Associate Degree in Education Online
Nikita Nath
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WebsiteNikita is a psychologist working primarily with children using a child rights-based approach. She also writes content for various websites and blogs on diverse topics, focusing primarily on academia. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and discovering different coffee-making techniques.
Degrees
Bachelors in English, Journalism, and Psychology; Masters in psychology with clinical specialization
nikitanath8@gmail.com
nikitanath8@gmail.comAreas of Expertise & Credentials
- 2 years of experience working as a content writer with various start-ups
- 1 year of experience working as a child psychologist with Insight
- Working on various projects of inclusion for neurodivergent children
- 2+ years of experience teaching psychology online
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Education is the process by which people gain knowledge and understanding through study and experience. It has been described as “the heart of a child and the core of a society and nation.” Education is also essential for personal growth and development.
An associate degree in education is a degree program that prepares individuals to teach in elementary and secondary schools at a very entry-level or to take up administrative and clerical roles in an educational institution. It is also usually a prerequisite for a bachelor’s degree in education or another related field. The associate degree in education online provides the foundational knowledge and skills to enter the vast and diverse field of education and is an excellent choice for those who like working with children and imparting knowledge.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), students with an associate degree earn a median annual wage of $52,830 compared to high school diplomas or equivalent holders, who earn a median annual salary of $36,100. This translates to a better earning potential of about 46% more for associate degree graduates.
This page lists out the details of an online associates degree in teaching and education, covering essential topics such as degree types, accreditation, certifications, program duration, careers, and others.
Best Associate Degree in Education
Online Courses
It is common for prospective students to look for the best online early childhood education associate degree program or other similar degree programs that offer quality and value for money. To be ranked, it is essential to factor in several aspects of a college or program, such as the faculty’s qualification and teaching experience, institution’s infrastructure, accreditation status, availability of student support services, affordability, range of courses offered, and more. Based on all these and other factors, teams at FBD have identified some of the best education programs at the associate’s level. Accordingly, here are the best associate degree in education programs: *
The college was established in 1923, as the Iola Junior College under the jurisdiction of the Board of Education of Iola Public Schools. It served the community until June 1965. On July 1, 1965, Allen County Community Junior College came into being. The college is committed to a wide range of accessible, affordable educational programs that enable students to reach their academic, occupational, and personal potential. The tuition and graduation rate are as below:
| Univ | Address |
| Allen County Community College | 1801 N Cottonwood, Iola, Kansas 66749 |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to expect from an Associate Degree
in Education Online?
What is the associate level of education? An associate degree is a two-year college degree earned at a community college, junior college, online university, or some four-year colleges. An associate degree is the halfway point between a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree in education.
An associate degree in education gives students the fundamental knowledge and skills required to enter the field of education and is an excellent initial step toward a teaching career. In most cases, an associate degree program in education online concentrates on a particular area of education. While the title “associate in education” can refer to various education-related degrees, students will ordinarily major in a specific sub-field of education as part of their program. Since most other professions in education, such as in early childhood education for kindergarten to grade three, require at least a bachelor’s degree, the possibilities at the associate degree level are primarily focused on early childhood education (typically birth to pre-kindergarten). There are a variety of on-campus and online associate degrees in education that can help students prepare for classroom support jobs and transfer to a four-year bachelor’s program.
Students can pursue their associate degree in education either entirely online or on-campus or through a hybrid model that blends the online and on-campus classes. The curriculum for all delivery formats is the same and is usually taught by the same faculty. Online students should remember that most paraprofessional programs require students to participate in an internship and/or other field experience conducted on-site at the school.
Core courses, electives, fieldwork and/or an internship are typical in most associate education programs. Students are required to complete at least 20 college-level courses or 60 credits. University-level Math, English, and History courses are common in the curriculum. Depending on the specialization of the degree, these may be reinforced with classes in education and child psychology. Some of the coursework students can expect in an online associate in education degree program include:
- Child Psychology
- Introduction to Elementary Education
- Multicultural Education
- Introduction to Early Childhood Education
- Supervised Field Experience
- Foundations of Education
- Education Technology
- Teaching the Exceptional Child
- Math Education Fundamentals
- Theories of Childhood Development
- Education Fundamentals
- Liberal Arts
- Educational Trends
- Introduction to Child Development
- Basics of Curriculum
- Instructional Strategies
- Organization and Structure of Schools Systems
- Introduction to Elementary Education
- Effective Teaching Techniques
- Basics of Assessment
- Technology Integration in Teaching and Learning
Types of Associate Degree in
Education Online
There are primarily three options for an associate degree in education online – an Associate of Arts or AA in education, an Associate of Science or AS in education, and an Associate of Applied Science or AAS in education. There are a few other types of degrees, too, listed below:
Associate of Arts in Education
What is AA in education? The Associate of Arts in Education or AA Education degree focuses on liberal arts, including English, fine arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Associate of Science in Education
What is AS in education? The Associate of Science in Education or AS Education degree is science-oriented and often takes more mathematics and lab-based classes.
