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The 19 Best Online Associate in Child Development Degrees

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online associate in child development

With over 47.6 million children zero to 11 years old in the United States, the demand for individuals with online associate in child development degrees will be robust in the coming years!

With a degree in early childhood development and/or education, you can be instrumental in the optimum physical, emotional, and cognitive development among children. 

From birth until eight years old, children experience several phases of development, including learning to walk and talk, play and learn and behave. Child development professionals devote their careers to researching these phases of development and their impact on children, as well as the best ways to promote their health and wellness. 

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Quick Summarization

The best online associate degree programs in Child Development and Early Childhood Education are excellent pathways toward fulfilling careers in these disciplines. These programs provide quality online higher education for both traditional and non-traditional students, including working adults and current practitioners seeking career advancement. 

The associate degree in early childhood education particularly opens up careers as early childhood educators in a wide range of learning environments. The associate in child development degree has its fair share of merits, too, including career opportunities in research, education, psychology, and social work.


Methodology

The quality of education and training that Child Development professionals get cannot be overstated! In dealing with or educating children in their most sensitive phase, practitioners must have learned the basics of the discipline and thoroughly understand how to shape them into upright individuals who recognize and utilize their skills to contribute to society.

And because choosing the right Associate in Child Development degree is crucial, we present our list of the best options for you. The online programs and colleges on our list stand out because they each take pride in these features:

  • 100% online or partially online coursework and classes so that learners have the option to schedule their classes at their convenience,
  • Delivers outstanding curricula that expose students to the introductory and fundamental concepts surrounding Child Development, focusing on the latest theories, applications, and ethical practices in the evolving field,
  • Features Transfer Path agreement programs with colleges for every Associate in Child Development graduate’s easy transition to a four-year bachelor’s degree,
  • Employs Child Development experts as instructors known for their expertise in and contribution to the field,
  • A Learning Management System that ensures a well-rounded learning experience for each online student, coupled with technical support and access to online resources,
  • Provides eligible online Associate in Child Development students tuition discount and financial aid options,
  • Earned proper accreditation, providing high standards of Child Development instruction,
  • Well-regarded in communities and industries that utilize the principles of Child Development as a discipline.

Check out our Methodology page for more information.


19 Most Popular Online Associate in Child Development Degree Programs

online associate in child development

Purdue University Global 

online associate in child development

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Early Childhood Development degree program prepares students for fulfilling work in many early childhood settings. Learners in the online associate degree program are well-advised to put in at least 15 hours of study time per week. The 10-week term makes it more convenient for students to complete the degree program in two years of full-time study. 

The 90-credit (60-semester credits) associate degree online program also has an early childhood education emphasis with courses in early childhood curriculum planning and introduction to early childhood education. Furthermore, the courses focus on building inclusive classrooms and ensuring the overall health and nutrition of children. 

The associate degree online in child development program prepares learners for the challenges of working with diverse populations of children and their families. Students also learn to apply theory into practice while earning their online associate degree in early childhood development. 

Prospective students may earn credits for prior coursework from community colleges, life and work experiences, and military experience. Students can apply for financial aid. Graduates may apply their online associate degree in early childhood development toward a bachelor’s degree program. 


Point University 

online associate in child development

The entirely online Associate of Arts in Child Development degree program allows students flexibility in their program of study, particularly in their course load. Full-time students can complete the 60-credit program in two years. 

Students who want to earn an online associate degree in child development must complete the academic requirements of general education, core, and elective courses. These include early childhood education teaching principles and practices, as well as child development, educational psychology, and humanities. 

Graduates of the child development program can plan appropriate activities and create environments based on children’s ages. Their skill sets also include sensitivity to the diverse socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds of children and their families. Graduates are eligible for the Education Teacher Certificate, too. 

Prospective students to the online associate degree program must have at least a 2.0 GPA on their high school transcripts. All students in the child development online program are subject to the same tuition rate, but online students also receive a nearly 40% discount on on-campus tuition. 


South Texas College 

online associate in child development

The online Associate of Applied Science Child Development/Early Childhood degree program appeals to future leaders in the profession! With the right academic foundation, graduates have the opportunity to establish successful careers in the diverse field of child development. Graduates work with diverse populations of children and their families, too, from infants to preschoolers, as well as neurotypical and neurodivergent children. 

