Best Online Elementary Education Degree Programs
See top schools, look inside programs, and get the info you need to enroll and pay for your online degree in elementary ed.
2024’s Best Online Elementary Education Degree Programs
A degree in elementary education equips graduates to teach in K-6 educational settings. During the crucial formative years, elementary school teachers guide their students’ growth and learning. However, selecting a degree program that combines quality, affordability, and convenience is crucial to achieving this goal. To assist you in finding the best option, we’ve compiled a list of the leading accredited schools for online elementary education degrees. Discover more about this year’s top-rated schools below.
Programs that might interest you:
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for undergraduate students per academic year.
- Percentage of students who receive institutional financial aid (directly from the school).
- Average amount of institutional financial aid awarded.
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of students at the school taking at least one class online.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio.
- Percentage of full-time, first-time students graduating within 6 years.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Mississippi State, Mississippi
The online early childhood education program at Mississippi State University prepares future teachers with the skills and experience they need to earn their teaching licenses and excel in classroom leadership. The program's online structure lets you learn from the comfort of home, and the school will work with you to place you in a conveniently located student teaching position during your senior year. Because Mississippi State offers concentrations in early childhood and middle school education, you'll be able to specialize and pursue the coursework that is most relevant to your future goals. After graduation, you'll be licensed to teach in the state of Mississippi.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with concentrations in Early Childhood or Middle School
- Credits: 123
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $402.75/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
2
Muncie, Indiana
No matter where you are in your educational journey, Ball State University has a program to move you further along in your career. The school's bachelor's program prepares students to work with students from birth until 5 years old. Graduates will be prepared to work in Head Start programs and other childcare settings where a license is not required. At the master's level, Ball State can prepare you to move into advanced roles or specialized settings. At the highest levels, the school offers an EdD for educators looking to take on leadership roles or a PhD for aspiring university professors. Across the board, Ball State students benefit from a robust, dynamic curriculum with all the flexibility of online studies.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education (Non-Licensure)
- Credits: 90
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $336
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: CAEP
Master's Degree in Elementary Education
- Credits: 30
- Length: About 2 years
- Cost: $451/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: CAEP
Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Elementary Education
- Credits: 91
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $451/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: CAEP
PhD in Elementary Education
- Credits: 91-97
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $451/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: CAEP
3
Grand Forks, North Dakota
The University of North Dakota offers three excellent elementary education programs for students at the bachelor's or master's level. Students in the bachelor's program benefit from a comprehensive curriculum and the chance to earn additional credentials by minoring in another aspect of teaching. For licensed teachers, UND's master's program covers topics in pedagogy, assessment, and working with diverse student bodies. UND also offers a unique accelerated bachelor's to master's program where motivated students can earn both degrees in a total of five years. Students at every level benefit from skilled faculty, dedicated support services, and plenty of opportunities to network and attend events.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.)
- Credits: 125
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $385/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: CAEP
Master's in Elementary Education Online
- 30
- Length: About 4 years
- Cost: $547.10/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: CAEP
Accelerated Elementary Education Degree B.S.Ed. and M.Ed.
- Credits: 150
- Length: 5 years
- Cost: $385/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: CAEP
4
Florence, Alabama
5
Montgomery, Alabama
6
Greenville, North Carolina
7
Tampa, Florida
8
Columbus, Georgia
9
Kearney, Nebraska
10
Gainesville, Georgia
11
Cincinnati, Ohio
12
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
13
Springfield, Missouri
14
Natchitoches, Louisiana
15
Birmingham, Alabama
16
Niagara University, New York
17
Worcester, Massachusetts
18
Clinton, Mississippi
19
Monroe, Louisiana
20
Portales, New Mexico
21
Norfolk, Virginia
22
Carrollton, Georgia
23
Lynchburg, Virginia
24
Columbia, South Carolina
25
Pittsburg, Kansas
26
Concord, New Hampshire
27
Huntsville, Alabama
28
Boone, North Carolina
29
Omaha, Nebraska
30
Athens, West Virginia
31
Johnson City, Tennessee
32
Charlotte, North Carolina
33
Livingston, Alabama
34
Commerce, Texas
35
Troy, Alabama
36
Cedar Falls, Iowa
37
Wilmington, North Carolina
38
Fresno, California
39
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
40
Dickinson, North Dakota
41
Statesboro, Georgia
42
Cedar City, Utah
43
Flagstaff, Arizona
44
Wilmore, Kentucky
45
Pembroke, North Carolina
46
Manhattan, Kansas
47
Durham, North Carolina
48
Olathe, Kansas
49
Richmond, Kentucky
50
Longmeadow, Massachusetts
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for undergraduate students per academic year.
