Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

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Amanda Hillary
Written By - Amanda Hillary

Check MarkEdited By Charlotte Sears

Check MarkReview & Contribution By Dr. Sophia White

Empower your career with a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education. A flexible, expert-led program designed for aspiring leaders in education.

Early childhood spans from birth to eight years and is significant for social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. The highest degree in the field of early childhood education is a Ph.D. in early childhood education program that helps students examine teaching practices and theories for young learners through interdisciplinary coursework and research. They also get a basic knowledge of research methodology, which helps them to pursue their directed dissertation and research. The rigorous early childhood doctorate programs prepare students to research child education and development, including unique content areas like numeracy, literacy, etc.

Early Childhood Education - Ph.D.

Table Of Contents

National University

PROGRAM: Doctor of Education – Early Childhood Education

National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.

Find the Best Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education - Ph.D. Seal

Finding the best online degree could include evaluating research and laboratory facilities, on-field experiences, faculty teaching and research experience, student resources, funding opportunities, etc. A good doctoral education can significantly impact your academic or career pursuits and growth. The teams at FBD have evaluated various Ph.D. programs across colleges from all over the U.S. and, using a proprietary methodology, prepared a list of colleges offering the best Ph.D. in early childhood education programs.

Univ Address Tuition Grad Rate
National University 9388 Lightwave Ave, San Diego, California 92123 $15,912 22%

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 Online Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

The Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education provides a foundation for leadership and education at the preschool, kindergarten, and other early elementary levels. Through the doctoral program, graduates explore different domains in the field, including development and growth, program administration, stakeholder dynamics, curriculum and assessment, child psychology, ECE theories, etc. To receive a Ph.D., they must complete a minimum of around 40-72 hours of coursework beyond their master’s program, which can be completed in 4 to 6 years on average. Institutions offer this degree in offline, online, and hybrid learning modes. After completing a doctorate in early childhood education, graduates can pursue careers in school district consulting, government agency, administration, independent research, public policy, programming design, independent research, college teaching, school district consulting, and more.

Ed.D. vs Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

An Ed.D., or Doctor of Education, is a professional doctorate degree suitable for candidates with prior experience working as educators who want to bring positive organizational changes. They can work in various fields, from higher education and K-12 to government, healthcare, military, and nonprofit. The program is practice-based. However, students of the Ed.D. program do not want to research in their domain of interest, but can research in ways that can promote advocacy for children up to eight years of age. There are several job roles individuals holding an Ed.D. degree can apply to, including

  • Postsecondary education administrators
  • Top executives
  • Elementary and secondary school education administrators
  • Instructional coordinators

An early childhood education Ph.D. is most suited for students who want to pursue a profession in research and academia. Learners take a more study-based approach and theory to learning. The goal is generally to find a specific domain and add genuine findings to the existing literature to that degree. Applicants can conduct original research and focus on getting their work presented at national conferences or well-known journals. Some of the roles graduates can take up in this domain include:

  • Postsecondary Teacher
  • Research Associate
  • Product Manager
  • Educational Consultant
  • Curriculum Developer
  • Education Research

Some of the common differences between an Ed. D. in Early Childhood Education and a  Ph.D. in early childhood education online include:

E.d.D in Early Childhood EducationPh.D. in Early Childhood Education
Role of DegreePrepare students to apply principles and research to various educational settings to solve challenges within the practice of educationPrepare students to conduct research and develop theories to expand knowledge in the domain of education
Prerequisites to Obtaining the DegreeCandidates need a master’s degree in education or a related domain, a  GPA requirement of 3.0 or more is typically higher, etc.Candidates should obtain a bachelor’s degree or related field and significant experience in an academic-related setting
Degree RequirementStudents can complete a doctoral study or dissertation and work on examining challenges and providing solutions with appropriate findingsStudents must write  a dissertation that deals with the challenges within the literature on education, contribute to original research, and provide empirical data existing within a broad field of academics
Expectations of the Capstone ProjectProviding findings aimed at specific challengesProvide findings focused on unique problems of practice
ResidencyRequire a residencyNo residency required
Job OutlookWorking in higher educational settings, policymakers, educational program directors, training supervisors for business, K-12, or higher educational settingPursue careers in academics or research, taking up study-based roles, leadership, STEM focus, policy advocate
CurriculumFocuses on theory, research, and applicationThe focus is mostly on research
ResearchPursue Ed.D. focus on exploratory and qualitative research, collecting data and conducting observations, focus groups to develop strategies and construct a hypothesis, and individual interviewsTake a more study-based and theoretical approach to learning and conduct original research to make a positive impact in the field

Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation

Through the program in early childhood education, students can explore the complex cultural, societal, developmental, and familial influences affecting a child’s learning and development. They review current research on family partnerships, assessments, effective practices, advocacy, content knowledge, and leadership. Most institutions use real-world case studies and current technology to examine the quality of early childhood policies and programs and implement strategies promoting positive outcomes for young learners.

The individual dissertation or doctoral study that allows students to pursue original research to effect positive social change for young children, families, and the early childhood domain. Typically, students are continuously registered in the doctoral study course until the completion of the capstone project. Various degree requirements for early childhood education students in Ph.D. can be found across several curriculums, including.

Foundation Courses

Students enrolled in this program receive a thorough education in early childhood education, covering a wide range of topics such as curriculum models, trends in the field, organizational management, family and community relationships, and more. The core curriculum includes fundamental theories and skills in early childhood education and administration. Additionally, advanced research methods, both quantitative and qualitative, are also covered in the program.

Doctoral Capstone

A doctoral capstone is a research study or report that students must create by the end of their degree. Typically, individuals can do the capstone integrated with a local research site where the candidate is involved, like a business or local school. Doctoral Capstone Projects include educational technology solutions for classrooms, published research papers, proposed teaching training plans, community educational initiatives, proposed curriculum plans, etc.

Internship and Fieldwork

Many Ph.D. programs in Early Childhood Education generally include fieldwork or internship. Those pursuing the degree on campus can take up the options of internship or fieldwork, and some institutions have research facilities to accommodate it. Some colleges allow their students to conduct fieldwork at the developmental, learning, and more laboratories. 

Residency Requirements

The early childhood education doctoral program helps students conduct research theory and training in the field. Some of the training to become educators occurs during a residency, in which doctoral candidates take up a full course load and engage in the culture of research. Residency is not an arrangement of living but involves sustaining academic experiences in which doctoral applicants are apprenticed into education and academia.

Doctoral Dissertation

The Doctoral Dissertation in the Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education program culminates original research addressing significant issues. Students design and conduct in-depth studies, contribute to scholarly discourse, and propose innovative solutions to enhance early childhood education practices, policies, and outcomes.

Some of the common topics that students can pursue their dissertation on include

  • Early Childhood Education
  • Educational Leadership for Young Learner’s Needs
  • Environment in Early Childhood Education
  • Curriculum Challenges in Early Childhood Education
  • Child Development
  • Policy and Advocacy in Education
  • Public School Education
  • Holistic Education
  • Role of Ethnicity and Gender in Early Childhood Education
  • Development Themes in Early Childhood Education
  • Behavior Management Techniques
  • Developing Strategies to Improve Learning Lifecycles

Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained

The early childhood education Ph.D. program is designed for teachers or educators who want to pursue practice in various professional roles in their communities and schools. It provides students with skills in different components of early childhood education, including leadership and communication, collaborative social change, teaching and lifelong learning, research and reflection, analytical thought, etc.

