Best Early Childhood Education Degrees in Somerset Kentucky

Key Takeaways

• Somerset, Kentucky offers affordable and flexible early childhood education degree pathways through regional community colleges and nearby universities.
• Top programs combine accredited coursework, hands-on classroom experience, and preparation for Kentucky teacher certification.
• Associate degrees are ideal for childcare and preschool careers, while bachelor’s degrees lead to public school licensure.
• Average preschool teacher salaries in Kentucky range from $28,000 to $38,000, with higher earnings for certified elementary educators.
• Choosing the right program depends on accreditation, clinical placements, transfer pathways, tuition costs, and certification outcomes.

Why Earn an Early Childhood Education Degree in Somerset, KY?

Somerset serves as an educational hub for Pulaski County and surrounding rural communities in southern Kentucky. Students pursuing an early childhood education degree here benefit from lower tuition costs, smaller class sizes, and strong partnerships with local school districts and childcare centers.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for preschool and kindergarten teachers remains steady nationwide. In Kentucky, ongoing teacher shortages, particularly in rural districts, create consistent demand for qualified educators. Completing your degree locally also strengthens job placement prospects through practicum experiences in Somerset and neighboring counties.

Accredited Early Childhood Education Programs Near Somerset

Below is a comparison of the most relevant colleges serving Somerset students. All programs listed either sit within commuting distance or offer online pathways suitable for local residents.

InstitutionDegree OptionsFormatBest ForEst. In-State TuitionSomerset Community College (KCTCS)AAS Early Childhood EducationCampus + HybridAffordable entry-level careers or transferLow community college ratesEastern Kentucky UniversityBS Early Childhood EducationOnline + CampusTeacher certification (P–5)Mid-range public tuitionUniversity of the CumberlandsBA Interdisciplinary Studies (Education track)Campus + OnlinePrivate university experienceHigher private tuitionWestern Kentucky UniversityBS Birth–Primary EducationOnline + CampusSpecialized early childhood licensurePublic university rates

Somerset Community College (SCC)

SCC, part of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, is the most accessible option physically located in Somerset.

Program Highlights:

• Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education
• Emphasis on child development, curriculum planning, and family engagement
• Fieldwork built into coursework
• Seamless transfer agreements to four-year Kentucky universities

This program is ideal for students seeking careers in childcare centers, Head Start programs, or paraprofessional roles. It is also a cost-effective first step toward a bachelor’s degree.

Eastern Kentucky University (EKU)

Located within driving distance and offering robust online options, EKU is one of the strongest choices for students seeking Kentucky teacher certification.

Why EKU stands out:

• Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (P–5 certification)
• CAEP-accredited educator preparation programs
• Extensive student teaching placements in Kentucky school districts
• High first-time PRAXIS pass rates

EKU is particularly strong for working adults due to flexible online coursework combined with in-person field placements arranged locally.

University of the Cumberlands

As a private university in nearby Williamsburg, this institution offers personalized instruction and faith-based learning options.

While not exclusively focused on early childhood, education pathways can be structured to meet certification requirements. Tuition is higher, but institutional scholarships are widely available.

Western Kentucky University (WKU)

WKU’s Birth to Primary program is one of Kentucky’s most respected early childhood tracks. It prepares students to teach from birth through grade five.

Strengths include:

• Research-based curriculum in literacy and early intervention
• Strong reputation statewide
• Online flexibility for upper-division coursework

Degree Options Explained

Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education

Typically completed in two years, this pathway prepares graduates for:

• Childcare center teacher
• Preschool assistant
• Head Start educator

It requires approximately 60 credit hours and includes supervised practicum experience.

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

A four-year degree is required for Kentucky public school teacher certification in early childhood or elementary grades.

Expect:

• 120 credit hours
• Student teaching semester
• PRAXIS exams
• Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board approval

Kentucky Teacher Certification Requirements

To teach in Kentucky public schools, graduates must:

• Complete a state-approved educator preparation program
• Pass required PRAXIS exams
• Undergo a background check
• Apply through the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board

If you plan to work only in private childcare settings, certification may not be required, but credentials significantly increase earning potential.

