Most Popular Online Child Development Degrees
Our list of the most popular online child development degree programs highlights accredited schools with the highest online enrollment, helping you identify where students are thriving.
Key Takeaways:
- #1 Southern New Hampshire University Online hosts 154,212 online students, making it the most popular school for child development degrees online.
- Florida International University has a student retention rate of 92%.
- Bay Path University offers the most personalized instruction, with just seven students per faculty member.
See our methodology for details about how we select the most popular online schools. We also spoke with Theresa Bertuzzi, a leader in early childhood education, to explore how online child development programs can empower students to make a lasting difference in children’s lives. Read her insights on meaningful impact below.
Most Popular Online Child Development Degrees
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | $9,900 | N/A | 69% | ||
| Western Governors University | $8,300 | N/A | 74% | ||
| University of Maryland Global Campus | $14,970 | N/A | 71% | ||
| Liberty University | $11,700 | $37,389 | 75% | ||
| Florida International University | $16,997 | N/A | 93% | ||
| UMass Global | $15,000 | N/A | 70% | ||
| Northwestern State University of Louisiana | $11,250 | N/A | 91% | ||
| University of Alabama | $11,550 | $44,281 | 95% | ||
| New Mexico State University | $11,862 | $36,859 | 88% | ||
| Central Methodist University | $8,250 | $40,639 | 88% | ||
| University of West Alabama | $9,750 | N/A | 84% | ||
| Point University | $12,750 | $36,146 | 100% | ||
| Jacksonville State University | $10,440 | N/A | 96% | ||
| Bay Path University | $12,300 | N/A | 93% | ||
| Florida Tech - Online | $15,600 | $48,721 | 71% |
Most Popular Online Child Development Degrees - Program Details
- Graduates:
- Annual Tuition: $9,900
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 69%
Why we like them: SNHU is #1 on our list due to its high online enrollment, placing it ahead of every other institution for popularity among distance learners. SNHU reports an online enrollment of 154,212 online students overall. Students in this program can choose between an internship or an experiential learning project, which helps them build experience and begin networking in child-focused fields.
- Graduates:
- Annual Tuition: $8,300
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 74%
Why we like them: Courses in psychopathology, substance abuse and addiction, and mental health awareness and education prepare students to recognize and respond to behavioral challenges that often emerge in childhood or adolescence. WGU’s virtual simulation experiences allow students to practice collaboration, conflict resolution, and communication in realistic settings.
- Graduates:
- Annual Tuition: $14,970
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 71%
Why we like them: Students at UMGC take Lifespan Development and other psychology courses that cover childhood cognitive, emotional, and behavioral growth, giving them tools to understand developmental milestones and challenges from birth through adolescence. UMGC’s program builds transferable skills in counseling, communication, and psychological research.
- Graduates:
- Annual Tuition: $11,700
- Median Salary: $31,357
- Recommendation: 75%
Why we like them: Liberty's program incorporates a distinctive Christian perspective, integrating biblical standards directly within the curriculum. Courses teach how to identify and support children with behavioral and psychological difficulties rooted in early development, covering topics like abnormal psychology, behavioral modification, and mental health disorders in children.
- Graduates:
- Annual Tuition: $16,997
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 93%
Why we like them: Unlike many programs that concentrate primarily on academic skills, FIU’s curriculum emphasizes cognitive, language, social/emotional, and physical development, reflecting a more holistic approach to early childhood education. We're also impressed that all students are assigned a dedicated success coach.
Which Online Child Development Degree Is Right for You? Here’s What the Most Popular Programs Reveal
Choosing the right online child development degree means weighing the content of the coursework and cost, of course, but we argue that it's also important to consider popularity. Why? Because it's a key indicator of a program’s value. The schools on our list each host a bachelor’s degree in child development (or a closely related field), and they stand out because these online schools attract the highest number of online students. That’s worth paying attention to.
When you’re pursuing a degree that leads to careers in early childhood education, family services, child advocacy, or youth development, you need a program that’s stable, flexible, and well-supported. A high number of online enrollees often signals:
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Popularity among online students
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High peer engagement & networking opportunities
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Established online infrastructure (tech support, flexible scheduling)
Child development majors are often already balancing work, caregiving, or community roles, which is why having a tested online model makes a huge difference.
