, incumbents benefit from professional organizations that provide access to cutting-edge research and technology innovations. Colleges and universities often participate in student membership chapters that evolve into professional memberships after graduation.

Professional organizations often provide scholarships or fellowships, which allow early childhood education Ph.D. students to receive support or mentorship from experienced professionals. Professional organizations also allow members to apply for organizational roles, which provide valuable experience. For instance, members could become a board member, serve on specific committees, or support a preferred initiative.

Educational membership associations offer multiple benefits, including networking events, discussion forums, digital journals, online catalogs, newsletters, and professional development opportunities. Members gain access to continuing education requirements, which satisfy relevant licensure renewal requirements. Most organizations also provide career support through online job boards.

This organization emphasizes leadership in early learning centers. Members can access a yearly conference and professional development. This organization also provides webinars on topics like finance, budgeting, and disciplinary action.

Association for childhood education international, national education association, national head start association, national association for the education of young children.

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Scholars and Leaders

This is one of a limited number of programs in the country that focuses solely on early childhood. Students and faculty are reflective partners actively engaged in pursuing the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to be teachers, researchers, professionals, and leaders in early care and education. 

Further understand early childhood education by exploring its history, influences, and modern methodologies through curriculum informed by the conceptual framework and principles of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Students have the opportunity to study behavior, explore the latest research for early childhood programs, and uncover innovative practices and trends that serve the diverse needs of children.

Become a scholar and a leader in the Early Childhood Education program, where knowledge meets action to impact the future of early childhood education.

Professional Preparation

Student will consider social and cultural diversity within children and families while studying what influences young learners, teachers, and families. Students also have the opportunity to publish in peer-reviewed journals, strengthen collaborative skills in grant writing, and delve into pivotal social and educational policy issues shaping literacy learning. 

Professional applications for the Early Childhood Education, Ph.D., include many career opportunities. Among others, students may: 

• teach at a community college or 4-year college/university
• be involved in education leadership opportunities (local district, state, education organizations) and educational publishing companies
• oversee private early childhood programs
• pursue positions where the focus is on young children (nutrition, physical therapy, etc.)

This mostly online degree program requires completion of 69-84 semester credit hours. Students have seven calendar years from the date of initial registration to complete and successfully defend a dissertation.

"Mostly Online" means that all coursework will be completed online with one required intensive session on campus per semester.

Program information including curriculum and graduation requirements can be found in the ETSU Graduate Catalog .

Become an Education Leader

Steps to Apply

Step 1 - create your etsu application account step 1    create your etsu application account by choosing the "sign up" option step 2 - sign into the etsu application portal step 2    sign in to the etsu application portal and select "start a new application" step 3 - complete the remaining fields step 3    choose "graduate," select your student type (domestic or international), select "doctorate," term, then choose  ph.d. early childhood  and complete the remainder of the form..

Take me to the application portal

Credits to complete this program: 69-84 credit hours

Frequently Asked Questions

East Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. East Tennessee State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of East Tennessee State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website  ( www.sacscoc.org ).

This program requires a Master's Degree in Early Childhood or a related field from a regionally accredited university.

The GRE is required for this program. There is no cut-off score, but the department uses the GRE to provide information on how to best support its students.

There are synchronous on-campus program cohorts, as well as a hybrid cohort that is mostly online with one Friday–Sunday weekend per semester on-campus.

The hybrid cohort courses are asynchronous, but there is one on-campus gathering each semester (usually mid-semester) Friday–Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 pm EST (includes a one hour lunch break).

On-campus courses meet weekly from 4:30-7:30 EST in Warf-Pickel Hall, where the Department of Early Childhood Education is located on ETSU's main campus.

The program of study requires a dissertation.

There are also two apprenticeship options, generally with faculty but sometimes with leaders in the field. One is a research apprenticeship, working on a research project of a faculty member; and there are options for the second apprenticeship. These are:

• University teaching – teaching an undergraduate course for the department
• Teacher development – developing modules for professional development for others in the field
• Early Intervention – working with an early intervention practitioner in the field
• Leadership – working with a leader in the field

Full-time students typically complete the program in 4.5-5 years.

Part-time students typically complete the program in 5-7 years. 

Students are encouraged to visit the Paying for Graduate School website for information regarding ETSU graduate scholarships and other financial resources.

2024 Best Online PhD in Early Childhood Education [Doctorate Guide]

This leadership program with a specialization in early childhood education gives graduates every tool they need to succeed in the classroom.

To take the next step as a teacher, researcher or policymaker, consider an Online PhD in Early Childhood Education.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Not only can it help qualify you for higher-level jobs in the industry, but it can also help you boost your personal and professional development and give you more confidence in your chosen career. Additionally, since it can be earned almost entirely online, you can fit it into your schedule with more flexibility than a traditional PhD program.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Early Childhood Education Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

American College of Education

American College of Education’s Doctor of Education in Leadership program offers a degree in early childhood education at a flexible rate and affordable price. Alongside their core courses, students take 18 credits in a specialization of their choice, ranging from higher education, wellness, curriculum and instruction, and more.

• EdD in Leadership – Early Childhood

American College of Education  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Brenau University

At Brenau University, the online Doctorate in Education in Elementary Education can be completed in just 3 years. Students choose across three concentrations to become experts in their study of early childhood education, making them more effective in the classroom as leaders, instructors, and guides for young minds.

• EdD in Elementary Education – Early Childhood

Brenau University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University provides an online Doctorate in Early Childhood Education that balances theory, practice, and policy. Students complete work in pedagogy that provides them with research and hands-on experience.

This leadership program with a specialization in early childhood education is designed to give graduates every tool they need to succeed in the classroom.

• PhD in Leadership – Early Childhood Education

Concordia University Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University’s PhD in Early Childhood Education is a mostly online program designed to develop classroom skills to help elementary teachers excel. This 70 credit hour, affordable program emphasizes teacher learning and leadership development and helps graduates translate this development into their careers as teachers.

• PhD in Early Childhood Education

East Tennessee State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University offers a top quality PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development. Fielding graduates do work in scholarship alongside individualized experience to develop their education and skills in this challenging career.

This multidisciplinary, affordable program offers emphasis in developmental disorders and mental health.

• PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development

Fielding Graduate University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

National University

National University’s PhD in Education with a concentration in Early Childhood Education is a completely online course program that emphasizes passion and mastery of a wide range of education topics. It is designed to help students develop pedagogical and research knowledge alongside leadership skills to excel in the early childhood classroom.

• PhD in Education – Early Childhood Education

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of Alabama – Birmingham

The goal of the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s online PhD in Early Childhood Education program is to help aspiring teachers learn how to support the individual needs of their students while driving their student body toward success.

In this flexible course load, PhD students choose between three concentrations to balance their knowledge and experience as they translate their education into the classroom setting.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Colorado – Denver

The University of Colorado at Denver’s School of Education & Human Development offers a uniquely qualified PhD in Early Childhood Education. This 3 to 5 year, 54 credit degree program is designed to teach students pedagogical tools as well as research and classroom management skills.

Graduates become teachers as much as advocates and leaders in their communities.

• EdD in Leadership – Educational Equity, Early Childhood Education

The University of Colorado – Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of North Dakota

At the University of North Dakota, the Doctorate in Education in Educational Practice and Leadership program is held in a 3 year, online format. It is designed to help students learn the skills and knowledge necessary to be future directors, superintendents, or other education professionals.

This dissertation in practice includes research development and hands-on experience in a classroom setting.

• EdD in Educational Practice and Leadership

The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Walden University

Walden University’s PhD in Education in Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy is designed to give graduates the skills they need to help change children’s lives for the better. This online degree includes a published dissertation and capstone project as part of student research and development.

They program’s goal is to help students become ethical, capable professionals in the field of childhood care.

• PhD in Education – Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Early Childhood Education Programs

Early Childhood Education (ECE) is a branch of study dedicated to the education and development of very young children. Depending on the program, it can cover pre-kindergarten ages only, or it can cover kindergarten and elementary school kids up to certain grades.

Typical subjects include literacy, curriculum design, childhood development, education administration, family learning and more. It might also cover topics like diversity in the classroom or policy making in the boardroom.

There are two ways to earn your degree: a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Early Childhood Education or a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Early Childhood Education. They’re both highly specialized degrees, and their programs can be quite competitive. You should start applying early to maximize your chances of admission.

Additionally, you should know that there may be some face-to-face requirements for early childhood education online degrees . Real-world experience is considered a necessary component of your education, and it can also be a requirement for things like teaching licenses or professional certifications.

