Edited By Charlotte Sears
Review & Contribution By Dr. Ellen Carter
Elevate your teaching career with a Master’s in Elementary Education Online—empowering educators to excel in diverse learning environments and inspire student success.
Elementary or primary education is among the first stages of formal education, after preschool or kindergarten level and before secondary schooling. The master’s in elementary education online program helps students to develop skills that are needed to become quality educators who can create equitable learning environments, conduct research and evaluation in education, and use creative instructional methods for literacy and language. Individuals gain skills in collaboration, advocacy, classroom management, inclusive teaching practices, communication, learning design, data literacy, and much more. Through online master’s in elementary education, individuals can pursue roles in community settings, as educators in non-school settings, instructional assistants, youth development specialists, teacher assistants, and so on.
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Find the Best Master’s in Elementary Education Online Programs
Choosing a Master’s program could be a confusing task for students as they need to evaluate many factors like curriculum, accreditation of the college, quality of faculty, thesis-based or non-thesis-based program, electives offered, capstone projects, concentration, modes of learning, and more. FBD teams have found numerous institutions and degrees from all over the U.S. and, using a proprietary methodology, prepared a list of colleges offering the best master’s in elementary education online programs:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Western Governors University | 4001 South 700 East Suite 700, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107 | $8,302 | 49% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Master’s in Elementary Education Online Program
An online master’s in elementary education is designed for educators seeking to enhance their expertise in curriculum development, leadership, and elementary education. The program typically spans 30 to 48 credits and includes core courses, electives, assignments, and projects. Completion takes two years, with options for capstone projects or theses. Institutions offer flexible learning modes, including online, offline, or hybrid formats, along with internships for practical experience. Graduates pursue careers as principals, instructional coordinators, school counselors, elementary teachers, etc.
Curriculum and Coursework
The master’s elementary education online ensures that students get theoretical knowledge and practical experience in classroom management skills and curriculum planning. Most college curriculums are nationally recognized by the Association for Childhood Education International[2] and focused on developing individualized teaching techniques and strategies to meet each learner’s needs.
Most of the curriculum teaches students how to build relationships, think critically, problem-solve, and learn new ideas. Students can complete courses in different components like elementary education methods, professional core, pre-clinical experiences, education, mathematics, and more.
Different colleges have different coursework; however, students can find some standard courses, including:
Curriculum Planning
This course is concerned with making decisions and analyzing teaching and learning processes and considers the curriculum requirements and available resources. It encompasses the study of the identification and organizing instructional materials. Learners also understand what the expectations from teachers in terms of curriculum planning and its implementation are.
Foundations of Education
In the foundational education course, students understand fundamental factors that influence the organization and structure of various education components, including teaching methods, evaluation, curriculum, and objectives. Students learn about education’s philosophies and psychological, anthropological, sociological, and historical foundations.
Special Education
Through this course, students understand different ways of educating and accommodating students with individual differences, special needs, and disabilities. It includes learning about individualized teaching procedures, accessible settings, adapted materials and equipment, and more. Students also gain an understanding of different special education laws.
Gifted and Talented
This course is essential for educators to understand how to educate gifted and talented children best. They also learn strategies, instructional methods, and activities to support their development. Educators also develop criteria to assess critical thinking and decision-making abilities and incorporate creativity as an integral domain.
Educational Leadership
This course helps individuals understand how to put different teaching, education, and learning practices into various settings. Through this course, individuals also guide and enlist the energies and talents of students, parents, and teachers toward achieving common educational aims.
