Online Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Studies
Learn how to support young children’s development and improve long-term educational outcomes with Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Applied Science in early childhood studies. This program is designed for those who’ve earned an Associate of Applied Science and seek hands-on skills to make a direct impact on children, families and communities.
Don’t have an AAS? Explore ASU’s online Bachelor of Arts in Education in educational studies with a concentration in early childhood studies.
Quick facts
Next start date: 05/19/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Become a leader in early childhood education
This program prepares you with the knowledge and skills to increase school readiness for children under age 5. While certification isn’t required to work in early childhood settings, more roles now prefer or require a bachelor’s degree. You’ll learn through a framework of intentional teaching that includes observation, assessment, purposeful planning and reflection. Strengthening your abilities in these areas enables you to design personalized experiences that support each child’s development and long-term success.
Coursework includes opportunities to apply theory in real early childhood settings, supporting children before they enter kindergarten. This program is a strong fit if you work or volunteer in early learning environments such as Head Start, preschools or child care centers.
If you plan to pursue graduate study, you can earn this bachelor’s degree as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. Once accepted, you may complete a master’s degree in as little as one year after finishing your undergraduate program. This option saves time and offers advanced expertise in the field. Applicable master's degrees include:
- Master of Education in elementary education
- Master of Education in elementary education – teacher certification
How is a Bachelor of Applied Science degree different from a BA or BS degree?
A Bachelor of Applied Science focuses on career-ready coursework and practical application. This BAS is designed for those who’ve earned an Associate of Applied Science from a regionally accredited institution.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Early childhood studies BAS courses
The curriculum explores emerging language and literacy, highly individualized teaching and learning, and computer and mobile technologies. You’ll put theory into practice through experiential learning with children from birth to age 5 in real-world settings. Ideally, you’ll complete the required 15 hours per month in an early childhood setting licensed by the Department of Human Services where you currently work or volunteer.
What you can do with a BAS in early childhood studies
By completing this program, you’ll be equipped to launch or advance your career as a preschool teacher, instructional specialist, early childhood coach, center director and more. You can pursue roles in community- and home-based settings and with private organizations, where you’ll influence children’s long-term success in school. You’ll also be prepared to pursue graduate study in education and related fields.
Child Care Worker
Education Professor
Preschool Director
Preschool Teacher
Study early learning with experts in the field
The Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines, including cognitive science, psychology and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices and effects of education policy. Our faculty is also committed to connecting research to schools and other learning environments. They ensure teacher and leadership preparation programs combine scholarly rigor with practical application.
Study early learning with experts in the field
The Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines, including cognitive science, psychology and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices and effects of education policy. Our faculty is also committed to connecting research to schools and other learning environments. They ensure teacher and leadership preparation programs combine scholarly rigor with practical application.
How to apply
You’re eligible to apply for this program if you have attended one or more regionally accredited colleges or universities and earned your Associate of Applied Science (AAS). To apply to a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) program at ASU, please follow these steps.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Join one of the best colleges of education in the nation
Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation brings people and ideas together to increase the capabilities of educators and the performance of education systems. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
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Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
