Best Online Associate in Child Development Programs

An associate in child development prepares students for careers such as teacher assistants, preschool teachers, or childcare workers. Professionals can earn between $23,000 and $47,000 per year. Plus, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the need for preschool teachers to grow from 2020-2030.

Like an on-campus degree, an online associate in child development typically requires 60 credits and two years of full-time study. Many students find that attending a community college is an affordable route to earn an associate degree. Community college programs also prepare learners for a bachelor’s degree and high-paying careers.

Additionally, the top online schools make college more accessible than traditional options. However, online degrees are not easier than their on-campus counterparts, and they might not cost less. Online program costs vary depending on part-time or full-time enrollment status.

Calculating the true cost of an online program includes technology, books, supplies, and other expenses. Residency status may also affect the price.

Child development professionals need excellent speaking, listening, interpersonal, and decision-making skills. These jobs also require patience and a lot of physical energy. Ultimately, child development careers focus on education and advocacy.

Full-time students can complete an online associate degree in two years. However, many students have other obligations which make attending part-time classes easier to fit into their lives. But part-time learners need more time to graduate.

Most associate in child development programs require a supervised practicum or field experience. Students may also specialize in areas such as:

Students can pursue different tracks, including an associate of arts (AA), associate of science (AS), or associate of applied science (AAS). An AA is a foundational degree that typically suits transfer students. The AS is best for students who want to start their careers and continue their education after gaining experience.

An AAS focuses on specific skills and knowledge to prepare graduates for work. However, all credits earned from an AAS may not necessarily transfer to another program.

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

Studies include fostering and developing relationships between the child and their family, community, and educators. Students develop effective listening and communication skills and learn about working with diverse families and communities.

Students explore age-relevant behaviors and classroom management strategies to create developmentally appropriate rules and expectations. They also develop and learn to model positive behavior specific to early childhood education.

Coursework focuses on holistic child development, including cognitive, language, physical, emotional, and social skills. Students learn to identify and analyze childhood growth and stages from birth to adolescence.

This course explores education and child development trends. It covers current events, professional development, and assistive technologies. Course topics may focus on a specific childhood development aspect, concept, or problem.

Students learn how to plan and teach a developmentally appropriate curriculum. This course meets the Council for Professional Recognition CDA credential standards to foster social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.

The BLS projects employment of preschool teachers to grow 18% between 2020-2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This projection amounts to about 59,600 openings on average each year over the decade.

Similarly, the BLS projects job openings for social and human service assistants to grow 17%, with about 59,100 openings during the same period. Median salaries for associate degree-holders in child development vary by industry, experience, certifications, and licensure.

Professionals in child development can work in education and social welfare. They may find employment in public and private schools, individual and family services, local governments, and state governments.

See where an associate in child development degree can take you. Learn more about child development careers.

Childcare workers’ requirements vary by state, setting, employer, and job title. For example, childcare workers in a Head Start program must meet specific certification requirements, which vary by job title. An associate in child development and a CDA credential could qualify professionals for higher-level positions.

Median Annual Salary: $25,460

Teacher assistants in public schools need an associate degree and may also need to pass a state or local assessment. Some jobs require CPR, first aid, and other certifications. Professionals who pursue additional education, training, and a license or certification could secure teaching jobs.

Median Annual Salary: $28,900

Preschool teachers typically need an associate degree. Some states require preschool teachers to obtain the CDA credential. Teachers must hold a license to teach preschool through third grade in public schools, although requirements vary by state. Most states also expect teachers to continue their education and to maintain licensure.

Median Annual Salary: $31,930

Human services agencies often focus on working with children, such as in child welfare and school social work. Requirements vary for social and human service assistants, although some employers prefer workers with relevant experience or education. A certificate or an associate in child development may increase a candidate’s chances of being hired.

Median Annual Salary: $35,960

Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree or postsecondary coursework in early childhood education. However, requirements differ by state and may include CPR, first aid, and CDA certifications. Candidates with an associate degree in child development plus experience may qualify, especially if they plan to continue their education.

Median Annual Salary: $49,160

Graduates with an online associate in child development often use it as a starting point for their career. An associate degree can prepare learners for a bachelor’s degree in child development.

CDA certification helps early childhood educators meet state and national professional requirements and learn best teaching practices. Many associate in child development programs include CDA preparation, focusing on the eight subject areas needed for certification.

Some of the study areas include how to plan a safe and healthy learning environment and to observe children’s behavior. The CDA certification also requires 480 hours of work experience with children matching the age group in the application. Additionally, it’s good practice for child development professionals to hold CPR and first aid certification.