By definition, an early childhood education degree prepares students to work with children as young as infants to about the third grade. Individuals who work with children at this young age instruct and guide in various subjects including mathematics, spelling, reading, science and social studies. Furthermore, individuals who pursue this degree can also prepare lesson plans, report cards and arrange occasional meetings with parents to report on students' progress.
When researching potential schools, students can look at colleges that hold accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Teacher Education Accreditation Council. Accredited schools follow certain standards in class structure and quality of education. Regardless if the school is accredited, students may attend a physical or online college. However, most programs typically require a student teaching internship. Additionally, many schools ask students to major in their subject of expertise and also to enroll in an education program. Most programs culminate in a four-year bachelor's degree.
Coursework within an early childhood education degree program includes any and all classes they plan to teach to their students such as spelling, mathematics, science, art, reading and music. They also fulfill teaching requirements by taking philosophy, psychology and training methods courses. To graduate, students usually need to complete a student teaching internship followed by a licensure examination. Every state, including Washington, D.C., requires students to become licensed in order to teach in a public school, according to the United States Department of Labor.
Naturally, the career opportunities extended from an early childhood education degree include teachers who instruct children in preschool, kindergarten and elementary school. These careers remain in demand as teachers retire and new teachers move to better paying areas after a few years, according to the United States Department of Labor. The degree also prepares individuals who want to become child care workers, counselors, coaches, social workers, librarians and teacher assistants. With further education -- typically a master's degree or PhD -- individuals can also pursue a career as an education administrator.