Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees for 2025
Elementary school teachers have the privilege of participating in the growth and development of children. Because of this, the job of an educator can be rewarding despite its challenges. To reduce crucial obstacles to teachers’ own educational advancement, many academic institutions offer online master’s in elementary education programs globally today.
Aspiring educators may wonder, “How much does an elementary teacher make?" In 2022, the median annual wage of these elementary school teachers in the United States (US) was $61,690 [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2023], a $340 increase from their $61,350 median annual wage in 2021 (US BLS, 2022). In contrast, the 2021 median annual wage of all occupations in the US is $45,760 (US BLS, 2022). The higher pay against the median for all jobs may be more than well-deserved considering that over 95% of elementary, middle, and high school teachers have earned at least their bachelor’s degrees (US Census Bureau, 2022). However, compared to other professionals with the same level of education, US teachers’ salaries are lower and may be dwindling.
To help you determine if continuing your career as an elementary school teacher is right for you, our team at Research.com created this in-depth guide to online master’s in elementary education programs in the US. This deep-dive explores accredited online master’s degrees in the field, admission and skill requirements, and average tuition and fees.
Online Master’s in Elementary Education Table of Contents
- Can you get a degree completely online?
- Will employers take my online degree seriously?
- Are online degrees recognized all over the world?
- Best Online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education Programs for 2025
- Online vs. Traditional Master’s Degree in Elementary Education
- How much does an online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education cost?
- What are the requirements for an online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education?
- Courses to Expect in an Online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education
- What Are the Best Financial Aid Options for an Online Master’s in Elementary Education?
- Things to Look for in an Online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education
- The Career Impact of an Online Master’s in Elementary Education
- What career paths can an online Master's in Elementary Education open up?
- How Can Online Mentorship and Networking Enhance Your Professional Growth?
- How an Online Master’s in Elementary Education Enhances Classroom Management Skills
- How Can You Evaluate the Effectiveness of Your Online Master’s Program in Elementary Education?
- What challenges might you face during your online Master's in Elementary Education program?
- Is Further Academic Specialization Beneficial for Career Growth in Elementary Education?
- How Can Interdisciplinary Expertise Enhance Online Teaching?
- Could a Doctorate in Higher Education Elevate Your Career Prospects?
Can you get a degree completely online?
Around the world, accredited academic institutions offer 100% online degrees from the associate’s level to the doctoral level. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the global adoption of online learning, with a 93% enrollment growth in the 2,200 US universities and colleges that are part of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) in 2020. The number of students increased from 3,016,944 in 2019 to 5,825,723 in 2020 (NC-SARA, 2021). Related read: Online Associates Degree in Education.

Will employers take my online degree seriously?
Employers’ perceived quality of online degrees has improved in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic forced many global industries, including the academe, to abruptly transition to remote working and learning to recover from the impact of stay-at-home orders. During this ordeal, many students ended up having to complete their studies online. In turn, this has allowed employers to reevaluate how they perceive online credentials.
In fact, a 2021 survey of 1,014 C-suite executives in the US reported that 55% view the quality of online and in-person credentials equivalently. Moreover, 16% perceive online credentials to be of “generally higher quality" than credentials earned through traditional face-to-face means (Northern University, 2021).
Read our guide on other education degrees starting with our post on Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education programs.
Are online degrees recognized all over the world?
Online degrees from accredited universities and colleges are legitimate around the world. From public academic institutions to Ivy Leagues, the education sector has been providing advancement opportunities to individuals from all walks of life with the help of online learning for many years now. The quality of online credentials has also improved as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on economies. In fact, a survey revealed that since the pandemic, approximately four out of five institutions enhanced their technical teams to support academic institutions in their online-learning activities and boosted their management practices to address changing online-learning demands (Quality Matters & Eduventures, 2022).

Best Online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education Programs for 2025
Our team at Research.com created this list of the best online master’s in elementary education programs based on current program information from universities and colleges in the US. The following online degree programs were measured by accreditation, course offerings, available specializations, and affordability, among other key metrics.
1. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University’s Elementary Education M.Ed. Online Program was designed to support current teachers in their educational and career advancement. Delivered 100% online, the program enables students to graduate in one year with a superior curriculum that has been approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC). Moreover, the program aims to contribute to the progress of the elementary teaching practice with an emphasis on diversity in teaching experiences and student demographics.
