This content was guided by Dr. Amy van Schagen & Amanda Beld MA, Cal State University San Bernardino, Department of Child Development, Institute for Child Development and Family Relations
Embarking on a journey in early childhood education (ECE) is an exciting step toward shaping young minds and making a lasting impact. One of the most important decisions you’ll face is selecting the right college to earn your early childhood education degree, one that supports your goals and what works for your life. There are many things to consider when choosing where to pursue your ECE degree, such as the learning format that fits your schedule, transportation to and from college, child care for student parents, transfer degree pathways, and specialty areas.
What Course Format Works Best for Me?
There are three different learning environments to choose from when pursuing an early childhood education degree: : in-person, synchronous, and asynchronous courses. Let’s check out the difference:
● In Person
Courses held physically on campus or in a classroom. You attend on scheduled days/times and interact directly with instructors and peers.
● Synchronous
Courses are online but require attendance at set times for live lectures, discussions, or activities either on Zoom or in person on campus.
● Asynchronous
Courses are entirely online with no set meeting times. You complete lectures, readings, and assignments on your own schedule within deadlines.
Check out this quick and friendly comparison chart to explore the differences between in-person, synchronous, and asynchronous ECE courses! Whether you’re looking for flexibility, live interaction, or a campus experience, each option offers something unique. Think about what fits your lifestyle, learning style, and daily routine best—especially when it comes to things like schedule, transportation, and how you like to connect with others.
Let’s find the learning style that fits you!
| Feature | In-Person | Synchronous | Asynchronous |
| Schedule Flexibility | Low | Medium | High |
| Real-Time Interaction | High | Medium | Low |
| Self-Paced Learning | No | No | Yes |
| Community/Networking | Strong | Moderate | Limited |
| Accessibility | Travel needed | Remote* | Remote* |
| Requires Self-Discipline | Medium | Medium | High |
* Must have computer/laptop and reliable internet access.
Transportation and Child Care for ECE Students
In-person classes mean you’ll be heading to campus, soaking in the college experience, and maybe discovering your favorite coffee spot on the way. Is transportation a challenge or roadblock? With synchronous or asynchronous online courses, you have the opportunity to complete course work at home or at a local library.
College students can receive free OmniTrans transportation:
Once you’re enrolled in college, don’t forget to grab your student ID card—it’s your golden ticket to ride the OmniTrans bus for FREE! Yes, you read that right—unlimited rides at no cost! Whether you’re commuting to class, heading to a study session, or just exploring the area, your student ID saves you serious cash.
Hey Student Parents—This One’s for You!
If you’re a parent or caregiver to a young child and still want to attend college in person, we’ve got great news—you don’t have to choose between your education and your child’s care! Many community colleges and universities offer on-campus child care centers, where your little one can learn and thrive with high-quality early childhood educators while you focus on your classes and studies. Currently, the program CCAMPIS* at CSUSB helps eligible student parents to receive 75–100% of their child care tuition covered, plus access to free parenting workshops, support resources, and even a dedicated study space just for student parents. *This program is federally funded and may not always be available.
Learn more about the federal CCAMPIS program at the U.S. Department of Education.
Your dreams don’t have to wait—and you don’t have to do it alone!
Check out some of the child care centers at our local colleges in San Bernardino and Riverside:
- Infant and Toddler Lab School and Children’s Center at California State University San Bernardino
- Child Development Center at San Bernardino Valley College
- Child Development Center and Learning Laboratory at Riverside City College
- Child Development Instructional Lab at Victor Valley College
- Child Development and Education Center at Mt. San Jacinto College
What is an Associate for Transfer Degree in Early Childhood Education
An Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer (AA-T) or Associate in Science Degree for Transfer (AS-T) is a special type of associate degree in early childhood education designed to make it easier for students at community colleges to transfer to a four-year university—usually within the same state system. Our local community colleges in San Bernardino and Riverside County have partnered with CSUSB as well as other CSU’s to ensure Child Development and Early Childhood Education students complete lower division courses required for their program.
Specialty Areas in Child Development & Early Childhood Education
Before choosing a college for your early childhood education degree , you want to consider your long-term goals – do you aspire to be a master teacher, an early child care director, open your own home day-care, work with children with special needs, or become a college instructor? Understanding your long-term goals and aspirations will help in choosing the right college for you.
Many community colleges and universities offer a variety of specialized pathways within child development and early childhood education, allowing you to tailor your education to what inspires you most. Some areas include:
- Infant & Toddler
- Early Childhood
- School Aged & Adolescent
- Early Intervention & Inclusion
- Various certificates tailored toward the Teaching Permit – Associate Teacher Certificate, Master Teacher Certificate, Site Supervisor Certificate, Family Child Care Certificate, etc.