For early childhood education, real-world experience usually focuses on classroom experience or other instructional practicums. If you’re getting your degree online, you might be asked to fulfill these obligations locally with pre-approval from your school.

Last but not least, consider the specialization options that are available with this degree. While early childhood education is a specialty within itself, some programs offer even further ways to refine your area of study. For example, you might be able to focus on policy, administration, instructional design, special education or more.

Early Childhood Education Careers & Salaries

What can you do with an early childhood education PhD? It depends on your interests.

Many people go on to become teachers. They work directly with kids in K-12 schools, or they teach the next generation of early childhood educators in colleges and universities. They can also work in any other environment that welcomes teachers, including daycares, community centers, childcare centers and tutoring companies.

If you aren’t comfortable in a classroom, you can also find a variety of desk jobs such as administrator, principal, counselor, coordinator or materials designer. You might plan curricula, write educational policies or develop early education programs for schools and social service agencies.

Out-of-the-box careers for early childhood educators can include everything from nonprofit directors to educational research analysts. It all depends on what you want to do and where you’re willing to go, however, having a PhD or even just an early childhood education masters degree online can help make you eligible for a number of opportunities.

Here are just a few options for early childhood education careers:

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , people in education and training occupations earn an average of $52,380 per year. However, they don’t track data for early childhood educators specifically, and their average includes everyone from childcare workers with associate degrees to university professors with PhDs.

In other words, you’ll need to be careful when looking at wage information. It’s a very flexible thing where accurate, up-to-date research is needed.

Choosing an Online PhD in Early Childhood Education

It’s always important to do your research when choosing a degree program, but it’s particularly critical when looking at a PhD in Early Childhood Education online. Since it can represent a large investment of time, money and effort, you’ll want to be completely confident in your choice.

Here are just a few potential criteria to consider:

• Accreditation. Is the university accredited?
• Lead-in to licensure. If you aren’t already licensed or certified for your chosen career, will the program satisfy these requirements?
• Online availability. Is the program available online? Are the classes synchronous or asynchronous? What digital platform will you be expected to use? If there’s a fieldwork component, what’s the criteria for getting it done locally?
• Specializations. If you want to focus your studies in something like policy or research, what are your options for specialization?

There are factors to consider as well, including tuition, deadlines, admissions and faculty-to-student ratio. These are just a few things that can be particularly important with all PhD programs like a PhD in elementary education and not only just for early childhood education.

Early Childhood Education Curriculum & Courses

What will you learn in a PhD program for early childhood education? The honest answer is “it depends,” but if you look at sample curricula, you can get a reasonable idea of what will be expected from you as a student. Here are some common classes in Early Childhood Education PhD programs:

• Research Theory, Design and Methods. Usually offered as separate entities, these courses cover research methodology for educators.
• Childhood Development. You’ve probably seen this class offered at the bachelor’s and master’s level, but at the PhD level, it delves more deeply into topics of health, psychology, literacy, and cultural awareness.
• Social Contexts of Learning. A child’s academic success can depend on much more than their classroom performance, and these courses are designed to teach students how to interpret and shape the various contexts of their learning.
• Family Learning. Expect to see a variety of courses relating to the family unit in early childhood education programs. They might cover everything from parent-child psychology to identifying and intervening with at-risk youth.
• Advocacy. Advocacy can play a big role in securing funds for schools and community centers. If you want to support early childhood education in ways that extend beyond the classroom, these courses can help show you how.
• Childhood Literacy. This is such a broad topic that it’s commonly divided into categories and sub-categories such as teaching literacy or tracking the statistics of literacy. Depending on the core requirements of your program, you might be expected to take several different iterations of it.
• Current Research and Trends in Early Childhood Education. Also called “Special Topics in Early Childhood Education,” this class is an ever-changing one that’s devoted to contemporary issues in the classroom.
• Instructional Design. Another broad-ranging class, this one can be devoted to media, technology, curriculum development, standardized testing and everything in between.
• Dissertation or Capstone Project. Depending on whether you pursue a doctorate or PhD, you’ll be required to complete either a dissertation or capstone project. It could take several semesters for research, development, approval and review.
• Fieldwork. Most childhood education programs have a fieldwork requirement. Even if you’re earning the rest of your degree online, you might need residencies, research opportunities or supervised classroom hours in a real-world setting.

Remember that every PhD program is different, so the core classes at one university might be the optional electives at another.

Admissions Requirements

Admission into an early childhood education program can be quite competitive. There are a limited number of spaces with a large number of teachers, administrators, researchers and other educators who are all seeking an advanced degree. It can help your prospects to know exactly what will be expected of you at admissions time.

• Test scores: Some graduate schools consider themselves “test-optional” schools and waive the GRE and GMAT requirement. Others will expect it, however, and some will even weigh it into admissions scoring with a points-based system.
• Course- or credit-related prerequisites. Some early childhood education programs are limited to students with a demonstrated background in the subject. Others might just require a general number of post-baccalaureate credits before you’re allowed to enroll.
• Resume or CV. Do you have a work history in childcare or education? Have you completed any research, obtained any certifications or published any papers?
• Statement of purpose. Also called your “statement of intent,” this is your chance to sell yourself through a personalized text that outlines both your past achievements and your future career goals.

Other admissions criteria can include interviews, writing samples, letters of recommendation or an entire portfolio.

Reach out to your chosen school for more detailed information about how they choose PhD students, and keep in mind that even if you don’t meet all of their requirements, you might earn yourself a “conditional” or “pre-candidacy” enrollment that can become a real one later.

Accreditation

There are three types of accreditation: regional, national and programmatic. Regional and national accreditation is given to entire universities. For this reason, they’re sometimes called “institutional accreditation.”

Programmatic accreditation is given to specific colleges and departments within universities. In the case of early childhood education, you’ll want to look for accreditation that comes from groups like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Another name to know is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). You can view their website if you want to know more about accreditation. They have a searchable database for schools as well.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

It’s a common misconception that financial aid isn’t available for graduate students. It just takes a different form than usual.

For example, if you’re applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you won’t receive things like the Pell Grant or the Stafford Loan. They’re reserved for undergrads.

Instead, you might qualify for things like the Direct PLUS Loan for Graduate or Professional Students. You might also be eligible for the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant, something that’s available to future teachers at every level of education.

Another option is seeing if you can get an assistantship or fellowship. These are common for PhD students, and they involve teaching, assisting or grading for professors in exchange for financial aid from the school. You could receive tuition payments or even a small, regular stipend.

Other financial aid options include scholarships, private loans, state-based aid and tuition reimbursement from your employer.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Early Childhood Education Degree?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupations related to education and training are expected to grow by 5% over the next decade. This is faster than the national average and translates to more than 440,000 new jobs. What careers will be available within this number? They cover a wide range.

If you’re interested in teaching, for example, you may work directly with kids as a K-12 instructor, or you may become a university professor for early childhood education. If you’re interested in administrative work, you may become a policy maker, program director or educational coordinator.

How Much Does an Online PhD in Early Childhood Education Cost?

The price will vary for a PhD or EdD in early childhood education. The full range is somewhere between $5,000 – $15,000 per year.

It’s hard to get more specific without factoring in things like tuition, financial aid, credit requirements, full-time versus part-time status and more.

How Long Does it Take to Get an Online PhD in Early Childhood Education?

It generally takes around 3 to 6 years to earn a doctorate in early childhood education online.

This is longer than doctorates in other fields such as humanities and social sciences, but it’s shorter than doctorates in STEM fields. As with any degree program, being a full-time student will help you graduate faster than being part-time.

Are There Any Affordable Online PhD in Early Childhood Education Programs?

There are many affordable programs for earning a doctorate in early childhood education, especially if you’re willing to do it online.

Online students often receive discounted tuition rates since they aren’t living on campus and requiring the same resources as others. They might also get priority in things like registering for classes and applying for special programs. There are many benefits to being an online learner.

What is the Difference Between a PhD in Early Childhood Education and an EdD?

There are two common paths to a doctorate-level early childhood education degree online or on-campus. The first is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Early Childhood Education, and the second is a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Early Childhood Education.

PhD programs are usually more focused on research and academia. They’re a good fit for people who want to work behind the scenes with policy, technology or administration. They’re also suitable for those who want to become tenure-track college professors.

EdD programs tend to have a more real-world focus. They usually put practice before theory, so they’re common for working professionals who are already teaching or doing other things in the field.

Is a PhD in Early Childhood Education Degree Worth it?

Yes, an early childhood education PhD is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education, training, and library jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common early childhood education careers in this field include teacher, administrator, researcher, and educational consultant.

