Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Updated June 2, 2023
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Online Elementary Education Degree
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 Colleges for Elementary Education Programs
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Fort Hays State University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 40 online degree programs. The elementary education program is one of 24 online bachelor's programs available through the college. Students looking to advance in the field will find the school's bachelor of science in elementary education to be an attractive option. Students in the elementary education program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time enrollment.
During the elementary education program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the education field. Learners gain knowledge and skills applicable to elementary education careers. Enrollees can customize their studies by working with their academic advisor to choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $36,800, according to the college. Undergraduate students at the college can expect to pay $12,108 in tuition and fees yearly. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at Fort Hays State University, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the education department.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,759
Total Online Programs: 40
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 91%
#2 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
University of Alaska Southeast
Juneau, AK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Alaska Southeast supports highly ranked bachelor's degree programs from its main campus in Juneau. The public college delivers seven online bachelor's programs. Of these, the BA in elementary education program stands out as a competitive option for students interested in the elementary education field.
The online elementary education program prioritizes flexibility. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit students and help them meet career goals.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $22,736. At the accredited institution, students can access external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Students can expect to receive an average financial aid award package of $6,290.
University of Alaska Southeast at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,423
Total Online Programs: 28
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 61%
#3 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Arizona Christian University
Glendale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Glendale, Arizona Christian University offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. The institution supports five remote online bachelor's programs. The online bachelor's in elementary education enrolls distance learners.
Elementary education students can modify program coursework to suit their interests and accommodate their schedule. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to choose classes relevant to their goals. Students can select elective classes or pursue a minor to further their learning.
Undergraduates pay about $26,240 in tuition at the school. Enrollees can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college.
Arizona Christian University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 109
Total Online Programs: 5
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 68%
#4 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina Wilmington provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. The college supports distance learning across eight remote bachelor's programs. Of these, the bachelor's in elementary education stands out as a competitive option for students interested in the elementary education field.
The online elementary education program prioritizes flexibility. With assistance from their academic advisor, students can modify their course load to suit their needs. Enrollees can benefit from electives, minors, and other modifications to their studies.
Undergraduate elementary education students can expect to pay $18,508 in tuition. The school's accreditation status allows students to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Students receive an average financial aid award package of $6,409.
University of North Carolina Wilmington at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,500
Total Online Programs: 31
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: 65%
#5 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Ottawa University
Ottawa, KS - 4 years
- Online
A leader in online education, Ottawa University facilitates distance learning across 30 online degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 23 online bachelor's programs. Learners seeking competitive study in elementary education in a flexible modality can enroll in the college's online bachelor of arts in elementary education program. The elementary education program offers flexible study options, allowing individuals to pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.
During the elementary education program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the elementary education field. The curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Graduates often increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $41,600 for graduates six years after completing their studies. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
Ottawa University at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 30
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
#6 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's degree program should consider Chaminade University of Honolulu. Distance learners can choose from 10 fully online bachelor's degree programs. Learners seeking to advance in the elementary education field will benefit from the BS in elementary education.
The online elementary education degree places flexibility at the forefront. Enrollees can modify their coursework in consultation with their academic advisor. Enrollees can choose electives, minors, and other modifications to individualize their studies.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $26,020 in tuition. Distance learners at the accredited institution often qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid.
Chaminade University of Honolulu at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,201
Total Online Programs: 21
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 95%
#7 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Bemidji State University
Bemidji, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bemidji State University, located in Minnesota, enables distance learning across 17 online degree programs. The college offers 11 online bachelor's programs, reaching 2,213 distance learners worldwide. Individuals looking for advanced, remote study relevant to the elementary education field can enroll in the school's online BS in elementary ed program. Working professionals and busy students will benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.
Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the elementary education field. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees have the option to modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree often connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $37,000, according to the college. Elementary education students can expect to pay $14,945 in tuition and fees per year. Students can meet with leaders in the education department to discuss application materials, admission requirements, and other relevant information.
Bemidji State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,213
Total Online Programs: 17
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 65%
#8 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
University of Wisconsin Superior
Superior, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, the University of Wisconsin Superior facilitates distance learning across nine online programs. Online undergraduate students can benefit from pursuing one of three online bachelor's programs. Students looking to advance in the elementary education field will find the school's bachelor's in elementary education to be an attractive option. The program is a flexible option for working professionals and busy students.
Throughout the program, learners attend industry-relevant lectures while completing elementary education-specific coursework. These classes incorporate general and advanced knowledge applicable to the field. Students can explore electives, minors, and degree consultations, with their academic advisor to individualize their degree.
A bachelor's degree often greatly increases one's earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $33,200 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Undergraduates pay a net price of $12,695 per year at the institution. Students can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements for scholarships, fellowships, and other types of financial aid.
