Early childhood development associate degree programs

Discover the latest elementary education methods with an online associate degree in early childhood development. With a two-year degree in the field, you can learn basic concepts to help pave the way for more advanced study, or how to turn your newfound credential into a rewarding career.

Associate degree in early childhood development

With early childhood education degree programs, you increase your job opportunities and expand your knowledge. Develop a strong foundation in the practice of effective child care and education, plus the theory behind that practice, with the following coursework:

• Child communication skills
• Child growth, development and psychology
• Children with special needs
• Health, safety and nutrition
• Infant and toddler care

While not all childcare careers require an associate degree in early childhood development, earning an education in the essential skills above can help your resume stand out from the rest.

Childcare careers for graduates of early childhood education degree programs

At the associate degree level, training in early childhood development helps prepare you for basic childcare and education positions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides the following salary information for childcare workers and early childcare educators:

Child care workers can be found in businesses, schools, child care institutions, and private households. About one-third are self-employed. May 2009, mean annual salary for child care workers: $20,940.

Preschool teachers can be found in day care centers, child developmental facilities, and schools, instructing students up to five-years-old in activities designed to promote growth. May 2009, mean annual salary for preschool teachers: $27,450.

Teacher assistants work in preschools as well as primary and secondary schools, helping teachers with grading, teaching, lesson plan development and parent conferences. May 2009, mean annual salary for teacher assistants: $24,280.

Child protection services assistants use their specialized knowledge in early childhood development to work with young children in potentially dangerous situations. May 2009, mean annual salary for social and human service assistants: $29,880.

Many graduates with associate degrees in early childhood development go on to earn a bachelor's degree, opening up more teaching opportunities and greater salary potential. While no degree program can guarantee a particular career or salary, hiring managers in childhood education fields often prefer or require formal education among applicants.

Earn an online associate degree in early childhood development

When you log on to complete your associate degree in early childhood development online, you expand your mind and boost your earning potential. What's more, you enjoy the freedom and flexibility of online education, which allows you to travel and keep work and family commitments. Many students even keep a full-time job while earning their degrees online.

The BLS reports that careers for child care workers are projected to rise 11 percent between 2008 and 2018. Make a commitment to future generations with an online degree. Explore early childhood development degrees and take your first steps towards being a part of a growing trend.

• Online Associate Programs