Getting Your PhD in Early Childhood Education Online

With so many early childhood education PhD programs out there, you’ll want to start early to get a full look at your options.

It can take months to research programs, gather transcripts, send away for letters of recommendations and apply to both dream and safety schools. An early childhood education degree may be just what you need for a career boost.

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Doctor of Education (EdD) in Early Childhood Education

Courses start every monday, take the first step in your national university journey, 230k+ alumni worldwide, early childhood education, edd.

Just as teachers are now in greater demand than ever before, educational leaders are needed to manage and assist schools, school districts, state educational boards, and institutes of higher learning as they work to improve their instructional capabilities. The Doctor of Education program (EdD) uses an applied, project-based approach to prepare professionals who seek to lead improvements in the strategy, practice, policy, and outcomes of educational practice. EdD research focuses on solving a problem in the workplace or in the professional field of education.

Why Earn Your Doctorate in Early Childhood Education with National University?

In the Early Childhood Education specialization, you’ll build on your knowledge and skills in educational leadership by examining the latest research and findings on the growth and development of young children. Coursework provides a foundational understanding of research methods, statistics, and data analysis, while the specialty studies focus on curriculum, assessment, program administration, and the roles of families and communities in early childhood education. 

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Admission Requirements 

A conferred post-baccalaureate master’s degree or doctoral degree from a regionally or nationally accredited academic institution or an international institution determined to be equivalent through an approved evaluation service. Examples of acceptable doctoral degrees include Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Education (EdD).

In addition to the general requirements for admission to the EdD program, applicants to the Nursing Education specialization must provide a copy of the following:

• A valid and active RN license from the United States
• A master’s degree in nursing (MSN)

Dissertation Process

In addition to the foundational and specialization courses, each doctoral student is required to complete a high-quality dissertation through a systematic process assisted by faculty. An EdD dissertation is a scholarly documentation of research that makes an original contribution to the field of educational study. The step-by-step process requires care in choosing a topic, documenting its importance, planning the methodology, and conducting the research. These activities lead smoothly into the writing and oral presentation of your dissertation.

Courses and Sequence

The EdD program requires 48 credits for degree completion. Students who choose the Nursing Education specialization must take two additional courses for a total of 54 credit hours. All foundation competency courses, specialization courses, and method coursework must be completed before beginning the Doctoral Comprehensive Assessment course (CMP-9601E).

Upon successful completion of the comprehensive assessment, you’ll become an official doctoral candidate and may move onward to the sequential dissertation coursework. Additional credit hours may be allowed as needed to complete your dissertation research. If granted, additional courses will be added to your degree program in alignment with the SAP and Academic Maximum Time to Completion policies. The estimated time needed to complete this program is 33 months.

Course Details

Course listings.

Your communication abilities have a big influence on your professional reputation. In this course, you’ll develop skills to establish yourself as a competent professional with strong communication skills. You’ll learn competencies related to written, oral, and visual forms of communication appropriate to specific media and audiences. You’ll also explore how the iterative nature of preparing communications and integrating feedback into your work products can support your development and advancement as a professional.

Leadership during times of change can be challenging. This course supports your professional development as an effective leader of educational organizations during periods of change. You’ll explore strategies and techniques for self-reflection, evaluating culture, integrating stakeholder feedback, and incorporating data as part of improvement processes. To conclude the course, you’ll synthesize these skills to design a comprehensive improvement plan that addresses a specific problem within an educational organization.

• Specialization Course 1
• Specialization Course 2
• Specialization Course 3
• Specialization Course 4
• Specialization Course 5  (Nursing Education specialization only)
• Specialization Course 6  (Nursing Education specialization only)

In this course, you’ll develop effective search and writing strategies to create a scholarly review of literature. The course emphasizes how to: (a) use effective literature search strategies; (b) develop a scholarly synthesis of research literature; (c) organize research literature around identified themes, including a study problem, purpose, and theoretical perspectives; and (d) focus on developing a scholarly exposition that reflects divergent viewpoints and contrasting perspectives. The overarching goal is for you to understand strategies for surveying scholarly literature that avoid bias, focus on educational practice-based research problems, and address the requirements of a scholarly literature review.

This course introduces you to the research process by exploring its underpinnings, examining its paradigms, and investigating the foundations of qualitative and quantitative methodologies used in educational studies. You’ll identify criteria for the development of quality research studies that are ethical, accurate, comprehensive, cohesive, and aligned. Specific course topics involve the ethics of conducting research; data collection and analysis techniques; and issues of feasibility, trustworthiness, validity, reliability, transferability, and rigor. The goal is to familiarize yourself with the concepts and skills associated with conducting theoretical and applied research.

This course provides the foundational knowledge to become a critical consumer of statistical-based research and a skilled analyst of non-inferential quantitative data. Coursework focuses on understanding multivariate data, non-inferential and inferential statistical concepts, the conventions of quantitative data analysis, and interpretations and critical inferences in statistical results. You’ll use software applications to complete statistical computations and perform quantitative data analysis. The course culminates in a synthesis project to demonstrate your statistical skills and present your results using APA guidelines. 

Select One of the Following Two Research Courses:

A focus on qualitative research methodology and the designs and methods used to collect and analyze data in educational research. You’ll examine the principles of qualitative research and explore commonly used designs (also referred to as qualitative traditions or genres) with a focus on application and feasibility. Qualitative data collection and analysis methods will be examined for their suitability with regard to the research design selected. Alignment between qualitative designs and research methods, issues of trustworthiness, and the responsibilities of the qualitative researcher will also be explored.

Select One of the Following Two Data Analysis Courses:

This course builds on a foundational understanding of qualitative designs and measurements to focus on analyses of the data. Coursework takes you deeper into the skills and techniques necessary to ensure the appropriate analyses of qualitative data, including integrating relevant frameworks, verifying trustworthiness of the findings, and selecting suitable methods for presenting analyses and findings.

An exploration of advanced statistical principles and how to apply them to quantitative research. This course provides an overview of advanced statistical concepts used in empirical research, including inferential analyses. You’ll use SPSS software to perform advanced computations as you build independent, scholarly statistical skills. Coursework will emphasize multivariate data; the use, comprehension, and evaluation of sophisticated statistical concepts; and the proper presentation of statistical results.

The doctoral comprehensive assessment is your opportunity to demonstrate your preparation for entering the dissertation phase as a doctoral candidate. You’ll synthesize discipline-specific content with research designs and methods to create a prospectus for a problem of applied practice within an educational context. This prospectus will likely become the foundation of your dissertation. This course is begun only after all your foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.

In this 12-week course, you’ll complete all relevant subsections of Section 1: Foundation. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. Section 1 must be completed and approved by your committee in order to pass the course and move forward. If you do not receive committee approval of Section 1, you’ll be able to take up to three supplemental eight-week courses to finalize and gain approval.

In this course, you’ll compose all relevant subsections of Section 2: Methodology and Design, and complete your proposal. Both of these components must be approved by your committee in order to pass the course and move forward. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. If you do not receive approval of Section 2 and the completed proposal by the conclusion of this 12-week course, you’ll be able to take up to three eight-week supplementary courses to finalize and gain approval.

In this course, you’ll prepare, submit, and obtain approval of your Institutional Review Board (IRB) application before collecting data and, if applicable, executing your project modeling. You’ll also submit a final study closure form to the IRB. If you’re still collecting data at the end of the 12-week course, you’ll be able to take up to three supplementary eight-week courses to complete the required components.

In this 12-week course, you’ll complete the relevant subsections of Section 3: Findings, Implications, and Recommendations, finalize your manuscript, and disseminate your findings. You’ll use your school-specific template and guidance from your chair to determine which subsections apply to your individual work. The final manuscript, including Section 3 and the dissemination of findings, must be approved by your committee in order to pass the course and be eligible to graduate. If you do not receive committee approval on all components, you’ll be able to take up to three supplemental eight-week courses to finalize these requirements and be eligible to graduate.

Specialization Courses

ECE-7002 Topics in Early Childhood Growth, Development, and Educational Programs

In this doctoral-level course, you’ll explore theory and research related to the education of young children. Societal changes and their influence on early childhood programs, growth and typical and atypical development of young children, and methods of studying child behavior will all be examined. Emphasis will be placed on the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of infants, toddlers, and young children, and the impact of these factors on early childhood education instructional programs.  

ECE-7030 Topics in Early Childhood Program Administration

Here, you’ll examine program models, relevant theories, state expectations, educator competencies, and the role of leadership in developing and implementing early childhood programs. You’ll pay particular attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion in program administration, and demonstrate your ability to formulate administrative plans that synthesize your learning.

