Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Updated September 26, 2022
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With an online master's in elementary education, teachers can pursue specialized roles and increase their earning potential.
Effective elementary teachers shape students' lives and teach skills that last a lifetime. A master's degree in elementary education helps teachers add specialized, graduate-level training to the classroom. This degree also allows teachers to move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential.
Why should teachers consider online master's in elementary education programs? The added flexibility of online programs may appeal to working educators. Teaching degrees from online programs help educators pursue online teaching jobs.
Our list ranks the top online master's programs in elementary education to help applicants find the best fit for their unique needs and goals.
Featured Online Master's
The Best Online Master's in Elementary Education
#1
Georgia Southern University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Statesboro, Georgia |
| Admission Rate | 54% |
| Graduation Rate | 50% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
41%
|
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
#2
University of Louisiana at Monroe
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Monroe, Louisiana |
| Admission Rate | 80% |
| Graduation Rate | 47% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
43%
|
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
#3
The University of Alabama
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tuscaloosa, Alabama |
| Admission Rate | 83% |
| Graduation Rate | 71% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
13%
|
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
#4
Mississippi College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Clinton, Mississippi |
| Admission Rate | 42% |
| Graduation Rate | 57% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
56%
|
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
#5
Appalachian State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Boone, North Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 77% |
| Graduation Rate | 73% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
23%
|
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
#6
University of West Georgia
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Carrollton, Georgia |
| Admission Rate | 59% |
| Graduation Rate | 45% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
63%
|
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
#7
University of North Dakota
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Grand Forks, North Dakota |
| Admission Rate | 81% |
| Graduation Rate | 61% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
45%
|
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
#8
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Charlotte, North Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 65% |
| Graduation Rate | 64% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
29%
|
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
#9
Southeast Missouri State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Cape Girardeau, Missouri |
| Admission Rate | 86% |
| Graduation Rate | 50% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
52%
|
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
#10
Kansas State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Manhattan, Kansas |
| Admission Rate | 95% |
| Graduation Rate | 65% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
27%
|
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
#11
East Carolina University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Greenville, North Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 79% |
| Graduation Rate | 66% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
48%
|
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
#12
Ball State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Muncie, Indiana |
| Admission Rate | 77% |
| Graduation Rate | 67% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
44%
|
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
#13
Pittsburg State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Pittsburg, Kansas |
| Admission Rate | 96% |
| Graduation Rate | 52% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
47%
|
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
#14
University of Alaska Southeast
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Juneau, Alaska |
| Admission Rate | 61% |
| Graduation Rate | 26% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
66%
|
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
#15
Missouri State University-Springfield
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Springfield, Missouri |
| Admission Rate | 88% |
| Graduation Rate | 56% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
39%
|
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
#16
University of Central Missouri
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Warrensburg, Missouri |
| Admission Rate | 65% |
| Graduation Rate | 51% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
39%
|
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
#17
Stephen F Austin State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Nacogdoches, Texas |
| Admission Rate | 68% |
| Graduation Rate | 52% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
40%
|
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
#18
University of Alabama at Birmingham
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Birmingham, Alabama |
| Admission Rate | 74% |
| Graduation Rate | 63% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
59%
|
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
#19
Mercer University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Macon, Georgia |
| Admission Rate | 74% |
| Graduation Rate | 66% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
26%
|
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
#20
University of Missouri-St Louis
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Saint Louis, Missouri |
| Admission Rate | 73% |
| Graduation Rate | 52% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
32%
|
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
Online Master's in Elementary Education Degree Program 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.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
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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.
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Featured Online Master's in Education
What Is an Online Master's in Elementary Education?
A master's degree in elementary education builds advanced teaching skills. Some programs also offer initial licensure for students who do not possess teaching experience. With master's-level training in elementary education, graduates can take on leadership roles.
Enrollees in an elementary education graduate program study instructional techniques, assessment methods, and classroom management approaches. Many master's programs also offer concentrations for educators seeking focused career paths. For example, an elementary teacher interested in moving into special education or second language acquisition can take specialized graduate courses to prepare for an endorsement on their teaching license that indicates what subjects they are qualified to teach.
In addition to education programs focused on classroom careers, students can also pursue degrees in educational leadership or curriculum and instruction to move into administrative roles.
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 areas like 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 a master's program. Many offer coursework in educational leadership, instructional assessment, and curriculum management.
Elementary Education Concentrations
Enrollees in an online master's in elementary education program can often choose a concentration to focus on. This section introduces common elementary education concentrations.
Reading and Literacy
Educators in this concentration study literacy assessment, comprehension strategies, and research-based literacy approaches. Educators learn to apply reading and literacy theories in the classroom while strengthening their pedagogical skills. This focus builds advanced reading education abilities.
Gifted and Talented
A gifted and talented education concentration trains educators to meet the needs of exceptional children. Coursework explores topics in educational research, prepares educators to evaluate programs, and examines educational assessment methods. Learners can also study educational psychology, learning theories, and instructional applications. Graduates can then apply their knowledge in K-5 classroom settings.
