Jumpstart
Your Career in Early Childhood Education:
Shaping Bright Futures
Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education
Why Choose Bluefield?
Earn your degree faster online
Respected online degree
Competitive tuition rates
Flexible start dates
Financial aid available
Program Overview
At Bluefield University, our Early Childhood Education degree programs are designed to empower future educators to nurture the minds and spirits of young learners. With a focus on developmentally appropriate practices, our curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing graduates to create enriching learning environments for children from birth to age eight. Our dedicated faculty, small class sizes, and commitment to a values-based education ensure that students receive personalized support as they embark on this rewarding journey. Whether pursuing an Associate or Bachelor’s degree, you will gain the skills, confidence, and passion needed to shape the next generation, making a lasting impact in the lives of children, families, and communities.
Your Future, Your Pace
Online learning empowers you to pursue your degree without putting your life on hold. Whether you’re working to advance your career, supporting your family, or taking the next step toward your dreams, an online program offers the flexibility to learn on your schedule.
With the ability to balance coursework alongside your personal and professional commitments, you can achieve your educational goals while continuing to focus on what matters most. It’s the perfect solution for those who want to invest in their future without compromising their present.
100% Online Program
The online Early Childhood Education degree offers the flexibility to earn your Bachelor’s entirely online, allowing you to pursue your passion for supporting young children’s growth and development without disrupting your life. Designed to deliver the same quality as an on-campus education, the program prepares you to guide and nurture children during their most formative years.
Whether you’re beginning your journey in early childhood education or seeking to deepen your expertise, this degree equips you with the tools to succeed. It also provides a strong foundation for advanced studies, should you choose to further your career in child development or related fields.
Quick Facts!
- Graduates can finish in as little as 1 year
- Tuition per credit hour $395
- Average Salary upon completion (varies by occupation) $50k-$53k
Curriculum & Opportunities
The Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at Bluefield University combines a well-rounded curriculum with hands-on learning to prepare students for meaningful careers in early childhood development. Courses focus on essential topics such as child development, effective communication with families, and creating engaging, developmentally appropriate activities, while practical experiences provide opportunities to apply your skills in real-world settings.
Graduates are equipped to become leaders in early childhood education, ready to support young learners and advocate for their developmental success. With a strong foundation and practical expertise, this program empowers you to guide and nurture children during their most formative years.
Faculty & Advantages
At Bluefield University, the Early Childhood Education program is taught by experienced faculty who are passionate about nurturing the next generation of early learning professionals. With extensive backgrounds in child development and early education, they bring real-world insights to the classroom, ensuring that coursework is practical and applicable to today’s early learning environments.
Small class sizes provide personalized mentorship and guidance, allowing you to learn directly from experts who understand the challenges and rewards of working with young children. This supportive approach equips you with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to succeed in shaping the lives of children and their families.
Cost & Timeline
Invest In Your Future
Tuition: The Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education program at Bluefield University offers a competitive tuition rate of $395 per credit hour, providing an affordable and accessible pathway to achieving your dream of becoming an inspiring and effective educator.
Flexible Start Dates
Next Start: July 2025 (Online)
Students have the flexibility to choose a start date that aligns with their schedule and learning preferences. New classes begin every 8 weeks through the year, allowing you to complete your degree sooner!
Efficient Completion
Full-Time: 1-4 years
With a streamlined curriculum and dedicated support, students can complete the Early Childhood Education program in as little as 1 year with qualifying transfer credit, allowing them to fast-track their journey to becoming impactful educators.
Financial Aid Available
99% of BU students qualify for financial assistance to help them earn their degrees. We will stop at nothing to help our students go further. See how we can help!
Unlock Your Potential
Many of our students receive scholarships or grants, making education more affordable. Don’t let finances hold you back. Discover the opportunities awaiting you!
Your Service, Our Honor
We proudly support our veterans with exclusive benefits to honor their service. Explore our comprehensive programs designed to set you on a path to success!
Chart Your Path Forward
Every year, numerous students take advantage of federal financial aid. We’re here to guide you through the process. Make your dream education a reality today!
Need To Know
The Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at Bluefield University prepares graduates with the skills and knowledge to support the growth and development of young children during their most critical years. This degree equips students to address real-world challenges in early learning environments, create engaging and developmentally appropriate activities, and foster a love for learning in children from birth to age eight.