Graduates who earned a degree in early childhood development from STC become productive professionals with influential contributions to the field. Their excellence in child care and family services is a testament to the outstanding quality of education and hands-on training at STC. 

Students earn 60 credit hours in their pursuit of a degree in early childhood development. The courses focus on both the early childhood education and child development disciplines, particularly on their close relationship. Aside from the didactic courses, students also prepare for the CDA. 


Foothill College 

online associate in child development

The Associate of Arts in Child Development degree program at Foothill is a transfer degree, meaning its credits can be transferred to Elementary Teacher Education AA-T and others. Students not only learn about child development and its appropriate interventions but also prepare for jobs as early childhood educators. 

In fact, the curriculum in the child development program meets the professional requirements for early childhood programs and their corresponding jobs! Graduates have the opportunity to pursue higher education and careers in other fields, such as social work, human development, and child psychology. 

Students in the 90-unit online program complete core courses, including child growth and development from prenatal to adolescence. The degree in early childhood development will be awarded only after completion of a practicum student teaching period. 


Liberty University 

online associate in child development

The 100% online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education program at Liberty has 8-week courses that make it more convenient for working students to keep up with their online education. The 60-credit hour early childhood education program has an average 1.5-year time-to-completion, which can be made shorter with up to 75% transfer credits. 

Students gain the know-how for success as early childhood educators with courses in the fundamentals of early childhood education, educational philosophy, and wellness among children. 

Note that the associate degree in early childhood education doesn’t result in eligibility for licensure. The early childhood education online program offers military benefits, such as $250/credit hour tuition. 

Liberty offers eight start dates throughout the year, meaning it is among the most accessible early childhood education online programs. Prospective students must check out the admission requirements, including high school transcripts. 

The associate degree in early childhood education program has National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) accreditation. Liberty itself is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).


University of Cincinnati Online

online associate in child development

The Associate of Applied Science or AAS in Early Childhood Care & Education at UC prepares learners for careers in early childhood settings, including public and private schools. There’s an emphasis on diversity and inclusion in learning environments, including the roles of families in the success of early childhood education. 

The two-year degree in early childhood education program is accepted in a wide range of workplaces, too, from a Head Start program to child care centers. While the courses result in students learning about early childhood education principles and practices, the degree doesn’t qualify graduates for teacher licensure. But students can earn a degree in early childhood education either full-time or part-time. 

The early childhood education online program provides admission-to-graduation support, including Student Success Coordinators. All students also receive a 24% discount on instructional fees in addition to eligibility for other financial aid. 

Students can choose from three sub-plans in the early childhood education online program – preschool, infant and toddler, and administration. 

Graduates meet the requirements for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential while also earning a degree in early childhood education. The early childhood education online program has an internship requirement. 


Ohio State University Online 

online associate in child development

OSU’s Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education degree program is an excellent pathway for aspiring early childhood educators. Courses in the early childhood education online program include child development, family development, and management of behavior. 

The degree leads to Ohio’s Associate Licensure in Pre-Kindergarten Education, meaning graduates of the early childhood education program can teach in preschool and childcare programs. Graduates can also apply all their earned credits toward a bachelor’s degree in human development and family science. 

Students must comply with the academic requirements of the 60-credit program before being awarded the associate degree in early childhood education. Financial aid from scholarships and military benefits are available. 


Indiana Wesleyan University 

online associate in child development

The online Associate of Science (AS) in Early Childhood Education program IndWes prepares learners to work in learning environments for children from birth until third grade. Students gain professional know-how of child growth and development alongside best practices in classroom management. 

Students who already have the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential can skip the first five classes in the online early childhood education program. The 60-credit early childhood education online program includes core courses in educator preparation, including preschool and primary grade experiences. The degree in early childhood education is granted upon completion of a service-learning capstone course, too. 

Aspiring early childhood educators without a valid teaching license must submit to a criminal history background check to be admitted to the online early childhood education program. 


Penn Foster Career College

online associate in child development

Penn Foster’s online Early Childhood Education associate degree program enables students to establish successful careers as early childhood educators and other occupations. This is a four-semester program with a 63-credit curriculum, and it’s considered among the best for its exceptional academic quality. 

The early childhood education program covers the fundamentals of education at the preschool level. The courses include a curriculum for early childhood education, guidance in early childhood education, and working with children with special needs. 

Students in the online early childhood education program gain hands-on experience through a 300-hour field experience. Graduates are then well-prepared for entry-level jobs as teachers’ aides, preschool teachers, and childcare workers with their well-rounded online early childhood education. 