Some other standard courses in the master’s program include:
- Elementary Science Methods
- Elementary Mathematics Methods
- Application of Elementary Social Studies Methods
- Schools as Communities of Core
- Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
- Essential Practices for Supporting Diverse Learners
- Children’s Literature
- Educational Psychology and Human Development of Children and Adolescents
- Mathematics for Elementary Educators
Most master’s elementary education online programs require prospective graduates to do teaching internships or practicums, giving them an understanding of the practical aspects of the fields. Some master’s require students to complete a thesis, while some may not. Many colleges require their candidates to form a professional portfolio to create teaching portfolios that demonstrate professional growth, effective teaching practices, and beliefs. It includes professional artifacts, reflective essays, etc.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Individuals pursuing a master’s in elementary education can understand how to thrive in their teaching careers in various learning environments, promoting student learning, technological integration, and action research. Students learn to become proficient in curriculum planning, classroom management skills, and tailoring teaching techniques to support different kinds of students. Through the program, students acquire various skills, including the ability to:
- plan curriculum and manage classrooms to help a diverse set of students thrive;
- demonstrate the usage of different strategies and tools to expand the children’s perspectives and learning;
- communicate with different stakeholders in education and collaborate with them to deliver effective teaching strategies to students;
- demonstrate good writing and verbal skills to help translate this knowledge to the students in the classroom;
- maintain healthy personal and professional relationships in different environments and facilitate the interpersonal interactions of others;
- create lesson plans and deliver curriculum to suit the unique needs and challenges of today’s time;
- develop and implement targeted training programs building the specific needs of individuals or organizations;
- prepare students for standardized assessment and testing and create engaging lessons imparting important information and helping students learn;
- teach how to write in various styles, general storytelling, and engage in articulating arguments.
Types of Master’s Degrees Elementary Education Students Can Obtain
An online elementary education master’s equips individuals with the ability to create creative and engaging classroom environments that support middle-grade and elementary students. It enables them to solve and analyze current challenges through practice and research. Generally, three types of graduate programs are available: Master of Arts, Master of Science, and Master of Education in elementary education.
Master of Arts in Elementary Education
The Master of Arts in Elementary Education enhances individuals’ practical experiences and fundamental theoretical knowledge. It links what educators learn through instructional methods and research and helps to translate it into student learning. The degree is appropriate for existing teachers who want to update their skills by understanding recent teaching methods.
Master of Science in Elementary Education
The Master of Science or MS in Elementary Education helps individuals qualify teachers to teach in different elementary education programs, upskill the teaching knowledge for those who hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education or related fields, and assist those looking for a career change to gain the right credentials. Students learn about curriculum and instruction for diverse populations, educational measurement, effective teaching, and classroom management, among other topics.
Master of Education in Elementary Education
The Master of Education in Elementary Education prepares individuals to work as middle school or elementary teachers. They focus on various aspects of elementary education, from assessment methods and teaching strategies to working with inclusive and diverse learners.
Areas of Specialization for Elementary Education Students
Prospective applicants should consider a concentration available in the relevant discipline when applying. In elementary education, specialized concentrations may only sometimes be offered, as elementary education is often provided as a specialty within the broader field of education itself. However, some concentrations that students pursuing a master’s in elementary education online can consider include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Instruction | This specialization focuses on equipping students with specialized skills and strategies to teach literacy and reading comprehension to elementary school students effectively. It emphasizes techniques for assessing and addressing reading difficulties, fostering a love for reading, and promoting overall literacy development. | Reading specialist, elementary school teacher, online reading teacher, literacy coach. |
| Early Childhood Education | This specialization prepares educators to understand and support the unique developmental needs of young learners. It emphasizes theories and practices tailored to preschool and primary-grade settings, focusing on fostering holistic growth, social-emotional development, and early literacy and numeracy skills. | Early childhood teacher, child development pedagogue, education coordinator, preschool director. |
| Elementary Special Education | This specialization equips students with specialized knowledge and strategies to support students with diverse learning needs. It emphasizes understanding individualized education plans, behavior management techniques, and inclusive teaching methods to foster academic and social success for all students in elementary settings. | Special education teacher, inclusion specialist, behavioral interventionist, educational consultant. |
| Elementary and Secondary School Administration | This specialization focuses on preparing students for leadership roles in school administration. It emphasizes instructional leadership, personnel management, budgeting, and community relations skills to effectively lead and manage elementary and secondary schools toward educational excellence and student success. | School administrator, principal, assistant principal, education policy analyst. |