- Percentage of students who receive institutional financial aid (directly from the school).
- Average amount of institutional financial aid awarded.
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of students at the school taking at least one class online.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio.
- Percentage of full-time, first-time students graduating within 6 years.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Wesson, Mississippi
If you're an aspiring teacher, the elementary education program at Copiah Lincoln Community is a great first step in your studies. This two-year program prepares students to finish their degree at a four-year institution. Because the program is affordable and entirely online, it offers an excellent opportunity to test the waters and earn the first half of your degree in a friendly, supportive environment. After graduation, you'll benefit from Copiah Lincoln's transfer agreements with many other online and in-person Mississippi teaching colleges. These agreements ensure a seamless transition between schools and that you won't have to repeat any coursework.
Program Highlights:
Elementary Education
- Credits: 60
- Length: About 2 years
- Cost: $175/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
2
Norfolk, Nebraska
The elementary education program at Northeast Community College lets future educators explore the field in real-world classroom settings with the guidance and mentorship of experienced teachers. Throughout the program, you'll participate in general knowledge courses about the subjects you will teach to build a foundation for more specialized studies down the road. The school's extremely active Student Education Association offers opportunities to participate in community education efforts across the state of Nebraska. As part of their student support services, Northeast offers students opportunities to network with other educators and develop leadership skills at special events. Once you've completed your AA at Northeastern, you'll be well prepared to earn your bachelor's degree and teaching license.
Program Highlights:
Education -- Elementary, AA
- Credits: 60
- Length: About 2 years
- Cost: $108/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: HLC
3
Granite Falls, Minnesota
Minnesota West Community and Technical College sets students up for success with transfer pathways for future educators. These pathways allow students to complete their prerequisites and general education credits before transferring to a partner school to earn their bachelor's degree. During your two years at Minnesota West, you can look forward to classes in pedagogy, education technology, and culturally relevant teaching. You will also have multiple opportunities to gain real-world experience in elementary school classrooms. Online students benefit from flexible asynchronous coursework to help them balance their studies with other responsibilities. To help students stay connected, the school offers dedicated advising and hosts regular virtual events.
Program Highlights:
Elementary Education Foundation Transfer Pathway, A.S.
- Credits: 60
- Length: About 2 years
- Cost: $207.44/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: HLC
4
Waterloo, Iowa
5
Tucson, Arizona
A Detailed Look at Online Elementary Education Degrees
Earning a degree in elementary education used to mean visiting a campus for all your coursework. With the growth of online learning and its continued integration into mainstream higher education, you can now take a majority of your courses either partially or fully online. Fully online courses tend to be those of an academic nature, where there’s no need for face-to-face interaction with students. Partially online courses may combine online elements with in-person training to ensure you know how to work with students and peers effectively. Let’s take a closer look at the types and levels of elementary education degree programs online and what you’ll face in each.
Online Certificates in Elementary Education
For individuals interested in pursuing elementary education, there is a range of certificate options available, with two main levels to choose from. The entry-level certificate involves completing up to one year of education and acquiring foundational knowledge for working with and teaching students in grades K-6. On the other hand, graduate certificates are designed for those who have already obtained their bachelor’s degree and require certification or further training in a specific area. However, it’s important to note that entry-level certificates do not lead to licensure, whereas individuals pursuing graduate certificates are likely already licensed or in the process of obtaining a license. Many certificate programs can be completed entirely online.
Online Associate Degrees in Elementary Education
While pursuing an associate degree, individuals won’t be eligible for licensure to become a teacher. However, this degree can provide opportunities for graduates to secure fulfilling support roles in a school system, such as a teaching aide, childcare specialist, or educational assistant. Many institutions offer associate degree programs online, although some may require an in-person component. It’s worth noting that an associate degree can also serve as an excellent foundation for pursuing a bachelor’s degree later on.
Skills learned at this level:
- Maintaining the health and safety of children
- Providing balanced nutrition for children
- Basics of child psychology
- Teaching techniques
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Elementary Education
The bachelor’s degree is the standard level of education needed to become licensed or certified to teach in any state. The bachelor’s degree takes four years of full-time study to complete. Though much of the coursework can be delivered online, students need to complete the hands-on teaching practicum in order to graduate. The core skills learned at this level prepare graduates to move into the classroom and begin honing their skills. Here’s a quick list of top skills you learn:
- Lesson planning
- Classroom management
- Understanding educational trends
- Using technology in the classroom
- Hands-on teaching experience
Online Master’s Degrees in Elementary Education
Though the master’s degree is often an expectation for those in administrative work, some schools are now requiring that new hires either hold their master’s degree in education or agree to obtain one within a certain period of time, such as five years. The master’s degree builds on the practical lessons learned in the bachelor’s degree pursuit, focusing more on theory, research, and evidence-based practice that helps graduates think critically about the issues facing children in all grades today. Many of these programs are entirely online. Core skills learned at this level include:
- Curriculum development
- In-depth communication skills
- Problem-solving tactics
- Leadership techniques
Online Doctorates in Elementary Education
The most prevalent degrees at this level are the EdD and PhD. The EdD program typically emphasizes administration and classroom application, while the PhD program delves into research and academia. To reach the highest positions in education, such as superintendent over a school district or region, a terminal degree is usually required. At this stage, all coursework can be completed online, although individuals opting for the dissertation track may be required to defend their work in-person before a committee. Skills learned at this level include:
- Advanced leadership skills
- Understanding of human resources
- Research methods
- Financing and budgeting for schools
Online Elementary Education Degree Concentrations
If you have a particular area of interest when it comes to elementary education, a degree specialization (or concentration) is the best way to do it. Specializations help an educator grow their career in a certain area, preparing them to dive deeper into the subject matter. When working with K-6 students, specializations have a more targeted focus on creating and teaching lessons, developing language skills, and best practices for leadership of students and colleagues. Here are a few of the options available.
Curriculum & Instruction
This specialization focuses strongly on creating curriculums for a variety of schools, classrooms and even individual students, such as those with special needs.
Educational Leadership
Those who want to take the lead in the next generation of educators can turn to this concentration, which helps students understand the best techniques and tools for effective leadership within a school, district, region, or state.
Gifted & Talented
Some students have unique gifts that must be fostered outside of the traditional classroom curriculum. Gifted and talented students need a teacher who understands their unique needs and can create instruction plans that challenge them.
Reading
One of the cornerstones of solid instruction, reading is vital to every aspect of academic success. This concentration focuses on helping children understand the value of reading, techniques to make reading easier, and help in becoming a reading coach for those who need a little extra push.
Special Education
This concentration helps guide aspiring teachers in the best ways to teach students who have mental, emotional, learning or physical disabilities or challenges. Graduates will finish the program with a comprehensive list of skills by which to help the children who need it most.
STEM
This concentration focuses on teaching of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in the classroom (note that some might be called “STEAM” for the addition of the arts in the curriculum). This focuses on helping graduates understand how the disciplines fit together.
Supporting Language Learners
For those learning English as a second language, or those who are learning a different language from their native tongue, this concentration helps ensure teachers have the proper tools to help those students thrive in a traditional classroom setting.