In today’s evolving landscape of child development and care, the demand for compassionate and skilled early childhood professionals continues to grow. With this degree, graduates are ready to make a meaningful impact in communities, shaping bright futures for children and their families.
Top Opportunities for Early Childhood Education Graduates
Graduates in Early Childhood Education can pursue impactful careers in various educational and community roles, such as:
- Childcare Center Director: Lead and manage early learning centers, ensuring high-quality care and education for young children.
- Family Support Specialist: Work closely with families to provide resources and guidance that promote healthy child development.
- Early Intervention Specialist: Support children with developmental delays or disabilities, helping them reach key milestones.
- Curriculum Coordinator: Design and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences for early learners.
- Community Program Coordinator: Develop and oversee programs that support children and families in community settings.
These roles allow graduates to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families during critical developmental years.
Job Salary and Growth Opportunities
The field of early childhood education offers rewarding career paths and consistent demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, here’s what graduates can expect:
- Childcare Center Directors: Median salary of $53,790 per year, with a projected growth rate of 8% through 2031.
- Early Intervention Specialists: Salaries vary based on setting, with opportunities for growth in public and private sectors.
- Family Support Specialists: Median salary of $50,000 per year, with increasing demand as family-focused programs expand.
These roles provide job stability, opportunities for career advancement, and the chance to shape the lives of children and their families.
Pathways to Advanced Degrees
For those looking to expand their expertise, Bluefield University’s Early Childhood Education program provides a strong foundation for pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Child Development, Family Studies, or Educational Leadership. These programs can lead to higher-level roles like program directors or policy advocates, offering greater impact and earning potential.
Whether you aim to lead early learning programs, work directly with children and families, or advance to leadership roles, Bluefield University’s Early Childhood Education program equips you to succeed in diverse professional settings, making a lasting impact on the youngest learners.
At Bluefield University, we prioritize making the admissions process as simple and efficient as possible. Here’s how we help you start your journey toward a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education:
Step 1: Apply Online
Start by completing our easy online application. It only takes a few minutes, and with no standardized test requirements, the process is designed to focus on what truly matters—your potential and passion.
Step 2: Connect with Your Admissions Representative and Advisor
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll be introduced to an admissions representative who will guide you through the next steps. You’ll also meet with an academic advisor to discuss your goals, evaluate your previous education, and ensure you’re fully prepared to begin your classes.
This one-on-one support ensures a personalized experience, so you can hit the ground running when classes start.
Step 3: Fast-Track Your Education with Transfer Credits
At Bluefield University, we accept up to 90 transfer credits toward your degree, allowing you to build on your prior academic achievements and fast-track your education. By transferring eligible credits, you can save time and money, focusing only on the courses you need to complete your degree.
Whether you’re starting fresh or bringing credits from another institution, our admissions process is tailored to help you reach your goals with confidence. Take the first step today by applying online!
The Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education program at Bluefield University is designed to prepare students for impactful roles in early learning and child development. The curriculum blends foundational principles of child development with practical learning opportunities, ensuring graduates are equipped to support the growth and success of young children during their formative years.
Key Courses
- Foundations of Early Childhood Development
- Infant/Toddler/Child Development
- Safe & Healthy Settings for the Young Child
- Guiding Young Children
- Body-Brain Based Learning
- Observing & Assessing Young Children
- Program Development for the Young Child
- Family, School & Community Involvement
- Integrating Science, Math, & Social Studies into Early Childhood Education
- Literature for Young Children
These courses build essential skills in understanding child development, fostering positive learning environments, and creating engaging educational experiences tailored to young children.
Experiential Learning
The program emphasizes hands-on experience through Practicum I and II, where students complete 120 hours of on-site learning in early childhood settings. These practicums allow students to observe and interact with young children, apply assessment techniques, and practice creating developmentally appropriate learning activities.
This real-world exposure provides invaluable insights into the early learning environment, equipping graduates with the confidence and expertise needed to thrive in professional settings.
Competencies
Graduates of the program will excel in:
- Designing and managing safe, supportive, and engaging environments for young children
- Developing and implementing developmentally appropriate learning programs
- Observing and assessing children to inform individualized growth strategies
- Collaborating with families, schools, and community organizations to promote child development
- Integrating science, math, and social studies into early childhood education
- Demonstrating a commitment to ethical practices and advocacy for young learners