North Central Missouri College

online associate in child development

North Central Missouri College offers a fully online Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development program. This 61-credit program will equip you with the right skills to work right after graduation. The program may be completed in as fast as two years, after which you may pursue various roles in the field. 

Aside from general education courses, you’ll also take different behavioral courses. The online early childhood development curriculum is centered on developing an extensive knowledge of developmental approaches, particularly understanding and dealing with different types of children in the classroom setting. 

Certain coursework may be added to your program if you plan to finish the Child Development Credential (CDA).

After completing the program, you’ll be qualified for entry-level positions dealing with child care and development. You may work as an assistant teacher or as a teacher in both public and private schools. This program is also perfect if you’re looking to open your child care center or become a school director. 

With North Central Missouri College, you’ll receive the right guidance and mentorship through their online advisors. This will help you stay on track while finishing the courses online. You’ll also get the right guidance on which academic pathway best suits you. 


University of Arizona Global Campus

online associate in child development

The University of Arizona Global Campus is one of the leading online schools in the country. If you’re looking to have an edge in the field of childcare, the UA Global Campus offers an Associate of Arts program in Early Childhood Education

Be one step closer to establishing a good foundation in childhood education by taking up the 67-credit program. On top of the general and major courses, you’ll also be able to select electives that will allow you to choose an area of specialty in the field.   

Here, you’ll learn different strategies that help create a conducive learning environment for children. Cover courses in diversity and dealing with special learners. Plus, grow your professionalism as you gear up to become a teacher aide, camp counselor, or recreation coordinator. 

In terms of transfer credits, the university accepts up to 49 credits from accredited institutions and military service. Similarly, you may transfer accredited credits once you complete the program and decide to continue to a Bachelor’s degree. 


Concordia University St. Paul

online associate in child development

Concordia University St. Paul offers a flexible online program for future early childhood educators. Its Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education is a sure way to expose different theoretical perspectives and concepts that will help you understand children’s needs. 

The university offers asynchronous classes and various online learning resources to help with your program. You’ll also be mentored by approachable faculty throughout your program to receive the right support.  

Aside from offering affordable tuition, the 72-credit program may be finished in two years. Some courses will help you establish effective family relationships to work hand-in-hand with parents. Study the works of various child experts to learn effective developmental practices and develop lesson plans.  

CSP accepts up to 40 transfer credits from accredited schools within the region. By transferring credits, you may be able to finish the online degree faster since the core courses can be completed in less than a year, and your general education courses will be affected by the credits you transfer.

To apply, you need to submit an online application and official transcripts. No need to pay any application or processing fees. Plus, you can opt for a free evaluation of your previous credits to check for eligibility. 


Baker College

online associate in child development

Shape young minds through Baker College’s Early Childhood Education associate’s degree. This fully online program will help you have a deeper understanding of what children need and how you can positively impact their growth. 

With this program, you’ll be able to observe and assess various classroom practices and make the right improvements. Develop classroom plans and curricula that are appropriate for children from different backgrounds. 

Work as a program director or preschool teacher and develop different programs to help children learn and explore new things. The curriculum comprises 60 credits, with 45 dedicated to relevant courses related to molding future early childhood educators.  

Classes are taught through Online Live, an online platform that lets you access synchronous sessions. Aside from the real-time discussions, you’ll be able to conveniently set meetings with your peers and instructors. 

Baker’s associate program is accredited by the accrediting commission of the National Association for the Education of Young Children. This means that the school’s curriculum has met the association’s standards and is of great quality.  


Arkansas Tech University

online associate in child development

Start your childcare and childhood education career by enrolling at Arkansas Tech University’s online associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Learn the basics of child development and learning while being exposed to various classroom strategies.  

Your role as a child development teacher will impact the children’s moral outlook and self-esteem. That’s why you must take up a program that promotes certain skills aside from learning key child education concepts and theories. This program allows you to grow your interpersonal skills by providing courses in communication and composition.

Online classes will be taken through Blackboard, an online course management system that lets you attend distance learning classes and submit assignments. There are also online organizations and even virtual events that allow you to meet new friends. 

As part of the program, you’ll be mentored by competent faculty and receive academic coaching, so you’ll be guided at every step. 

