The study of mental, emotional, and physical development from birth through adolescence, child development addresses various learning challenges and developmental setbacks. Child development programs often feature curriculum concentrations studying particular age groups or developmental issues.
Earning a master's degree in child development can lead to careers such as teacher, administrator, or social worker. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports kindergarten and elementary teachers and preschool and childcare directors earning median annual salaries of $59,420 and $48,210, respectively. Social workers make a $50,470 median annual salary and enjoy job growth projections of 13% during 2019-2029. See below to learn more about online child development degree jobs, coursework, benefits, and financing.
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Master's in Child Development - Top Questions from Students
Is child development a good career?
An online child development degree can lead to many meaningful careers supporting the next generation. Many master's in child development graduates enjoy above-average salaries and job growth protections.
What can you do with a child development degree?
Master's in child development degree-holders often work for schools, nonprofits, and childcare facilities. Common jobs include teacher, administrator, counselor, and child life specialist.
How long does it take to get a master's degree in child development?
Master's degrees usually take two years to finish. Many accelerated online programs offer quicker timelines by running short, intensive courses throughout the year.
Can you become a teacher with a child development degree?
Public school teachers need state certification, which typically requires specific coursework, training, and an examination. Online child development degree coursework and internships may count toward some of these education requirements.
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Why Get a Degree in Child Development?
Childhood development degrees cultivate advanced skills useful in various professional and personal contexts, including family life. Online child development degrees' flexible schedules allow working professionals to maintain their jobs and income while studying.
Earning an online childhood development degree can help working professionals specialize their knowledge and skills. Specialization and degree advancement often leads to promotion or career transition. Promotion to social and community service manager positions yields a median annual salary of $67,150.
According to December 2020 PayScale data, master's in child development graduates average $48,800 annually. As of March 2021, master of social work in child development graduates average $55,600 annually. Some master's graduates pursue related doctoral degrees and become postsecondary teachers, earning a $79,540 median annual salary.
How Much Does a Child Development Degree Cost?
Master's degree costs vary widely by program, school, and location. College Board's 2020 Trends in College Pricing reports in- and out-of-state students at four-year public institutions paying an annual average of $10,560 and $27,020, respectively. Private four-year schools average $37,650 annually, making them the most expensive option. Master's degrees typically take two years to finish, meaning average tuition costs range from $21,120-$75,300, depending on the type of school.
The same report indicates that college tuition averages vary widely by state. Average in-state tuition at New England colleges often costs twice or three times that of states such as California, Wyoming, Florida, or New Mexico.
For an affordable master's degree in child development, consider an online degree at a public university. Note that online learners often qualify for in-state tuition, even at out-of-state schools. Online childhood development degrees often cost considerably less than on-campus equivalents due to discounted tuition and absence of commuting or residency costs. Online enrollees may also save on campus-related student fees.
Calculating the Cost of a College Degree
Affordable Colleges Online provides an affordability calculator to help prospective students plan their educational financing. By entering current income, living expenses, and financial aid offerings, users can estimate their online master's degree in child development's net cost.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Child Development Majors Make?
Salaries for child development degree jobs depend on position, credentials, employer, and sector. Child development undergraduates may find entry-level jobs as childcare workers, earning a $24,230 median annual salary. Master's in child development degrees meet or exceed minimum degree requirements for various higher-paying jobs. These include preschool or childcare director, social worker, and social and community services manager. According to the BLS, median annual salaries for these jobs fall between $48,000-$68,000.
Many online child development degree-holders work in education. With appropriate certifications or licenses, child development master's graduates may qualify for jobs including school counselor, kindergarten and elementary teacher, or K-12 administrator. Median annual salaries for these careers range from $57,000-$99,000. Master's graduates sometimes pursue related doctoral degrees and become college professors or researchers.
Courses in Child Development
Child development master's programs usually feature courses in research methods, learning theory, and ethics. Enrollees develop advanced skills in assessment, communication, curriculum design, and counseling. Most master's programs require internships, plus an original thesis or capstone project that hones research and writing skills.
Common online child development degree concentrations include infancy, child life, and special needs development. Many programs also offer specializations such as administration or child and family policy. The following sample course topics appear under various titles in many master's in child development programs.
