The Best Online Elementary Education Degrees of 2021
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Graduates with a bachelor's degree in elementary education online can work as kindergarten and elementary school teachers.
These professionals help young learners master foundational skills like reading, writing, and mathematics.
Elementary school teachers earn salaries above the national average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn a median salary of nearly $60,660 per year. The degree also prepares students for roles like childcare center director. The BLS projects jobs for childcare center directors will grow 1% between 2019 and 2029.
The Best Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Programs
Founded in 1902, FHSU taught its first 57 students in an abandoned army infirmary.
FHSU offers an online bachelor's degree in elementary education. Sample courses include elementary school music, educational psychology, classroom management, and educating exceptional students. Students must complete 127 credits (which includes student teaching and internship credits) to graduate.
Applicants must first apply to FHSU and then apply to the teacher education program. The general FHSU admission process requires ACT/SAT scores and transcripts showing a high school GPA of at least 2.25. Teacher education program applicants must complete prerequisite college courses with a "B" grade or better and maintain a GPA of 2.75 through their first 60 undergraduate credits.
UAS consists of three campuses and three schools and colleges, including the Alaska College of Education.
UAS offers an online bachelor of elementary of education K-8 degree program. Student teaching also takes place in the students' home communities. Faculty teach courses live through Zoom. Sample courses include multicultural education, health in the K-8 curriculum, introduction to educational technology, and classroom management.
Students must complete 120 credits and maintain a 3.0 minimum GPA to graduate. Applicants must first apply to UAS and then apply to this degree program. UAS's general admission process requires transcripts showing a minimum high school GPA of 3.0.
A private, non-profit institute, ACU teaches from a Christian perspective and expects students to follow particular tenets of the faith.
ACU students can earn their elementary education bachelor's degree online. Courses explore topics like human development, educational psychology, children's literature, and methods for teaching English language learners.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate and maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 in all core courses. Applicants must submit transcripts and sign a statement of faith.
Founded in 1947 with an enrollment of 238, UNCW now teaches around 18,000 students annually.
UNCW offers an online bachelor of arts in elementary education K-6 degree program. Sample courses include reading foundations, number and algebraic reasoning, and integrating the arts.
In addition to general education requirements, students must complete 64 credits to graduate. Applicants must first apply to UNCW and then apply to the Watson College of Education by submitting PRAXIS scores and a transcript with a minimum GPA of 2.7.
Established in 1865, OU teaches more than 4,000 students across campuses in multiple states.
OU offers an online bachelor of arts in elementary education degree program. Sample courses include elementary language arts and social studies methods, the exceptional child, educational psychology, and integrating the fine arts.
In addition to general education requirements, students must complete 45 to 47 core credits and 12 student teaching credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts. OU accepts up to 80 transfer credits.
A private, non-profit institute founded in 1955, Chaminade represents Hawaii's only Catholic university.
Chaminade offers an online bachelor of science in elementary education. Sample courses include educational psychology, educational technology, and music, art, and physical education. The program includes field experience, observation, and participation.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts.
Founded in 1919, BSU teaches approximately 5,000 students annually.
BSU offers an online/hybrid bachelor of science in elementary education degree completion program that leads to a teaching license for grades K-6. Students can earn additional teaching endorsements for age 3-PreK or grades 5-8. The program lasts six semesters.
Applicants must submit transcripts showing completion of an associate of arts degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, one letter of recommendation, and four essays.
Established in 1893, UW-Superior teaches more than 2,500 students annually, including over 900 online students.
UW-Superior offers two online elementary education K-9 degree programs: bachelor of arts and bachelor of science. Two optional concentrations include early childhood education and special education.
Students must earn a grade of C in major courses, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.75 to graduate. Applicants must first apply to UW-Superior and then apply to the elementary education major with a minimum GPA of 2.75 on their most recent 40 credits.
Founded in 1910, Southern Miss consists of two campuses and notable research institutes, including the Dale Center for the Study of War and Society.
Southern Miss offers a 100% online degree completion program in which K-6 teaching assistants can earn a bachelor of science in elementary education in just two years. Courses explore topics like primary and middle school curriculum, computer applications in education, and classroom management.
Students must complete 121 credits to graduate. Applicants must live in Mississippi and currently work as teaching assistants.
A private institute, Midway boasts a working horse farm on its 200-acre campus.
