Edited By Charlotte Sears
Review & Contribution By Dr. Ellen Carter
Unlock your potential in education with an Online Elementary Education Degree program; flexible, interactive, and tailored to your goals.
Elementary education is one of the first stages of formal primary education and typically begins from age 6 to 14. A bachelor in elementary education degree online is a professional degree that prepares students to work as elementary school teachers or in related careers. The program can help gain insight into cognitive development, child psychology, practices and theories of elementary education, and other introductory courses a child needs to learn. Students taking up the online elementary education degree gain a foundation in educational theories, teaching practices, and inclusion and diversity in the classroom. Graduates can work in teaching roles in child development, early childhood education, English language learning, special education, and more.
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Find the Best Online Elementary Education Degree Programs
When choosing the best online bachelor’s, certain factors would need careful consideration by students, including the time required for program completion, financial aid and scholarships available for funding, curriculum and electives offered, quality of faculty, and resources available for students on-campus. They will also need to consider factors like asynchronous or synchronous modes of learning and capstone projects related to the program. Based on several critical components and proprietary methodology, the teams at FBD have prepared a list of schools offering the best online elementary education degrees:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Northern Iowa | 1227 W 27th St, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614 | $9,728 | 64% |
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 an Online Elementary Education Degree Program
A degree in elementary education online is an undergraduate program focusing on developing the necessary teacher credentials and skills for licensure and classroom instruction. Typically comprising 120-140 credits, this bachelor’s program integrates essential program requirements, departmental and program courses, and elective credits. Completing this four-year degree enables individuals to qualify for elementary education teaching licensure, equipping them to engage with a diverse student population inclusively. While some institutions mandate on-campus curriculum attendance, numerous schools offer identical online and hybrid education formats. This degree prepares graduates for careers in various teaching roles, such as classroom teacher, education specialist, STEM educator, technology instructor, lead teacher, and more.
Curriculum and Coursework
An elementary education degree online necessitates thorough training and preparation to effectively teach elementary-level learners. Students must enroll in academic subjects as well as teacher-specific courses that guide them in child management, lesson planning, and practical application of knowledge.
The bachelor’s curriculum aims to provide both theoretical and valuable insight into the field of elementary education. It combines different classroom management skills in the coursework to help students connect with their students at various levels using different learning strategies and techniques. Most colleges design their program with inputs from experts on the Education Program Council.
The curriculums have general components like general education, elementary education methods, pre-clinical experiences, general science content, teaching, professional core, and more, under which courses are provided. Different colleges will have different coursework.
However, some common components found in elementary education programs throughout the United States include
Child Development
In this course, professionals get an overview of cognitive or language, cognitive, emotional, and social development in children until adolescence. They understand philosophies and theories of child development and focus on forming perspectives on child development. Participants can also explore various developmental stages in this course and understand the risk factors affecting a child’s learning, like temperament, maturation rate, culture, family community, societal influences, etc.
Diverse and Exceptional Learners in Elementary Classroom
In this course, participants understand educators’ and learners’ current challenges. They explore the complexities and analyze issues in the field of education that occur when providing educational opportunities. Here, various topics like learning, abilities, talents, language, culture, family, and community values are explored.
Effective Practices: Planning, Instruction, and Assessment
Educators must be well-versed in effective assessment practices and teaching to ensure high achievement and learning in elementary students. Education professionals can examine the interrelationships between teaching, learning, and assessments, as well as an effective method for integrating and applying critical components in an elementary classroom.
Community Building for Effective Classroom Management
This course teaches how to create a supportive, respectful, and safe learning environment promoting self-responsibility, social-emotional development, and character optimization learning for different students. Individuals know how to develop positive relationships, help families to problem solve, and foster a sense of community in students.
Professional Educator
This course is known differently across institutions; however, the primary agenda of this course is to make students aware of the program requirements, including significant assessments and field experience responsibilities. They study the different components of teacher professionalism given social change and review the code of ethics from the point of view of historical theorists, trends in education, ethics in 21st-century schools, and mode.