- Program Length: One Year
- Cost per Credit: $358
- Required Credits to Graduate: 36
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP); Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
2. Missouri State University
Missouri State University’s Master of Science in Education, Elementary Education is a flexible degree program that equips students with knowledge and skills—through general, core, and elective courses—that they may apply in their teaching practice. Students may also decide to specialize and earn a graduate certificate that helps them attain leadership roles. Moreover, the program provides students with many opportunities in classroom settings, as curriculum writers, and in management roles.
- Program Length: Two Years
- Tracks/Concentrations: Curriculum and Instruction; Environmental STEM; Gifted and Talented Education; Literacy, Elementary Math Specialist; Educational Technology; Dyslexia
- Cost per Credit: In-state: $279 to $348 Out-of-state: $597 to $694
- Required Credits to Graduate: 33
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
3. Delta State University
Delta State University’s Master of Education in Elementary Education enhances students’ instruction delivery in elementary school. The program curriculum focuses on theory and practice for well-rounded education and training, a requirement for master elementary teachers. The online delivery format also enables students to finish the program in only one year, all while you continue with your employment.
- Program Length: Two Years
- Cost per Credit: $324 to $469
- Required Credits to Graduate: 30
- Accreditation: CAEP; SACSCOC
4. University of West Alabama
University of West Alabama’s master’s degree in elementary education online program was designed for teachers who aspire to attain a Master’s Level Education and a Master’s Level Certificate as well as educators who seek to specialize and advance their careers. The program allows students to solidify their knowledge and implementation of advanced teaching concepts in elementary settings. Moreover, the program curriculum covers educational planning, statistics, and technology, among other key topics in the field.
- Program Length: One Year
- Cost per Credit: $429
- Required Credits to Graduate: 34
- Accreditation: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC); CAEP; SACSCOC
5. University of North Dakota
University of North Dakota’s Master’s in Elementary Education Online was developed to support licensed teachers who aim to cultivate their pedagogical skills. The program focuses on equipping licensed teachers with the advanced skills to cater to the needs of diverse student populations. Teachers also learn how to build a safe and supportive learning environment based on their mastery of the educational process.
- Program Length: Two to Three Years
- Tracks/Concentrations: General Elementary Education; Indigenous Teacher Education
- Cost per Credit: $547
- Required Credits to Graduate: 30
- Accreditation: HLC
Online vs. Traditional Master’s Degree in Elementary Education
In-person and online master’s in elementary education programs generally equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for elementary school teachers. Education degrees typically provide aspiring teachers with the same graduate courses but may vary in delivery and quality, depending on the academic institution and accreditation.
- Teaching Methods. An elementary education master’s degree program may be delivered through three kinds of online-learning settings: synchronous, asynchronous, or both. Synchronous learning requires students to meet with their teachers and classmates virtually for lectures and activities at fixed time periods. Meanwhile, asynchronous learning enables students to learn and study at their own pace through pre-recorded video lectures and other educational materials.
- Learning Experience. Considering that students have different learning styles, some appreciate and effectively experience online learning more than others. Moreover, many academic institutions did not get a head start in distance education when the COVID-19 pandemic was declared. Thus, faulty educational and technological systems hindered many students from receiving top-notch education globally during the first year of the pandemic. Unfortunately, today, students may still be behind in classes. To ensure that online learning is for you, try to assess your learning style and preferences. You may also contact your preferred academic institutions for more information on their master in elementary education programs.
- Time Expenditure. Many online degrees in education allow students to complete their degrees in less time than required by traditional on-campus degrees. Online degree programs may also provide students with the freedom to schedule their coursework around other important aspects of their lives, including family and employment.
Is an online degree cheaper?
Generally, online degree programs may cost less than traditional on-campus degrees. In-person degrees may require students to spend on housing, transportation, and additional meals. Tuition for out-of-state students of in-person programs may also cost more than that of in-state students and online degree students.
Is an online degree as good as a regular degree?
Accredited online degree programs are developed by reputable academic institutions to deliver the same quality education that traditional on-campus degrees provide students with. Evidently, student and educator experiences between online and in-person learning differ in terms of preferences, methods, available resources, and technological access and reliability.