Midway offers an online bachelor of arts in elementary education P-5 degree program. Sample courses include mathematics for teachers, technology in the educational setting, foundations of literacy, and multicultural education.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. Applicants must first apply to Midway and then apply to the education program, which requires a background check, two letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other documents.
Known as the University of the Parks, SUU teaches over 12,000 students annually.
SUU offers both a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science in elementary education taught as 100% online programs. Core courses include educational psychology; schools, society, and diversity; educating exceptional students; and fostering family, school, and community partnerships.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate with a bachelor of arts degree and 145 credits to graduate with a bachelor of science. Applicants must submit ACT scores and transcripts showing a minimum GPA of 3.0.
A private institute founded in 1847, Saint Francis represents the oldest Catholic-Franciscan university in the U.S.
Saint Francis offers both a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science in early childhood education through an online degree completion program. The bachelor of arts degree does not include a student teaching component.
Students must complete 128 credits to graduate with either degree. Applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
A private, non-profit institute, Southwestern affiliates with the United Methodist Church.
Southwestern offers a fully online bachelor of elementary education degree program. Sample courses include introduction to exceptionalities, children's and adolescent's literature, introduction to the reading process, and social science in the elementary school.
Students must complete 124 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Southwestern accepts up to 94 transfer credits for this program.
Tracing its roots back to 1905, Gardner-Webb teaches over 3,500 students annually.
Gardner-Webb offers an online bachelor of science in elementary education K-6 degree program with a required minor in professional education and an optional concentration in exceptional children. Sample courses include math methods in 21st-century schools, literacy foundations, and diverse populations in 21st-century schools.
Students must complete 61 credits plus general education requirements to graduate. Gardner-Webb accepts applications on a rolling basis. Applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and ACT/SAT scores.
With a total enrollment of over 100,000 and a campus sprawling across 7,000 acres, Liberty offers more than 700 academic programs.
Liberty offers a 100% online bachelor of science in elementary education degree program. Courses last 8 weeks, and students usually finish in about 3.5 years. Sample courses include principles of education, learning theory and portfolio development, and educational philosophy for teachers.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Liberty allows students to transfer up to 75% of this program's total credits.
Founded in 1898, Friends can trace its roots back to the Quaker faith and continues to teach from a Christian perspective.
Friends offers an online bachelor of science in elementary education degree completion program for students interested in teaching K-6. Sample courses include teaching reading, brain-based learning, and fine arts methods for elementary teachers.
Students must complete 124 credits to graduate. Applicants must have at least 90 transfer credits and a minimum GPA of 3.0. In addition to transcripts, applicants must submit an autobiography, statement of goals, and two references.
A private, non-profit institute, Lees-McRae opened at the turn of the 20th century.
Lees-McRae offers an online bachelor of science in elementary education degree completion program. Student teaching opportunities take place in the Lees-McRae service area. Sample courses include reflective teaching, managing environments for diverse learners, and literature for children.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. Applicants must have an associate degree or at least 60 transfer credits. In addition to transcripts, applicants must submit two recommendations and an essay. This program requires an in-person pre-admission interview.
A private, non-profit institute founded in 1888, Cumberlands teaches from a Christian perspective.
Cumberlands offers an online bachelor of science in elementary education degree program. Sample courses include effective teaching practices, P-5 teaching of science, school art, and human diversity. Tuition costs $199 per credit hour.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Founded by Seventh-day Adventists, Southwestern traces its roots back to 1892.
Southwestern offers an online bachelor of science in elementary education degree program. Sample courses include philosophy of education, classroom assessment, human growth and development, and exceptional children. Tuition costs $462 per credit hour.
In addition to general education requirements, students must complete 72 credits to graduate. First-year applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
A private, non-profit institute founded in 1887, Campbell teaches around 6,000 students annually.
Campbell offers a 100% online bachelor of science in elementary education degree program. Sample courses include integrated reading, mild/moderate disabilities, psychology applied to teaching, and mathematics success. Tuition costs $450 per credit.
Students must complete 124 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Founded on Quaker principles in 1873, WPU emphasizes diversity and inclusivity.
WPU offers an online bachelor of arts in elementary education degree program. Sample courses include teaching of reading, language acquisition, developmental and educational psychology, and collaboration strategies. Students can also earn endorsements in reading, English as a second language, and strategy.
