An online bachelor's degree in education prepares students for teaching roles in public and private K-12 settings.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for high school teachers to grow 4% between 2019 and 2029, amounting to approximately 40,200 new jobs. High school teachers made a median annual salary of $61,660 in 2019, and the top 10% of earners made more than $99,660 during the same timeframe.
This guide ranks the best online bachelor's in education programs to help students find the right programs for their needs. We also cover important information for prospective students, including common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
| #1 | Fort Hays State University | Hays, KS |
| #2 | Brandman University | Irvine, CA |
| #3 | Arizona Christian University | Glendale, AZ |
| #4 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA |
| #5 | Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College | Saint Mary of the Woods, IN |
| #6 | Chaminade University of Honolulu | Honolulu, HI |
| #7 | South Dakota State University | Brookings, SD |
| #8 | Biola University | La Mirada, CA |
| #9 | University of Missouri-Columbia | Columbia, MO |
| #10 | Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies | Fayette, MO |
| Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Fort Hays State University |
Hays, KS Apply Now | ||
| 2 |
Brandman University |
Irvine, CA Apply Now | ||
| 3 |
Arizona Christian University |
Glendale, AZ Apply Now | ||
| 4 |
University of Washington-Seattle Campus |
Seattle, WA Apply Now | ||
| 5 |
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College |
Saint Mary of the Woods, IN Apply Now | ||
| 6 |
Chaminade University of Honolulu |
Honolulu, HI Apply Now | ||
| 7 |
South Dakota State University |
Brookings, SD Apply Now | ||
| 8 |
Biola University |
La Mirada, CA Apply Now | ||
| 9 |
University of Missouri-Columbia |
Columbia, MO Apply Now | ||
| 10 |
Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies |
Fayette, MO Apply Now | ||
| 11 |
East Carolina University |
Greenville, NC Apply Now | ||
| 12 |
Florida Gateway College |
Lake City, FL Apply Now | ||
| 13 |
North Greenville University |
Tigerville, SC Apply Now | ||
| 14 |
Regent University |
Virginia Beach, VA Apply Now | ||
| 15 |
Midway University |
Midway, KY Apply Now |
End of list, bravo!
Online Bachelor's in Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked the following online bachelor of education programs based on quality, curricula, faculty strength, school awards, rankings, and reputation, including the school's reputation for providing online degree programs.
Choosing an Online Bachelor's Degree in Education
When researching online education degree programs, students should consider several factors, such as program cost, transfer policies, and on-campus requirements. We cover several important considerations for prospective students below.
- Program Cost: Typically, public schools cost less than private schools, and in-state students pay less than out-of-state students. However, many schools allow all online students to pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
- Transfer Policies: Many schools offer transfer credit for prior academic, professional, and military experience, which often saves time and money on a degree.
- School Size and Type: A school's size and type can affect factors like class sizes, tuition rates, and student engagement. For example, a small, private school may have higher tuition rates but also offer more one-on-one attention from faculty than a larger public school.
- Program Length: Most programs take four years of full-time study to complete, but some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to graduate in 2-3 years.
- On-Campus Requirements: Many bachelor's in education programs exist completely online, while others require learners to visit campus for in-person components. Students should ensure they can meet all on-campus requirements before committing to a program.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Nearly all bachelor's in education programs require a student-teaching practicum. Students should choose a program with practicum opportunities aligned with their interests and goals.
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Education Program?
Students pursuing an online bachelor's in education develop knowledge and skills in lesson planning and classroom management. They also learn how to work with exceptional students, support diverse classrooms, and develop innovative instructional methods.
Many bachelor's in education programs offer concentrations in areas like elementary education, secondary education, special education, and science education. Students should ensure their prospective programs offer concentrations aligned with their goals and interests.
Online Bachelor's Degree in Education Curriculum
- Child Development: Child development classes examine the principles of human growth and development and how they affect learning. The curriculum focuses on development from conception through adolescence, exploring aspects of cognitive, emotional, physical, and social development.
- Literacy: This course teaches students how to provide literacy instruction across grade levels. Students learn about developmental processes associated with literacy and reading while building knowledge and skills in effective instruction methods.
- Subject-Specific Curricula: Subject-specific courses prepare students to instruct a particular subject, such as math, English, or social studies. These classes vary based on the student's intended content area.
- Theories of Learning: This class examines the various theories and methodologies related to different learning modalities. Students learn when to use different methods and how to determine what strategy is best for a particular class or pupil.
- Instructional Methods: This course explores teaching and assessment methods, teaching students how to make informed decisions about leading their classrooms and educating pupils.
Bachelor's in Education Licensing and Certification
All states require teachers in K-12 public schools to hold licensure. Licensure requirements vary by state, but all states require a minimum number of student-teaching hours under the supervision of a licensed teacher. Students in a bachelor's in education program usually complete around one semester's worth of student-teaching, gaining practical experience in the field.
Licensure candidates must also pass exams. Exam requirements vary by state, but the Praxis exam and the edTPA are common requirements. Depending on grade level and intended content area, some prospective teachers may also need to pass skills tests or subject area exams.
If a teacher receives licensure in one state but wants to move to a different one, they must meet all of the new state's licensure requirements. Many boards of education provide state reciprocity — making it easier and faster for educators to earn licensure in a new state — but not all, so it's best to check with your local state board.
Teaching Jobs
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in education can pursue teaching jobs in public and private schools. They can work as elementary, middle, and high school teachers. With further study through a master's degree, graduates can also assume administrative education roles. Doctoral graduates can pursue research and faculty positions at colleges and universities. Learn more about the spectrum of education degrees through The Best Schools guide.
Elementary School Teachers
| Median Annual Salary: $59,420 | Projected Job Growth: 4% |
|---|
Elementary educators typically work with K-6 students, ensuring they understand the fundamentals of basic subjects before moving to middle school. These teachers create and deliver lesson plans, teach students how to interact with their peers, provide evaluations, and communicate with parents and guardians about their child's progress. Elementary teachers need at least a bachelor's degree. Those who want to work in public schools also need licensure.
High School Teachers
| Median Annual Salary: $61,660 | Projected Job Growth: 4% |
|---|
High school teachers instruct 9-12-grade students. They provide instruction in specific content areas, administer assignments and grades, and help learners prepare for standardized tests. They may also write letters of recommendation for students applying to college. Like elementary school teachers, high school educators need a bachelor's degree at minimum. They also need a teaching license if they work in a public school.
Middle School Teachers
| Median Annual Salary: $59,660 | Projected Job Growth: 4% |
|---|
Middle school teachers typically work with students in grades 6-8. They create lesson plans, collaborate with other teachers and administrators on issues around student success, prepare learners for standardized tests, and communicate with parents. Middle school educators need at least a bachelor's degree. They also need a license when teaching in a public school.
Accreditation for Online Bachelor's in Education Degrees
Students should only consider accredited schools. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Only students at accredited schools can receive federal financial aid, and many schools only accept transfer credits and degrees from accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with an accredited degree.
Schools may receive regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions, while national accreditation applies to for-profit, vocational, and technical schools. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two.
Programs within a school, such as business, social work, and education programs, may also receive accreditation. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accredits teaching programs. Students can verify a school's accreditation status through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Professional Organizations for Education
Education students and professionals can take advantage of professional organizations. The following organizations offer benefits such as professional development, continuing education, and networking opportunities.
- Association of American Educators AAE is the largest nonunion education association in the country. Members have access to scholarships and grants, in-house publications, state chapters and partners, and other professional resources.
- National Association of Elementary School Principals Designed to support professionals in charge of K-6 schools, NAESP provides local and national advocacy efforts, a skills-learning center, leadership initiatives, and online webinars. The group also engages in education research and hosts an annual conference.
- National Education Association NEA is the largest teacher union in the U.S., maintaining state and city chapters across the nation. The group provides advocacy for educators, an online book share library, online lesson plans and teaching resources, and ideas for classroom activities. Members can sign up for the NEA newsletter and take advantage of professional benefits and discounts.
- American Federation of Teachers AFT represents 1.7 million education professionals across 3,000 local affiliate groups nationwide. The group represents both K-12 and postsecondary teachers and administrators alongside government employees, nurses, and healthcare professionals. AFT provides community engagement and political activism opportunities.
- U.S. Department of Education The U.S. Department of Education oversees K-12 and postsecondary institutions and sets national regulations. The federal department oversees government-funded student loans and grants and collects data about the state of American education. The department also oversees college accreditation.
