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Learn from experienced faculty and gain the skills you need to make a difference in the lives of young children and advance your career.

Did you know that 80% of brain development occurs by age three?
There is a critical need for caregivers who understand the behavioral patterns and development of children.

In our early childhood education program, you'll understand and apply appropriate practices to all aspects of the childhood environment. You’ll learn to promote the advancement of the social, emotional, and academic development of young children while understanding the diverse needs of exceptional children. Through hands-on and applied learning experiences, you will gain a foundation in child development and early childhood education teaching methods.

You'll complete 60 hours of field experience throughout the program. You'll learn online and asynchronously.

We also offer various ´ºÓêÖ±²¥ support services, including career counseling, internship opportunities, and financial aid.

Get a head start on your bachelor's degree

After completing the AAS degree in early childhood education, continue on seamlessly to the bachelor's degree. All courses completed for the associate degree will count toward your St. Kate's bachelor's in early childhood education.

If you are seeking an early childhood teaching license

Students completing the early childhood bachelor's degree may meet requirements for a Minnesota licenses to teach children ages 0-8.

Credit for Prior Learning

Child Development Associate: If you have a CDA, you can transfer that in for 5 credits and have ECED 1000: Introduction to Early Childhood Education and ECED 2600: Health, Wellness, and Nutrition waived from your program plan.

Classes meet:  Online* 

Time to completion: 2-3 years

Credits for major: 31

Cost per credit (2024–2025): $500

Start: Fall, Spring, or Summer

*Primarily asynchronous; 1-2 synchronous meetings each term.