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Affordability

Community colleges like SCC offer the lowest tuition rates, making them ideal for budget-conscious students. Public universities such as EKU and WKU provide competitive in-state tuition, while private institutions may offer substantial merit scholarships.

Students in Somerset can access:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Kentucky College Access Program grants
• Teacher shortage forgiveness programs
• Work-study placements in childcare centers

Choosing a transfer pathway from SCC to a four-year university can reduce total bachelor’s degree costs significantly.

Career Outlook for Early Childhood Educators in Kentucky

Early childhood educators remain essential across Pulaski County and surrounding rural districts.

Average Kentucky Salaries:

• Preschool Teacher: $28,000 to $38,000 annually
• Kindergarten Teacher: $40,000 to $55,000 annually
• Elementary Teacher (Certified): $45,000+ depending on district

Rural districts often offer signing incentives or loan repayment support to fill vacancies. Graduates who complete their student teaching locally often receive direct employment opportunities.

How to Choose the Best Program for You

1. Verify Accreditation

Ensure both the institution and its education program hold proper accreditation. Look for CAEP approval for teacher preparation programs.

2. Compare Clinical Experience Opportunities

Programs with strong partnerships in Somerset area schools provide better hands-on preparation and job networking.

3. Evaluate Flexibility

If you are a working professional or parent, prioritize hybrid or online-friendly formats that still meet licensure standards.

4. Review Transfer Agreements

Starting at a community college? Confirm guaranteed admission or credit transfer to four-year institutions.

5. Analyze Outcomes

Ask about graduation rates, PRAXIS pass rates, and job placement data.

Step-by-Step Enrollment Guide

1. Request transcripts from previous schools.
2. Apply to your chosen institution online.
3. Complete FAFSA to determine financial aid eligibility.
4. Meet with an academic advisor to confirm certification path.
5. Schedule placement testing if required.
6. Register for introductory early childhood coursework.

Best Overall Picks for Somerset Students

• Best for Affordability: Somerset Community College
• Best for Online Flexibility: Eastern Kentucky University
• Best for Reputation in Birth–Primary Education: Western Kentucky University
• Best Private Option: University of the Cumberlands

Each pathway serves different goals. Students seeking quick workforce entry may prefer an associate degree, while those committed to public school teaching should pursue a bachelor’s degree with state certification preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Early Childhood Education Degrees in Somerset, KY

What early childhood education degrees can you earn near Somerset, KY?

You can earn an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Early Childhood Education at Somerset Community College and bachelor’s degrees in early childhood or elementary education through nearby schools like Eastern Kentucky University, Western Kentucky University, and University of the Cumberlands, either on campus or online.

Do you need a bachelor’s degree to become a certified teacher in Kentucky?

Yes. To become a certified public school teacher in Kentucky, you must complete a state‑approved bachelor’s degree in education, pass the required PRAXIS exams, pass a background check, and apply for a license through the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board.

What can you do with an associate degree in early childhood education from Somerset Community College?

With an associate degree from Somerset Community College, you can work as a childcare center teacher, preschool assistant, Head Start educator, or paraprofessional, or you can transfer to a four‑year university to finish a bachelor’s degree in education.

How much do early childhood and elementary teachers earn in Kentucky?

Preschool teachers in Kentucky usually earn about $28,000 to $38,000 per year, kindergarten teachers about $40,000 to $55,000, and certified elementary teachers often $45,000 or more, depending on the district and experience, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Is an online early childhood education degree accepted for Kentucky licensure?

Yes, if the online program is a Kentucky‑approved educator preparation program, holds proper accreditation (such as CAEP), and includes required fieldwork and student teaching in approved school settings in Kentucky.

How can you keep early childhood education degree costs low in Somerset?

You can start at Somerset Community College for lower tuition, use transfer pathways to EKU or WKU, file the FAFSA to access federal and Kentucky grants, and ask about scholarships, teacher shortage loan forgiveness, and work‑study jobs in local childcare centers or schools.