Associate of Applied Science in Education
What is AAS in education? The Associate of Applied Science in Education or AAS Education degree is aimed at students who want to get a job right after graduation, focusing on developing theoretical knowledge and applying concepts necessary for working in the field of education.
Prospective students of an associate in education have two paths of programs to choose from – (a) paraprofessional programs and (b) programs designated as transfer programs leading to a bachelor’s degree. Within these two paths, available options include:
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
This program focuses on the abilities and strengths that instructors need to deal with newborns, toddlers, and kindergarten children.
Associate Degree in Elementary Education
This program offers a comprehensive introduction to elementary education appropriate for elementary and middle school teachers.
Associate Degree in Special Education
This program is designed to address the needs of children with learning disabilities, which may include intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, mental disabilities, or multiple disabilities.
Associate Degree in Paraprofessional Education
This program focuses on the training that teacher’s assistants require to assist both students and teachers.
Why should I do an Associate Degree
in Education Online?
While a bachelor’s degree in education is required to become a lead teacher, there are numerous reasons to seek an associate degree in education. The following are the three most common reasons:
1. To find work
A paraeducator position such as teaching assistant or teacher’s aide may be available to those with an associate degree in education from an accredited school. Associate degree holders may be eligible for jobs such as preschool teachers or substitute teachers in some states. Outside of public schools, an online associate degree in education can qualify students for entry-level positions in Head Start programs, before- and after-school programs, select private schools, and daycares.
2. To learn more about teaching as a profession
An associate degree in education can be a good starting point for those who want to teach but do not want to commit to a four-year degree. It is also an excellent method to test the waters and determine whether becoming a teacher is suitable or not. Moreover, an associate degree can be less expensive than a bachelor’s degree due to the lesser curriculum.
3. To get ready for more schooling and certification
Although an associate degree will seldom qualify a student for licensure, it can serve as a stepping stone in that direction. Typically, credit hours earned in an accredited associate degree program in education can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree later. Earning an online associate in education designed as a transfer degree can be a viable alternative if a student is not ready for a bachelor’s program’s on-campus or in-person requirements geared for teacher certification.
Upon graduating, students would have acquired a host of skills that can be used in various settings, including the ability to:
- analyze a range of educational philosophies and practices through observation and reflection, and build personal learning styles and teaching philosophy;
- promote collaborative critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills in a variety of student demographics;
- compare a variety of instructional tactics and approaches that meet different learners and learning styles;
- stimulate active dialogue, collaboration, and healthy relationships with colleagues, school officials, parents, and learners;
- use excellent interpersonal, instructional, and cultural communication approaches;
- demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to foster cross-cultural understanding and educational fairness in the classroom by adapting curriculum and instructional practices to meet the various needs of students;
- create inquiry-based learning experiences that include technology to engage students in both individual and group learning; and
- describe what it means to be a competent, ethical, and professional teacher in a democratic, varied, and technology society to foster dedication to professional development as well as legal and ethical duties of public school teachers.
How to get into an Associate Degree
in Education Online?
Most associate’s degree programs are open enrollment, which means that students can apply and be accepted if they have a high school diploma or GED. As a result, although most schools may not ask to submit SAT or ACT scores, they may ask prospective students to take a placement test to assess their English and Math ability. This will help ascertain what level of classes they can take and whether they need to take any prerequisite courses before entering the program. At some colleges, students who already have SAT or ACT scores may submit them instead of taking an assessment test. Listed below are the typical associate’s degree in early childhood education requirements:
- Application for Admission
- Application Fee
- Official Academic Transcripts
- High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED)
- A Grade Point Average (GPA) of over 2.0
- Personal Statement
- Proof of English Proficiency (if the native tongue is or education was not in English)
Note: Admission requirements vary by school and program. Students are advised to check with the admissions office at the school of their choice for exact requirements.
How long does it take to complete an Associate
Degree in Education Online?