After completing the 60-credit curriculum and getting sufficient knowledge in childcare, you may pursue a career in recreation, teaching, or child caregiving. The program’s coursework also meets the guidelines set for the Child Development Association (CDA) credential. This may help you when applying for positions that require the credential.  


North Central Michigan College

online associate in child development

Get the right training to become a child development professional through North Central Michigan College’s Early Childhood Education programs. Its Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education will prepare you to teach and care for children across different early levels. 

As part of this 66-credit program, students will gain a foundational understanding of educational practices that can be applied in both the classroom and the community. The degree program also includes electives where you can choose to focus on business or education courses.  

The curriculum will also prepare you for a 4-year degree within the college or if you decide to transfer to another university. Aside from teaching in child care centers, this degree will help you land various career opportunities, like working as a social worker and a homeschooling service provider. 

Since the program is fully online, you’ll be using Brightspace, a virtual learning platform where you can complete your coursework and reach out to your instructor. To help with your online journey, NCMC also has a Distance Learning Helpdesk that will assist you in using various online tools and troubleshooting different issues.


Weber State University

online associate in child development

The Early Childhood Associate of Applied Science offered by Weber State University is a fully online degree program, and students can access their didactic coursework at any time of day. This AAS degree program prepares students for various positions in early childhood, such as Assistant Head Start and Early Head Start Teacher, Preschool Teaching Assistant, or Paraprofessional classroom aide.

Weber State’s Early Childhood AAS is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Early Childhood Higher Education Programs and is the only one to be so within Utah. The program’s curriculum includes courses on child development, young children’s learning, teacher planning, and early childhood curriculum assessment and instruction.  

The AAS degree program can be earned within two years, after which students can pursue early childhood education careers or stay at Weber State to earn a Bachelor’s Degree. Aside from the online didactic coursework, the program includes a practical experience component at the Melba S. Lehner Children’s School.


Delgado Community College

online associate in child development

Delgado Community College’s Child Development Associate degree program is offered as a  100% online program. It provides students with suitable preparation to sit for the Child Development Associate (CDA) examination administered by the Council of Professional Recognition.

The CDA credential is nationally-recognized for childcare professionals and is meant to demonstrate childcare professionals’ skills in being able to nurture children’s physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development. As such, Delgado’s CDA curriculum trains students with knowledge of child development and the standard procedures and strategies important to providing a safe and enriching environment for childcare. 

The curriculum also trains students on skills for establishing positive relationships with school personnel, students, and their families and management strategies for effective childcare facility management.

Graduates of the program can pursue various career paths after earning their associate degree, including positions in Daycare and Child Development Centers or as in-home daycare providers. Graduates who earn their CDA can also go on to pursue teaching careers in preschool and elementary.


Southern State Community College

online associate in child development

The Early Childhood Education Associate Degree program offered by Southern State Community College in Ohio spans four semesters/2 years and can be completed entirely online. This program prepares students to perform a variety of roles as teaching professionals, primarily tasks aimed at creating an environment conducive to promoting children’s optimal growth and development.

Southern State’s Associate degree program curriculum covers a wide array of topics that aim at the end goal of child growth and development. Courses include Technology in Educational settings, courses focused on teaching specific subjects such as Science & Math, Social Studies, Literature, and Creative Arts, as well as necessary skills and strategies for observing and assessing children and guiding their behavior and learning. 

This degree program is also suitable for pursuing a bachelor’s degree in an educational field. In the case of Ohio, their early elementary bachelor’s degree covers the Pre-K to 5th-grade period, and it would take around three more years to earn.


Pennsylvania Western University – Clarion

online associate in child development

PennWest Clarion’s Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education degree program is an online-only program that allows students to balance their coursework and full-time employment needs. The degree program contains 60 credit hours and spans two years/four semesters.

The PennWest AS degree program trains its students to become competent professional educators that are not only highly knowledgeable but also have the right skills that they can employ in developing the ideal learning environment through knowing and managing child behavior and needs, developing appropriate learning material, and professional communication and engagement with families and communities. The curriculum includes courses on child development, motor development and learning, child development and guidance, and more.

PennWest’s AS in Early Childhood Education is accredited by the NEAYC’s Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs.


online associate in child development

What Are the Similarities and Differences Between Child Development and Early Childhood Education? 

Child development refers to the area of study that tracks the physical, psychological, and cognitive growth among children. Its professional practitioners also study the impact of families and communities on child development and build awareness through appropriate educational programs.