Notably, Black, Hispanic, and low-income students who take less than 50% of their courses online are more likely to complete their degree programs than those who attend their courses 100% online. The likeliness of degree completion for Black students is between 11.6% and 23%. For Hispanic students, it is between 6.2% and 22.4%, while it is between 9.4% and 18.5% for low-income students (Ortagus, 2022). However, students must thoroughly consider their individual circumstances to determine the most suitable learning formats for them.

How much does an online Master’s in Elementary Education cost?
Current tuition data from academic institutions in the US reveal that the cost per credit of online master’s in elementary education programs may range between $279 and $694 (Missouri State University, 2023). Meanwhile, traditional on-campus master’s degrees in elementary education may cost between $436 (Boston University, 2023) and $3,544 (University of South Florida, 2023). These figures may serve as a comparative overview of the baseline costs for degree programs in the field. Additional academic expenses may include fees for course materials, technological support, and miscellaneous items.
Is an online Master’s in Elementary Education degree worth it?
Teachers with an online master’s in elementary education may be at an advantage in terms of employability and income potential compared to those with a lower level of education. Full-time workers aged 25 to 34 with higher educational attainment saw higher median earnings as seen consistently in the US between 2010 and 2021. Moreover, employed students and students who take care of family members may benefit from the flexibility that online courses may provide them with.
What are the requirements for an online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education?
To become eligible for an online master’s degree in elementary education, applicants must meet the general and specific admission and skill requirements set by academic institutions. Moreover, teaching certification or experience may be expected from qualified candidates.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree from an Accredited Institution. Applicants of online master’s in elementary education programs must have already earned a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a fully accredited academic institution. Having undergraduate education and training provides students with a solid foundation in teaching, which is required when advancing through master’s level education.
- Satisfactory Grade Point Average (GPA). Academic institutions set their own GPA requirements to ensure that the students that they accept are academically competent. GPA requirements may vary, so contacting your preferred universities and colleges is a must for assurance.
- Teaching Certification. Teaching certifications ensure that teachers are expertly trained in their chosen subject matters and are qualified to educate students as well as perform other associated duties. Certification may ultimately protect students from misinformation and may help make certain that they receive quality educational services.
General Requirements
- Communication Skills. Educators must be effective communicators to be able to connect with their students and fellow teachers. To deliver lessons and activities successfully, they must exhibit good public-speaking skills. To support students facing challenges, they must be able to empathize and regulate their own emotions. Moreover, they must know how to process conductive feedback and collaborate with colleagues and students to improve as a professional in the education sector.
- Technological Literacy. To complete your elementary education master’s degree program and build your career in education, you must develop a certain level of technological literacy. Basic computer skills are required of aspiring teachers during their training and are expected to be honed throughout an educator’s career. These skills are especially important for workers to enhance today—three years into the COVID-19 pandemic. Aside from word-processing software, database-management platforms, and presentation tools, teachers may be expected to have at least a working knowledge of learning management systems (LMS) for education.
- Adaptability. Teachers must be versatile and resourceful to overcome hurdles on the job. The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly tested educators globally in terms of these key attributes. Moreover, the pandemic has exposed the lack of support that teachers receive from their employers, demonstrating how institutional backing is crucial to positive academic outcomes for students.
What are the technological requirements of students for online learning?
Students of online master’s in elementary education programs may be required to have access to reliable internet connection and computers or devices that meet specific technological requirements. They may also be expected to have devices with audio- and video-recording capabilities as well as educational software, including LMS and student information systems.
For technological support, you may contact your preferred academic institutions to inquire about availability. Device loaning and online-learning processes have improved over recent years, driving the increase in enrollment in post-baccalaureate programs. About 1.8 million post-baccalaureate students took at least one distance education course in 2021. Of these, 1.3 million—40% of all post-baccalaureate students—were exclusively taking their classes off campus or online. In comparison, only 52% of post-baccalaureate students were enrolled exclusively in distance-education courses in 2020, while only 33% were in 2019 (NCES, 2023).
Courses to Expect in an Online Master’s in Elementary Education
- Learning Theories and Assessment. This course explores the theories and concepts of learning, which are the foundation of academic models, practice, and evaluation. It prepares educators to perform informed decision-making and helps improve learning abilities and experiences.