| Elementary Math | This specialization equips students with specialized techniques and strategies to effectively teach mathematical concepts to elementary school students. It emphasizes hands-on learning, problem-solving skills, and differentiated instruction to promote mathematical fluency and critical thinking in young learners. | Math specialist, elementary math teacher, curriculum developer, and educational technology specialist. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
It typically takes two years to complete a master’s in elementary education online for full-time students. Part-time attendance extends the duration to three to four years. However, completion timelines vary based on individual circumstances. Factors influencing program duration include full-time or part-time enrollment, family commitments, credit transfers, and integrated degree structures. Here is a summary of the program completion timeline:
- Full-time: two years to complete the program
- Part-time: three to five years to complete the program
Accelerated Elementary Education Programs
Students can consider accelerated master’s degrees if they want to earn them in less time or different ways by taking up varied study schedules. Accelerated programs can appeal to different types of students, but usually, they are best suited to those who want to be committed learners with flexible college schedules. While choosing graduate schools for accelerated master’s degrees, the prospective candidate must consider such programs’ unique features. Here are a few universities providing accelerated elementary education master’s degree online programs:
Requirements for Getting into a Master’s in Elementary Education Online Program
There are different program requirements that students would need to look up for enrollment into a master in Elementary Education online program. However, some of these requirements could be quite basic and similar across programs in the United States. Some of these common admission requirements for master’s in elementary education online include:
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above in the undergraduate program
- Official transcripts from previous institutions
- Graduate Record Examination or GRE scores (some colleges waive this requirement)
- 2-3 Letters of recommendation, with at least one of them being written by an academician
- Writing samples (required by some colleges)
- Statement of purpose or letter of intent
- Essay detailing reasons for wanting to pursue a master’s in Elementary Education (required by many meritorious colleges)
No GRE Master’s in Elementary Education Online Programs
Graduate Record Examinations or GRE scores are a basis for students getting into graduate schools. The GRE scores measure the applicant’s preparedness for success in the academic field. However, many colleges waive this requirement of the GRE or make it an optional criterion, where individuals can choose whether to submit their scores. Here are a few colleges that provide an online elementary education master’s degree with no GRE requirements:
How to Ensure a Master’s in Elementary Education Online Program Is Accredited
An accredited school approves quality educational standards prescribed by different accrediting agencies in the specific academic domain. Accreditation enhances a student’s and employer’s trust in the educational institution and helps determine if a college provides quality education and resources to help a student succeed.
Prospective students can consult the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs6 to find trustworthy accrediting bodies. The Council for Higher Education7 can also assist in determining the accreditation status of institutions of interest. In elementary education, most institutions providing master’s in elementary education online also receive programmatic accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Such accreditation is vital for schools offering educator-related programs.
The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation8 is another body that reviews the quality of elementary education programs. Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies, which are:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Elementary Education Master’s Students
Free online courses open a world of learning for students, offering in-demand skills and knowledge at no cost. This flexibility allows students to explore interests, supplement classroom studies, or even jumpstart a new career path – without breaking the bank. By enrolling in free online courses, students can enhance their resumes, acquire new skills relevant to their fields, and even earn certifications, boosting their career prospects and personal development at their own pace and convenience. Here are some examples of free elementary education courses:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| EEC Language and Literacy Course9 | This course explores topics including theories of language acquisition, assessment of language development, speech and language processes for communication, language development stages, and fostering language development. It helps students understand the Universal Design of the Learning approach. | UMass Boston OpenCourseWare |
| Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Developing Relationships10 | Through the course, participants explore factors establishing good relationships and the correlation of positive relationships with children’s learning and teaching skills. It can also help individuals learn how to support the development of a growth mindset. | Coursera |
| Higher Education Teaching Certificate11 | This course is designed to help refine individuals’ teaching practice by updating information on various teaching methods and reflecting on opportunities to enhance their skills and performance. It also helps to understand how learning works, build rapport, plan and deliver lessons, and use different tools to engage with students. | edx |
Ways to Pay for a Master’s in Elementary Education Online Program
Students are frequently confused about how to finance their college education, especially considering the yearly increase in tuition fees for programs such as a master’s in elementary education online. Upon receiving acceptance letters from colleges, applicants often fret over the escalating costs of tuition and fees. For many, the prospect of affording these expenses becomes daunting as they need help finding viable payment solutions. However, numerous financial aid options exist, including scholarships, federal or private loans, work-study programs, grants, etc. Some of these financial aids are elaborated below:
This form of financial aid is awarded to students to help them further their education. It is based on criteria like athletic skills, academic merits, inclusion and diversity, and financial needs. Individuals should understand how to find scholarships from various federal, state, and other organizations.