There are many other standard courses that students can encounter across various curriculums, including
- Collaboration supporting all learners
- Social studies and arts
- Instruction and assessment
- Basic history
- Mathematics
- Integrate content and technology to enhance learning
- Explore dimensions of literacy
- Writing
- Communication
- Psychology
- Basic science
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Bachelor of Elementary Education students study numerous professional core courses to equip them to address challenges within educational settings and excel as educators. These courses emphasize essential topics such as emotional and social learning, diversity inclusion, and integrating technology into the classroom. Some institutions additionally offer augmented reality experiences, enabling students to simulate their teaching approaches before entering real classrooms. There are many skills students develop from this program, including the ability to:
- demonstrate skills, content knowledge, and pedagogy that are appropriate to elementary education;
- demonstrate professional ethics and dispositions that a professional educator is expected to have as per industry standards;
- promote learning and development of the students across different content areas
- devising and implementing differentiated learning experiences that engage and support the development of the child across different domains;
- use recent data to analyze the growth of the student and make informed decisions to build on the strengths and needs of children individually;
- build positive, authentic, and trusting relationships with families, colleagues, and children by practicing cultural responsiveness and creating a supportive environment;
- use appropriate technology, innovate and personalize resources to improve learning and teaching;
- demonstrate good communication and willingness to work collaboratively with families, colleagues, and communities to bring about effective positive social change.
Types of Degrees Elementary Education Students Can Obtain
The elementary education online degree programs in the United States are designed to train future teachers and educational professionals at the elementary school level. Generally, there are two types of elementary education degrees: a Bachelor of Arts or BA in elementary education and a Bachelor of Science or BS in elementary education.
Bachelors of Science or BS in Elementary Education
The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education prepares students to teach grades K-6, focusing on fundamental teaching methods, child psychology, and curriculum development. Graduates are equipped to create engaging, inclusive, and effective learning environments for young learners.
Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education
The Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education emphasizes a liberal arts foundation, preparing students to teach grades K-6. The curriculum includes educational theory, teaching methods, and subject-specific pedagogy, integrated with arts and humanities, to foster well-rounded educators capable of inspiring diverse elementary school students.
Areas of Specialization for Elementary Education Students
Specializations in elementary education involve concentrated study areas within school subjects. These specializations align with the subjects students aim to teach, nurturing expertise and tailored methods. By enhancing specialized knowledge, students improve their teaching skills and more effectively address the diverse needs of their students. Some of the concentrations that prospective students pursuing an online degree elementary education can consider include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics Education | This concentration focuses on equipping students with comprehensive understanding and pedagogical skills to teach mathematics concepts effectively. Through coursework and practical experiences, students learn strategies to engage students, foster problem-solving abilities, and promote mathematical literacy crucial for academic success. | • Mathematics Teacher • Curriculum Developer • Math Intervention Specialist • Educational Consultant |
| Science Education | This specialization emphasizes instructing foundational scientific principles to young learners. Students gain expertise in teaching various scientific disciplines through hands-on experiments, curriculum design, and inquiry-based learning. This specialization prepares educators to inspire curiosity and critical thinking skills essential for scientific literacy. | • Science Teacher • Curriculum Specialist • STEM Coordinator • Environmental Educator |
| Language Arts Education | This specialization focuses on teaching language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Through diverse instructional methods and literacy strategies, students learn to cultivate strong communication skills, foster a love for literature, and promote literacy development crucial for academic achievement. | • Literacy Coach • Writing Instructor • Reading Specialist • Educational Publisher |
| Social Studies Education | This specialization concentrates on teaching fundamental concepts in history, geography, civics, and culture. Through interactive lessons and experiential learning, students acquire skills to engage students in critical thinking, promote global awareness, and cultivate informed, responsible citizens essential for active participation in society. | • History Teacher • Geography Instructor • Civics Educator • Museum Educator |
| Special Education | This specialization centers on catering to diverse learning needs and supporting students with disabilities. Through individualized instruction, behavior management techniques, and collaboration with support services, students learn to create inclusive classrooms, address diverse learning styles, and advocate for equitable educational opportunities for all learners. | • Special Education Teacher • Behavior Interventionist • Inclusion Coordinator • Transition Specialist |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
Completing an online bachelor’s degree in elementary education typically takes 4 to 5 years. The program duration is influenced by various factors, including online, offline, and hybrid modes, such as online and offline classes. Many students opt for online classes for their flexibility, allowing them to balance work, personal commitments, and studies. Accelerated programs may shorten completion time. Additionally, the number of credits completed per semester affects program duration. Here is a brief summary of the program duration:
- Time to complete part-time Elementary Education bachelor’s degree: 4-6 years
- Time to complete full-time Elementary Education bachelor’s degree: 4 years
Accelerated Elementary Education Programs
Accelerated programs enable students to complete degrees faster than traditional tracks, significantly reducing time and financial investment. These intensive courses benefit students by quickly preparing them for professional careers or advanced studies, offering a streamlined curriculum that maintains rigorous academic standards while accelerating career entry or further education opportunities. Here are a few universities that offer accelerated elementary education online degree programs:
Requirements for Getting into an Online Elementary Education Degree Program
While admission requirements may vary slightly between institutions, most colleges have a standard list of criteria for online bachelor’s degrees in elementary education. However, the most common online elementary education degree admission requirements are:
- Application form
- General education development diploma results
- Previous official transcripts from high school or college level
- An undergraduate degree with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0
- ACT and SAT scores
- Personal essay (differs with institution requirement)
- Some colleges require PSAT scores
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
How to Ensure an Online Elementary Education Degree Program Is Accredited
Accreditation assures students and employers that a college offers high-quality education, meeting public standards and academic approval. It involves a peer review process with dual aims: aiding institutional enhancement and ensuring the quality of education and services provided by the school. The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs3 and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation4 are national-level organizations that offer a realistic idea to students about the accreditation process, rules, and which bodies are authorized to conduct this process.