- Elementary Education Research. This course teaches students about advanced research methods in elementary education. It highlights basic comprehension of educational research to enable teachers to efficiently implement them in real-world educational settings.
- Teaching Writing. This course examines writing processes and results in elementary schools today. Students enrolled in this course are given the chance to delve into the trends and challenges in teaching writing to children.
What Are the Best Financial Aid Options for an Online Master’s in Elementary Education?
Research shows that managing tuition costs is a priority for many prospective students. Financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, federal aid, and institutional loans can help mitigate expenses and support career advancement. Programs may also offer flexible payment plans and fee waivers based on eligibility criteria. For applicants searching for affordable pathways, consider reviewing the cheapest online elementary education degree as a cost-effective alternative without compromising quality.
Things to Look for in an Online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education
In your search for the best online master’s in elementary education programs, important factors need to be considered. These include the accreditation status of academic institutions, the courses offered, and available and accessible support services.
- Accreditation. Receiving accreditation from legitimate accrediting agencies exhibits the quality of academic institutions and their online master’s in elementary education programs. These accrediting bodies include the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
- Curriculum. Look into the courses offered by master’s in elementary education online programs and assess if they align with the knowledge and skills that are necessary for your chosen subject matter or specialization. Moreover, ensure that the curriculum covers general topics that are crucial to elementary education and careers in child development.
- Support Services. The COVID-19 pandemic shocked the global academic community with the abrupt yet necessary shift to online learning. Many students and teachers were not prepared. Fortunately, 94% of surveyed public schools reported that they were providing their students with laptops and other devices for the academic year 20222023 (NCES, 2022).

The Career Impact of an Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Pursuing an online master’s in elementary education can significantly impact your career trajectory, both in terms of professional opportunities and salary potential. As the demand for qualified elementary school teachers continues to grow, educators with advanced degrees are increasingly sought after for leadership roles, specialized teaching positions, and curriculum development.
- Advancement in Job Opportunities: An online master's degree can open doors to career advancement in various educational settings. Teachers who complete their graduate education may find new opportunities as department heads, education coordinators, or curriculum specialists. Specialized skills gained through a master’s program can also help educators transition into new roles, such as educational consultants, instructional designers, or even administrators. If you're wondering whether the time and investment are justified, you might ask, "Are online degrees worth it?" For many educators, the answer lies in the career growth, increased earning potential, and expanded job opportunities that come with earning an advanced degree.
- Higher Earning Potential: Teachers with a master’s degree typically earn higher salaries compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for elementary school teachers with a master's degree is often higher than for those without one. While salaries can vary by region and district, educators with advanced qualifications can expect to see a return on their educational investment in the form of salary increases and additional benefits. Furthermore, teachers in leadership positions, such as those specializing in STEM, gifted education, or literacy, often earn more due to their specialized expertise.
- Increased Job Security: In many educational systems, holding a master's degree is not only a credential for career growth but also a requirement for job security. As school districts and educational institutions place greater emphasis on teacher quality and student outcomes, teachers with advanced degrees may be less vulnerable to layoffs and more likely to be considered for permanent positions, especially in areas with teacher shortages.
In addition to these career benefits, an online master’s program offers flexibility, enabling teachers to continue working while pursuing their degrees. This is particularly valuable for educators who want to advance their careers without sacrificing their current jobs or personal responsibilities.
What career paths can an online Master's in Elementary Education open up?
An online Master's in Elementary Education equips you with advanced skills and knowledge to excel in various educational settings. This section explores the diverse career paths you can pursue with this degree.
Traditional Classroom Teaching:
- Elementary School Teacher: This remains the most common path, allowing you to teach diverse subjects to students in kindergarten through grade 5.
- Special Education Teacher: With additional coursework or certifications, you can specialize in supporting students with learning differences.
Leadership and Specialist Roles:
- Instructional Coach: Guide and support fellow teachers by providing professional development and instructional strategies.
- Curriculum Developer: Contribute to creating and implementing engaging and effective curriculum materials.
- Reading Specialist: Become an expert in literacy education, supporting struggling readers and developing strong reading programs.