Classes meet in the evenings and every other Saturday via Zoom. Applicants must submit transcripts. WPU may also ask for an essay.
A private, non-profit institute, WU offers more than 40 majors and teaches from a Christian perspective.
WU offers a fully online bachelor of arts in education studies degree program. Students take two courses every 8 weeks. Sample courses include affirming diversity, science for the elementary school, teaching from a Christian worldview, and instructional technology.
In addition to general education requirements, students must complete 49 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts with a GPA of at least 2.25. Applicants must also submit ACT/SAT scores or have graduated in the top half of their high school class.
Founded in 1893, WNMU teaches more than 3,500 students each year.
WNMU offers an online bachelor of science in elementary education K-8 degree program. Students can also choose from over 10 teaching endorsements. Sample courses include student growth and development, corrective reading, and tech integration in the classroom.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts.
A private, non-profit institute founded in 1914, CCU teaches over 8,500 students annually.
CCU offers an online bachelor of arts in elementary education degree program with licensure (student teaching required) or non-licensure (student teaching not required) paths. Students take one course every five weeks. Sample courses include literacy methods, math literacy, and special needs methods.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. Applicants cannot live in Hawaii. First-year applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.8, plus essays and a spiritual recommendation.
Originally known as the Georgie Baptist Female Seminary, Brenau earned its current name in the early 1990s.
Brenau offers a 100% online bachelor of science in elementary education degree program with a year-long student teaching residency. Sample courses include effective planning, history and politics of Georgia, introduction to geography, and introduction to multicultural education.
Students must complete 120 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit transcripts. Brenau accepts up to 65 transfer credits for this program.
Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
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While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Featured Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Programs
Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Overview
An online elementary education degree prepares learners to work as elementary school teachers. Students complete foundational coursework in educational theory, which includes effective teaching practices and diversity in the classroom. Students also learn specific subject areas they are expected to teach, such as mathematics, English composition, humanities, U.S. history, health and fitness, and critical thinking and logic. However, specific classes may differ depending on the college or program.
Graduation requirements vary from school to school. Some colleges may expect students to complete a professional portfolio project that demonstrates the skills they learned during their college experience. Other programs may require student teaching experiences.
Choosing an Online Elementary Education Bachelor's Degree Program
Candidates should consider their academic priorities in their search for the right elementary education degree online. For example, prospective special education teachers should consider schools with relevant concentrations, while learners studying on a budget should search for institutions that charge lower tuition rates. For many students, in-state schools provide the most cost-effective options. They offer lower tuition rates, accept transfer credits from in-state community colleges, and involve shorter commutes for on-campus requirements.
Distance learning also gives students access to programs across the country. For this reason, degree seekers can often find a program that matches all their criteria, even those that may seem physically out of reach.
Accreditation for Online Elementary Education Bachelor's Degrees
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education oversee the process of accreditation by approved agencies. Schools can seek three different types of accreditation: national, regional, or programmatic.
National accreditation is awarded to vocational programs and for-profit schools and involves fewer rigid standards than regional accreditation. Often considered more prestigious, regional accreditation is granted by one of six accrediting bodies across the country. Credits earned at regionally accredited institutions typically transfer more easily than credits from nationally accredited schools.
Programmatic accreditation is granted by an organization in the field to certify that a program's curriculum and standards prepare learners to succeed. Education majors should look for accreditation through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education?
Most online elementary education degrees require students to earn 120 credits in about four years. However, numerous factors can impact this time frame, such as taking courses part-time or enrolling in an accelerated program. Additionally, taking courses in a semester or quarter format also influences program length. For example, schools that offer courses in 12- to 15-week semesters generally offer fewer opportunities to complete coursework than schools with quarters that are 7-8 weeks in length. Students should also note that some elementary education degrees online may charge tuition by credit, which can lead to increased costs.
Learners with busy schedules should select colleges with part-time learning options. While this choice usually extends the time it takes to graduate–and therefore the final cost of one's degree–it can also help students balance professional or personal responsibilities. In this case, you may want to locate programs with tuition guarantees that lock in the cost of tuition throughout the length of your degree.
Finally, students who require an accelerated or part-time program should look for self-directed degrees and avoid those with a cohort format. This latter style requires learners to complete courses with the same group of students at the same time.