Educational Leadership
Master's students in an educational leadership concentration examine leadership theories in school settings and the best practices in school management. Courses in instructional supervision, educational administration, and school budgeting prepare graduates for leadership positions. A master's in educational leadership may meet the requirements for a principal license.
Special Education
A special education concentration trains educators to teach students with disabilities. Many special education programs offer coursework in behavior challenges, autism, or learning disabilities. Educators also study federal regulations governing special education. Graduates can apply for board certification as exceptional needs specialists.
STEM Education
Elementary educators incorporate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education into their K-5 lessons. This concentration trains teachers in STEM education through courses in problem-based mathematics, strategies for solving science problems, and STEM creativity. Graduates integrate STEM education best practices into their classroom instruction.
Teaching English as a Second Language
Educators who focus on English language learners can strengthen their second language acquisition training. Coursework focuses on strategies for teaching English at the elementary level, building literacy, and content area instruction. Teachers explore curriculum diversity, cultural contexts, and integrating home languages into lessons. Graduates can pursue board certification in English as a new language.
Enhanced Teaching Practices
This concentration emphasizes effective methods of educating students. Master's students take courses in classroom assessment, differentiated instruction, and classroom management. The curriculum may also cover technology use in education.
Prerequisites for a Master's Degree in Elementary Education
Master's programs in education typically require a bachelor's degree for admission. However, applicants do not necessarily need a bachelor's in elementary education. Some programs admit students who do not possess current teaching licenses. Other programs 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 their potential programs.
Featured Online Master's
How Much Does an Online Master's Degree in Elementary Education Cost?
The cost of an online master's degree typically ranges from $8,000-$20,000. Costs vary depending on the school, credit requirements, and tuition policies.
Graduate students can lower their costs by researching scholarships and other forms of financial aid. The TEACH Grant, for example, offers up to $4,000 per year for educators, including teachers pursuing master's degrees. Many universities also offer scholarships, grants, and fellowships to support graduate students. Finally, teachers can research scholarships through their districts or professional associations.
Choosing an Online Master's in Elementary Education Program
Prospective students should weigh multiple factors when choosing an online master's in elementary education program. For many students, cost, program length, and learning format rank at the top of their lists. Teachers may prefer the flexibility of an online program or an accelerated one-year master's degree.
Many universities offer tuition discounts for distance learners, which helps teachers save money while earning their master's degrees. Applicants can also consider specialization options and required student teaching hours 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 choose accredited universities and programs. Accredited schools meet the highest standards for educating students and granting degrees.
In addition to institutional accreditation, prospective graduate students should seek out accredited education programs. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation grants accreditation to online master's in elementary education programs. In many states, only an accredited degree meets the requirements for teaching licensure.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Elementary Education?
A master's degree in elementary education prepares graduates for careers in the classroom or administrative roles. Elementary teachers, special education teachers, and instructional coordinators often earn more with master's degrees.
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers
| Median Salary (2020):$60,660 |
|---|
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers educate young learners in foundational subjects, including reading, writing, and mathematics. They create lesson plans that assess student learning, identify areas for improvement, and align with district curriculum goals. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers also communicate with parents, provide differentiated instruction, and enforce classroom rules. Teachers at public schools typically need state-issued licenses.
Special Education Teachers
| Median Salary (2020):$60,620 |
|---|
Special education teachers educate learners with disabilities. They assess each student's abilities and modify lessons to meet those needs. Special education teachers also develop individualized education programs (IEPs) for their students. These professionals carry out IEPs, track progress, and report performance to parents and administrators. Special education teachers generally need coursework in special education to receive teaching licensure.
Instructional Coordinators
| Median Salary (2020):$70,270 |
|---|
Instructional coordinators create educational materials that align with the school curriculum. They also evaluate the effectiveness of the curriculum and train teachers in meeting core standards. By evaluating test data, instructional coordinators determine modifications in the curriculum or teaching methods. Instructional coordinators typically bring teaching experience and hold master's degrees. Jobs in public schools typically require state-issued licenses.
Childcare Workers
| Median Salary (2020):$25,460 |
|---|
Childcare workers care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. They encourage basic skills like emotional regulation and number recognition. Childcare workers at the pre-K level prepare children for kindergarten. A childcare worker typically does not need a college degree, but pre-K teachers and preschool directors often hold degrees. Licensure requirements vary depending on location.
Common Questions About Master's in Elementary Education Programs
Is a Master's Degree in Education Worth it?
A master's in education helps educators increase their earning potential and move into administrative roles. With a master's degree in elementary education, educators can qualify for higher salaries and lead teacher positions.
Do Teachers Get Paid More With a Master's Degree?
Yes. Teachers with master's degrees generally earn higher salaries. In many school districts, educators with graduate degrees can advance in the salary schedule.
What Is the Difference Between a Master of Arts and a Master of Education?
Both a master of arts in teaching and a master of education in elementary education develop graduate students' pedagogical and instructional skills. Both degrees prepare learners for classroom teaching careers.
Featured Special Education Programs
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