ECE-7005 Early Childhood Curriculum and Assessment

In this course, you’ll explore the theory, research, and trends related to the curriculum and assessment of young children enrolled in early childhood education programs. Developmentally appropriate early childhood lesson plans and activities will be explored and analyzed, and standardized and classroom assessments will be researched and evaluated.

ECE-7009 Families, Communities, and Schools as Partners in Early Childhood Education 

This course focuses on developing partnerships between early childhood educators and the other social environments children live in. Encouraging involvement and communicating with families and communities in early childhood education programs will be researched and analyzed. Topics include child abuse, child advocacy, formulating effective strategies for working with families of special needs children, and societal trends and issues specific to diversity.

Program Outcomes

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program develops your abilities to lead improvements in practice within educational organizations. EdD learning outcomes include the ability to:

• Recommend policies advancing equity and social justice in educational organizations
• Select ethical and regulatory compliant actions supporting the mission and vision of organizations
• Develop leadership skills through the integration of theoretical constructs with professional practice
• Create strategic and tactical plans to improve organizations
• Construct theory-informed decisions for addressing complex problems of practice

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Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

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All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

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Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

Jump to section, choosing an online phd in early childhood education, is an online phd right for you, phd course topics, professional associations.

Note : This page provides information on earning a Ph.D. in early childhood education. For details on other degree levels, please see our Early Childhood Education Degree page.

A PhD in Early Childhood Education allows those who are already in the field to extend their knowledge and strengthen their theoretical understandings and expertise. Most PhD or EdD programs are organized into coursework, research, and practical experiences. PhD students may develop skills in administration and advocacy as well as develop greater knowledge through research and analysis skills.

Online Phd or EdD programs appeal to busy students who are educators and already hold a master's degree. When choosing an online program, you should establish that a school is reputable and legitimate. If you think online school is right for you, consider the following questions when making your selection:

Is the Program Accredited?

Accreditation should be one of the first steps in helping you select a reputable online degree program. Accreditation shows that an institution of higher education offers a quality education. Early childhood education programs that are accredited should be established around the framework and competencies built by National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). You can learn more about accreditation in the United Stated by visiting: ed.gov/accreditation

How Long Has the Program Been Offered?

Find out how long the program has been offered. As a general statement, the longer the better. However, keep in mind that online learning is comparatively new. Be wary of a school or program that has only been around for one or two years. Ask lots of questions.

What Technologies Will Be Used to Facilitate Online Learning?

Online schools and programs utilize virtual learning platforms - this allows you to "attend" class from the comfort of your own home. These online learning platforms, such as Moodle or Canvas, can easily be accessed through a website. There is no need to install an expensive program.

What Resources Will I Have Access To?

Many online schools allow students to access online resources such as scholarly journals, online videos, and personalized library assistance. Other student services such as technology assistance and advising are also a part of these resources. Altogether, these can help make your overall learning experience much easier.

What Skills and Topics Are Covered?

A reputable program will be able to provide a thorough curriculum upon request. This will come in the form of measurable program goals and outcomes of what students will acquire as part of their PhD in Early Childhood Education program. Review the program goals to see how they relate to your personal and professional life.

Do You Have Job Placement Information for Students Who Recently Graduated from the Program?

Alumni can often act as career guidance mentors. Find out how their online PhD in Early Child Education has helped them in their career. If it is an option, it may be a good idea to communicate with recent graduates prior to signing on to a program. Be sure to ask a lot of questions and advice on how to excel within program requirements.

A Doctorate degree is a lengthy educational decision. This means that ample time will be taken from work, friends, and family - especially if that degree is earned on a traditional college campus. As with most education degrees, a doctorate in Early Childhood Education can be earned as an Ed.D or Ph.D. Both can be useful in any education related profession for Early Childhood, but Ph.D candidates may be more likely to gain jobs as professors at the college level. Read more to learn about online degree programs:

Flexible Schedule

Online schooling has become a very common and viable way to earn a degree. A lot of the appeal comes from the amount of flexibility it offers. Online degree programs allow students to manage their own schedules, rather than reorganizing their lives to fit a rigid class schedule. This is especially important to working students and those with families. In most cases, instructors post video lectures online and students can watch them at their own convenience - that can be late in the evening after dinner or early in the morning before taking the kids to school. With online schooling, students do not need to worry about missing class lectures because of work or family obligations.

Self-Starter

Online schooling is not for everyone. Before jumping on board, assess your learning style. Do you do well with individualized learning, or do you prefer to physically work with peers? If you prefer to work alone, online education might be good for you. Often, those who find success in online schooling are those who can motivate themselves to complete assignments and remain goal oriented. This is important to consider, because in an online learning environment, physical interaction will be very limited.

Tuition and Costs

Overall, earning an online PhD in Early Childhood Education may cost less than a traditional on-campus program. This varies from school to school. Consider the following:

• No costs having to do with driving to and from campus. Take gas, automobile maintenance, and parking fees into consideration.
• No need to buy food on campus.
• No money spent on relocating.
• No time spent commuting. This allows online students more time to maintain a source of income without altering their work schedule.

Program Curriculum

Online schools should follow a curriculum quite similar to those found in traditional campus settings. However, online programs tend to be accelerated. With that said, online programs may be more rigorous since more work is compacted into a shorter amount of time. When reviewing an online early childhood education program, you can expect to see the following:

• Due dates and deadlines to help students stay on track. These accountability markers often include reading assignments, projects, action research papers, early childhood education practicums, quizzes, and tests.
• Whole class chat rooms where students are required to share ideas and collaborate - especially when it comes to reading reflections.
• A final dissertation, project, portfolio, or comprehensive exam.

The goal of a PhD in Early Childhood Education is to prepare the holder to be a leader in the early education realm. This person should be able to guide, teach, and share their knowledge about early childhood growth, development, and learning. While practicum, teaching assistant, and dissertation opportunities are unique to the individual, many institutions outline the following curricular goals for doctoral students:

• Analyze family involvement in community advocacy and describe the graduate's role in supporting families as community active members.
• Examine the factors that lead to empowerment of children and families.
• Analyze the role of the family as foundational socialization and education
• Analyze the cultural context of the family unit and how it might affect thought and language
• Articulate the role of community support programs for early childhood education
• Compare and contrast various approaches to family involvement in child and family service models.
• Identify barriers to effective family support and strategies to overcome them.
• Develop and implement strategies to build partnerships with young families
• Identify key performance factors for organizations and stakeholders in caring and advocating for families and children
• Maintain respectful, positive and nurturing relationships with children, family groupings and educational professionals
• Use effective written, oral, non-verbal, visual, and electronic communication in order to foster responsive and ethical communications in every instance
• Communicate effectively in regard to child and family needs
• Utilize insightful and effective observation techniques in pursuit of information and research in an educational or clinical setting
• Use proven research strategies to ensure best practice in the lab and classroom
• Conduct procedures with emphasis on a collaborative approach between colleagues, community stakeholders, and families
• Critically analyze one's own teaching and research practice in order to maximize effectiveness and improve communication and behavior
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the interplay of society and culture in practice
• Survey, analyze and synthesize current research on early childhood brain development; inform practice and research to extend current understanding in the field
• Use professional dialogue and advancements in the field to further expand upon the utilization of brain research
• Understand and utilize the process of brain maturation in early childhood development and foundational experiences
• Analyze the various perspectives of learning through information processing
• Understand optimal conditions in regard to different kinds of learning and retention

Another way to strengthen the knowledge and skills of early childhood leaders is to network and collaborate. Through professional organizations, graduate students can benefit from development opportunities and resources. The Association for Early Learning Leaders , for example, aims to promote meaningful and collaborative connections as well as strengthen the leadership skills of its members. Members are provided access to an array of professional resources impacting the field of early childhood education.

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Child Development Doctoral Program Overview

PhD in Child Development Program Availability Change

Visit this page to stay in the know about future PhD program opportunities

Erikson Institute’s doctoral program has a long history of producing PhDs who are transforming research and practice for children and families. With one of the only applied research doctoral programs in child development, Erikson advances careers with small classes, self-reflective supervision seminars, project and publication work with world-class faculty, and individualized support throughout a doctoral student’s journey.

After partnering with Loyola University as the conferrer of the degree for many years, Erikson is now seeking to become an independent PhD-granting institution so that we can transition into delivering an independent doctoral program.

While we cannot accept applications prior to approval, we are collecting information from interested people and will update them on the program’s status. We hope to open admission to the program by or before 2026.