Some elementary education online degree programs are accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation5. The Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation6 is a professional accreditor reviewing departments and schools that prepare teachers and other educators. 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)
Read the college accreditation guide to understand more about accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Elementary Education Bachelor’s Students
Free online courses offer accessible education across various subjects, allowing learners from all backgrounds to acquire new skills and knowledge without financial burden. These courses enhance personal and professional development, provide flexibility in the learning pace and environment, and open new career opportunities, making education inclusive and adaptable. Here are a few free elementary education courses online students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education with Art7 | This early education course equips teachers, parents, and policymakers with strategies to foster self-expression and academic comprehension in children. By exploring the role of visual and performing arts in early childhood development, the course highlights the benefits of art education in strengthening various academic skills. | Alison |
| Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Developing Relationships8 | Through this course, students understand the importance of relationships, their impact on learning, and other factors contributing to success in school. Students can explore strategies they can use in the classroom to develop positive relationships and communicate about the need to behave ethically in the classroom. | Coursera |
| Higher Education Teaching Certificate9 | This course helps explore various pedagogical approaches through higher education environments and investigate reflective methods in teaching. Participants can update their skills by adopting a more collaborative and conscious approach to third-level educational practices in teaching. | edX |
Ways to Pay for an Online Elementary Education Degree Program
Many types of financial aid are available to help students cover educational expenses such as transportation, tuition, and fees. These aids extend beyond personal savings or earned income and can include support from family. Financial aid sources include colleges, high schools, community organizations, government, and state agencies. Individuals pursuing an degree in elementary education online should consult various sources to determine their eligibility for financial assistance from different institutions. Here are a few ways students can fund their program:
Scholarships
Scholarships, often merit-based, provide financial assistance for students pursuing higher education. Offered by institutions, organizations, or individuals, scholarships alleviate the burden of tuition fees and other educational expenses, helping students achieve their academic goals.
Grants
Grants can be merit-based or need-based and originate from diverse sources such as educational institutions, businesses, non-profits, etc. Recipients are typically not required to repay grants unless they fail to meet the terms outlined for receiving them.
FAFSA
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a crucial form for US students seeking financial aid for college. It determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs based on financial need.
Private Student Loans
Private student loans are funds borrowed from financial institutions or lenders to cover educational expenses. Unlike federal loans, they typically have higher interest rates and fewer borrower protections, often requiring a credit check or co-signer.
Federal Direct Loans
Federal Direct Loans are low-interest loans funded by the government. Repayment typically begins after graduation or when students become employed. Four types of direct federal loans include Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Direct PLUS Loans, Direct Consolidation Loans, and Direct Subsidized Loans.
Scholarships for Online Elementary Education Degree Students
Scholarships for online elementary education degree students are awarded based on merit and financial need. These monetary awards are granted by state and federal governments, colleges, universities, and other entities. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education across the United States can access numerous scholarship opportunities. Here are some online elementary education degree scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Leon Bradley Scholarship10 | The Leon Bradley Scholarship aims to aid African American students aspiring to become educators or counselors. Eligible applicants include high school seniors or college undergraduates intending to enroll in a teacher preparation or graduate education program. This scholarship offers financial support and promotes diversity within the education sector. | $3,500 | May annually |
| Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship 202311 | The Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship is awarded to applicants who have completed the application form, written an original essay, and show potential to finish a course in the department of education at any accredited university of higher learning. | $1,000 | September 1st through January 31st |
| Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Elementary Teacher Scholarship12 | This scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and is provided as a one-time grant to individuals aged twenty-five or older. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to teaching or studying at the elementary school level, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, and complete at least sophomore-level coursework. | $1,500 | Varies |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating with an Online Elementary Education Degree
After graduating with an elementary education degree online, individuals can expect a range of promising career opportunities and competitive salaries. This degree opens doors to stable and fulfilling paths where professionals can significantly impact young lives, benefitting from strong demand in various educational settings and growth potential.
Here are a few careers for graduates with a bachelor in elementary education degree.
