Online Certificate in Early Childhood Education: Early Childhood Education is a hot career field with broad career potential. An online certificate in early childhood education fits the busy and active lifestyle of those who are able to enroll in this shorter education program. Coursework takes place over a few short weeks or months and prepares graduates for positions, job advancement and specialization in the elementary education, preschool and child care field. Some online certificate programs in early childhood education may require a high school diploma, while others are open only to those with a bachelor’s degree. Graduates of online certificate programs may choose from a variety of education settings that cater to infants and young children.