Please note we still have an active program with 18 doctoral students under the current partnership with Loyola. If you are interested in the great work of our current doctoral students, please connect with Dr. Amanda Moreno , Director, Doctoral Program.

Hear from Our Alum

Careers Opportunities With a Doctorate In Child Development

95% of our PhD Child Development graduates from the last ten years hold current positions as higher education faculty, researchers, or program directors in child and family-focused organizations.

Our graduates have built careers in:

• Applied child development research
• Program design and evaluation
• College teaching
• Program administration
• Policy analysis

Our graduates are employed by:

• Chapin Hall, University of Chicago
• National Institute for Early Education Research
• Early Learning Coalition of Orange County, Fla.
• University of Colorado Denver
• DePaul University
• James Bell Associates

Introducing Erikson Institute’s PhD Candidates

Explore successful dissertation defenses from some of our recent graduates.

See all News and Press

Child Development PhD Program FAQs

Find answers to the biggest questions students ask about the PhD program.

We are not accepting applications for the PhD program subsequent to Fall of 2023. Current PhD students are able to complete their degree as planned through 2029.

We are working towards another PhD program, but are unable to commit to a launch date at this time.

We are unable to share more details at this time. If you remain interested in a PhD program from Erikson Institute and wish to be among the first to hear about any news, please complete this form . And you can sign up to receive our monthly newsletter here .

No. We have an active program still in place under the current joint program with Loyola, which will exist until at least 2029.

Erikson’s PhD Graduates Help Transform Research and Practice for Children & Families

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Search NYU Steinhardt

Early Childhood and Childhood Education

Phd in teaching and learning concentration.

Become a researcher or teacher educator dedicated to understanding children’s development and learning, and supporting them in their education from birth through elementary school. This rigorous doctorate will prepare you to conduct research in child development and education, including in specific content areas such as literacy, numeracy, and social studies.

What You'll Learn

• Qualitative and quantitative methodologies and how to apply them to academic research in education
• How to develop and design a research proposal, implement a research agenda, evaluate results, and disseminate findings

Your Academic Experience

A flexible, highly individualized phd program.

The program of study is distributed among courses in the foundations, cognate areas, research, specialization, and dissertation research and preparation. You will be able to personalize your program around your individual interests and choose from such related areas of specialization as teacher education, curriculum development, child development, innovations in schooling, and specific content areas such as literacy, numeracy, and social studies.

Work with Faculty on Shared Research Interests

Our faculty's research interests center on key themes in early childhood and childhood education, including:

• Human and child development
• Social contexts of learning
• The influence of culture on teaching and learning
• Multiple ways of knowing
• Families as partners in children’s learning
• The uses of evaluation and assessment in teaching and learning
• The impact of language and literacy development on children’s learning
• Curriculum development

You'll have the opportunity to work closely with them on grants and studies as you as establish your own research agenda. 

Become Part of a Tight-Knit Research Community in a Global Urban Center

At NYU Steinhardt, you will have access to a world-class facility for conducting educational research. The PhD in Teaching and Learning is designed to prepare you for all aspects of the research process, including developing and designing a research proposal, implementing a research agenda, and disseminating findings. You will interact with a close community of fellow student researchers and receive close mentoring from faculty as you pursue educational research in the heart of New York City.

Each doctoral student is assigned a faculty advisor in the student’s chosen area of specialization. This advisor serves as an interim academic advisor until the student selects a doctoral dissertation advisor. 

You'll be well prepared for roles including:

• Teacher educator or researcher in early childhood and childhood education in colleges and universities
• Early childhood and childhood education specialist in government organizations and nonprofits
• Curriculum specialist or evaluator in early childhood and childhood education programs 

Erin O'Connor

Professor of education & chief of education at cooper.

Professor of Childhood Education

Fabienne Doucet

Executive director, metropolitan center for research on equity and the transformation of schools and associate professor of early childhood and urban education.

How to Get a PhD or EdD in Early Childhood Education

If you’re thinking about pursuing a doctorate in early childhood education and development, consider this: The percentage of 3- to 5-year-old children attending full-day preschool and kindergarten programs has increased steadily since 2000. With more young children needing care outside the home during their preschool years, and with pressure to prepare children for increased academic demands upon entering grade school, professionals holding a Ph.D. or Ed.D. in early childhood education can help shape the education programs and services provided to the next generation.

Whether you’re interested in a research or teaching career, or otherwise enhancing the educational experiences of young people, you’ll find that a doctorate in early childhood education can help you to realize your career aspirations.

There are many factors to consider when selecting doctoral degree programs in early childhood education. The following guide can help you navigate the information-gathering and application process.

Types of Doctorates in Early Childhood Education

The field of early childhood education is closely intertwined with psychology and the study of early childhood development. At this highest level of academic studies, you can choose from two types of doctoral degree programs:

• The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is generally considered the degree for aspiring professional scholars and researchers.
• The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) is often thought of as the practitioner’s degree, designed for working educators seeking to master the skills and best practices needed for effective teaching and educational leadership and administration.

However, the distinction between the two degrees isn’t always clear. The curriculum, specializations offered, and other program details may reveal more about the philosophy behind the degree than does the actual degree title.

Early Childhood Education Specializations

By earning a Ph.D. or Ed.D. in early childhood education, you can become a specialist in the field. Your dissertation, if required, is likely to demand a significant commitment to researching and writing about a topic in depth. Specializations for a doctorate in early childhood education include:

• Curriculum development
• Early childhood policy
• Early childhood special education
• Families as partners in children’s schooling
• Impact of language and literacy development on children’s learning
• Influence of culture, including multiculturalism, on teaching and learning
• Multiple ways of knowing
• Social contexts of learning
• Uses of evaluation and assessment in teaching and learning

How Career Paths Align with Doctorates in Early Childhood Education

Earning a doctorate in early childhood education requires a significant commitment of time and intellectual work. You’re likely to get the most out of your degree if you have a clear career path in mind.

For those who hold a doctorate in early childhood education, possible careers include:

• Teachers of early childhood educational professionals
• Researchers and advisors who can help shape government programs in the field of early childhood education
• Leaders in teacher training, curriculum design and professional development

Once you’re certain you want to pursue a doctorate in early childhood education, take the time to research appropriate programs at a variety of colleges and universities. Exploring a range of options can help you make a more informed choice.

Choosing an Early Childhood Education Doctoral Program

As you consider a doctorate in early childhood education, the following steps can guide you through the process of identifying your key criteria and finding doctoral programs that best match your criteria and goals.

Step 1: Finding Accredited Early Childhood Education Programs

Quality standards are especially important for competitive, advanced degrees like the Ed.D. in Early Childhood Education. Accredited schools are those with an established baseline of academic standards that meet criteria set by an authorizing agency.

• The National Association for the Education of Young Children sets standards and policies as well as evaluating and awarding accreditation to postsecondary programs in early childhood education. Its website includes a searchable database of accredited programs . As of April 2020, almost 200 higher education institutions are listed on the NAEYC website as having earned programmatic accreditation.

If you don’t already have a master’s degree in a relevant field, you may want to limit your search to combined master’s/Ph.D. programs.

Step 2: Considering Online and Campus-Based Format Options

Doctoral programs in early childhood education are offered as full-time campus-based programs as well as part-time online Ph.D. or Ed.D. programs. Think about what kind of time investment you want to make.

• Online programs: You may be able to combine your current career in early childhood education with your doctoral studies, as online Ph.D. programs are generally more flexible. The online Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education typically includes faculty-guided research based on your professional interests and background, face-to-face residencies and online courses.
• Campus-based programs: If you’re ready to drop everything to fulfill your academic ambitions, look into full-time campus-based programs.

Step 3: Understanding Program Details for the Doctorate in Early Childhood Education

It’s now time to start reviewing the details of each college or university’s early childhood education program. Check the schools’ education department websites to see how they describe their doctoral program’s approach, degree requirements, course descriptions and research opportunities.

Philosophy and orientation of the program. Some programs explicitly prepare students to become researchers, while others focus on developing the skills needed to advance to top administrative positions. Make sure that the program is going to point you in the direction that best meets your career goals.

Degree requirements. Doctoral programs in early childhood education typically blend method, concepts, and practical experience, such as apprenticeships.

Curriculum. Common courses for all doctoral programs in this education field include:

• Early childhood education and development (such as social learning and the nature of knowledge)
• Language and literacy development
• Learning experiences and environments
• Curriculum design
• Evaluation and assessment and special education

Depending on the program, additional course options may include:

• Early childhood policy, leadership and advocacy
• Teacher development
• Social and cultural contexts in learning
• Family/community relations

Research. Most programs also cover research (quantitative and qualitative), as well as research theory, design and method.