Their work also involves the creation, implementation, and evaluation of prevention and intervention programs for children with special needs and extraordinary talents. 

Early childhood education has a more specific focus – the development of learning knowledge and skills among children during their pre-elementary grades. Its professional practitioners can be found in various learning environments, too, such as public and private schools, childcare centers, and church nursery schools, even private homes. 

From the above-mentioned definitions, we can conclude a few similarities between child development and early childhood education as areas of study. 

Similarities Between Disciplines 

Professionals in the fields of child development and early childhood education work toward a better understanding of the growth and development of children. Their shared goals also include provisioning children with safe and secure environments for learning that will promote their optimum development toward adolescence.

Their occupations are also concerned with offering essential resources for children and families with disorders, diseases, and disabilities. 

online associate in child development
Differences Between Disciplines 

While experts in childhood development and early childhood education share the same overall goals, there are several key differences revealed upon closer inspection. First, child development has broader coverage than early childhood education.

The former examines children’s growth from birth, while the latter is more focused on providing children with the best possible learning environments, usually starting in nursery or preschool. 

Second, early childhood education emphasizes student engagement in various learning and development activities. Child development practitioners extend beyond these parameters by identifying and solving issues among children. 

Third, the result of the differences in roles and responsibilities is the range of workplaces where child development and early childhood professionals can establish careers. Individuals with early childhood education associate degrees mainly work in school and childcare settings. Child development practitioners can work in a wider range of settings, from childcare to healthcare facilities. 

Prospective students seeking either a degree in early childhood education or child development must carefully consider these similarities and differences before making their choice. Their choice will have an impact on the trajectory of their professional careers. 

What Can You Expect from an Online Associate in Child Development Program?   

With a minimum of 60 credit hours, a typical online associate degree in a child development program has a two-year average time to completion. Both the number of credits and duration represent half of a typical bachelor’s degree program. Most associate degree programs allow for the transfer of credits to a full undergraduate degree. 

The ideal candidates for early childhood education online programs are individuals with a passion for teaching children and contributing to their growth and development. 

Admission Requirements 

Most early childhood education associate programs have easy-to-meet admission requirements. These include a high school diploma with official high school transcripts or a GED equivalent, an application form, and an admission essay. 

Credits from CLEP and DANTES exams, among others, are usually accepted. This means shortening your stay in the early childhood education or child development online program chosen. 

online associate in child development
Curriculum and Courses  

While the course sequence and descriptions vary between early childhood education associate degree programs, there are common online courses, too. Keep in mind that academic quality is a foremost consideration in your school search, and said quality could be concluded from the curriculum. 

Early Childhood Behavior Management

The course covers classroom management strategies based on age-relevant learning. Students also learn to become role models in positive behavior in early childhood education settings. 

Child Growth and Development

Students learn the best practices in holistic child development, including physical, social, and cognitive skills. The course also focuses on the phases of child development from birth to adolescence. 

Special Topics in Child Development 

Early childhood educators and child development practitioners must also be well-versed in dealing with exceptional children using assistive and automated technology. 

Curriculum and Instruction

Aspiring early childhood educators must learn developmentally appropriate practices in teaching children in various learning environments. The course may cover curriculum planning and instruction implementation. 

Family, School, and Community

Child development programs look closely at the relationships between children and their environment, including their families, communities, and school. Interpersonal skills in dealing with diverse populations are developed here, too. 

Many online associates in child development and early childhood education programs have an educator preparation component, usually through teaching practicums. Aspiring early childhood educators gain hands-on experience in this way. 

online associate in child development
Online Learning 

Online students in child development and early childhood education degree programs use automated technology alongside traditional learning methods. 

Learning Management System

Online child development and early childhood education programs use one of several LMS to access their coursework, interact with professors and peers, and conduct other learning activities. Examples include Blackboard and Canvas. 

Course Materials

Both traditional and digital course materials are used in online child development and early childhood education programs. Most materials can be accessed 24/7, and courses can be asynchronous. 

Individual Assignments and Group Projects

Online education has equally rigorous academic standards as its on-campus counterparts. Students are expected to meet deadlines for individual assignments and group projects and meet minimum grade requirements for their online courses. 

Learners in child development and early childhood education degree programs should think twice about cheating and other forms of circumventing assessments. Proctored exams are among the technologies used to prevent cheating. 

