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If you love children, consider turning your passion into a profession with one of the best bachelor's degrees in child development.
In these programs, you'll build expertise on the physical, cognitive, social, emotional, moral, and language development of children. You'll also learn about working with children with special needs and from diverse backgrounds. This knowledge allows you to reach and teach the whole child. You'll become a professional who focuses not just on academics, but on social and emotional development too.
After graduating from these programs, you will have the ability to conduct research, design programs, and provide services that positively impact child development. This can lead to a career in education, public policy, social services, counseling, and more.
What kind of Bachelor's in Child Development degree should you get?
Many child development programs offer concentrations or specializations. If you want to direct a daycare or preschool program, become an educator, or work in social services, there's most likely a concentration for you. If you aren't sure about your career goals, you can pursue a more general child development degree.
Another factor to consider is if you want to attend classes on campus or online. There are benefits to each delivery method. The on-campus programs on this list offer face-to-face interaction and a more traditional college experience.
However, online coursework provides flexibility and convenience. While earning an online degree, you can work at your own pace, on your own time. If online classes appeal to you, check out our list of the Best Online Child Development Degrees.
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How much money do people make with a Bachelor's in Child Development degree?
Your salary will depend on what career you choose to pursue. Below, we'll look at the median salary for several potential child development careers. All salary data is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Preschool/Childcare Center Director- $46,890
Social Worker- $47,980
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers- $56,900
Child Life Specialist- $60,380
These careers are all projected to grow as fast or faster than average in the next 10 years. Social worker jobs, for example, are expected to grow by 16 percent, which is much faster than average.
With a master's degree, you can qualify for higher level positions with higher salaries. Of course, earning your bachelor's degree is a required first step.
What can you do with a Bachelor's degree in Child Development?
A bachelor's degree in Child Development can prepare you to work as a teacher, childcare worker, preschool director, child life specialist, behavioral health specialist, or social worker. You can work in private, public, or even government positions interacting with children. You may also develop community and family programs that benefit child development.
In addition, you can pursue graduate work in human development, psychology, education, or public policy. A bachelor's degree in Child Development can open a wide variety of possibilities.
What are the requirements for a Bachelor's degree in Child Development?
To apply for a child development bachelor's degree program, you'll need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs will require a certain GPA or test scores. You may be expected to submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement or essay.
Like other bachelor's degree programs, these programs require at least 120 credit hours. In most cases, students must complete hands-on experience in the field. This can include an internship or practicum, and you may be expected to complete independent research.
What are the best Bachelor's in Child Development degrees?
This guide is a list of the best bachelor's degrees in Child Development. To determine which programs are the best, we evaluate factors including school reputation, tuition, and overall return on investment. The programs on this list will provide high-quality education at reasonable prices, setting you up for career success.
To inform our rankings, we gather data only from trusted sources like:
Princeton Review
U.S. News and World Report
Bureau of Labor Statistics
PayScale
Official college and university websites
If you're seeking a rewarding career in child development, these programs will help you achieve your goals.
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Vanderbilt University, a private institution, offers a top-ranking child development program. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, the school offers both in-person and online enrollment options. Undergraduates benefit from flexible enrollment options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive college support services.
The bachelor's in child development program strengthens in-demand skills through general education and major courses. Courses in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. Upper-division child development classes explore theoretical and practical issues in the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles or further education.
Vanderbilt University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 9%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 74
Undergrad Tuition In State: $50,800
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $50,800
Graduation Rate: 93%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $61,900
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,800
Out-of-state
$50,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$48,624
Out-of-state
$48,624
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
13,131
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
8%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Tufts University
Medford, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
The BA in child study and human development program at Tufts University, which offers 72 bachelor's degrees, helps degree-seekers reach their goals. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse career paths in the child development program. After earning a bachelor's degree, graduates also continue their education by applying to master's or doctoral programs.
The bachelor's curriculum covers foundational and advanced child development topics. General education courses emphasize in-demand skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Students gain interdisciplinary skills by declaring a minor or second major.
The school's student services help incoming degree candidates make connections on campus and thrive in their program. For example, career counselors help students identify strengths and plan for the job market.
Tufts University at a Glance:
Location: Medford, Massachusetts
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 15%
Undergrad Tuition In State: $57,324
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $57,324
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,324
Out-of-state
$57,324
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$52,724
Out-of-state
$52,724
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
15%
Students Enrolled
11,878
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
3%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
4 years
Online + Campus
The bachelor's in early childhood education program at Clemson University, a public institution, stands out for its quality. The school, located in Clemson, South Carolina, offers both in-person and online classes. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive college support services.
Majors take courses in the program and general education classes to earn a bachelor's degree. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Graduates prepare for entry-level roles or further education in advanced courses, which cover theoretical and practical issues in the field.
Clemson University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 51%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 78
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,118
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $37,110
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,672
Graduation Rate: 84%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $48,100
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,118
Out-of-state
$37,110
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,600
Out-of-state
$22,050
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
25,822
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
University of La Verne
La Verne, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
University of La Verne, a private institution, enrolls learners in its top-ranked child development program. From its campus in La Verne, the school offers both in-person and online enrollment options. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive college support services.
Majors earn a bachelor's degree after completing child development courses in the bachelor's in child development program, along with general education requirements. The general education curriculum includes classes in the humanities, mathematics, and communication. Within the major, learners take upper-division courses that provide an advanced understanding of child development, preparing graduates for the job market.
University of La Verne at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 55%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 56
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $43,440
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $43,440
Graduation Rate: 73%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $45,800
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$43,440
Out-of-state
$43,440
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,256
Out-of-state
$14,256
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
7,396
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Florida International University
Miami, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Florida International University enrolls undergraduates in 78 bachelor's programs, including its early childhood development program. The degree prepares students for a variety of career paths in many different industries. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates also apply to master's programs to continue their education.
The bachelor's curriculum introduces major principles and practices in early childhood development. General education requirements also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Students complement their major by selecting a minor or double majoring.
Incoming degree candidates benefit from student services, which provide support for first-year learners. For example, academic advisors work with students to transfer credits into the school and select courses.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Location: Miami, Florida
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,721
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,529
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,711
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The bachelor's in early childhood and elementary education degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a public institution, stands out for its academic quality. From its campus in Birmingham, Alabama, the school enrolls degree-seekers in on-campus and online programs. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and rigorous academic standards.
Majors earn a bachelor's degree after completing early childhood and elementary education courses in the program, along with general education requirements. Courses in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. Upper-division classes explore theoretical and practical issues in the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles or further education.
University of Alabama at Birmingham at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 74%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 51
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,568
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,400
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,605
Graduation Rate: 63%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $39,400
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,568
Out-of-state
$20,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
22,080
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Michigan State University offers a bachelor's degree in child development as one of its 119 bachelor's programs. The child development degree prepares students for a variety of career paths in many different industries. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.
The bachelor's curriculum trains learners in foundational child development knowledge and practices. Undergraduates also gain communication, writing, and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Minors and double majors allow students to explore their other academic and professional interests.
The school's student services provide support for incoming degree candidates. For example, career counselors connect students with job fairs and internship opportunities.
Michigan State University at a Glance:
Location: East Lansing, Michigan
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 71%
Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,555
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $40,384
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,555
Out-of-state
$40,384
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,858
Out-of-state
$37,056
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
49,809
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Berea College
Berea, KY
4 years
Campus
The child and family studies program at Berea College, a private institution, stands out for its quality. Located in Berea, Kentucky, the school offers both in-person and online enrollment options. Undergraduates benefit from comprehensive support services, including academic and career advising.
The BA in child and family studies program incorporates general education and major courses to build in-demand knowledge and skills. The general education curriculum strengthens communication and critical thinking skills through coursework in diverse academic fields. Advanced courses cover theoretical and practical subjects, training graduates for entry-level careers or further education.
Berea College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 30%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 44
Undergrad Tuition In State: $44,100
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $44,100
Graduation Rate: 68%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $27,100
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$44,100
Out-of-state
$44,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
1,688
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Howard University
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
The child development program at Howard University, a private institution, enrolls degree-seekers with flexible options. Degree-seekers choose from in-person classes offered on the Washington campus and online classes. Flexible course options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.
The bachelor's degree in human development curriculum combines upper-division child development classes with general education courses. STEM, social science, and humanities classes make up the general education curriculum. Graduates train for entry-level careers or further education by taking upper-division child development classes.