Step 4: Evaluating the Quality of the Ed.D. or Ph.D. Program

At this point you should have a working list of candidate schools — those that offer programs aligned with your interests and in the delivery format that meets your needs. To whittle down your list, you’ll need to do additional digging into the programs you’ve identified. Individual schools’ websites vary in the amount of information they offer, so if you find any gaps in information, call the school directly to fill in the blanks. Here are factors to explore when evaluating the quality of a doctoral program:

Faculty. As a doctoral student, you can expect to work closely with one faculty member who serves as your advisor. Be sure to carefully examine the expertise of faculty in each program you’re considering. Is there someone in the program who would be a suitable mentor for you throughout your graduate studies? Also look at the student/faculty ratio, as it can indicate the amount of attention each graduate student receives from an advisor. The program’s webpage should provide links to faculty bios and publications.

History. Consider how long a program has been in existence. If it is new, make sure it appears well-organized and seems comparable to other programs.

Reputation. Talk to professionals in the field to get their informed opinions about programs and schools. You may also want to review websites that rank doctoral programs at different colleges and universities. But when evaluating these sites, avoid those that show obvious bias or commercial interest. Also check to see if the ranking methodology is posted or otherwise available. Are the factors on which schools are ranked aligned with what’s important to you?

Graduation rate. How many students who begin the doctoral program complete it? School admissions counselors can provide these numbers.

Placement of graduates. Where are the graduates working? Do they hold important research and administrative positions? This is also something admissions counselors or a department administrator should be able to provide to you. You’re planning to make a significant investment in the degree program, so it’s important that you have a sense of potential outcomes.

School resources. Visit campuses and talk to faculty and students, whether you’re pursuing a campus-based or online doctoral degree. You’ll be spending the next three to six years working toward your doctorate, so finding the best fit is essential! Check the school’s library collection, campus facilities, and see what student/faculty networks are in place relating to early childhood education and development.

Step 5: Apply to Early Childhood Education Graduate Programs

Carefully review the school’s admissions requirements to ensure that you have what it takes to get in. The more stringent the admission requirements, the higher the caliber of doctoral student the program is likely to attract. It’s fine to aim high but don’t limit yourself to programs that may be too selective or exclusive for someone with your qualifications.

Allow yourself plenty of time to complete the application process. Arrange to tackle the most time-sensitive steps, such as taking entrance exams, early in the process.

Complete prerequisites:

• Most programs require that applicants take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
• International students may also have to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam.
• Some schools may consider or require work experience in the field.

Prepare application materials:

• Order your transcripts online, if possible, which can save you time and effort.
• Solicit letters of recommendation from people who can attest to your ability to perform quality work and/or scholarship in the field.
• Plan to spend plenty of time, thought and effort composing your admissions essay — it could make the difference between getting into your first-choice program or not.
• Depending on the program, you may need to send a writing sample or sample curriculum you’ve developed.
• For certain doctoral programs, you may need to submit documentation to prove you have the required credentials, such as a teaching certificate or master’s degree.

Submit your application materials well in advance of the deadline to ensure they arrive on time.

Step 6: Paying for Your Doctorate in Early Childhood Education

Many schools offer financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, educational loans and teaching assistantships. Meet with financial aid advisers at your top schools to see what you might be eligible for.

For more information about funding options, check our article, Scholarships, Grants, Student Loans, and Other Financial Aid Resources .

Step 7: Building Your Academic and Professional Network

While you’re waiting to hear about your acceptance into a program, you can start to familiarize yourself with experts and current research in the field. Discover what’s happening in the field of early childhood education by:

• Subscribing to early childhood education publications, like Early Childhood Education Journal , and Journal of Early Childhood Research
• Joining professional organizations and associations, like The National Association for the Education of Young Children , Council for Exceptional Children (Division for Early Childhood), Childhood Education International and National Head Start Association .
• Attending academic conferences and networking events sponsored by universities or the professional organizations listed above
• Early Childhood & Childhood Education, Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning Concentration,Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, https://steinhardt.nyu.edu/degree/phd-teaching-and-learning/early-childhood-and-childhood-education, accessed April 2020
• Early Childhood and Elementary Education,Georgia State University, https://education.gsu.edu/ecee/, accessed April 2020
• Early Childhood Education, Columbia University Teachers College, https://www.tc.columbia.edu/curriculum-and-teaching/early-childhood-education/, accessed April 2020
• Early Childhood Education, Walden University, https://www.waldenu.edu/about/colleges-schools/riley-college-of-education/early-childhood-education, accessed April 2020
• EdD vs. PhD in Education: What’s the Difference?, September 12, 2019, Northeastern University Graduate Programs, https://www.northeastern.edu/graduate/blog/edd-vs-phd-in-education/
• Envisioning a New Ed.D., April 10, 2007, Inside Higher Ed, https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2007/04/10/envisioning-new-edd
• Fast Facts: Preprimary Education Enrollment, National Center for Education Statistics, https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=516, accessed April 2020
• Instruction and Curriculum Leadership, The University of Memphis, https://www.memphis.edu/icl/, accessed April 2020
• Prevalence of Doctoral Programs in Early Childhood Education, Electronic Journal of the American Association of Behavioral and Social Sciences, https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1hwSRkBh6ugaEgzTzByeXZfakE/view
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The 5 Best PhD in Early Childhood Education Online Programs 2024

Find your perfect school.

Key Takeaways:

• Online PhD programs in Early Childhood Education emphasize curriculum development, research, and leadership to improve early childhood education outcomes.
• Top programs offer flexibility for working professionals and focus on multicultural and social issues .
• These programs prepare graduates for careers in school administration, policy-making, and educational research, with potential salaries ranging from $90,000 to $190,000 .

Pursuing an online PhD in Early Childhood Education is set apart for professionals who have a passion for implementing positive changes in institutes that serve the youngest of our students. These specialists work to bring positive outcomes to the most impressionable group of people. Early childhood encompasses infants from birth through middle-school age. The growth and development of children have a direct influence on our society. It’s noted that the potential to learn new things peaks at age 3. PhD graduates set the course for the most optimal ways to enrich children. Their jobs is to:

• create policies
• implement new systems
• even work hands-on in preschools
• nursery schools

Several quality universities have low-cost online PhDs in Early Childhood Education. The top 5 online doctorates in early childhood education programs are listed here.

Featured Programs

Top 5 online phds in early childhood education methodology.

We’ve created a list of universities that specifically offer a flexible and affordable online doctorate in Early Childhood Education program. Each university must be accredited. The programs must be 100% online or have only a very nominal residency component. After we evaluated the schools, noting any special achievements or recognitions, we rated them on their raw affordability found on College Navigator.

#1. New Mexico State University

Las cruces, nm, online ece doctorate in curriculum and instruction.

School Profile

New Mexico State University’s College of Education boasts several high rankings from sites like BestSchools and Online Masters. NMSU offers a 100% online Early Childhood Education PhD in Curriculum and Instruction. NMSU is acknowledged by the US Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This PhD in Early Childhood Education and Development requires two prerequisites. Prospective students must have three years of teaching experience at the PreK-12 or post-secondary level and have earned a master’s degree in education. This program emphasizes teaching capable candidates how to motivate significant changes in education through classrooms, schools, and communities. The main focus of this flexible online degree program is to graduate students with a readiness for advanced early childhood curriculum development that will span multiculturally and address real-time social issues. It will take about 66 credit hours to complete. NMSU is number 1 on our list of top 5 online doctorates in early childhood education.

Tuition: $16,370

#2 National University

San diego, ca, online doctor of education (edd) in early childhood education.

National University, accredited by WASC, offers high-quality online degrees focusing on flexibility for working professionals. Its graduate programs have varied course starting dates, one-on-one professor-taught courses, and no weekly assignments or group assignments. National, number 2 on our list of top 5 online doctorates in early childhood education, offers an affordable online EdD in Early Childhood Education. Samples of courses in this EdD program are:

• Topics in Early Childhood Growth, Development, and Educational Programs
• Families, Communities, and Schools as Partners in Early Childhood Education 

The program will require 48 credit hours and will take approximately 3.5 years to complete. Graduates can expect to leave with a greater understanding of ways to enhance the growth of children at their earliest ages.

Tuition: $16,881

#3 Fielding Graduate University

Santa barbara, ca, phd in infant and early childhood development.

