School of Education

Early Childhood Education

The University of Mount Olive’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (ECE) prepares you for a meaningful, rewarding career working with children from birth through kindergarten. Our flexible, 100% online degree in Early Childhood Education is designed for working adults, allowing you to balance your studies with professional and personal responsibilities.

UMO’s bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education emphasizes instructional strategies, assessment techniques, and an understanding of early childhood growth and development. Through embedded early childhood practicum experiences, you’ll gain hands-on opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, fostering confidence and classroom readiness.

Early Childhood Education majors complete the program as a non-licensure candidate, and upon graduation, may enter the licensure-only program. Licensure candidates complete additional coursework and a supervised semester-long internship, preparing them for roles in public schools or NC Pre-K programs.

Early Childhood Education Online Degree Highlights


The University of Mount Olive’s online bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education equips you to inspire and educate young learners. As an Early Childhood Education major, you will:

Develop the firm foundation needed to work with young students of varying age groups, ability levels, and cultures

Learn to think critically about important issues that impact teaching and learning

Build skills to support lifelong learning, successful classroom roles, and student growth and development

ECE Online Degree Details


UMO’s bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends practical experience with foundational knowledge. Our 100% online Early Childhood Education courses combine classroom instruction with real-world learning opportunities to prepare you for diverse career paths.

  • 100% online
  • Accredited
  • Accelerated 7.5-week classes
  • Multiple start dates
  • Transfer-friendly policies that maximize transferable credits
  • One-on-one advising
  • No application fee or entrance test requirements
How Is the Early Childhood Education Online Degree Unique?

Our flexible online program integrates real-world early childhood practicum experiences throughout your coursework, enabling you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

ECE majors complete the program as a non-licensure candidate, and upon graduation, may enter the licensure-only program. Licensure candidates will be required to take additional coursework as well as complete a supervised semester-long internship.

Admission Requirements
  • Free online application
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Official transcripts from previous educational institutions
  • Minimum GPA of 2.7 from previous institutions (applicable for those in the licensure pathway)
Marketable Skills for Early Childhood Education Majors

By earning your online Early Childhood Education degree from North Carolina’s University of Mount Olive, you will:

  • Develop expertise in implementing effective learning strategies
  • Promote language and literacy skills that prepare students for lifelong success
  • Understand how to foster social, emotional, and intellectual growth in young learners
Alumni Spotlight

“As a working adult, the idea of attending a university at my age scared me. After speaking with an admissions representative, I knew UMO was the place for me. In the beginning of the program, it was challenging, but once I got to know the professors and saw how present they were for their students, I felt more at ease. The professors advised me and guided me toward my degree and beyond.”

–William “Tony” Jones, B.S. Early Childhood Education, 2016

What Can You Do With Your Online Degree in Early Childhood Education?


The demand for qualified early educators continues to grow, with employers seeking professionals skilled in creating inclusive learning environments and fostering a love for lifelong learning. Graduates of the University of Mount Olive’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education program are prepared to make a lasting impact in the lives of young learners.

With a solid foundation in childhood development, teaching methodologies, and assessment techniques, our Early Childhood Education majors pursue diverse and rewarding careers, such as:

  • Preschool teacher: Shape the minds of young children by fostering their social, emotional, and intellectual development in private and public preschool environments
  • Childcare center director: Lead and manage early childhood programs, ensuring high-quality care and education while overseeing daily operations, staff, and curriculum
  • Family support specialist: Work closely with families to provide resources, guidance, and strategies to support children’s development and well-being
  • Kindergarten teacher (licensure required): Teach foundational skills to young learners in public school classrooms, preparing them for lifelong educational success
  • NC Pre-K Teacher (licensure required): Deliver early childhood education to preschool-aged children in North Carolina state-sponsored programs aimed at preparing students for school readiness

Additionally, Mount Olive’s online bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education equips graduates for roles in leadership, administration, community outreach, and advocacy. Whether your goal is to teach in a classroom, manage a childcare center, or support families, our online ECE degree opens doors to a wide range of fulfilling career paths.

More Information About Our Early Childhood Education Program


Whether you’re looking to teach young learners in the classroom or pursue an administrative role, UMO’s bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education provides the tools and support you need to reach your goals. Explore our online Early Childhood Education courses and learn how our hands-on approach prepares you for real-world success.

Online Early Childhood Education Courses

Our online Early Childhood Education classes cover essential topics like early childhood development, curriculum design for young learners, literacy and language instruction, classroom management, and more. Early childhood practicum opportunities are embedded throughout the program to provide real-world experience and ensure career readiness.

View the full course requirements for this degree.

Adult Undergraduate Degree Sheets
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Make a Difference With UMO’s Online Early Childhood Education Degree

Start your journey to a rewarding career with an online Early Childhood Education degree from North Carolina’s University of Mount Olive.