Howard University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 36%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 87
Undergrad Tuition In State: $24,966
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,966
Graduation Rate: 65%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $39,500
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,966
Out-of-state
$24,966
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$31,309
Out-of-state
$31,309
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
9,399
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
The bachelor's in child development and services at Western Michigan University, a public institution, stands out for its academic quality. Degree-seekers choose from in-person classes offered on the Kalamazoo campus and online classes. The school sets high academic standards while offering flexible course options.
Majors take courses in child development and general education classes to earn a bachelor's degree. Social science, humanities, and STEM classes complement the courses in the child development major. Graduates prepare for the workforce or a further degree by taking advanced child development courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.
Western Michigan University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 80%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 163
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,094
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,118
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,448
Graduation Rate: 57%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $35,300
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,094
Out-of-state
$15,118
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,360
Out-of-state
$30,432
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
21,470
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
The early childhood education program, one of 62 bachelor's programs at Grand Canyon University, offers a flexible route to a college degree. This degree builds broad knowledge and skills that prepare students for entry- and mid-level careers. Graduates can also pursue a master's degree or a doctorate, which can open up additional career paths.
The bachelor's curriculum covers foundational concepts and methods in early childhood education. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates take general education classes that strengthen critical thinking skills. Students can explore other interests by declaring a complementary minor or second major.
Student services help incoming degree candidates transition into the school's community. For example, career counselors recommend job training workshops and offer career assessments.
Grand Canyon University at a Glance:
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Type of School: Private
Admissions Rate: 77%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 38
Undergrad Tuition In State: $16,419
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,419
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,419
Out-of-state
$16,419
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,175
Out-of-state
$10,175
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
96,211
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#12 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS
4 years
Online + Campus
The early childhood education program at Fort Hays State University, a public institution, stands out for its quality. Located in Hays, Kansas, the school serves students of all backgrounds through campus and online courses. Undergraduates participate in rigorous academic programs and benefit from comprehensive support services.
The early childhood education program requires general education and major courses that build key knowledge and skills. The general education curriculum includes classes in the humanities, mathematics, and communication. Graduates prepare for entry-level roles or further education in advanced courses, which cover theoretical and practical issues in the field.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 91%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 52
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,990
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,070
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,162
Graduation Rate: 43%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $36,800
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,990
Out-of-state
$14,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,582
Out-of-state
$10,206
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
15,908
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Post University
Waterbury, CT
4 years
Online + Campus
Post University offers a bachelor's in child studies as one of its 21 bachelor's programs. With a child development degree, students pursue entry-level careers in diverse industries. Graduates also apply to master's programs, which open up additional career opportunities.
The bachelor's curriculum introduces key child development topics and principles. General education requirements also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Minors and double majors allow students to explore their other academic and professional interests.
Student services help incoming degree candidates transition into the school's community. For example, career counselors help students identify strengths and plan for the job market.
Post University at a Glance:
Location: Waterbury, Connecticut
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 17
Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,258
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,258
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,258
Out-of-state
$15,258
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,500
Out-of-state
$7,500
Retention Rate
45%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
10,642
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#14 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Siena Heights University
Adrian, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Siena Heights University enrolls learners in 112 bachelor's programs, including an early childhood education degree. Students enter the workforce prepared for diverse career paths with their degree. After earning a bachelor's degree, graduates also continue their education by applying to master's or doctoral programs.
The bachelor's curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in early childhood education. Undergraduates complete general education courses that strengthen communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Students gain a well-rounded education by declaring a minor or second major.
Incoming degree candidates receive strong support from the school's student services. Financial aid counselors work with students to determine the best sources of educational funding, including grants, scholarships, and loans.
Siena Heights University at a Glance:
Location: Adrian, Michigan
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 73%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 39
Undergrad Tuition In State: $26,558
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $26,558
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,558
Out-of-state
$26,558
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,060
Out-of-state
$12,060
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
2,337
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Bachelor’s In Child Development Degrees
Washington State University
Pullman, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
Washington State University, a public institution, offers a top-ranking early childhood education program. From its campus in Pullman, Washington, the school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Undergraduates benefit from varied course options and rigorous academic standards.
Majors earn a bachelor's degree after completing early childhood education courses in the program along with general education requirements. Courses in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. Upper-division classes cover theoretical and practical topics, preparing graduates for entry-level careers or further education.
Washington State University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 76%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 151
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 20
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,953
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,531
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,011
Graduation Rate: 60%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $44,700
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,953
Out-of-state
$24,531
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,493
Out-of-state
$25,248
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
31,607
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
21%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
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