Our list includes 15 schools, all with online student enrollment over 600 and some with six-figure participation. I'll admit that popularity alone isn’t enough when making such a huge decision, and that’s why I also want to discuss other factors, like recommendation rates from those who've been there. This incredible resource is based on over 75,000 verified student surveys. It allows our team to spotlight the schools that not only attract students but earn their approval.
The Largest Online Communities
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) and Western Governors University (WGU) dominate our list with over 135,000 remote students. SNHU’s psychology-based child and adolescent development program is very customizable, allowing up to 90 transfer credits. It also offers 8-week terms for faster pacing. WGU, meanwhile, offers a self-paced model with flat-rate tuition and monthly start dates, making it another ideal option for independent adult learners.
What makes these programs especially compelling is that they place you in a large virtual community of peers, which comes with a lot of benefits right off the bat. For example, at SNHU, the combination of 24/7 support and a vast alumni network fosters helpful networking connections. At WGU, a 70% recommendation rate and strong overall review scores reflect a loyal student base who value the school enough to endorse it.
High Success, High Satisfaction
Florida International University (FIU) impresses with a 92% retention rate, meaning nearly all students stick with the program once they start. We think this kind of continuity matters in a field like child development, where engagement is key when it comes to mastering complex, human-centered material.
FIU’s graduation rate is another impressive attribute. It's in the top 10% of peer institutions on a national scale for graduating the most students. Plus, with a 91% recommendation rate, it becomes clear that this is a school that keeps students enrolled but also leaves them satisfied throughout their college experience.
The University of Alabama (UA) leads the pack with a 96% recommendation rate — the highest on our list — and the highest graduation rate overall of 74%. That means most students not only finish their program but also walk away fully satisfied with the experience.
UA’s Child Life concentration is particularly notable for requiring hands-on professional preparation, including 600 internship hours and practicum experiences that align with Child Life certification pathways. With a 4.08/5 student review rating and an 86% retention rate, UA clearly delivers on both quality and consistency.
Inside the Most Popular Online Child Development Degrees: Career Paths vs. Faith-Based Options
The most popular online child development degrees aren’t one-size-fits-all. They reflect the diverse goals of students entering the field. Whether you're seeking a program grounded in faith, one that leads directly to specialized careers like child advocacy or child life services, or simply a flexible degree that fits into your life, these schools offer tailored pathways in the field of child development.
Hands-On and Career-Focused
Several programs take child development beyond theory by weaving professional credentials into their coursework:
The University of Alabama (UA) offers a Child Life concentration led by PhD faculty, with 600+ hours of internship and practicum work. This is rare in the online space, and especially valuable for students aiming for Child Life Professional Certification.
New Mexico State University (NMSU) stands out as CFLE-approved, meaning it aligns with national standards for Family Life Educators. With an 89% recommendation rate from students and scholarship support through the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship, this online program has a strong support network.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana (NSU) allows for internship placements and even CDA transfer credit, ideal for students with childcare experience seeking advancement. Its two available tracks — Consumer Services or Child Development — allow for career-specific specialization.
Faith-Based and Personal
For students seeking a values-driven or highly personalized learning experience, several online child development programs rise to the occasion:
Liberty University (LU) integrates a Christian worldview into its developmental psychology program, aligning academic learning with faith-based values. This program also includes real-world preparation through a capstone or up to 250 hours of internship experience. For those who prioritize both faith and professional readiness, Liberty offers a pathway that resonates with many learners.
Point University similarly emphasizes faith as part of its academic mission. Its online child development program is built on a biblical foundation and supported by small class sizes, with a student-faculty ratio of 13:1. This helps create a close-knit online environment where students receive personalized attention and mentorship.
One of the clearest takeaways from today’s most popular online child development degrees is that students aren’t just looking for flexible coursework—they’re looking for purpose-driven programs that align with their values and career ambitions. For some, that means choosing a degree that fast-tracks them toward professional certification. But for others, the decision is more personal. Some embed faith directly into the learning environment, guiding how students approach service, leadership, and child advocacy.
In short, the popularity of these programs in child development reflects how modern students are prioritizing meaning and long-term fit over one-size-fits-all education. Whether you're focused on career readiness or looking for spiritual alignment, there’s a popular online program designed with your goals in mind.
Theresa Bertuzzi on What It Takes to Thrive in a Child Development Degree Online
Co-Founder, Tiny Hoppers
With over two decades of experience in early childhood education and program design, Theresa Bertuzzi, Chief Program Development Officer at Tiny Hoppers, understands just how high the stakes are in child development — and how online students can rise to meet them. In our interview, she shared key insights for prospective students considering a child degree online.