Technology in the Classroom
As tech becomes more common in the classroom, this concentration embraces the movement by teaching students how to incorporate multimedia in instruction design.
FAQs for Elementary Education Degrees Online
If you’re considering pursuing an online degree in elementary education, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what you’re undertaking. To assist with this, we’ve assembled a list of the most commonly asked questions among individuals interested in elementary education work.
How fast can I earn an online elementary education degree?
The duration of time to earn an online elementary education degree primarily depends on the degree level you choose. An associate degree typically takes two years of full-time study, whereas a bachelor’s degree can take up to four years. Some certificate programs can be completed within one year, while a master’s degree can take anywhere from one to three years after completing a bachelor’s degree, depending on the program and school.
It also depends on whether you choose part-time or full-time. In that case, an associate degree could take up to four years instead of two, and the bachelor’s degree could take a few years beyond the typical four. To make matters even more interesting, consider that some programs – especially those at the master’s level – offer the accelerated option, during which you dive into schoolwork with the purpose of overloading a class schedule and finishing early.
Does an online elementary education degree program lead to certification?
Some states deem “certification” to mean a graduate has attained all the necessary elements to become a teacher, such as earning a bachelor’s degree and completing supervised classroom work. Other states use “certification” and “licensure” interchangeably. The bottom line is that certification or licensure is only possible with completion of a bachelor’s degree or higher. Therefore, an associate degree program will not lead to certification. When choosing a program online, make sure your program helps prepare you to earn a teaching license in your state; this fact may vary from one college to another, so double-checking before enrollment will save a lot of frustration down the road.
If I’m certified, do I need a teaching license?
Each state sets its own rules for licensure or certification. As mentioned earlier, sometimes licensure and certification are interchangeable. In some states, those who earn certification are allowed to teach students on a limited basis; this provisional teaching certificate lets them begin work while completing the requirements to earn their license. Each state varies, but the general rule of thumb is that certification is the first step – or an additional step – to the gold standard of obtaining professional licensure.
What grades do you teach with a degree in elementary education?
The grade level an individual can teach in elementary school depends on their degree level and whether they work full-time or part-time. Typically, elementary schools cater to students in Kindergarten through 6th grade. Full-time teachers may find themselves teaching students in any of those grades, while part-time teachers may assist full-time teachers by moving between classrooms. Individuals with an associate degree or certificate may work as teacher aides or support personnel and may be assigned to various grade levels each day.
What salary do elementary school teachers make?
The salary elementary school teachers can expect depends on a variety of factors, such as the degree level they hold, whether they work full-time or part-time, and even the particular area of the country in which they work. With those caveats in mind, the chart below provides an idea of what elementary school teachers might make, from the lowest income to the highest in the profession.
Occupation | Lowest 10% | Median Wage | Upper 10% |
---|---|---|---|
Elementary School Teacher | $37,780 | $58,230 | $95,270 |
Kindergarten Teacher | $34,840 | $54,230 | $83,920 |
What’s the cost of an online degree in elementary education?
As with any other higher education program, figuring out the cost of tuition can help you plan for handling the financial bottom line. Each school will vary based on numerous internal factors, so it’s very difficult to provide a ballpark figure on tuition cost. However, the following chart will give you an idea of the different options out there and how they might affect your finances.
Bachelor’s degree:
School | Cost per credit hour | Credit hours required | Total Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Western Governor’s University | $3,520 flat rate for one 6-month term | 6 terms | $21,120 |
Walden University | $325 per credit for classroom, $200 per credit for field experience | 181 quarter credits | $53,200 |
Liberty University | $390 per credit hour | 120 credit hours | $46,800 |
Master’s degree:
School | Cost per credit hour | Credit hours required | Total Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Liberty University | $415 | 36 credit hours | $14,940 |
University of Alabama | $420 | 36 credit hours | $15,120 |
Grand Canyon University | $545 | 47 credits | $25,615 |