An online doctoral degree in early childhood education may provide students with an understanding of the theoretical concepts of childhood education. In this three to five-year program, students may learn how to develop knowledge through analysis and research, build a curriculum for the young child, and understand the development of young children. Program coursework may consist of dissertation preparation courses as well as core education classes such as learning and instruction, social change, and innovation in education.

Upon completion of the program, students may seek entry to upper-level employment in the education field. Doctoral-level graduates may find career opportunities in local school districts, universities, charter schools, childcare centers, and private education facilities.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree at minimum
• Program Length: Three to five years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment
• Projected Employment Growth: 25% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for doctoral-level early childhood education programs may consist of research-dense dissertation courses alongside core early childhood education coursework. These courses may teach students how to identify learning difficulties, gain an understanding of the development of individuals, and utilize innovative education technology. Core early childhood education classes may include the following:

• Learning and Instruction
• Educational Organizations and Contexts
• Principles of Social Change
• Social Change in Education
• Assessment and Accountability in Education
• Innovation and Change in Education
• Theories of Intelligence, Learning, and Motivation

Career Options

Doctoral-level graduates may explore career opportunities in district administration, education supervision, post-secondary education, public school systems, and charter school districts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in childhood education are expected to increase by 25% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Childcare Center Director
• University Professor
• Academic Administrator
• State Education Administrator
• Education Research Analyst

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook