Best Online Master’s in Child Development Degree Programs of 2025

The study of child development emphasizes the social, emotional, and physical changes that children experience as they age. This specialty spans several disciplines, notably psychology, education, and social services. Some professions, such as school counselors or social workers, require professional licensure to practice.

Education and mental health providers are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment opportunities for social workers, school counselors, and mental health counselors will increase at a faster-than-average pace over the next few years. These professionals make between $50,000 and $65,000 annually.

Positions in these fields often require a master’s degree. Full-time students can graduate from most master’s in child development programs within two years, as the average course of study is 32 credits (10 to 12 classes).

Choose your area of study

This degree may be available as a Master of Science (MS), Master of Arts (MA), or Master of Education (MEd). Furthermore, some programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as early childhood education, counseling, or healthcare. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these career goals.

Research schools and programs

You should only consider institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.

You should look for programmatic accreditation as well. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) are the leading organizations for master’s-level counseling programs. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) verifies standards for behavioral analysis degrees, and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) approves teacher-specific degrees.

From there, research the following aspects of each program:

• Does the program integrate hands-on practice? Counseling, social work, and education programs should include role-modeling exercises and fieldwork; graduates need time to develop the practical application of the skills they learn in the classroom. Seek master’s degrees incorporating internships, supervised fieldwork, or a practicum.
• Does the program meet the academic and fieldwork qualifications to become a licensed provider or teacher? Not all child development programs lead to licensure. Some are designed for practicing educators seeking to enhance their skills with young learners, others for those interested in doctorate-level research. Determine whether your state requires licensure for your selected career.

To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.

Prepare for tests and applications

Application requirements vary by school and program. You will likely need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a related subject (such as psychology). Most programs set a minimum undergraduate GPA.

These programs often require undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Be sure to gather these materials well in advance of deadlines. Most master’s in child development programs don’t require GRE scores. Always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.

Select your program

Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

There are several avenues to consider for funding your education. First, submit a FAFSA form. Regardless of how you’ll pay, the FAFSA can determine your eligibility for federal assistance and affordable loans. If you currently work in an education, counseling, or social services setting, speak to your employer about possible tuition assistance; some organizations have resources to invest in your continuing education.

From there, speak to a financial aid counselor for your school. These individuals can help you find scholarships or other funding for which you qualify, such as military discounts. Finally, work with an academic advisor to see if any prior coursework or professional experience could earn you transfer credit.