University of Wisconsin Superior at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,231
Total Online Programs: 9
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 82%
#9 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Midway University
Midway, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Midway University, located in Kentucky, provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. The college supports distance learning across 16 remote bachelor's programs. The bachelor of arts in elementary education is one of 16 programs providing a premier education.
The program curriculum enables flexible study. Learners seeking to modify their studies can work with their academic advisor. Students can choose classes that suit their career interests.
Undergraduate tuition at the institution is $24,500. The school's accreditation status enables students to benefit from financial aid.
Midway University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 995
Total Online Programs: 21
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 60%
#10 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Southwestern College
Winfield, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southwestern College, located in Winfield, Kansas, provides numerous top-tier academic programs. The private institution boasts 19 online bachelor's programs. The bachelor's in elementary education program supports flexible, rigorous study.
The online elementary education degree places flexibility at the forefront. Enrollees seeking to modify their studies can work with their academic advisor. Degree-seekers can benefit from elective classes, minors, and other modifications.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $31,500 at the school. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution.
Southwestern College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 905
Total Online Programs: 40
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 52%
#11 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Gardner-Webb University, a private, nonprofit, four-year college in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, supports online learning across 34 online programs. Of its online programs, 14 offer an undergraduate-level education. The bachelor's program in elementary education for teacher assistants to teachers is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the elementary education field. The elementary education program supports flexible study for distance learners.
During the elementary education program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the education field. This curriculum, which consists of foundational and advanced coursework, equips students with relevant skills needed to succeed in elementary education careers. Students can modify their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree often connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and higher earning potential. Graduates who have completed their degree earn a median salary of $35,100 after six years. Students can meet with the education department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
Gardner-Webb University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,830
Total Online Programs: 34
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 67%
#12 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Lees-McRae College
Banner Elk, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With its main campus in Banner Elk, Lees-McRae College provides competitive bachelor's degrees to learners from all walks of life. The elementary education program is one of five online bachelor's programs available through the institution. The online bachelor's in elementary education is an attractive option for learners seeking to secure a career in elementary education.
Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum that enables flexibility. Enrollees can choose electives, minors, and other modifications to individualize their studies.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $25,625 at the school. Students can receive financial aid to offset the cost of their degree.
Lees-McRae College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 225
Total Online Programs: 6
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 55%
#13 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Franklin Pierce University
Rindge, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Franklin Pierce University, a private, nonprofit, four-year college in Rindge, New Hampshire, supports online learning across 45 online programs. Online undergraduate students can benefit from studying in one of 13 online bachelor's programs. Students seeking advanced online study in elementary education can enroll in the school's online bachelor's in elementary education program. The program provides flexibility through customizable study options and classes.
Students complete industry-relevant classes, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the elementary education field. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to individualize their degree by exploring electives, minors, and concentrations.
After earning their degree, graduates often benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $37,500 six years after graduation. Students can meet with the education department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
Franklin Pierce University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 598
Total Online Programs: 45
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 66%
#14 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Friends University
Wichita, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
As a leader in online education, Friends University supports 815 distance learners across 11 remote degree programs. Five of these online programs offer an undergraduate-level education. Learners seeking competitive, customizable study relevant to the elementary education field will find the school's online bachelor of science in elementary education to be an attractive option. Working professionals and busy students will benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.
Students complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the elementary education field. Degree-seekers complete general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can customize their studies by working with their academic advisor to choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Many graduates easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. The college notes a median salary of $42,300 for graduates six years after finishing their studies. Enrollees can meet with leaders in the education department to discuss application materials, admission requirements, and other relevant information.
Friends University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 815
Total Online Programs: 11
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 46%
#15 Best Online Elementary Education Programs
Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Indian River State College, a public, four-year college located in Fort Pierce, Florida, offers premier bachelor's degree opportunities. Students interested in distance learning will find the school's 10 fully online bachelor's programs to be attractive options for study. The online bachelor's in elementary education supports distance learners.
The rigorous curriculum enables flexible study through an adaptable curriculum. With assistance from their academic advisor, students can modify their course load to suit their needs. Degree-seekers can benefit from electives, minors, and other modifications to their studies.
When calculating the cost of a degree, students should note the current tuition rate of $9,360. Distance learners at the accredited institution can qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid. Degree-seekers receive a financial aid award package amounting to $5,523 on average.
Indian River State College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,541
Total Online Programs: 14
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
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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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
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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.
Elementary School Teacher
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.
Special Education Teacher
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 Director
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 Teacher
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 Assistant
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elementary Education Bachelor's Degrees
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Elementary Education?
Individuals with bachelor's degrees in elementary education can work as elementary and preschool teachers, preschool directors, special education teachers, and teaching assistants.
Can You Be an Elementary Teacher With a Bachelor's Degree?
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.
Can You Get a Bachelor's in Elementary Education Online?
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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