Cost of Attendance 

Online associates in child development and early childhood education programs are fairly affordable, particularly in community colleges. While the per-credit-hour rates vary widely, most online programs have financial aid options for online students.

Level of Difficulty 

Don’t dismiss an online degree as being easy-peasy because its time and energy commitments can be just as challenging! Earning your child development or early childhood education degree isn’t particularly difficult, but you must still put in the work. 

While there are no uber-challenging STEM courses, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills are just as crucial in student success. Be prepared to write lesson plans and other documents that can take up your time, too. 

online associate in child development

Child Development and Early Childhood Education Careers and Salaries 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics has confirmed that the career opportunities for individuals with child development or early childhood education degrees are aplenty! Employment of preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school teachers has a robust projected growth rate of 1% (2022-2032). Employers include public and private schools, Head Start programs, and childcare centers. 

Childcare Workers ($28,520/year

Childcare workers ensure that children are safe and secure while in their care, as well as address their developmental needs. 


Teacher Assistants ($30,920/year)

An associate degree is a must for teacher assistants in public schools, while private schools may have different requirements. Their main duties include assisting licensed teachers and ensuring effective classroom management. 


Social and Human Service Assistants ($38,520/year

An associate degree in child development or early childhood education can also lead to jobs in human services agencies. Social and human service assistants provide a wide range of client services like coordination of benefits. 


Preschool Teachers ($35,330/year

Early childhood educators can be employed in either public or private schools, but their main duties are similar. Teaching basic skills, monitoring for signs of learning and development issues, and keeping records of children’s progress are common.  


Family Resource Advocates ($47,863/year

Families may require assistance in finding proper education and childcare services for their children or need financial assistance for these services. Family resource advocates are the professionals for the job. 

online associate in child development

online associate in child development

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is an Associate in Child Development or an Early Childhood Education degree? 

Both online degrees are excellent preparation for aspiring and current practitioners in the child development and early childhood education disciplines. But remember that each discipline has a specific focus that differentiates one from the other. 

Note, too, that an associate in applied science degree tends to have a direct-to-employment application, while the associate in arts and the associate in science are transfer degrees. 

Is an Associate degree in Child Development or Early Childhood Education worth it? 

Yes, it is! With numerous career opportunities in child care, school, and healthcare settings, an associate degree in either discipline will pay for itself. Plus, you can transfer most, if not all, credits earned from the associate degree into a bachelor’s degree for career advancement purposes. 

Does an online Associate degree have value in the job marketplace? 

Yes, it does! The stigma surrounding online degrees has been largely eliminated. Plus, your diploma will likely not show the word “online.” 

Are there professional organizations for aspiring Child Development and Early Childhood Education students to join? 

Yes, there are plenty of professional organizations that present exceptional networking opportunities for online students. Examples include the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Childhood Education International (CEI), and the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC).

Networking is of crucial importance in establishing a successful career because of the referrals for jobs, continuing education, and industry events. 

What are the ways to advance your career? 

While an online associate degree in child development or early childhood education will open doors of opportunities, you should think ahead in terms of career advancement. Seek teacher licensure and certifications, attend conferences and workshops, and stay abreast of industry developments.  

What are some of the skills acquired through Child Development or Early Childhood Education programs? 

Since the programs are focused on child development, you’ll be able to learn and value the skill of building positive relationships among children and even with their parents. With this skill, you’ll be able to utilize different ways to connect with anyone. Aside from building relationships, you’ll also become more observant.

To properly assess children and their needs, you’ll need to sharpen your observation skills. Understanding children is key to creating the right approaches in mentoring. Lastly, effective classroom management results from good daily practices and daily decisions. The program will help you become good decision-makers inside and outside the classroom. 

Will an Associate’s degree help me land a job in Childcare more than a High School diploma? 

Working in child care centers requires certain skills and knowledge when dealing with children. That’s why taking up courses related to child development or early childhood education is important. While a High School diploma may help you land several entry-level positions, an associate’s degree will help you start a career in child care.

After completing an associate’s program, you’d have the option to work and gather experience, continue to a bachelor’s degree, or even both since there are flexible online programs that enable you to work and study simultaneously.


online associate in child development

Key Takeaways 

  • Establish a solid foundation for your successful career with an online associate in child development or early childhood education.
  • Career opportunities abound in the present and well into the future, but you should also think about career advancement with higher education. 

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Malcolm Peralty
Chief Editor