Hello adminasst14,
You're asking a terrific question! As an ECE Instructor, I'm biased because I love both programs, so I'll withhold sharing my opinion on here. However, I encourage you to reach out to your home state's Department of Education or the licensing and governing state agency that regulates child care centers before making this decision. From them, you can determine exactly what level of degree, certification, educational experience, or credentialing they require in order for you to own and operate your own child care center. Having this information will position you to make the most appropriate decision in this difficult choice.
I look forward to seeing what advice your fellow students in both programs will offer here. Best wishes for success in this! As a former owner/administrator of an academic early childhood school, I'm certain you've chosen a rewarding career path, and please know you can reach out if there's anything I can do to assist you in this journey!
Have a wonderful Wednesday!
Katie