Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2023

BEST ONLINE BACHELOR'S IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT

An online bachelor’s in child development degree program allows graduates to pursue careers in areas such as early childhood education, Montessori, or even crisis intervention.

Key Takeaways

  • An online bachelor’s in child development is a strong credential that gets you hired in various industries.
  • There will be a high demand for individuals capable of working with children at all stages of their development.
  • Several educational settings offer entry-level employment opportunities to online bachelor’s in child development graduates.

Top 10 Online Bachelor's in Child Development Degree Programs

Sort by:
  1. University of Arizona
  2. University of Alabama
  3. Western Michigan University
  4. University of Memphis
  5. Northern Arizona University
  6. Appalachian State University
  7. University of Southern Mississippi
  8. Western Kentucky University
  9. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater
  10. Southern New Hampshire University
  1. Western Kentucky University 98%
  2. Eastern Kentucky University 98%
  3. University of Southern Mississippi 96%
  4. University of Memphis 95%
  5. Southern New Hampshire University 92%
  6. Maryville University 92%
  7. University of Arizona 87%
  8. Muskingum University 86%
  9. Appalachian State University 85%
  10. Western Michigan University 83%
  1. California State University, East Bay 26 to 1
  2. Southeastern Oklahoma State University 24 to 1
  3. Northern Arizona University 22 to 1
  4. Southern New Hampshire University 21 to 1
  5. University of Alabama 20 to 1
  6. Southeast Missouri State University 19 to 1
  7. Western Kentucky University 19 to 1
  8. California Baptist University 19 to 1
  9. Western Michigan University 18 to 1
  10. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater 18 to 1
  1. Vanguard University $37,700
  2. California Baptist University $37,018
  3. Bay Path University $35,781
  4. Muskingum University $30,090
  5. Maryville University $27,166
  6. Southern Wesleyan University $26,498
  7. Union Institute & University $17,141
  8. Southern New Hampshire University $15,380
  9. Bacone College $14,700
  10. Western Michigan University $13,334
  1. Bay Path University $19,235
  2. Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
  3. Western Michigan University $16,884
  4. Union Institute & University $15,911
  5. Maryville University $14,346
  6. California Baptist University $13,590
  7. Southern Wesleyan University $13,560
  8. Vanguard University $12,276
  9. Western Kentucky University $12,140
  10. University of Arizona $12,106
  1. Vanguard University
  2. Southern Wesleyan University
  3. Charter Oak State College
  4. University of West Alabama
  5. Bay Path University
  6. Maryville University
  7. Bacone College
  8. Southeastern Oklahoma State University
  9. Chadron State College
  10. Muskingum University
  1. Bacone College 55%
  2. Southern Wesleyan University 57%
  3. California Baptist University 64%
  4. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater 68%
  5. Vanguard University 69%
  6. Southeastern Oklahoma State University 74%
  7. University of West Alabama 74%
  8. Bay Path University 75%
  9. Northern Arizona University 78%
  10. Southeast Missouri State University 79%
  1. Union Institute & University 7 to 1
  2. Bay Path University 12 to 1
  3. Bacone College 12 to 1
  4. Muskingum University 13 to 1
  5. Maryville University 13 to 1
  6. Charter Oak State College 13 to 1
  7. Southern Wesleyan University 13 to 1
  8. University of West Alabama 14 to 1
  9. Eastern Kentucky University 15 to 1
  10. University of Arizona 15 to 1
  1. Appalachian State University $4,242
  2. Chadron State College $5,208
  3. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater $5,417
  4. California State University, East Bay $5,742
  5. Southeastern Oklahoma State University $6,420
  6. Southeast Missouri State University $7,461
  7. Charter Oak State College $7,656
  8. University of Memphis $8,352
  9. University of Southern Mississippi $9,094
  10. University of West Alabama $9,100
  1. Chadron State College $4,650
  2. Southeastern Oklahoma State University $4,734
  3. Appalachian State University $4,839
  4. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater $5,611
  5. Southeast Missouri State University $5,858
  6. University of West Alabama $6,678
  7. California State University, East Bay $7,176
  8. University of Southern Mississippi $9,094
  9. Charter Oak State College $9,288
  10. University of Memphis $9,378

Featured Programs

Child development is one of the most important fields of study. After all, the kids are the future leaders and members of society. It makes total sense to ensure that their progress is monitored and supported.