Courses in an Online Elementary Education Bachelor's Program
- Foundations of Education: Candidates may explore philosophical, political, and historical concepts of education, along with modern complications of the field. Coursework may also examine intercultural classrooms, governmental expectations for schools, and ideas regarding the future of education. Students may need to perform fieldwork for this course.
- Science Instruction for Elementary Students: Courses examine elementary science topics, such as physical and earth science. They also train candidates to use research-based strategies when delivering these lessons. These instructional methods may reflect child development concepts from kindergarten through the sixth grade. Similar courses involve math, literacy, and social studies for elementary students or science for higher grade levels.
- Children's Literature: Classes introduce learners to children's stories in various genres, such as fairy tales, picture books, and novels. Students examine how these stories impact children and ways to embrace these works when teaching. Departments may also explore the evolution and significance of children's stories, along with the impact of culture on this literature.
- Classroom Management: Students learn research-based methods for running an effective classroom. Classes train students to make choices regarding curricula, activities, time management, and class rules. Learners examine the correlation between classroom atmosphere and behavior and assess disciplinary strategies. Coursework may review the connection between a student and a teacher.
- Child Development: These courses explore how children learn at different life stages, including social, physical, and cognitive growth. Degree seekers learn to use this information in lesson plans to engage and encourage specific age groups. Candidates may examine research and theories related to development as well as the impact of various factors–such as family behavior–on learning.
What Can I Do With an Online Elementary Education Bachelor's Degree?
In addition to a career as an elementary school teacher, graduates of elementary education degrees online can also pursue jobs as special education teachers, teacher assistants, substitute teachers, and tutors.
These educators typically teach multiple subjects, such as social studies, math, and science. Teachers help students prepare for middle school and state testing by building lesson plans and determining each student's needs. Other responsibilities include overseeing children during recess and field trips and discussing progress with parents. Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree and a teaching license to qualify for these positions.
These educators typically teach multiple subjects, such as social studies, math, and science. Teachers help students prepare for middle school and state testing by building lesson plans and determining each student's needs. Other responsibilities include overseeing children during recess and field trips and discussing progress with parents. Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree and a teaching license to qualify for these positions.
Preschool directors oversee teachers and offer guidance for improving teaching techniques. These directors create policies for the school, communicate with parents about students, and tend to the facility's budget. They must also ensure that preschools adhere to state regulations. Preschool directors often hold a bachelor's degree, though some states may require different credentials.
Preschool teachers help children under five years of age learn concepts like counting and color identification. These individuals also help children develop social and motor skills. Responsibilities include creating curricula, choosing daily activities, and assessing children for signs of special needs. Some candidates can earn these positions with an associate degree, but a bachelor's degree is typically required.
Teacher assistants help students understand lesson plans by providing interpersonal guidance. They prepare classrooms for daily activities, maintain class records, and oversee students outside of classrooms. This position may not require a degree, but a bachelor's verifies that applicants understand elementary students, relevant learning strategies, and classroom procedures.
Elementary Education Professional Organizations
Students and graduates of online elementary education degree programs can benefit from joining professional organizations. These groups offer conferences and events that encourage members to interact with one another while learning about the latest research in the field. Organizations also link members to resources, such as group-published magazines and journals, and provide career guidance with job postings and professional tips. Additional benefits include group training and workshops that satisfy continuing education requirements for licenses.
The following organizations are some of the most relevant to elementary education graduates.
This group began in 1892 and previously held the name of the Association for Childhood Education International. CEI concentrates on children up to 11 years old and explores educational concepts like equality and legal concerns. CEI offers three main programs, including Global Schools First, and publications that examine childhood education.
NEA started in 1857 and now boasts a member base of three million education employees. The group ensures educational value for public school children. Specifically, NEA offers foundation grants and partnership funding for educational improvement and hosts events that include the National Leadership Summit and the Minority and Women's Leadership Training Seminar. Site viewers can also access resources on lesson plans, classroom structure, and educational techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elementary Education Bachelor's Degrees
Individuals with bachelor's degrees in elementary education can work as elementary and preschool teachers, preschool directors, special education teachers, and teaching assistants.
Yes. Individuals with bachelor's degrees and a teaching credential in their state can work as elementary teachers in public schools. Private school teachers often do not need teaching certification.
Yes. There are many online elementary education bachelor's degree programs. Classes may be taught in a synchronous or asynchronous format.
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