Students gain many critical skills from the program as they develop expertise in different areas, enhancing the equity and excellence of young learners. Some of the crucial skills a student gets from this program include the ability to

  • demonstrate knowledge of research methodologies to hypotheses and questions addressing challenges in educational practice;
  • communicate with various stakeholders to advocate for learners in academic settings;
  • promote inclusion and equity in educational policies and programs;
  • advocate for social and developmental changes to make a significant impact in academic settings;
  • demonstrate professional capacities and practice ethically in the field of early childhood education;
  • apply theories in early childhood education to solve practical educational challenges;
  • demonstrate the ability to manage staff and day-to-day operations at early childhood settings like nursery schools, preschools, or childcare centers;
  • actively collaborate with parents and engage in different communities;  provide an understanding of resources available to learners;
  • examine emerging and current trends in primary education and understand demographic patterns to learn about challenges regarding childhood obesity and physical fitness.

Areas of Specialization for Early Childhood Education Ph.D. Students

Specializations help students to gain in-depth knowledge of one sub-domain from the field that they are studying. This helps them develop skills and expertise in one specialization area and understand the fundamentals of early childhood education. Some of the concentrations provided in the Ph.D. in early childhood education programs include

  • Special Education
  • Educational administration and leadership
  • Early childhood education
  • Higher education and adult learning
  • Higher education leadership and management
  • Reading, literacy, and assessment
  • Curriculum, instruction, and assessment
  • Organizational leadership and development
  • P-20 education

Some of the concentrations in the field of Ph.D. in early childhood education are:

Area of Specialization Description Career Options
Early Childhood Curriculum and MethodsThis specialization focuses on advanced strategies for designing and implementing effective curriculum frameworks. Students explore innovative teaching methodologies tailored to the unique needs of young learners, preparing them to lead in curriculum development and instructional practices within early childhood education settings.• Instructional Coordinator
• Training and Development Specialist
• Educational Administrator
• Early Childhood Curriculum Developer
Language Development in Young ChildrenThis specialization explores theories and practices to foster language acquisition and communication skills in early learners. Students explore effective instructional methods and interventions to support language development, preparing them to address diverse linguistic needs in educational settings.   • Early Childhood Teacher
• Community Development Worker
• Language Development Specialist
• Early Intervention Specialist
Children’s LiteratureThis specialization examines the role of literature in promoting literacy and fostering cognitive and socio-emotional development in young children. Students explore various genres, analyze literary works, and develop strategies to integrate literature into early childhood curriculum effectively.• Early Childhood Educator
• Children’s Librarian
• Literacy Specialist
• Curriculum Integration Specialist
Administration of Early Childhood EducationThis specialization focuses on preparing educators for leadership roles in early childhood settings. Through coursework in management, budgeting, curriculum design, and family engagement, students develop the skills and knowledge needed to lead and manage early childhood programs and initiatives effectively. • Early Childhood Education Administrator
• Childcare Center Director
• Program Coordinator
• Family Engagement Specialist
Health and Mental Health Specialties with Young ChildrenThis specialization equips educators with the knowledge and skills to support children’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Students learn to address diverse health and mental health needs in early childhood through coursework focusing on developmental psychology, intervention strategies, and community resources.• Preschool Teacher
• Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Professional
• Child Life Specialist
• Pediatric Occupational Therapist
Early Childhood Policy and AdvocacyThis specialization focuses on understanding and influencing policies impacting young children and families. Students delve into topics such as legislative processes, advocacy strategies, and policy analysis to become effective advocates for early childhood education and social justice in their communities and beyond.• Early Childhood Teacher
• Policy Analyst
• Program Associate
• Early Childhood Advocacy Coordinator

Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. Programs

The typical duration for completing an early childhood education Ph.D. program is 4 to 5 years. Alternatively, an accelerated format could allow completion within four years, while part-time enrollment might extend the timeframe to 6 years. Regardless of the duration, Ph.D. students must undertake comprehensive coursework and research.

Here is a quick overview of the Early Childhood Education Ph.D. programs in the USA:

  • Minimum time required for full-time Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education: 4 years average
  • The maximum time required for a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education: up to 6 years
  • The typical time frame to complete a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education: 4 to 6 years.