Beyond the Classroom:
- Educational Technology Specialist: Integrate technology tools and resources into the classroom environment.
- Educational Consultant: Offer expertise to schools and districts on curriculum development, educational best practices, and professional development.
- Non-Profit Education Organizations: Utilize your skills to support educational initiatives within non-profit organizations.
For a more comprehensive exploration of high-paying careers in education, visit our guide to masters in education jobs.
Expanding Your Horizons:
An online Master's in Elementary Education can also be a stepping stone to further studies, such as a doctoral program in education leadership or curriculum and instruction.
By understanding the diverse career possibilities, you can leverage your Master's in Elementary Education to make a significant impact on the lives of students and the future of education.
How Can Online Mentorship and Networking Enhance Your Professional Growth?
Online master’s programs offer robust virtual platforms where faculty expertise intermingles with peer collaboration. Structured mentorship programs and digital networking opportunities enable educators to connect with industry leaders, seasoned colleagues, and academic researchers. This setup promotes personalized guidance, advanced problem-solving, and shared best practices that enrich pedagogical skills while informing career advancement. Furthermore, tapping into discipline-adjacent resources—such as the most affordable master's degrees in library science—can broaden your professional network and support interdisciplinary growth.
How an Online Master’s in Elementary Education Enhances Classroom Management Skills
Pursuing an online master’s in elementary education helps educators refine their classroom management skills, ensuring they create positive and effective learning environments. Here’s how these programs contribute to better classroom management:
- Behavioral Strategies: Programs teach evidence-based techniques for managing student behavior, fostering respect, and encouraging positive interactions. This is particularly useful for teachers looking to maintain a well-structured classroom.
- Differentiated Instruction: Educators learn how to address the diverse needs of students by tailoring lessons to different learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds. This ensures every child receives the support they need to succeed.
- Conflict Resolution Skills: Courses focus on strategies for resolving conflicts and handling challenging situations with professionalism and empathy, which are essential for maintaining harmony in the classroom.
- Technology Integration: Many programs offered by online schools for education emphasize the use of technology to enhance classroom engagement and streamline management tasks, such as grading and communication.
- Time Management Techniques: Educators gain insights into organizing their time efficiently, balancing lesson planning, assessments, and administrative duties while ensuring student needs are met.
How Can You Evaluate the Effectiveness of Your Online Master’s Program in Elementary Education?
Assessing a program’s effectiveness requires a critical review of several outcome-based metrics. Begin by examining graduation and job placement rates alongside alumni feedback to verify whether the curriculum translates into measurable career advancements. Investigate academic support services, student engagement platforms, and faculty expertise to ensure the program’s infrastructure meets evolving educational demands. For educators aiming to transition into leadership roles, exploring affordable educational leadership doctoral programs online can provide additional insights into comprehensive program quality and future opportunities.
What challenges might you face during your online Master's in Elementary Education program?
Prospective students often encounter specific challenges that require proactive strategies. Balancing work, personal responsibilities, and rigorous coursework can test time management and self-discipline. The virtual nature of online programs may limit in-person collaboration and necessitate strong digital communication skills for effective participation in discussions and group projects. Students should also be prepared for occasional technical issues and the need to quickly adapt to evolving online learning platforms. Identifying and utilizing available academic support services, along with developing structured study habits, can help mitigate these challenges. For alternative perspectives on managing academic hurdles, consider exploring the online master's in adult education program.
Is Further Academic Specialization Beneficial for Career Growth in Elementary Education?
Advanced academic credentials beyond a master’s degree can further differentiate educators in competitive job markets. Pursuing additional qualifications—whether through specialized certifications or doctoral programs—enhances research capabilities, leadership aptitude, and strategic decision-making in educational settings. Teachers may leverage these advanced programs to deepen expertise in curriculum innovation, policy development, and data-driven instructional strategies. For educators seeking an accelerated pathway with cost-effective options, exploring cheap EdD programs can be a practical step toward achieving executive educational roles.
How Can Interdisciplinary Expertise Enhance Online Teaching?