Supporting children’s progress starts with understanding how they develop and learn. Providers can set achievable, appropriate learning goals for children if they understand the sequence in which knowledge or skills are developed.

The online bachelor’s in child development degree program and its core courses are designed for students who want to study how children change from birth to adolescence physically and psychologically.

As children grow and mature, child development professionals play an important role, helping to nurture their minds and bodies as they become young adults. Through expert guidance during these formative years, children can prepare for life’s challenges.

Fortunately, many colleges and universities now offer online bachelor’s in child development, sometimes as a degree completion program.

An online bachelor’s degree in child development provides students with exposure to liberal arts and sciences while introducing them to theories, research data, and methodologies.

Career Outlook for Graduates with Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Child Development

A career in child development could lead to a variety of employment opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for childcare workers will grow by 6 percent between 2021 and 2031.

Besides working as a childcare worker or child life specialist, a career in education may be an option to explore. Education is one of the top industries in 2023.

Employment of preschool teachers and elementary school teachers is projected to show a 4 percent growth in the next decade.

Students typically pursue online bachelor’s degrees in child development because they seek a career in which they can have an impact on children’s lives. So if your dream is to have a career that involves family and human development, an online bachelor’s in child development degree can help you to achieve your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Development Degrees

Earning a bachelor’s degree in child development can help set you on your path toward a fulfilling and meaningful career.

Back to Top

This four-year, 120-credit degree will cover topics such as child development, adolescent psychology, and counseling ethics. Additionally, most online and in-person programs offer a variety of concentrations, allowing students to focus their learning around their future career goals.

Back to Top

Concentrations include early childhood education, Montessori education, and crisis intervention. Depending on their track, students can earn either a bachelor of science or a bachelor of arts degree.

Back to Top

Upon graduation, students may be ready for careers as social workers, youth counselors, or pre-school educators.

Back to Top
Best Online Bachelor's in Child Development Degree Programs

25 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs

  1. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1220/25

    Online Degrees

    BAS in Early Childhood
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  2. #2

    University of Alabama

    Tuscaloosa , AL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    35K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1200/27

    Online Degrees

    BS in Human Development and Family Studies

    Concentrations

    • Child Life
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  3. #4

    University of Memphis

    Memphis , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/22

    Online Degrees

    BA in Professional Studies

    Concentrations

    • Child Life Specialist
    • Legal Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    102K

    Online Degrees

    BA in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Child And Adolescent Development
    • Addictions
    • Applied Psychology
    • Mental Health
    • Social Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  5. #9

    Western Kentucky University

    Bowling Green , KY
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/22

    Online Degrees

    BS in Family And Consumer Sciences

    Concentrations

    • Child Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  6. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/22

    Online Degrees

    BA in Child & Family Studies

    Concentrations

    • Child Development
    • Required Credits: 120-125
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology

    Concentrations

    • Geral Psychology
    • Autism Spectrum Disorders
    • Forensic Psychology
    • Child & Family Psychology
    • Workplace Psychology
    • Psychiatric Rehabilitation
    • Brain & Cognitive Sciences
    • Substance Abuse
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  7. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/21

    Online Degrees

    BA in Early Childhood Studies
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
  8. #16

    Vanguard University

    Costa Mesa , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/20

    Online Degrees

    BA in Early Childhood
    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
  9. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    25K

    Online Degrees

    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies

    Concentrations

    • Administration
    • Early Childhood
    • Technology Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  10. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1075/21

    Online Degrees

    BS in Early Childhood and Family Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood and Family Studies Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  11. #20

    Maryville University

    Saint Louis , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    9K

    Online Degrees

    BA in Human Development and Family Studies

    Concentrations

    • Child Life Specialist
    • Early Child Development
    • Youth Development
    • Family Life Education
    • Adult Development and Aging
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  12. #23

    Muskingum University

    New Concord , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    2K

    Online Degrees

    BS in Child And Family Studies
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
Back to Top

Online Child Development Programs Looking for You

Back to Top

Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?

If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.

In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).

While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Online College-Bound Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.