No matter where you’re headed, having a clear vision of your future can help you make smart, confident choices today. Whether your dream is to teach, lead, support families, or shape the next generation of educators, choosing the right college path is your first big step. Take the time to explore your options, ask questions, and find the program that aligns with your passion and purpose.
What is Your Match?
Use this checklist to help decide which course format fits your learning style, lifestyle, and career goals:
☐ I learn best through hands-on activities and face-to-face interaction. (In-Person)
☐ I enjoy live discussions but prefer to learn from home. (Synchronous)
☐ I am self-motivated and work well independently. (Asynchronous)
☐ I need a flexible schedule to manage work, parenting, or other responsibilities. (Asynchronous)
☐ I can commit to being online or on campus at specific class times. (In-Person / Synchronous)
☐ I prefer having a routine and structured learning times. (In-Person / Synchronous)
☐ I live near campus and/or can commute without issue. (In-Person)
☐ I have reliable internet and a quiet space for studying. (Synchronous / Asynchronous)
☐ I want access to lab schools, child observations, or practicum opportunities. (In-Person)
☐ I need to complete observation hours for my degree or certification. (In-Person / Synchronous)
☐ I want experience participating in research and projects in the community. (In-Person)
☐ I value frequent interaction with instructors and classmates. (In-Person / Synchronous)
☐ I enjoy working independently and don’t mind minimal interaction. (Asynchronous)
☐ I want group projects or collaborative learning opportunities. (In-Person / Synchronous)
☐ I want a format that prepares me for working directly with children and families. (In-Person / Synchronous)
Click here to download the checklist!
No matter where you’re starting from, the right college can open the door to new possibilities in early childhood education. By thinking carefully about your needs, whether it’s flexible learning formats, commuting options, child care support, or transfer pathways—you’re setting yourself up for success from day one.
Take the time to explore your options, ask questions, and choose a path that aligns with both your life and your dreams—because your future in shaping young lives starts with the choices you make today!
This blog is one of a 5-part series designed to support and guide early childhood educators on their college journey. From choosing the right program to managing finances and hearing real stories from the field, each post will help you take the next step with confidence. Make sure to read them all:
- Higher Education Programs and Permits – Local available programs plus the Child Development Permit process.
- Classroom Compass – What to expect in college classes and how to apply
- Find Your Fit – Discovering the right college match for your goals
- Funding Your Future – Tips and tools to pay for college
- Stay tuned for Real Talk – Hear from fellow educators on balancing work, life, and learning
Frequently Asked Questions About Earning an ECE Degree
How do I choose the right college for my early childhood education degree?
Consider your learning style, schedule, and career goals. Key factors include course format (in-person, synchronous, or asynchronous), campus proximity, transportation options, child care availability, and whether the college offers an Associate Degree for Transfer. Use the checklist above to help identify your best fit.
What is the difference between in-person, synchronous, and asynchronous ECE courses?
In-person courses meet on campus at set times. Synchronous courses are online but require live attendance via Zoom at scheduled times. Asynchronous courses are fully online with no set meeting times, you complete work on your own schedule within deadlines. See the comparison table above for a full breakdown.
What is an Associate Degree for Transfer in early childhood education?
An AS-T in Early Childhood Education is a 60-unit community college degree that guarantees admission to the CSU system with junior standing. Students complete Cal-GETC general education requirements and a minimum of 18 units in the major, then transfer to complete a bachelor’s degree within 60 additional units.
Is child care available for student parents at local colleges?
Yes. Several colleges in San Bernardino and Riverside counties offer on-campus child care centers. At CSUSB, the CCAMPIS program helps eligible student parents receive 75 to 100 percent of child care tuition covered. This program is federally funded and may not always be available. See the list of local college child care centers above for more options.
What specialty areas can I focus on within an ECE degree?
Common specializations include Infant and Toddler, Early Childhood, School Aged and Adolescent, and Early Intervention and Inclusion. Many colleges also offer certificates aligned with specific Child Development Permit levels. Your long-term career goals should guide which specialization you choose.
What financial aid is available for ECE degree students?
Options include the Federal Pell Grant, Cal Grants, the Chafee Grant for foster youth, institutional scholarships, and the Workforce Pathways Grant for those already working in ECE in San Bernardino County. Complete the FAFSA or the California Dream Act Application to determine eligibility. For a full breakdown, see our guide on Funding Your Future.