On why child development matters:
“Child development is meaningful because it directly shapes the future.”
For students interested in long-term impact, few fields offer as clear a connection to positive societal outcomes. Whether through teaching, advocacy, or family support, the work done in this space directly influences the wellbeing and resilience of future generations.
How online programs can support real-world growth:
“Online programs prepare students through a blend of interactive coursework, virtual observations, and case-based learning. With the right program, students can explore key theories and strategies to support diverse learners and apply them through practical experiences or community-based projects, even in remote settings.”
Bertuzzi emphasizes that remote learning can still be (and should be) immersive in order to be effective. Find the child development programs that are designed to integrate experiential components and community engagement.
The importance of hands-on experience in this field:
“Students should gain hands-on experience in early learning centers, family programs, or pediatric support services. Volunteering, internships, or job shadowing provide critical insight into child behaviour and classroom dynamics. Additionally, schools are always in need of supply teachers, which is an excellent opportunity for online students to gain hands-on experience.”
While online courses build a crucial foundational knowledge, Bertuzzi encourages students to proactively seek out practical settings where that knowledge can come alive. Go out and get some experience, whether at local childcare centers or simply short-term substitute teaching roles.
Advice for those just starting their child development degree:
“Lean into connection, both with children and with your learning. As an online student, make the most of every discussion, observation, and field experience. The more intentional and engaged you are, the greater your ability to support families and shape bright, meaningful futures.”
Her advice highlights a central truth in this field: success comes from showing up fully — in relationships, in learning, and in service to others.
FAQs About Online Child Development Degrees
What Can You Expect from a Child Development Degree Online?
Child development degree programs focus on the behavioral and social sciences and how learning environments can impact a child’s development — for better or worse. Under the umbrella of developmental psychology, child development professionals also study the emotional, developmental, and psychological effects of a child’s environment. Additionally, most online child development degree programs also include observation and research hours so that students may apply what they're learning in class in a real-world professional context.
It typically takes four years to earn an online bachelor’s degree in child development. However, as with any degree program, the exact amount of time required to complete the degree program varies based on the number of hours taken each term.
Among the many career paths available to those with a child development degree are childhood education specialist or teacher, childcare director or manager, child welfare specialist, and child life specialist. While many students begin their undergraduate study in child development not knowing exactly what they want to do with the degree upon graduating, thinking strategically on the front end can help align your professional ambitions with your desired career.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Child Development Degree Program?
Undergraduates enrolled in an online child development degree program take a series of core courses and electives to provide them with a well-rounded understanding of child development.
Take a look below to learn about a few child development classes online:
- Introduction to Early Childhood Education: In contrast to a growth and development course, this introductory class is focused on a child’s education from birth to around eight years old. The course lays the groundwork for additional core courses and electives in this field.
- Child Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): A popular area of child development, this course focuses on the importance of growing a student’s social and emotional management skills to increase classroom effectiveness and student success. In addition, the course expounds on that idea by teaching students about integrative approaches to learning.
- Growth and Development of Children: This course teaches students the process and timeline in which children grow, from birth to adolescence. As an introductory course, it also provides exposure to the field.
- Families as Educational Partners: It takes a village to help children grow socially, emotionally, and mentally in an educational environment. While administrators and teachers have a great deal of responsibility to help children grow and develop in the classroom, strong family support outside the school can have a significant impact on child development.
Which Careers Require a Bachelor’s in Child Development?
Several unique career opportunities are available to those holding a bachelor’s degree in child development. While some students begin their professional careers immediately upon graduating, others continue their education by going to graduate school and working toward various professional certification courses (and exams) in child development.
However, below we provide a snapshot of popular career opportunities with a bachelor’s degree in child development:
1. While all must hold at least a bachelor’s degree, professionals employed at public schools must also earn state-specific certification or licensure. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers teach students in core subjects, such as reading and math. Some teachers specialize in particular subjects. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers help students develop an educational foundation for success.
2. provide a variety of support to students with disabilities. They work with students needing additional attention and care due to the impact of physical, emotional and cognitive disabilities. While educational requirements vary by state, most states require special education teachers to be certified. Additionally, most states require special education teachers to pass one or more licensure exams.
3. are tasked with a variety of responsibilities. To enter this role, you need a bachelor’s degree and professional experience working in early childhood education. Educational and professional experience requirements vary by provider and state. Most individuals in this position hold certifications. Being a certified Child Development Associate (CDA) is a common requirement. Regarding professional duties, preschool and childcare center directors assist with everything from parent/teacher communication to hiring new employees.
4. If you’re interested in becoming a , you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, and you may be required to have a certain amount of experience. School and community service managers have the opportunity to work for different types of employers. While over a quarter of school and community service managers work in individual and family services, others are employed in areas including nursing, residential care, local, state and federal government and rehabilitation services, among others.
Earning an affordable bachelor’s degree in child development opens the door to many unique career paths. While a bachelor’s degree is required to work in most child development-related occupations — such as teaching, special education, and social and community management —most professionals go on to earn different types of licensure and certification specific to their career niche. Whether state-mandated or purely elective, certification and licensure can bolster an applicant’s resume and show potential employers their commitment to their craft.
In addition, earning a master’s degree in child development or a related field can further distinguish one candidate from another. If you’re passionate about education and providing kids with the support and care they need to succeed, earning a child development degree may be ideal for you.
Is Early Childhood Development a Good Career?
If you’re passionate about working with children and feel you can have a meaningful impact on their growth and development, earning a bachelor’s degree is a great place to begin your career endeavors. As a student in a child development undergraduate degree program, you will learn the fundamentals and skills required to be successful in your career.
What Degree Is Best for Early Childhood Education?
At the undergraduate level, a bachelor’s degree program in child development is one of the most common degrees pursued by students wishing to enter the field of child development.
However, if you are still undecided on your major? Check out similar fields fields, like or even .
Student Reviews of Online Child Development Programs
This college is seriously a joke! I loved it at first. I just finished my freshman year online. I was doing great in my classes, until I had to take a math class. Math has always been hard for me. I ended up failing the class, which caused my gpa to go under 2.0. If it goes under 2.0, you get your financial aid suspended. But you can appeal it and have the decision reconsidered. That's what happened to me. The only reason I failed was because I was in the hospital, giving birth to my daughter the... Read More
Review Date: 7/18/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have just graduated with my Bachelor's Degree from Ashford. I have to say overall I am very pleased with my experience. The work was no joke, especially when it came time for my 300 and 400 level courses. I had some issues with the financial aid department. But quickly realized that when I calmed down, had all my paperwork in front of me and asked for a supervisor I received the information I was looking for. My advisor was not as quick answering me, but she was helpful when I talked to her. The... Read More
Review Date: 8/20/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
SNHU was a great experience for me. I graduated at the top of my class in May of 2016. If you're willing to work hard and stay focused, this is the right school. I am now working on my Master of Arts in professional counseling. I do not regret choosing SNHU. I did my research and chose this school wisely. I did have a very few (2 or 3) instructors that I did not like, but that's to be expected. There was really only one that made my life miserable. I asked for and received awesome references from... Read More
Review Date: 6/10/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It is a funny thing when you check reviews of businesses or schools. No matter the business, the majority of the reviews are negative. That usually is because people that are satisfied and happy are less likely to take the time to post something positive than a person who is angry who had a negative experience. With that said, I began attending GCU online in the summer of 2010. After being laid off I felt it was time for a career change and an education. I researched a lot of online schools and chose... Read More
Review Date: 1/29/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have been attending Waldorf College for about a year and a half, and my degree is nearly complete. Waldorf has provided me with an excellent college experience. I've attended large state universities, small community colleges, and other online schools. Waldorf has out shined all of them. I never had to pay for a book because Waldorf has received a book grant, the professors are all very friendly and go out of their way to help even wayward students like me, the curriculum is structured to make... Read More
Review Date: 4/21/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I just (literally 3 weeks ago) graduated from Walden with my BS degree in Psychology. I love the school and the course work. If you're a person that needs constant attention and help this school is probably not for you, because you really have to work at your own pace and independently to complete task or coursework majority of the time. Seeing as I worked full time while trying to obtain my degree, this was right up my alley! My thing is college is not hard--no matter what school you attend as long... Read More
Review Date: 6/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Walden was a great place to work to receive my bachelor's degree as a mom who also worked full time. I received enough financial aid to help me, and the classes were very relevant.