- Technology Teacher
- Adult literacy coach
- English as a Second Language Teacher
- Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher
- Special Education Teacher
- Child Care Center Administrator
- Consulting Educator
- Curriculum Development
- Learning Assistant
- Teaching Mentor
- Community Education Officer
Some of these roles are elaborated below:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers 13 | Communication skills, resourcefulness, physical stamina, and patience. | $61,670 | 1% (little or no change) | In this role, educators create lesson plans to teach students subjects such as science, math, and reading. They also facilitate interpersonal interactions among learners, grade assignments, communicate with guardians regarding a child’s progress, and prepare students for standardized tests. |
| Special Education Teachers 14 | Communication skills, patience, resourcefulness, and critical-thinking skills. | $65,910 | 0% (little or no change) | Special education teachers develop individualized educational programs for students, adapting general lessons to meet their needs and requirements. They collaborate with specialists, administrators, parents, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive learner support. |
| High School Teachers 15 | Communication skills, resourcefulness, and patience. | $65,220 | 1% (little or no change) | High school teachers prepare learners for state-mandated standardized tests and implement classroom rules and policies the administration sets. They assess students’ abilities, weaknesses, and strengths, communicate progress, and adapt lessons to accommodate varying class sizes. |
| Training and Development Managers16 | Business, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, decision-making, instructional, and leadership skills. | $125,040 | 6% (faster than average) | These professionals oversee the training and development of employees, assess their training performance, and align their training with the organization’s goals. They also create and manage different training budgets and update training programs. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Elementary Education Degree Graduates
Professional certifications in teaching and education students confirm their proficiency and writing, reading, speaking, and listening abilities. Some employers prefer to hire candidates with certifications from credible organizations to ensure the quality of work. Those pursuing an online degree in elementary education can obtain the following professional certifications that will help them advance their careers:
Microsoft Certified Educator17
Educators facilitate student collaboration, skilled communication, self-regulation, real-world challenges, and innovation through this certification. They also learn to utilize information and communication tools to become effective educators. Training materials, resources, and programs are available to prepare for examinations and enhance skills as part of this certification.
Child Development Associate Credential18
This certification offers coursework that aligns with the Child Development Association’s formal early childhood. It provides educational opportunities to work with children and demonstrate their knowledge, practices, and understanding when teaching aspects of early education.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language19
This certification teaches educators how to plan, prepare, and deliver lessons effectively. They understand how to provide feedback on written and oral work, administer examinations, and conduct assessments. Educators gain knowledge of various tools, including informal exercises like role-playing and language games, as well as audio-visual aids and technology-based materials.
Additional Resources for Online Elementary Education Degree Graduates
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in elementary education online are expected to remain current with developments in their field. They can stay updated by engaging with organizations that enhance their English proficiency and encourage critical thinking beyond their curriculum. Additionally, they can interact with industry experts affiliated with such organizations. Here are a few resources to get started:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| National Education Association | The members of this organization partner with parents, coalitions, communities, and students to build systems of equitability, ensuring every student has appropriate resources. They help their affiliates get professional resources to become activities, leaders, and professionals in their field. |
| American Federation of Teachers | The American Federation of Teachers aims to provide economic opportunities, high-quality public education, and public and healthcare services for students, their families, and the entire community. They pass resolutions on many issues that affect their members and address their international and national challenges. |
| Computer-Using Educators | The CUE provides its members with various learning opportunities that empower them throughout their academic careers. They publish their newsletters and provide grants and other resources for the members to grow. The organization gives awards to exceptional educators in different communities. |
| Association for Experiential Education | The AEE is a nonprofit organization with members from various backgrounds, including educators, students, development professionals, classroom teachers, and more. It supports theoretical advancement, evaluates experiential education worldwide, and promotes professional development. |
| ASCD | ASCD offers membership to educators and students who want to achieve career excellence. They promote a culture of innovation, transparency, trust, and collaboration. Additional resources include ASCD newsletters, books, instructional strategies, and tools. |
FAQs About Online Elementary Education Degree Programs
Can you get an elementary education degree online?
Many colleges offer an online elementary education degree at the undergraduate level worldwide. This program allows students to attend online classes at home or anywhere. Students can manage their schedules and personal commitments alongside their curriculum, making it appealing for those seeking flexibility in education while working full-time.
How long does completing an online bachelor’s degree in the US take?
What can you do with an online elementary education degree?
Is an online degree in elementary education worth it?
Can you apply for licensure to be an elementary teacher after an online elementary education degree?
Can I work while pursuing an online bachelor’s in elementary education?
Citations:
Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Alison-Early Childhood Education with Art
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 Training and Development Managers