University of Phoenix offers a master's degree program in early childhood education both online and through a number of campuses nationwide. The curriculum focuses on instructional and teaching methods, assessing students' progress, theories, growth and development and the impact of family types and cultural diversity on early childhood education and students' success. Students undergo their student teaching under the mentoring eye of a faculty advisor, teaching in both classrooms that serve students from birth to preschool and preschool to third grade.
The Post University Online offers a certificate program in early childhood education comparable to a Child Development Associate Credential. The program focuses on meeting the needs of young students with an introduction to teaching and the basic principles of early childhood development. Check with your local school district to see what certification and education they require for teachers before enrolling in any associate or certificate programs. Some school districts require teachers to have at least a bachelor's degree in education.
The Erikson Institute is an online program for teachers looking to earn a master's degree in early childhood education. The program is designed for teachers who are at least three years post baccalaureate with experience in teaching. The program takes 28 months and is structured as a cohort program where students collaborate with their peers. The curriculum seeks to help students understand how family, culture and community interacts with a student's success and how to become a better teacher with new methodologies.
Ashford University offers an online program for a bachelor's degree in early childhood education. The program prepares students for teaching with a focus on early childhood development, program development and teaching basics. They also offer a specialization in infant and toddler care. Ashford University has a partnership with the Rio Salado program in Arizona allowing students upon degree completion to continue with the teacher preparation courses through Rio Salado in order to be licensed in the state of Arizona.