Federal Grants
Federal grants provide financial assistance to individuals, organizations, and institutions for various purposes, such as education, research, and community development. They are awarded based on eligibility criteria and do not require repayment, making them valuable resources for funding diverse projects and initiatives.
Federal Work-Study
Federal Work-Study will allow part-time for financially disadvantaged graduates who need external monetary assistance. It allows them to earn money and pay for their education simultaneously. As part of this program, they are encouraged to do community service and related jobs.
Private student loans
These loans are offered by financial institutions and banks and are designed for students who don’t meet the criteria for federal aid or additional funds. Students can look up Donors or Grants for Student Loans to help pay off loans.
FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form that helps establish what kind of aid an individual qualifies for. The form requires information like personal savings, investments, and income. The amount of money a student receives from federal aid depends on their Expected Family Contribution.
Scholarships for Master’s in Elementary Education Online Degree Students
Scholarships are a form of financial aid that organizations provide to graduates who want to further their education. Such scholarships are awarded based on diversity, inclusions, athletic skills, music skills, academic merit, etc. Those pursuing a master’s in elementary education can read upon scholarships that will help them further their careers. Here are a few master’s in elementary education online scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Leon Bradley Scholarship12 | The American Association of School Personnel Administrators established this scholarship program to encourage more minority individuals to pursue careers in education and school leadership. Up to two scholarships are awarded to individuals in their final year of endorsement requirements or certification. | $3,500 | May 31 |
| Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship 202313 | The National Institute sponsors the Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher scholarship for Labor Relations Research. It promotes dedication to education principles, voluntary unionism, and high professional standards. The applicants of this scholarship are limited to educating students admitted to accredited schools in the United States. | $1,000 | September 1st through January 31st |
| Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Elementary Teacher Scholarship14 | This scholarship is a one-time award to students who are twenty-five or older who want to teach at the elementary school level. The candidates must have a minimum of 3.5 GPA, at least at the sophomore level, or planning to attend an accredited college. | $1,500 | NA |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating with a Master’s in Elementary Education Online Degree
After graduating with an online master’s in elementary education, individuals can explore diverse career opportunities and competitive salaries in the education sector. The advanced degree equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue fulfilling roles and contribute positively to the field. Some potential career options for graduates with this degree include:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers [1] | Communication skills, resourcefulness, physical stamina, and patience. | $61,670 | 1% (little or no change) | Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers must instruct entire classes or small groups of learners in this profession. They also prepare students for standardized tests mandated by the state, develop and implement classroom rules, and supervise children outside the classroom. |
| Special Education 15 | Communication skills, patience, resourcefulness, and critical thinking skills. | $65,910 | 0% (little or no change) | Special education teachers instruct those with mental, physical, learning, or emotional disabilities. They may also work with those with sensory disabilities, including hearing or visual impairments. These teachers also generally adapt the general lessons to meet the needs of the students. |
| High School Teachers 16 | Communication skills, resourcefulness, and patience. | $65,220 | 1% (little or no change) | High school teachers can teach core subjects like history, science, or math and specialize in elective courses like music, physical education, or the arts. They also develop and enforce different rules and administrative policies within the classroom. |
| Career and Technical Education Teachers17 | Resourcefulness, patience, organizational and communication skills. | $63,580 | 0% (little or no change) | Career and technical education teachers demonstrate and supervise proper and safe use of equipment and tools. These professionals also work in the classroom and help learners. They monitor students’ progress, assign tasks, and grade their assignments. |
| Instructional Coordinators18 | Analytical, communication, decision-making, interpersonal, and leadership skills. | $74,620 | 2% (as fast as average) | Instructional coordinators oversee school curricula, develop and implement new curricula, analyze student test data, and assess teaching standards with school staff. They also mentor teachers to improve their skills. |
Certifications and Licensing for Master’s in Elementary Education Online Graduates
Certifications offer specialized knowledge and skills, enhancing students’ qualifications and marketability. They validate expertise in respective fields, providing recognition of proficiency to employers. Certifications can lead to career advancement, higher earning potential, and increased job opportunities. Additionally, they demonstrate commitment to continuous learning and professional development, bolstering students’ confidence and credibility. Here are a few common certifications those graduating with the elementary education master’s degree can obtain:
Microsoft Certified Educator19
This certification validates employers that educators have literacy competencies in global education technology and can provide their learners with custom and quality learning experiences. It is helpful for faculty of teacher-training colleges, in-service educators, and educators-in-training.