This university has an accredited, top-level online PhD in Early Childhood Education degree program. It’s a partner with the Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health (Alliance). Their IECD PhD has an emphasis on mental health and encompasses many areas of childhood development. Professional students are taught from an extensive curriculum that prepares them to continue revolutionizing areas that teach and aid in the best early childhood outcomes. The program is comprised of about 89 credit hours. A requirement for entering this flexible online doctorate program is a completed bachelor’s or master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. No GRE is required.

Tuition: $18,718

#4 Brenau University

Gainesville, ga, doctorate in elementary education, specialization in early childhood education.

Brenau has been on the US News and World Report list of Best Online Graduate Education Programs, Best Colleges for Your Money 2017-18 by Money Magazine, and a “Best Bang for the Buck” college by Washington Monthly. Among the 32% of total affordable online degrees is its Doctorate in Elementary Education with a specialization in Early Childhood Education. This online program is made up of 54 credit hours. It is accredited through the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Professional students can complete this flexible degree in as little as three years. Semesters are broken into cohorts with about 15 people in each. There is a small residency component that takes place on weekends only. Eligible candidates specializing in Early Childhood Education will need to have a master’s in a related area as well as an unrestricted, renewable teacher’s license in their state.

Tuition per credit hour: $988

#5 Concordia University-Chicago

River forest, il, edd/phd, leadership: specialization in early childhood education.

Concordia University-Chicago offers an affordable online PhD in Leadership with an Early Childhood Education Specialization. This degree program is designed for working professionals who’ve already been working with young children. It is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Comprised of about 65 credit hours, the program features courses like Trends, Issues, and Research in Early Childhood Education, Curriculum Models in Early Childhood Education, and Cultural and Socioeconomic Influences Affecting Diverse Learners. This affordable online program prepares its graduates for leadership jobs in early childhood development by means of higher education, leadership, and administration of organizations and policy, advocacy, and politics. This is number 5 on our list of top 5 online doctorates in early childhood education programs.

Tuition per credit hour: $735

What is the difference between a PhD in Elementary Education and a PhD in Early Childhood Education?

Though these specializations intersect, a PhD in Early Childhood education really focuses on children from birth through 3rd grade. There is an emphasis on infant development from birth both mentally, socially, and physiologically. Elementary education picks up when children reach school age, usually at about 5-12 years old. It’s also noted that there is another closely related wing of the doctoral degree programs in Early Education, which is Early Childhood Intervention. This involves explicitly targeting problems in development from an early age.

What are the career possibilities with a PhD in Early Childhood Education?

Usually, PhDs in ECE have careers in:

• school administration
• educational research
• curriculum design and implementation
• teacher preparation
• policy making

Sometimes they will choose to work within the classroom setting as well.

What is the best salary a PhD in Early Childhood Education should expect to make?

Doctors in Early Childhood Education can make $90,000 at entry-level and, with regular advancements, a potential of $190,000. This would make one of these top 5 doctorates in early childhood education online well worth it!

What is the importance of early childhood education and development?

Infants start learning from the time they are in the womb. They are learning how to bond with parents and others, which has a significant impact on their future. The greatest potential for learning is when the brain develops most of its neurons between birth and three years old. Focusing on physical, social, and psychological development at this age gives the best chance for the most significant outcomes in the child’s future and society as a whole.

How long does it take to complete an online PhD in Early Childhood Education?

Most universities require about 60 credit hours to complete their Doctorate in Early Childhood Education. This can take as little as three years to complete, up to as long as eight years. How fast a student graduates depends on what courses are required and whether the student chooses to work within a cohort or work independently. Cohorts are groups of students who go through the courses together, which is more vigorous with more set schedules, but it allows for quicker graduation times. How fast the student finishes and defends their dissertation also impacts graduation time. Many students should be getting this started within the third year. Some people will take longer.

How will a PhD student pay for an online Doctorate in Early Childhood Education?

The first thing a prospective PhD student will want to do is complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will give the student an idea of their eligibility for financial aid through low-interest loans or need-based grants. The universities also offer financial help, depending on academic eligibility or financial need.

There is a federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program and a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. These are available to graduates who either work for five years in low-income districts or for ten years in the public sector.

Generally, schools have financial aid money set aside for educators who hope to advance their education because well-trained educators are very valuable. Potential postgraduate students can check with their employers to see if this is available to them.

• EdD Online Programs
• Doctorate Educational Leadership Online
• Highest Paying PhD
• Online Colleges for Early Childhood Education
• Online Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
• Highest Paying Early Childhood Education Jobs

This completes our ranking of the Top 5 Online PhD in Early Childhood Education Programs.

Doctor of Philosophy Early Childhood Education

Expand your expertise and professional impact with an early childhood education ph.d. from oakland university..

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education: Early Childhood Education qualifies you for leadership positions in child development. You’ll acquire the credentials and experience to direct early childhood education centers, formulate policy, conduct research, design learning programs, and participate in high-level initiatives. Oakland’s Ph.D. in early childhood education takes an interdisciplinary approach, preparing you to work on collaborative teams with professionals in family services, public administration, disability services, and other aligned disciplines. Designed for working adults who have full-time jobs, our early childhood education doctoral program equips you to influence young children, families, teachers, and whole communities.

Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education: The Oakland University Advantage

Our early childhood education Ph.D. is aligned with guidelines set forth by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Available on either a part-time or full-time basis, our doctoral degree in early childhood education offers:

• Comprehensive professional training. You’ll develop well-rounded, applied expertise in all aspects of early childhood education. Focus areas include pedagogy, curriculum development, program design and evaluation, applied research, education policy, and learning technology.
• Robust field experience. Our early childhood education Ph.D. program includes field-based courses in policy/programming and education. Hand-picked to fit your prior experience and career objectives, these placements connect you with children and families from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Personalized faculty guidance. You’ll work closely with seasoned early childhood educators who support you academically and professionally. Oakland’s early childhood doctoral program is led by active researchers with wide-ranging specializations that include areas in child development, early childhood curriculum and policy, autism, developmental disabilities, parental support systems, infant, toddler and preschool programming, and cultural and linguistic diversity.
• A supportive culture. Our Ph.D. in early childhood education operates on a cohort model, with heavy emphasis on seminar courses that promote interaction and camaraderie. You’ll belong to a tight-knit community of colleagues and peers, developing long-lasting relationships. 
• Extensive community partnerships. Oakland University has a high profile and plays an active role in Southeast Michigan’s early childhood education community. You’ll have access to our broad network of partnerships with school districts, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and other early childhood education stakeholders.

What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education?

Graduates from our early childhood education Ph.D. program have an excellent record of professional success. Oakland alumni possess strong cultural competence, with the ability to serve diverse communities. You’ll enter the job market with a versatile skill set, demonstrated achievements, and a research portfolio, with qualifications to pursue careers in:

• College or university teaching
• School district consulting
• Government agency administration
• Nonprofit leadership
• Independent research
• Programming design
• Public policy

Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education: What You’ll Learn

The Early Childhood Education doctoral program consists of 80 credits beyond the master’s degree, divided as follows: 

• Foundation core (12 credits)
• Department core (32 credits)
• Cognate (20 credits)
• Dissertation (16 credits minimum)

The foundation core covers research methodology, analytical methods, and professional standards. The department core includes coursework in curriculum design, policy studies, special education, and theories of early learning, plus two field-based projects.

Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education Program Resources

• Admissions requirements
• Program requirements
• Department of Human Development and Child Studies
• School of Education and Human Services

Programs Related to the Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

Not sure if the early childhood education doctoral program is right for you? Check out these other graduate degree programs at Oakland, and contact our admissions team to discuss your options

• Ph.D. in Education: Educational Leadership
• Master of Education in Early Childhood Education

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College of Education & Human Development

University of missouri, early childhood education (phd).

This degree is a Doctorate of Philosophy in the Department of Learning, Teaching & Curriculum with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education .

This degree is part of the  Early Childhood Education Program  housed in the  Department of Learning, Teaching & Curriculum .

Goals of the PhD Program:

These goals are achieved through a combination of course-work, internships and authentic experiences with research, development and teacher education.

• Understand the field of early childhood education in terms of research, curriculum, policy, teacher development and student learning.
• Develop, carry out and report independent research in some area of early childhood education.
• Become outstanding teachers/advisors of college students.
• Understand the role of service in the university setting.

This degree is only offered on campus and does not lead to certification.

Degree Requirements

To receive a PhD degree in early childhood education, you must complete a minimum of 72 hours of coursework beyond a bachelor’s degree. This includes at least 18 hours of early childhood education core course and a minimum of 12 hours of research methodology.