Review Date: 7/22/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have had the best school experience at University of Phoenix. My academic and financial advisor were top notch and contacted me every few weeks just to check on me. However, I would contact either of them if there were any issues or just to touch base also. I naturally reach out to people. I naturally develop relationships. So perhaps my natural tendency to build relationships with people, has helped me in this environment. During my associates degree, I had the absolute best teachers! I think... Read More
Review Date: 9/14/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have been surprised at the negative comments about Saint Leo. The core values and excellent instructors made this school more than just a degree. For me, the experience as an adult learner was invaluable. The classes were engaging. I never had an issue when/if I needed helped. However the instructors are not there to hold your hand. The expectation is you learn material and keep up with the syllabus. If not it is really sink or swim. My education has made doors open for graduate school. If Saint... Read More
Review Date: 6/17/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I had been to two schools before I attended eastern. When I went to eastern I realized that this place was like a second home for me. Most of the instructors were helpful and actually cared about the students and their ability to learn. I myself had instructors that helped me to the full extent and made sure that I graduated and while in class and out understood the material that was being taught to me
Review Date: 8/5/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of Cincinnati, with its inner city environment, has many career opportunities for students. There are many internships and co-ops associated with the school. There is a large and growing number of clubs, activities, and other groups for on campus events and organizations and also for the Cincinnati community. Personally, I was involved in teacher assisting which allowed me to gain benefical networks with professors. There are many opportunities for undergraduate research in the field... Read More
Review Date: 2/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I believe that Sacramento State has given me countless opportunities to grow not only as a student but also as a person and a potential full-time employee in the future. The faculty, staff, and students constantly engaged me in challenging conversations and thought-provoking exercises, which helps strengthen our ability, as a whole campus, to practice open-mindedness, respect, and understanding. This demonstrates the beauty of Sacramento State University where learning and leadership begins.
Review Date: 2/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
McPherson College is a great school to attend and being involved in a tight-knitted community of other students and faculty is something you will not regret! You're welcome at the school following your graduation is greatly appreciated, not to mention the fun alumni events that take place. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience furthering my education with such knowledgeable and relatable professors who have your best interest in mind at all times. If you are interested in continuing your... Read More
Review Date: 9/26/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
McPherson College is a great school to attend and being involved in a tight-knitted community of other students and faculty is something you will not regret! You're welcome at the school following your graduation is greatly appreciated, not to mention the fun alumni events that take place. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience furthering my education with such knowledgeable and relatable professors who have your best interest in mind at all times. If you are interested in continuing your... Read More
Review Date: 9/26/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely loved attending the University of Minnesota. The U of M is it's own little bustling metropolis. It is such a fun environment to learn and grow in. I was more inclined towards studying in a smaller school atmosphere, and amazingly enough I was able to find that at the University of Minnesota. The Youth Studies program is a close knit small program with incredible teaching staff and professors. If you are interested in working with youth, social justice and making the world a better place,... Read More
Review Date: 9/24/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
TWU is a well rounded school and provides a lot of opportunity for their students to have a valuable education. I highly recommend this school to students who are focused on the educational side of the college experience. There are still many opportunities to create a social life on campus but the definitely emphasize the educational side. You are valued on this campus and all your professors truly care and what the best for you.
Review Date: 3/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have been at California State University of Fullerton for four years now. Throughout my four years, I have never felt unsafe. There is constant security and police on campus keeping every student safe at the best of their ability. The campus is well taken care of and is a pleasant place to study, learn, and grow. The Financial Aide Services are very helpful and resolve any problems as soon as they can. The housing is kept clean at all times and a pleasant place to live. The Faculty and Staff are... Read More
Review Date: 1/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at William Jessup University. Through both my general education and my major specific work I was challenged, motivated, and genuinely invested in by my professors. It was through their help and encouragement that I was able to finish my degree a semester early and with a 4.0 GPA (all while working full time!). The campus is beautiful and expanding quickly.
Review Date: 10/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Central Michigan University is an amazing school with great opportunities for its students. As a Child Development major, I was able to work within the community through volunteer work and observations. Being provided with this experience will help me as I continue to further my education in the Human Service field and also when I am a working professional in this field.
Review Date: 12/21/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The Child and Adolescent Development program did an amazing job of preparing their students for real-life experiences. The degree itself integrated field work that was applicable to many students in the program. I found jobs throughout my time in college that were applicable to my degree and immediately after graduation. The professors in the department were all willing to help and get you through the program by allowing you to learn the necessary material as you went up each consecutive year into... Read More
Review Date: 5/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes