Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education
A master’s degree can help advance your teaching career to roles with more responsibility and higher pay. Is an online master’s in elementary education a good choice? Explore information on these advanced degrees in this in-depth guide.
What Is an Online Master’s in Elementary Education?
An online master’s in elementary education equips teachers with advanced learning, management, and technology skills. Graduates with master of education (M.Ed.) degrees can design curricula, use varied instructional techniques, demonstrate instructional effectiveness, and assess student achievement.
Most online M.Ed. students are certified teachers who work in public or private elementary schools. Individuals looking to change careers generally opt for an alternative certification or a master of arts in teaching (MAT), which emphasizes basic instructional and classroom management skills. The online M.Ed., by contrast, focuses on research, assessment, and theory.
This degree can qualify teachers for higher salaries and boost them into instructional coaching or other leadership positions. In some cases, teachers may use their master’s degrees to serve as adjunct professors at colleges.
The Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,425
- In-State$4,977
- Out-of-state$19,890
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled26,054
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to Elementary Education. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Louisiana at Monroe at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,490
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,590
- In-State$5,788
- Out-of-state$17,888
- In-State$6,490
- Out-of-state$18,590
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled8,673
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Alabama
- Tuscaloosa, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to Elementary Education. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in Elementary Education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
The University of Alabama at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,780
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,250
- In-State$10,780
- Out-of-state$30,250
- In-State$10,780
- Out-of-state$30,250
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled38,100
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment13%
- AccreditationYes
Mississippi College
- Clinton, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of Elementary Education. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in Elementary Education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Mississippi College at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 42%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,250
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,250
- In-State$17,550
- Out-of-state$17,550
- In-State$11,250
- Out-of-state$11,250
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate42%
- Students Enrolled4,733
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on Elementary Education. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Appalachian State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,839
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,271
- In-State$4,242
- Out-of-state$19,049
- In-State$4,839
- Out-of-state$18,271
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled19,280
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
University of West Georgia
- Carrollton, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in Elementary Education. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The admission requirements include a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
University of West Georgia at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,338
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,830
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,426
- In-State$4,338
- Out-of-state$16,830
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled13,238
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to Elementary Education. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program builds on prior Elementary Education experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of North Dakota at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,534
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,434
- In-State$8,212
- Out-of-state$14,371
- In-State$10,534
- Out-of-state$18,434
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled13,581
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Charlotte, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,337
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,771
- In-State$3,812
- Out-of-state$17,246
- In-State$4,337
- Out-of-state$17,771
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled29,615
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Southeast Missouri State University
- Cape Girardeau, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in Elementary Education. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in Elementary Education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Southeast Missouri State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,242
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,796
- In-State$6,606
- Out-of-state$12,636
- In-State$5,242
- Out-of-state$9,796
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled10,637
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Kansas State University
- Manhattan, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in Elementary Education. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Kansas State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 95%
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,212
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,050
- In-State$9,735
- Out-of-state$25,251
- In-State$10,212
- Out-of-state$23,050
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate95%
- Students Enrolled21,719
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in Elementary Education.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 41
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,749
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,898
- In-State$4,452
- Out-of-state$20,729
- In-State$4,749
- Out-of-state$17,898
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled28,651
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in Elementary Education. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants who majored in Elementary Education or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Ball State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,850
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,954
- In-State$9,358
- Out-of-state$26,138
- In-State$8,850
- Out-of-state$21,954
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled22,443
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Pittsburg State University
- Pittsburg, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to Elementary Education. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Pittsburg State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 96%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,678
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,510
- In-State$5,694
- Out-of-state$17,038
- In-State$6,678
- Out-of-state$17,510
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate96%
- Students Enrolled6,645
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alaska Southeast
- Juneau, AK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum explores Elementary Education research and methodologies. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in Elementary Education typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
University of Alaska Southeast at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,132
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,414
- In-State$6,888
- Out-of-state$22,736
- In-State$11,132
- Out-of-state$23,414
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled2,150
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
Missouri State University-Springfield
- Springfield, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to Elementary Education. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The admission requirements include a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Missouri State University-Springfield at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 88%
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,202
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,476
- In-State$6,540
- Out-of-state$14,850
- In-State$5,202
- Out-of-state$10,476
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled23,453
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Missouri
- Warrensburg, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in Elementary Education. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends a background in Elementary Education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
University of Central Missouri at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,524
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,048
- In-State$7,128
- Out-of-state$14,256
- In-State$7,524
- Out-of-state$15,048
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled11,229
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Stephen F Austin State University
- Nacogdoches, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to Elementary Education. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants without an Elementary Education background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Stephen F Austin State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,112
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,708
- In-State$6,096
- Out-of-state$16,224
- In-State$5,112
- Out-of-state$12,708
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled12,969
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in Elementary Education. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in Elementary Education or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of Alabama at Birmingham at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,100
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,188
- In-State$8,568
- Out-of-state$20,400
- In-State$8,100
- Out-of-state$19,188
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled22,080
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Mercer University
- Macon, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on Elementary Education. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants with a background in Elementary Education typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Mercer University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,422
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,422
- In-State$25,528
- Out-of-state$25,528
- In-State$15,422
- Out-of-state$15,422
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled8,740
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
University of Missouri-St Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with a background in Elementary Education typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
University of Missouri-St Louis at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 73%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program name: Master's degree - Elementary Education and Teaching.
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,007
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,477
- In-State$11,079
- Out-of-state$29,295
- In-State$12,007
- Out-of-state$29,477
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled15,988
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Featured Online Master’s in Education
Why Get an Online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education?
An online master’s in elementary education helps teachers advance their skills and increase their earning potential. With a master’s degree, many educators earn higher salaries and move into leadership roles.
- A master’s degree lets teachers specialize in special education, gifted and talented education, or STEM education.
- An online teaching degree helps working professionals balance their education with other commitments.
- Graduates can pursue specialized certifications, endorsements, and credentials. For example, a master’s degree builds the skills required for national board certification.
- Educators improve their teaching and leadership skills during master’s programs. Many offer coursework in educational leadership, instructional assessment, and curriculum management.
Prerequisites for a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education
Master’s programs in education typically require a bachelor’s degree for admission, though it may be in a field other than elementary education. Some programs admit students who do not possess current teaching licenses, while others may require bachelor’s degrees in education.
Applicants must also meet minimum GPA requirements. Some programs require GRE scores, letters of recommendation, teaching experience, and a personal statement. Prospective students should research prerequisites and admission requirements for any potential programs.
Elementary Education Concentrations
Enrollees in an online master’s in elementary education program can often choose a concentration to focus their studies. This section introduces common elementary education concentrations.
Featured Online Master’s in Education
Choosing an Online Master’s in Elementary Education Program
Prospective enrollees should weigh multiple factors when researching online master’s in elementary education programs. For many students, cost, program length, and learning format rank at the top of their lists.
Current teachers may prefer the flexibility of online programs or accelerated master’s degrees. Some universities offer tuition discounts for distance learners, which can help teachers save money while earning their master’s degrees.
Applicants can also consider specialization options and student teaching experiences to find the right fit. Prospective enrollees should research each program’s accreditation status — earning an unaccredited teaching degree can negatively affect an educator’s career.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees
Educators considering master’s degrees should only attend schools with accreditation. Accredited institutions meet the highest standards for educating students and granting degrees.
In addition to institutional accreditation, prospective graduate students can seek accredited education programs. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accredits online master’s in elementary education programs. In many states, only a degree from an accredited program and/or school meets the requirements for teaching licensure.
Elementary Education Careers and Outlook
Elementary education is not just a degree for classroom teachers. It’s a versatile program that can prepare school leaders, instructional coordinators, educational policy analysts, and postsecondary teachers.
Becoming a principal, assistant principal, or superintendent may require additional training in leadership and state licensure for the role. Additionally, a student aspiring to teach pre-service teachers at the college level often needs to add an Ed.D. or Ph.D. degree to their resume.
The following list of careers shows a few examples of what an educator can do and how much they can earn.
| Elementary Education Career | Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers | $61,620 |
| Instructional Coordinators | $66,490 |
| Preschool Teachers | $35,330 |
| Special Education Teachers | $62,950 |
| Elementary Principals | $101,320 |
These careers cover just a few options for an educator with a master’s degree.