Admission Requirements

You must meet two sets of minimum qualifications in order to be considered for admission:

• LTC requirements
• Office of Graduate Studies requirements

A committee of faculty members reviews your application’s credentials. You are not guaranteed admission even if you meet the minimum qualifications.

How to Apply

In addition to completing the Graduate Studies application , you must submit the following materials to the Department of Learning, Teaching and Curriculum :

• Unofficial transcript
• Statement of Purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• TOEFL scores (international students only)

Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Do you need the professional credibility an online associate degree in early childhood education can provide? Discover more about earning this degree.

Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Overview

Early childhood educators help shape the next generation of global citizens. These professionals may work in childcare centers, preschools, after-school programs, kindergartens, or other facilities where children live, play, or study.

While some careers in this field require only a high school education, more lucrative professions often demand postsecondary degrees. An online associate degree in early childhood education can launch your career with children or prepare you to advance to a leadership role.

This degree equips students with in-market skills such as differentiated instruction and behavior management strategies. Students also learn child psychology, educational theory, and instructional methodologies.

After graduating with this degree, you can transfer into a bachelor’s program in early childhood administration or another major. You might also pursue professional certifications in the field.

Choosing an Online Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Program

Take your time when selecting where to earn an online associate degree in early childhood education to make sure you find the right program. Many options exist – with a little patience and research, you can find a school that matches your specific needs.

If cost is a primary factor in your decision, you may want to start your search with public, in-state programs. These typically offer the most affordable tuition rates.

However, some distance programs offer the same tuition rate to all online students, regardless of residency status. The list below describes a few other factors worth considering when looking at associate programs.

The Best Online Associate Programs for Early Childhood Education

Gulf coast state college.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $1,750
• Out-of-state $7,064
• Retention Rate 0%
• Acceptance Rate 0%
• Students Enrolled 4,797
• Institution Type Public
• Percent Online Enrollment 46%
• Accreditation Yes

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College

• In-State $4,095
• Out-of-state $6,143
• Retention Rate 71%
• Students Enrolled 2,640
• Percent Online Enrollment 26%

Renton Technical College

• In-State $3,688
• Out-of-state $4,137
• Students Enrolled 3,755
• Percent Online Enrollment 21%

Chaminade University of Honolulu

• In-State $26,020
• Out-of-state $26,020
• Retention Rate 86%
• Acceptance Rate 95%
• Students Enrolled 2,167
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 55%

Eastern Wyoming College

• In-State $2,970
• Out-of-state $8,910
• Retention Rate 57%
• Students Enrolled 1,538
• Percent Online Enrollment 28%

Kennebec Valley Community College

• In-State $2,820
• Out-of-state $5,640
• Retention Rate 63%
• Students Enrolled 2,406
• Percent Online Enrollment 40%

Northeast Community College

• Out-of-state $4,170
• Retention Rate 68%
• Students Enrolled 5,258
• Percent Online Enrollment 39%

Concordia University St. Paul

• In-State $22,800
• Out-of-state $22,800
• Retention Rate 64%
• Acceptance Rate 98%
• Students Enrolled 5,137
• Percent Online Enrollment 59%

Georgia Military College

• In-State $6,165
• Out-of-state $6,165
• Students Enrolled 8,766
• Percent Online Enrollment 45%

Liberty University

• In-State $15,417
• Out-of-state $15,417
• Retention Rate 81%
• Acceptance Rate 51%
• Students Enrolled 85,586
• Percent Online Enrollment 92%

St. Petersburg College

• In-State $1,943
• Out-of-state $7,774
• Students Enrolled 28,853

Spokane Falls Community College

• In-State $2,875
• Out-of-state $3,680
• Students Enrolled 5,023
• Percent Online Enrollment 51%

Minnesota State College Southeast

• In-State $5,020
• Out-of-state $5,020
• Retention Rate 58%
• Students Enrolled 1,930
• Percent Online Enrollment 56%

Chippewa Valley Technical College

• Retention Rate 59%
• Students Enrolled 7,924
• Percent Online Enrollment 25%

Tallahassee Community College

• In-State $2,002
• Out-of-state $7,982
• Students Enrolled 11,683

Online Associate in Early Childhood Education Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Featured Early Childhood Education Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Accreditation for Online Early Childhood Education Associate Degrees

Colleges often consider accreditation when determining whether they will accept transfer credits, and employers may expect job applicants to hold a degree from an accredited institution.

When exploring online programs, you can look for institutional and programmatic accreditation. Institutions may hold regional or national accreditation. Both the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education coordinate accreditation, recognize accrediting bodies, and maintain lists of accredited schools.

In addition to institutional accreditation, programs can hold specialized accreditation to demonstrate that they meet standards in the field. Early childhood education programs may hold accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children , while teacher preparation programs may hold Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accreditation.

Courses in an Online Early Childhood Education Associate Program

Introduction to early childhood education.

This course introduces the theoretical and historical foundations of early childhood education. Topics include national, professional, and ethical standards; state regulations; career options; and program types. Students explore methods that can be used to create safe, appropriate, and responsive environments and activities for young children.

Child Development

This course explores the physical, social-emotional, and cognitive changes that occur in the first five years of life. Students learn to identify the skills young children typically acquire during this time and ways to support growth and optimize developmental outcomes.

Health and Wellness

This course emphasizes the health-related aspects of child development and age-appropriate behavior management techniques. Future caregivers learn to identify potential challenges children in their care may face. They also develop strategies to provide appropriate care, communicate with families, and promote wellness.

Exceptional Children

In this course, students explore ways to work with parents and other professionals to care for children with special needs, including those with physical/cognitive disabilities and gifted/talented children. Topics include methods for modifying the physical environment to ensure inclusion and strategies for adapting activities and instruction.

Language and Literacy

This course provides an overview of normal language development in young children. Students explore strategies to facilitate language development, identify appropriate children’s literature and its purpose, and present literature to young children in engaging ways.

Early Childhood Education Careers and Outlook

Many early childhood education majors may see themselves teaching preschool, leading a daycare, or serving as a teacher’s assistant in a kindergarten classroom. An associate degree may be the ticket to qualifying for one or more of these jobs.

In fact, early childhood education can get you started in a variety of careers. However, the selection of careers listed in the table below offers a representative sample of what you can expect from this major after graduation.

Like many professional fields, early childhood education typically rewards advanced degrees with higher salaries.

Educational Paths for Early Childhood Education Degrees

After earning an online associate degree in early childhood education, you may decide to continue your education by earning a bachelor’s degree. Some schools require their employees to hold at least a bachelor’s degree, especially if they want to teach kindergarten or higher grades.

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree can also pursue some leadership positions, increasing their salary potential and allowing workers to gain access to benefits like employer-paid healthcare. The three degrees below rare potential educational pathways aspiring teachers can follow.

Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education

The upper-level courses in a bachelor’s in early childhood education program go into greater depth than associate-level courses. These programs may prepare you to earn teacher licensure in your home state, qualifying you to work in a public elementary school.

Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education with a Montessori Education Concentration

The Montessori method revolutionized the education of young children by focusing on a child’s natural curiosity and emotional development. Montessori teachers receive specialized training during their teacher education programs, qualifying them for both traditional and Montessori classroom settings.

Bachelor’s in Physical Education

A child’s physical development proves just as important as their intellectual and emotional development. Physical education programs may satisfy the requirements for teacher licensure in your home state, opening the door to more career opportunities and a higher salary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Early Childhood Education Associate Degrees

What is the best degree for early childhood education.

The best early childhood degree depends on your career goals. An associate degree qualifies you to teach preschool or serve as a teacher’s assistant. If you want to teach elementary education, however, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in the field. Professionals who plan to serve as principals, counselors, or instructional leaders may need a master’s degree or higher.

How long does it take to get a degree in Early Childhood Education?

An associate degree in early childhood education typically takes two years. A bachelor’s degree usually requires four years although students with AP, CLEP, early college, or other transfer credits may finish in less time. An online associate degree in early childhood education, if largely asynchronous, could be a program you complete in less than two years depending on your other obligations.

Is an associate degree in Early Childhood Education worth it?

The average two-year public institution charges $4,000 for tuition and fees per year according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics . In August 2023, according to Payscale , people with an associate degree in early childhood education earned an average of $14.05 per hour. Is that return on investment worth it to achieve your personal and professional goals?

What is the difference between a CDA and an associate degree?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and an associate degree in early childhood education are both educational pathways, but they differ in terms of their scope, depth, and purpose. A CDA requires specific educational and professional experience, which each state determines separately. An associate degree requires two years of academic coursework in general education and the major field.

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