To get an associate degree in education, students must typically complete two years of full-time study. The program usually consists of 60 credits. Some colleges allow students to pursue their associate degree in teaching part-time, translating to a longer time to complete the program. In some instances, the specialization one chooses, and the quantum and duration of the internship or fieldwork (typically required) will affect the time to graduation. On the other hand, students who transfer credits and choose less demanding specializations could graduate in less than 2 years.
Accreditation for Associate Degree
in Education Online
Accreditation is the process by which a third-party organization evaluates a college or university’s educational program and determines its quality. Although it is not a government process, accreditation has been widely adopted by most educational institutions and as a requirement to provide financial aid, licensing, and other legal benefits to students. To earn accreditation, a college or university must meet specific standards that provide students with a meaningful education and sufficient information to make an informed decision. Accreditation is important because it gives colleges and universities legitimacy, which in turn increases the likelihood that employers will accept degrees from unaccredited schools. A college offering an online associate’s degree in teaching can be accredited by any of the six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The six regional accrediting agencies are as follows:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Students can visit the official U.S Department of Education website or CHEA website to check a school’s or program’s accreditation status.
Apart from regional accreditation, most schools and education programs should preferably be accredited by a specialized accrediting agency to ensure that the degree in question is recognized and of value. Some such specialized accrediting bodies are:
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) promotes fairness and excellence in educator preparation by ensuring quality and supporting continuous improvement to improve P-12 student learning through evidence-based accreditation. The CAEP reviews and improves internal rules, processes, and procedures regularly to ensure transparency, accountability, fiscal efficiency, and high-quality service and support, as well as serves as an example of equity and diversity.
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)
The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) is a membership organization and quality assurance agency that offers accreditation and formative support to all types of educator preparation programs. AAQEP encourages and acknowledges high-quality educator preparation that improves the ability of educators to serve all students, schools, and communities fairly.
National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is intended to help schools across the country develop, retain, and recognize accomplished teachers while also driving continuous improvement. It is the highest and most prestigious qualification a teacher can earn.
More information on accreditation is available in the Accreditation Guide.
Areas of Specialization for Associate
Degree in Education Online
Compared to higher-level degree programs, the majors or specializations available with an associate in education are somewhat limited. Nevertheless, the specialization one chooses for an associate degree will influence the career paths one is positioned for, especially if one expects to enter the workforce soon after graduation. Students who plan to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program may find that their specialization is not too crucial, but this would depend on what they plan to do with their degree and how the credits they have completed may or may not transfer to a new degree program. Typical associate in education
Associate’s degree in Elementary Education
This Elementary Education degree program requires students to attend courses in education theory and practice, undertake classroom observations, and complete general education studies. The specialization prepares students for transfer to four-year colleges to obtain teaching certifications in Elementary, Middle School, or Secondary Education.
Early Childhood Education associates degree
This Early Childhood Education degree program prepares students for careers in education, working with a wide range of student groups from birth to third grade. Under the guidance of qualified teachers, students will learn research-based developmentally appropriate teaching approaches and observe in various classroom settings. They will also have the chance to practice instructional and classroom management strategies in early childhood classrooms.
Associate’s degree in Physical Education
The Physical Education degree program teaches students to identify concepts and theories of sport, exercise, and sports psychology that can be applied in coaching and teaching. Students also learn how to identify athletic injuries and demonstrate a physical remedy for them.
Examples of a few more specializations in education include:
- Associate’s degree in Health Education
- Associate’s degree in Child Development
- Art Education associate degree
- General Education associates degree
- Teaching Assistant/Teacher’s Aide associates degree
Other specializations such as library science, educational technology, and special education are also possible options in an associate degree in education program. Although these specializations can lead to entry-level professions at the associate degree level, it is usually expected for candidates in these fields to require a bachelor’s degree or even a master’s degree.
Associates Degree in
Special Education
The term “special education” refers to an educational approach designed to meet the unique needs of students who have disabilities. Special education is provided to students who have intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, mental disabilities, or multiple disabilities. It can also be referred to as “exceptional education.” Individuals who work in this field of education are called Special Education teachers or Special Education instructors. These professionals work with students and their families to ensure an appropriate education for all students.
Special Education instructors reach out to students with disabilities through an individualized approach. They also usually work with students’ families to help them understand their child’s disability and develop skills to support their child’s learning and development. Special Education teachers usually work with students in a classroom setting, although they also visit other locations, such as hospitals, to provide training. Typically, an associate degree in education or a related field is required for special education teaching positions with multiple courses related to disabilities and different ways of teaching students with these disabilities. Many other requirements are also needed to work in the field, such as completing an approved teacher preparation program or licensure program, taking specific tests to gain certification, and participating in ongoing professional training. Special Education teachers must also maintain their certifications. Associate’s degree in special education jobs are relatively easy to come by, provided the individual has the necessary credentials, licensure, training, and experience.
Associates Degree in Early
Childhood Education
Early Childhood Education describes a curriculum and classroom environment that prepares young children for school and life. It is the process of nurturing, supporting, and educating children from birth to age eight. Early Childhood Educators work with children to help create a positive learning experience for them, assisting them in learning essential skills, such as reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. The associates in Early Education prepares individuals to help young students develop strong interpersonal skills, such as empathy and respect for others, necessary to become successful members of society. They may also work with parents and families to help them understand school and learning and encourage students’ overall development.
The Early Childhood Education associates degree prepares individuals to work with students from preschool through kindergarten. Students of this program learn how to lead children to explore their own unique abilities and interests while building vital social skills. They help children discover how they learn, explore new possibilities, and apply their knowledge to everyday situations. Early Childhood teachers may also be responsible for maintaining classroom supplies and creating a developmentally appropriate lesson plan for class activities. In private or charter schools, they may have administrative duties related to the school’s curriculum and instruction.
Typically, a bachelor’s degree with a major in Early Childhood Education or a related field is required to become an Early Childhood Education teacher.
Associate’s Degree in Elementary
Education
Elementary Education teaches children and young adults in their last four years of elementary school. Teachers may be responsible for one or several grade levels. Elementary Education is often divided into multiple subcategories based on the age group of the students being taught, such as Preschool Education, English Language, or Arts. The associate’s degree in Elementary Education prepares future elementary teachers to plan lessons based on the curriculum for their specific state or school district.
What can you do with an associate’s in Elementary Education? Elementary Education associate degree holders can work as elementary teachers or school administrators in schools or school districts and may be responsible for creating tests and quizzes, evaluating student progress, assigning homework, and recording grades. Administrative duties may include overseeing the school store, chaperoning field trips, overseeing recess, supervising during lunch, and helping with after-school activities.
Associates of Art in Child
Development
Child Development is the study of how children gain knowledge and skills as they grow. There are four areas of child development: physical, cognitive, emotional, and social. Child development is divided into five developmental stages: early infancy (from birth to 12 months), middle infancy (13 to 24 months), early childhood (2 to 3 years), middle childhood (4 to 7 years), and adolescence (14 to 18 years).
With an AA in Child Development online, students gain the skills to observe, determine children’s needs, and plan appropriate education programs for children based on their developmental needs. Graduates of this program will be able to work with teachers, parents, and others in the community and may find themselves spending significant time working with children in daycare, preschools, or elementary schools. They may also be responsible for providing parents with information about their child’s growth and development.
Free Courses for Associate Degree
in Education Online
Free courses do not lead to a universally recognized online associates degree in teaching. Nevertheless, free courses are an excellent way to gain additional knowledge on a particular topic within the education discipline and widen one’s perspective on the subject. Here are some resources that offer free courses that may be helpful for an associate degree in education online students:
| Course | Description | Offered by |
|---|---|---|
| Education and topics related to Education | Coursera offers several courses on education from both theoretical and applied perspectives. Topics include K-12 education, educational policy, teacher training, education technology, etc. | Coursera |
| Education and topics related to Education | Alison offers free courses on various topics in education that are self-paced and do not require any previous experience or knowledge. Topics include Understanding Student Development and Diversity, Working with Students with Special Educational Needs, Managing Safety and Health in Schools, Anti-Bulling Training, and more. | Alison |
| Education and topics related to Education | Class Central has paid and free online courses and MOOCs from reputed institutions such as eCornell, University of Reading, Harvard University, Deakin University, etc. | Class Central |
How to Pay for an Associate Degree in
Education Online Program?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average total tuition, fees, room, and board charged by 2-year degree-granting institutions in 2018-19 was $11,389. For prospective students who find the overall costs for an associate degree in education steep, they can consider financial aid from several available sources. Some options to fund an associate degree in teaching include:
Scholarships
Scholarships are awards students receive from organizations to help pay for their education. Students can apply for scholarships offered at their college or university or private, community, nonprofit, and corporate organizations. Most student scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have an excellent academic track record.
Grants
Grants are financial aid awards that students receive from federal or state governments, individuals, communities, nonprofits, and corporates. Grants are usually need-based grants are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. The award amount received from grants can be used to pay for tuition or other educational expenses like transportation, boarding, supplies, etc.
Student Loans
Student Loans from the Federal government, banks, or private lenders can fund a college education. Unlike scholarships and grants, which are ‘free money’ and do not need to be paid back, loans attract interest that is payable either during the tenure of the loan or at the end of it and must be paid back. Defaulting or delaying payments will increase student debt that may take years to clear.
FAFSA or Free Application For Student Aid is a federal financial aid application that all current and prospective college students must complete to check their eligibility for aid and receive the best financial aid package possible. Read the FAFSA Student Aid guide to know more.
Know all about What is Financial Aid and find out How to Pay for College in our in-depth guides.
Scholarships for Online Associate’s
Degree in Education
Several scholarships for an associate degree in education are available for prospective students to apply for. Listed below are a few examples:
| Scholarship | Description | Amount/Award | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| AfterCollege Associate Degree & Certificate Scholarship | The AfterCollege Associate Degree & Certificate Scholarship is awarded to students currently enrolled in or working toward a certificate or associate degree in an accredited post-secondary institution such as a community college, career, vocational, or trade school. | $500 | March 31, 2024 |
| Frostburg State University Associate Degree Scholars Program | The Frostburg State University Associate Degree Scholars Program is awarded to full-time enrolled students with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, in an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Arts in Teaching degree program. | $3,000 per academic year | TBA |
| T.E.A.C.H Missouri Associate Degree Scholarship | The T.E.A.C.H Missouri Associate Degree Scholarship is designed for early childhood teachers, directors, and owners seeking an Associate’s degree, AA, AAS, or AAT, in early childhood education or early childhood special education. It consists of 9-15 credit hours. | $450 + optional bonus | TBA |
FAQs about Associate Degree
in Education Online
What is associate level of education?
An associate level of education is a 2-year college degree that can be obtained from a community college, junior college, online university, or some 4-year institutions in the United States. An associate degree is a level of education that lies between a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree in terms of academic achievement.
How to get an associate’s degree in education?
What are the best associates programs in education?
What can I do with an associates degree in teaching?
What can you do with an associate’s in elementary education
What is the average fee charged by the colleges?
Can you be a preschool teacher with an associate’s degree?
Career Opportunities and Salaries after Associate
Degree in Education Online
The associate degree in education jobs are usually entry-level because most positions require a bachelor’s or master’s degree for more significant roles and better pay. If one wonders, “can you be a preschool teacher with an associate’s degree” – yes, it is possible to be a preschool teacher with an associate’s degree, but in most cases, schools will prefer teachers to hold a higher degree, and some certification.
So, what can I do with an associates degree in teaching? Several roles are available for the associate in education degree holders, including:
- Infant/Toddler Teacher
- Special Education Aide
- Substitute Teacher
- Paraeducator
- Preschool Teacher
- Teacher’s Assistant/Aide
- Tutor
- School Library Technician/Assistant
- Childcare Manager/Worker
However, students must note that some of these positions will require additional experience, education, specialization, or certification.
As for pay, the associate degree in early childhood education salary is quite respectable, as is the job outlook. For example, Preschool Teachers earn an annual median salary of $31,930 and can expect jobs to expand 18% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than average.
Here are some job titles, salaries, and job outlook details in education, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
| Occupation | Job Description | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care Worker | A Childcare Worker attends to children’s needs while helping to foster early development. They may help younger children prepare for kindergarten, assist older children with homework, supervise and monitor the safety of children, and organize activities that allow children to learn about the world and explore their interests. | $25,460 | 8% (as fast as average) |
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher | A Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher instructs young students in basic subjects, such as math and reading, to prepare them for middle school. They use a hands-on approach to help students understand abstract concepts, solve problems, and develop critical-thinking skills, while teaching them how to interact with others. | $60,660 | 7% (as fast as average) |
| Teacher Assistant | A Teacher Assistant works with a licensed teacher to give students additional attention and instruction. They reinforce lessons by reviewing material with students one-on-one or in small groups and supervise students outside of the classroom, such as between classes, during lunch and recess, and field trips. | $28,900 | 9% (as fast as average) |
| Library Technician and Assistant | A Library Technician and Assistant helps librarians with all aspects of running a library. They assist patrons, organize library materials and information, and do clerical and administrative tasks. | $31,840 | 0% (little or no change) |
| Special Education Teacher | A Special Education Teacher works with students who have learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects to students with mild to moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills to students with severe disabilities. | $61,500 | 8% (as fast as average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Associate
Degree in Education Online
Certifications are credentials that a teacher can earn after completing an approved training program and passing a standardized assessment. It is important to note that earning certification does not necessarily make a teacher more qualified than an uncertified teacher. However, earning board certification can qualify individuals to receive financial benefits, such as reimbursement for licensure and certification fees, seek better pay packets, and advance in their field. In the education space, certification is essential to demonstrate specific knowledge, expertise, and competence in a sub-field of education, leading to licensure required in most work settings. Here are some education-related certifications as examples:
Certified Childcare Professional (CCP)
The Certified Childcare Professional (CCP), administered by the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA), is designed specifically for early childhood educators and teachers. CCPs are viewed as distinguished professionals who have earned national and state recognition for their achievements in childcare and early childhood education.
Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential
The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, administered by the ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI), is the most well-known and respected credential in early childhood education. It provides an opportunity for early childhood educators who deal with children aged birth to five to exhibit and develop their knowledge, understanding, and teaching techniques. Not only is the CDA Credential a vital element of going up in the field of early childhood education, but it is also a significant professional development learning experience and valuable resource.
National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT)
The National Board Certification, administered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), was created to help teachers grow, retain, and be recognized for their achievements, as well as to drive continuous improvement in schools across the country. It is the highest and most prestigious qualification a teacher can earn. The NBC certification is available in various specialty areas, such as Art, Early Adolescence through Young Adulthood, Early Childhood and Middle Childhood Art, Career and Technical Education, English Language Arts, English as a New Language, Exceptional Needs, Health Education, Library Media, and more.
As for licensure, any teaching position in a school or otherwise will almost always require a license. Each state has its own licensing norms; students are therefore advised to check with the education department of the state they are seeking employment in for specific requirements for licensure.
Additional Resources for Associate Degree
in Education Online
Teaching is a worldwide profession and evolves with time and situation. With new discoveries and innovative teaching methodologies surfacing regularly, teachers and students of an education degree would do well to connect with peers, compare notes, exchange ideas, and do much more to further their knowledge and expertise and impact children in more ways than one. Here are some professional organizations and resources that can help in this endeavor:
Teacher Certification Degrees
Teacher Certification Degrees is a complete certification resource for those interested in learning how to become a teacher or advancing their teaching career by acquiring an additional degree. The site provides the most up-to-date and relevant material to assist individuals in learning the necessary facts for teaching certification in their state. Those looking into school options in their state can explore profiles of popular schools and reviews of teacher certification programs written by former students. Insights from over 50 current teachers on what it takes to be a great teacher are available in the career interview section.
American Federation of Teachers (AFT)
The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) represents 1.7 million members in more than 3,000 local affiliates nationwide. It is a union of professionals that champions fairness, democracy, economic opportunity, high-quality public education, healthcare, and public services for its students, families, and communities. The AFT caters to early childhood educators, PreK-12 teachers, paraprofessionals & school-related personnel, and nurses and health professionals, among others.
National Education Association (NEA)
The National Education Association (NEA) has more than 3 million people who are educators, students, activists, workers, and parents, who believe in opportunity for all students and in the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society. NEA caters to professional excellence, change advocacy, student success, and more.
Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)
The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), a community of educators, empowers educators to achieve excellence in learning, teaching, and leading so that every child is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged. The organization works with educators from every level in all 50 states and more than 200 countries to help them chart their own learning journey and reach out to many.
Association of American Educators (AAE)
The Association of American Educators (AAE) is a national non-union professional educators’ organization, the largest in the United States. The AAE advances the education profession by promoting professionalism, collaboration, and excellence in education while maintaining a non-partisan approach to teacher representation and educational advocacy and advancing the profession through innovative approaches to teacher representation and educational advocacy.
Author Bio:
Nikita Nath
Nikita is a psychologist working primarily with children using a child rights-based approach. She also writes content for various websites and blogs on diverse topics, focusing primarily on academia. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and discovering different coffee-making techniques.
Degrees
Bachelors in English, Journalism, and Psychology; Masters in psychology with clinical specialization
- nikitanath8@gmail.com
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
- 2 years of experience working as a content writer with various start-ups
- 1 year of experience working as a child psychologist with Insight
- Working on various projects of inclusion for neurodivergent children
- 2+ years of experience teaching psychology online
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