Learning, Cognition, and Assessment
This course surveys various human learning theories, including social learning, constructivist, cognitive, and behavioral approaches. Participants study principles, practices, and tools for teaching and assessment. Aspiring teachers and educational psychologists benefit from this course.Early Childhood Education Foundations
This core course explores early childhood education history, theory, issues, and trends. Learners analyze current research, create a personal child education philosophy, and cultivate advanced observation and assessment skills. The course proves valuable to childcare and preschool teachers and administrators. Many master's in child development degrees feature specializations in early childhood education.Infant and Child Development
Child development programs explore this broad subject area through single or multiple core courses and curriculum concentrations. Beneficial for aspiring childcare workers and teachers, this course surveys theories on infant and child cognitive, linguistic, emotional, and physical growth. Students gain familiarity with contemporary issues in the field, including common family, cultural, and legal problems.
Certifications and Licensure for Child Development
A master's in child development meets degree requirements for some careers, but graduates may benefit from additional professional credentials. Teachers and social workers often need licensure from state boards. Some employers expect child development professionals to hold child life or development certifications. See below for descriptions of some common child development professional credentials.
These state-issued licenses qualify holders to teach preschool and early elementary education. Requirements vary by state, but usually include a related degree, passing scores on various assessments, and supervised internships and professional experiences.
This credential usually serves child life professionals who support children in medical facilities. The Association of Child Life Professionals awards this five-year credential. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with ten related courses, 600 hours of supervised clinical child life experience, and a passing score on the Child Life Professional Certification Exam.
The Council for Professional Recognition offers the widely-recognized CDA credential. Applicants must meet experience requirements, submit an appropriate portfolio, and pass a CDA assessment test and verification visit. Specific requirements vary based on chosen specialization. CDAs often work as early childhood education teachers and administrators.
Scholarships for Child Development
Some online master's in child development enrollees qualify for scholarships or grants. Often awarded based on financial need or academic merit, they do not require repayment and can help defray educational expenses. Many scholarships serve underrepresented minority learners. Master's in child development students may qualify for opportunities like those below.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation Graduate Scholarships
Who Can Apply: The EAF scholarships go to graduate students who demonstrate a minimum 2.5 GPA and an impressive history of community service. Only full-time students at accredited, degree-granting schools qualify. Applicants submit a resume, recommendation letters, a financial-needs analysis, and a description of scholarly plans.
Amount: Varies
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Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant Program
Who Can Apply: The U.S. Department of Education's office of Federal Student Aid administers the TEACH Grant Program. Child development degree-seekers may qualify with participation in a TEACH Grant eligible program at a participating school. Recipients agree to teach full-time at a low-income school for four years after graduation.
Amount: Up to $4,000 annually
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Online Master's in Child Development Programs 2022
#1 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
Arkansas State University
- Jonesboro, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Jonesboro, Arkansas State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Learners throughout the country can pursue online master's programs from the public institution. The flexible MSE in early childhood education offers affordable tuition rates and allows students to work while earning their degree.
During the first year of the program, master's students take foundational classes in early childhood education. In addition to core requirements, degree-seekers complete upper-level coursework exploring advanced topics. The program offers faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
Graduates with a master's in early childhood education often qualify for raises and promotions. Graduate students and alumni can explore their professional options with the help of faculty advisors and career counselors.
Online learners at the school can expect to pay $301 per credit for their degree. Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Learners can also apply for fellowships, along with tuition reimbursement programs through their employer. At the school, 97% of students receive financial aid to fund their graduate education.
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
Missouri State University
- Springfield, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Springfield, Missouri State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution delivers an online master's in child life studies, which is ideal for busy learners. Ideal for working professionals, the flexible program qualifies graduates for advanced child development positions.
Faculty advisors help graduate students understand complex issues in the child development field. The program features a rigorous curriculum that meets high academic standards. Master's students develop industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers explore funding options. Learners pursuing their master's degree online can apply for institutional funding.
Missouri State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 52
Total Online Programs: 82
Number of Online Students: 9,079
Graduate Tuition In-State: $5,202
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $10,476
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
Stephen F. Austin State University
- Nacogdoches, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Stephen F. Austin State University offers an online M.Ed. program for distance learners. The institution, located in Texas, reports that 3,606 students take online classes. Distance learners can earn their master of education in childhood education at the school. The accredited program meets high academic standards that employers value. The program provides advanced training for childhood education careers. The school offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty.
The school's website provides additional information about online student services. The institution offers affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. This helps graduate students complete a master's degree with less debt. Degree-seekers can expect a graduation rate of 52% at the school.
Stephen F. Austin State University Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 5,220
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 16
Graduate Tuition: $5,112/year in-state; $12,708/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,697
Average Net Price: $12,866
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
40%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
University of Houston-Clear Lake
- Houston, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Houston-Clear Lake enrolls students in an online childhood education program. The university, located in Texas, reports that 2,477 students take online classes. Distance learners can earn their MS in early childhood education at the school. The accredited curriculum offers a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree provides the chance for students to develop advanced skills and training for careers. Learners benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 17-to-1, which means one-on-one attention from faculty.
The institution's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The distance learning program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes it easier for master's students to cover the cost of their degree.
University of Houston-Clear Lake Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 3,781
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 8
Graduate Tuition: $7,920/year in-state and out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $13,184
Average Net Price: $9,215
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, the University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a childhood education e-learning program. The university enrolls 7,265 students in its online courses. Degree-seekers can earn their online master's in early childhood education at the school. The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree builds advanced knowledge and skills for early childhood education careers. The school offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 19-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty.
Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the program's website. Distance learners pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps students complete a master's degree with less debt. Degree-seekers can expect a graduation rate of 63% at the school.
University of Alabama at Birmingham Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 13,001
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 8
Average Cost Per Credit: $488
Graduate Tuition: $8,100/year in-state; $19,188/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,605
Average Net Price: $17,068
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
Boise State University
- Boise, ID
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Idaho, Boise State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution delivers online master's programs. Students interested in child development can pursue the school's flexible M.Ed. in early and special education.
Students in the online master's program develop foundational knowledge through core coursework. The curriculum also features advanced early education coursework and elective options. Faculty members provide mentorship, and students can pursue experiential learning opportunities to prepare for careers.
After completing the program, master's degree-holders often qualify for leadership positions. The institution's career resources include faculty advisors and career counselors, who help students locate job placements.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners can use scholarships and fellowships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. At the school, 84% of students receive financial aid to fund their graduate education.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#7 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Among the University of North Dakota's online offerings is a top-ranked master's program in early childhood education. Based in Grand Forks, the public institution enrolls 6,163 online students. Learners balancing academics with personal or professional obligations can take advantage of online programs' flexible scheduling options.
While completing the MS in early childhood education, degree-seekers fulfill core requirements and take advanced courses. Graduate students can receive career and curriculum advice from faculty mentors. Learners in the online program benefit from flexible scheduling options and career-specific training. After earning the master's degree in early childhood education, graduates can apply for new positions in the field or advance their current career. The institution's career services and alumni network can help master's students locate and secure professional opportunities.
The school provides support services, including career advising and financial aid counseling, to support learners' overall success. Online students at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Additional funding options for graduate-level learners include private scholarships and institutional fellowships. Degree-seekers in the school's online programs pay an average of $726 per credit.
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
Portland State University
- Portland, OR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Oregon, Portland State University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online.
Degree-seekers interested in child development can enroll in the online master's in early childhood program. Graduates of the program can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. Master's students can access support services including faculty mentorship, academic advising, and career counseling.
Online enrollees at the university pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Students with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
Portland State University at a Glance:
Students Receiving Aid: 82%
Students Receiving Loans: 42%
Total Master's Programs: 77
Total Online Master's Programs: 77
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#9 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
Northwestern College
- Orange City, IA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwestern College educates online graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Orange City, Iowa. The private institution delivers online master's programs for distance learners. The flexible M.Ed. in early childhood is ideal for students with personal or professional responsibilities.
Students in the online master's program complete core coursework to develop foundational knowledge in child development. The program also includes advanced classes and electives, which allow degree-seekers to tailor the curriculum to their interests. To further prepare for careers in the field, master's students can take advantage of faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
A master's in early childhood can lead to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. Graduate students can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners can also use scholarships and fellowships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. To fund their graduate education, 100% of the school's students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
37%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Master’s In Child Development Programs
University of South Alabama
- Mobile, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue the University of South Alabama's programs online or in person. The public institution's offerings include online master's programs. The affordable M.Ed. in early childhood education prepares students for careers in the field.
During the first year of the online program, master's students explore foundational early childhood education principles through core classes. After completing core coursework, degree-seekers take advanced classes covering in-depth education topics. Graduate students can pursue internships and faculty mentorships to prepare for the workforce and bolster their resume.
After earning the master's in early childhood education, graduates often qualify for leadership positions. During their master's studies and after graduation, individuals can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can help distance learners fund their master's studies. According to the school, 95% of the student body receives financial aid to fund their graduate education.
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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