Child Development Associate Credential20
This certification meets the specific needs of children and demonstrates that individuals have gained appropriate childhood education training based on industry-leading principles. The certification aligns with early childhood education coursework and provides business practices and policy knowledge.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language21
This certification helps individuals become efficient educators in K-12 classrooms in universities, private businesses, government-sponsored programs, charity organizations, religious organizations, private tutoring, and more. It involves individuals learning how to convey the English language interestingly and articulately.
Most states require their teachers teaching in public schools to be certified or licensed at a specific grade level. Generally, private schools do not need licensing. The licensure requirement includes a bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade point average, passing background checks, completing the teaching program, and passing the general teaching certification test.
Additional Resources for Master’s in Elementary Education Online Graduates
Students pursuing a master’s degree in elementary education online must supplement their education with resources outside their curriculum. They need to broaden the range of resources they use and, therefore, could join organizations across the United States that will help them do so. Individuals could consider joining these organizations, depending on their interests in the field, as membership can provide immense benefits for both academic and professional development. Examples of some professional organizations in elementary education are:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| National Education Association (NEA) | The National Education Association (NEA) provides specialized instructional support personnel working in different public schools to ensure students can access all services. The organization supports retired educators, public service employees, and other community allies who advocate for quality education. |
| American Federation of Teachers | The American Federation of Teachers aims to reform education and include stakeholders like teachers, decision-making partners, paraprofessionals, and more in leading education reform. They also advocate for free and equal education, safe and sanitary working conditions, reasonable hours of pay, child labor laws, and more. |
| Computer-Using Educators | The organization aims to share innovations, teaching and learning tools, and ideas to strengthen the community of educators. It partners with organizations that share its vision of using technologies in the curriculum. It allows members to attend local events and meetings and belong to a network of professionals. |
| Association for Experiential Education | AEE has more than 1,900 members across the globe representing professionals from a diverse community of organizations, professionals, students, and colleges who believe in enhanced forms of experiential education changing how education evolves. They advance professional development and evaluate experiential education and theoretical advancement globally. |
| ASCD | ASCD promotes a culture of innovation, transparency, trust, and collaboration. Members can also access online resources, webinars, articles, videos, and podcasts and receive professional development resources. |
FAQs About Master’s in Elementary Education Online Programs
Why should you do a master’s in elementary education degree online?
An online elementary education degree benefits both working and non-working candidates. Such a program provides easy access to education and ensures that anyone who wants to earn the credentials can take steps to become an elementary school teacher. It allows students to attend classes while working, at their convenience, and participate in classroom activities from their preferred location.
Are online master’s in elementary education worth it?
What can you do with a master’s in elementary education online degree?
Does a master’s degree help advance a graduate’s career?
Do you need a master’s to become a teacher?
Does a master’s in elementary education provide practical knowledge?
Citations:
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
OpenCourseWare-EEC Language and Literacy Course
Coursera-Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Developing Relationships
edX-Higher Education Teaching Certificate
Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship 2023
Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Elementary Teacher Scholarship
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Special Education
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for High School Teachers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Career and Technical Education Teachers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Instructional Coordinators
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.