Jobs with an early childhood education degree

Those who have or are considering pursuing a degree in early childhood education, may be interested in working with children early on in their education to help give them the best possible chance to succeed in school and beyond. Looking for another perk? Most teachers and other educators get the summer months off from work and may have the ability to take off mornings and afternoons if they teach very young kids. Remote roles are also possible.

Early childhood education refers to teaching children up to 8-years-old helping them learn basic math, reading and forming friendships. Teachers can play an influential role in child development, working with a dozen kids at a time, or more.

Teaching in early childhood can also be very rewarding, as this child development phase is crucial for early learning and social skills. Early childhood education is a career that needs candidates who want to make a positive impact on children’s lives for years to come.

A degree may be a prerequisite, depending on the level at which a teacher wishes to work. Even teaching at the preschool level generally requires a bachelor’s degree, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) suggests. Leaders supervising children as part of a day care program typically have a degree as well.

Whether in special education, a Head Start program, an elementary school teacher or a kindergarten educator, there are a number of career options in early childhood education. As of May 2025, it's reported that elementary school teachers, except special education, earned between $47,960 and $104,340, with a median wage of $63,970, according to BLS.

Salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of University of Phoenix. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. University of Phoenix does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.

Head Start teachers do just that — give young children an essential head start on their early childhood education and a happy, healthy life. Some kids need an extra boost, because of either their community’s lack of resources or their family’s situation. A Head Start educator can end up making the difference between a child moving forward in school or being held back because they haven’t mastered the alphabet, basic math or other important concepts. For a teacher who enjoys helping children succeed, this career can be rewarding far beyond a paycheck.

According to BLS, most Head Start teachers need at least an associate degree. In some areas of the U.S. where at least half of all the Head Start teachers work, require a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field like psychology plus preschool teaching experience.

Preschool teachers help young children learn about the world around them and teach basic concepts that prepare them for school, such as colors, shapes and possibly even the alphabet. These learning activities are designed to help preschool-age children develop the necessary skills for growth.

As of May 2025, preschool teachers made between $28,99 and $61,390 annually, with a median wage of $38,140, according to BLS. Salaries and job opportunities for this career can vary by state and location, and a degree may be required to hold some state certifications.

Kindergarten teachers, except special education, earned between $46,990 and $101,830, with a median salary of $62,680 in May 2025, according to BLS. This period of a child’s life is typically one of the busiest for learning and development. Kindergarten teachers are with children during some of their most foundational years -- kindergarten through fifth grade, teaching them everything from storytelling to multiplication tables to basic American history.

If you’re interested in a career in early childhood education, University of Phoenix offers a Bachelor of Science in Education/Early Childhood Education. Explore other education degrees at the bachelor, master, and doctoral levels.

Want more information about University of Phoenix and degree programs? Contact University of Phoenix.

Watch Early Childhood vs Elementary Teacher: Which Is Right for You?