Accelerated Early Childhood Education Ph.D. Programs

Accelerated Ph.D. programs enable students to complete their degrees in less time, typically within four years. While coursework and research can be finished in this timeframe, completing the dissertation and fieldwork may extend the duration by up to a year. Students may commence Ph.D. coursework during their master’s program, and credits earned can affect program length. Certain programs are considered accelerated due to a faster-paced curriculum integrating coursework and dissertation credits. Here are some universities that offer accelerated Ph.D. early childhood education programs:

Requirements for Getting into an Online Early Childhood Education Ph.D. Program

There are different requirements to get into the Early Childhood Education program. Students who have completed their master’s and bachelor’s degrees from accredited colleges are preferred for candidature to Ph.D. programs. However, some programs don’t make a master’s degree mandatory to apply to doctoral programs. Since this field is sought after, those with diverse profiles are encouraged to apply to the program. Some of the standard requirements for Ph.D. in early childhood education admission requirements are:

  • Online application form and fee
  • Academic transcripts from universities attended before
  • Statement of purpose
  • Letters of recommendation 
  • Scores of standardized tests like GRE scores
  • TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native English speakers
  • Curriculum Vitae or Resume (highlighting relevant experience in early childhood education)
  • Writing sample (required for some programs)

No GRE Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

While the GRE is a staple for graduate programs, Ph.D. programs in Early Childhood Education, particularly online ones, often waive this requirement. Universities offer alternatives like a strong GPA or relevant work experience, prioritizing applicants’ commitment to early education over standardized test scores, fostering a more holistic admissions approach. Some institutions that provide Ph.D. in early childhood education online no GRE include:

How to Ensure an Online Early Childhood Education Ph.D. Program is Accredited

Accreditation profoundly impacts education, influencing eligibility for financial aid and credit transfer. It regulates institutional functions, ensuring adherence to industry standards. Accredited colleges guarantee superior safety and quality standards recognized by experts, assuring students about the institution’s credibility and educational excellence.

An online early childhood education Ph.D. program typically holds three types of accreditation: national, regional, and programmatic. National accreditation ensures the overall institution meets quality standards. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)5 is a national accrediting body that recognizes regional accreditors like the U.S. Department of Education. Most institutions with doctoral programs also undergo programmatic accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)6, which evaluates programs specifically in early childhood education.

Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:

To understand more about the accreditation process, read the guide to college accreditation.

Where to Find Free Online Courses for Early Childhood Education Ph.D. Students

Ph.D. students in early childhood education can access numerous free online resources to supplement their studies. With a solid foundational understanding, doctoral candidates can seek free courses to enrich their expertise and expand their dissertation topics. These resources provide valuable insights and aid in shaping comprehensive research agendas. Some of the free early childhood education courses prospective graduates of doctoral programs can access include:

CourseProvided byDescription
Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Developing Relationships7

Coursera
This course helps students understand how to support young learners and provide them with strong teaching and resources. The importance of relationships is highlighted in the course and its impact on learning, curriculum, and assessment. They also learn to identify the factors contributing to a student’s success in school.
Childcare and EYFS8AlisonThis free course teaches how to design the early year foundation stage or EYFS and the crucial steps to improve development and learning. Students learn to identify the roles and responsibilities of a teacher to cater to special educational needs and disabilities children.
Early Childhood Development: Global Strategies for Implementation9edxThe course helps students learn about using science-inefficient interventions for early childhood development. They learn how early childhood development programs can be successful, thereby minimizing the programs that fail.

Ways to Pay for an Online Early Childhood Education Ph.D.

Ph.D. programs offer significant advantages for advancing graduates in their fields. However, the steep tuition fees and other associated expenses may deter prospective candidates. Students may opt for research projects or seek part-time or full-time employment to finance their education. These strategies enable them to balance academic pursuits with financial responsibilities, making doctoral studies more accessible and attainable. There are many funding options that Ph.D. early childhood education students can use to fund their education, some of which are:

Scholarships are funding that students can use and avail themselves of based on their merit in academics or other fields like dance, music, etc. Students are provided scholarships by institutions, private organizations, or other non-governmental organizations.

Graduate Assistantships

Students can take advantage of graduate assistantships to fund their education. This is a great opportunity for students to build excellent contacts and expertise in their field. Students can also take up graduate assistant roles in institutions, where they can support teaching and play other roles.

Grants

Grants are awarded to students based on need or merits in various fields, such as sports or music. They differ from scholarships in that they’re not solely merit-based. Some grants target specific areas like research in data science.

FAFSA

FAFSA, or Free Application for Student Aid is an application that helps in determining if a student can be eligible for providing federal financial aid. Based on the application, students can decide if students will receive funds from institutions.

Private student loans

Private student loans offer financial aid for education expenses but typically have higher interest rates and less flexible repayment terms than federal loans. Borrowers should carefully consider their options and understand the terms before applying. Many Donors help students who are unable to pay loans. Various grants can help students pay their loans.

Read the financial aid guide to understand other funding options and how to pay for college.

Fully Funded Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

“Full funding” is a financial aid package for doctoral students, including tuition remission, annual stipend or salary for the duration of studies, and more. This funding is given in exchange for an individual’s contribution to graduate teaching or research work in parallel with their studies. Not all schools provide total funding for Ph.D. students; therefore, getting admission into the colleges that do can be competitive. Some universities that provide fully funded Ph.D. in early childhood education are:

UniversityDescription
The University of Alabama at Birmingham10Doctoral candidates are provided with research and scholarship opportunities. They are supplied with teaching experiences to implement, design, evaluate, and implement different pedogeological approaches to early childhood education. New students are given graduate teaching and research assistantships.
University of South Florida 11Assistantships are available for doctoral candidates who pursue full-time study by working in the institutional setting. Graduate assistants receive a fee waiver along with an annual stipend. Other financial awards include graduate fellowships, prizes, and grants. The institution provides more than $4,00,000 in scholarships to its students annually through private assistance.
University of Colorado Denver12The Ph.D. students receive financial support, including fees and tuition for up to 18 credit hours annually, a stipend for the prescribed 20 hours per week of research, and more. The U.S. Department of Education has a specific grant named “Project Mixer,” which funds the Ph.D. applicants in the Early Childhood Education program.

Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating

After graduating with a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education, individuals unlock diverse career opportunities and competitive salaries. Their expertise and advanced qualifications make them sought-after candidates in various sectors. The degree opens doors to leadership roles, research, and consultancy opportunities. Graduates can expect rewarding careers with salaries commensurate with their skills and experience. Some professions that graduates of the online Ph.D. in early childhood education can pursue include:

OccupationSkills RequiredMedian Annual SalaryJob Growth (up to 2031)Job Description
Child Care Center Director 13Communication, interpersonal, organizational, physical stamina, patience, and creativity skills.$84,860No Data AvailableChild Care Center Directors oversee daily operations, ensuring state regulations and licensing compliance. They manage staffing, provide staff training, and foster positive relationships with families and the community. Directors maintain safety standards, organize enrollment, and create enriching environments for children.
Special Education Teachers 14Communication, critical-thinking, interpersonal, patience, and resourcefulness skills.$62,9500% (Little or no change)Special education teachers support students with diverse disabilities from preschool to high school. They provide tailored instruction, aiding in study skills development or accommodating physical and sensory disabilities. Collaborating with educators and parents, they develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) outlining goals and necessary services to ensure students’ academic and behavioral success.
Preschool and Childcare Center Directors15Business, communication, interpersonal, leadership, and organizational skills$47,3108% (faster than the average for other professions)Preschool and childcare center directors oversee staff, program design, and daily operations. They hire, train, and develop staff, establish policies, and communicate with parents. Additionally, they manage budgets, ensure compliance with regulations, and maintain facilities. Directors in independent centers follow owner instructions, while those in chains uphold national standards.
Day Care Center Director16Analytical, communication, decision-making, interpersonal, and leadership skills$84,900No Data AvailableThe Day Care Center Director manages recruitment and staffing, ensuring compliance with state regulations. They oversee daily operations, enrollment, and community relations. Providing staff training and development, they prioritize child safety and well-being, ensuring activities meet children’s needs. Their role fosters positive relationships with families and the community.

Certifications and Licensing for Online Ph.D. Students in Early Childhood Education

Professional certifications help individuals differentiate from other professionals, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and understanding. It can help them get advanced training, knowledge, and information from specialists, providing them with technical strategies and up-to-date tools. Graduates of an early childhood education Ph.D. can pursue the following certifications: 

Child Development Associate Credential17

The Child Development Associate Credential is based on core standards that are set to prepare and evaluate early childhood educators as they enter the professional world. Those who have obtained CDA certification standards can show a deeper understanding of learned practices helping to move a child successfully from one developmental stage to the next.

Certified Childcare Professional (CCP)18

This certification helps individuals demonstrate their knowledge of early childhood development and skills to work with young learners. Applicants with these credentials are deemed distinguished professionals who have earned state and national recognition for their early childhood and childcare education achievements.

Child care license19 requirements differ from state to state, and the regulations include many topics like supervision of children, the safety of buildings, methods to stop the spread of disease, nutrition of food served to children, health, and training, and other requirements for adults who work at child care programs.

Additional Resources for Ph.D. Students in Early Childhood Education

Those enrolled in the early childhood education doctoral program can broaden their knowledge and perspectives of the field by becoming members of different organizations. These may include research databases, professional organizations, and networking opportunities. They can deepen their knowledge, build professional connections, and stay updated with industry trends, fostering their growth as educators. Some of the additional resources students in early childhood education can access include:

Title/ResourceDescription
Childcare.govThrough this resource, students can find many local resources on health and social services, child care, support for children with disabilities, financial assistance, etc. Individuals can find it helpful to understand all the available childcare options that fit their child and family needs.
Office of Child CareThe Office of Child Care provides timely guidance and technical assistance to different territories, tribes, and states to effectively distribute funds. The childcare system strengthens by providing equal access, technical assistance networks, stabilization grants, and much more. Educators can learn about emergency preparedness, disaster recovery, response strategies, equity action plans, and stabilization grants and recovery tools.
Childhood Education InternationalThe organization helps in ensuring children’s access to global quality education. They also create projects and programs supporting pre-primary to primary age children to learn, develop, and grow efficiently. Collaborators like civil society, governmental agencies, health professionals, education leaders, families, community leaders, and more come together to provide innovative solutions to enhance learning for children.
Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional ChildrenThe organization provides students with opportunities to communicate, collaborate, and interact with different multidisciplinary groups to understand the work in Early childhood. It helps members enhance advocacy conversations for Early Childhood professionals.
National Association for the Education of Young ChildrenThe NAEYC supports professional advancement with its in-person and online training options. It provides many articles on teaching research, a peer-reviewed journal, blogs, and other such resources. Members also have opportunities to connect with professionals at their community levels through networking events, conferences, leadership opportunities, advocacy efforts, etc.

FAQs About Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education

What is a Ph.D. in early childhood education?

A Ph.D. in early childhood education is a doctoral program designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills in early childhood education. Through online coursework and research, students explore child development, curriculum design, leadership, and advocacy, preparing them for leadership roles.

Why should you do a Ph.D. in early childhood education?

Do I need a master’s in Early Childhood Education before joining a Ph.D.?

How long does completing an early childhood education Ph.D. take?

Can I collaborate with fellow students and faculty in an online early childhood education Ph.D. program?

What can I do after a doctorate in early childhood education?

Is an online Early Childhood Education Ph.D. degree worth it?