Online master’s in elementary education programs can be further enriched by integrating interdisciplinary insights that sharpen research methods and foster innovative instructional design. Drawing on practices from diverse fields—such as digital archiving, data curation, and information literacy—teachers can enhance their ability to evaluate resources and inspire critical thinking among students. These interdisciplinary techniques also support strategic lesson planning by bridging theory with practical application, ultimately contributing to improved student engagement and classroom innovation. Enhance your interdisciplinary toolkit by exploring additional perspectives through resources like What do you learn in a master's of library science?.
Could a Doctorate in Higher Education Elevate Your Career Prospects?
An often-overlooked pathway after earning an online master’s in elementary education is pursuing a doctorate, which can equip educators with advanced leadership, research, and policy development skills. This route expands one’s ability to design innovative curricula, influence educational reform, and mentor teachers on evidence-based practices. Furthermore, institutional collaborations and rigorous research methodologies in doctoral programs prepare graduates for executive roles and specialized consultancy positions in the education sector. For those ready to explore such transformative opportunities, consider reviewing the best higher education PhD programs.
Continue to Inspire Young Minds
Educators who aim for career advancement may explore elementary education masters programs to expand their knowledge and experience of teaching. The environment that graduate programs provide may be conducive to teachers’ professional growth. However, other avenues for career development may exist, including employer-led programs and initiatives conducted by educational organizations. If you are experiencing time and financial constraints, these options may better suit your needs.
Continue reading about educational topics in our cultural responsive teaching guide. You can also check our post on teaching online tips and strategies.
Key Insights
- High Demand for Elementary School Teachers: Elementary school teachers are in demand, with over 95% having at least a bachelor's degree. Pursuing a master's degree can further enhance career opportunities and salary potential.
- Competitive Salaries: The median annual wage for elementary school teachers in the U.S. was $61,690 in 2022, higher than the median wage for all occupations, which was $45,760.
- Flexibility and Accessibility: Online master's in elementary education programs offer flexibility, allowing teachers to advance their education while managing their professional and personal responsibilities.
- Enhanced Perception of Online Degrees: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly improved the perception of online degrees, with many employers now viewing online credentials as equivalent to traditional degrees.
- Accreditation and Quality: Accreditation from recognized bodies like CAEP, SACSCOC, and HLC ensures that online programs meet high educational standards, providing quality education and better career prospects.
- Technological Proficiency: Online programs help teachers enhance their technological skills, which are crucial for modern educational environments.
FAQ
- What is an online Master’s in Elementary Education? An online Master's in Elementary Education is a graduate program designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of educators in elementary school teaching. It covers advanced teaching methods, educational research, curriculum development, and child development.
- How much does an online Master’s in Elementary Education cost? The cost per credit for online master's programs in elementary education ranges from $279 to $694, depending on the institution. Additional costs may include fees for course materials, technology support, and other miscellaneous expenses.
- Is an online Master’s in Elementary Education worth it? Yes, an online master’s degree in elementary education is worth it for many educators. It can lead to higher salaries, better job opportunities, and professional growth. The flexibility of online programs also allows teachers to balance their studies with work and personal commitments.
- What are the admission requirements for an online Master’s in Elementary Education? Admission requirements typically include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a satisfactory GPA, and a teaching certification. Some programs may also require teaching experience and letters of recommendation.
- Are online degrees recognized by employers? Yes, online degrees from accredited institutions are recognized by employers. The perception of online degrees has improved significantly, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, with many employers now viewing them as equivalent to traditional degrees.
- What courses can I expect in an online Master’s in Elementary Education program? Courses may include Learning Theories and Assessment, Elementary Education Research, and Teaching Writing. These courses aim to enhance pedagogical skills, research capabilities, and subject-specific knowledge.
- What is the difference between online and traditional master’s in elementary education programs? The main differences are in the delivery method and flexibility. Online programs offer more flexibility, allowing students to study at their own pace and schedule. Traditional programs may offer more face-to-face interaction and on-campus resources.
- How long does it take to complete an online Master’s in Elementary Education? The duration varies by program but typically ranges from one to three years. Some programs offer accelerated options that can be completed in as little as one year.
- What technological requirements are needed for online learning? Students need reliable internet access, a computer with audio and video capabilities, and basic proficiency in using educational software and learning management systems (LMS).
- What should I look for in an online Master’s in Elementary Education program? Consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, cost, support services, and the program's reputation. Ensuring the program is accredited by recognized bodies like CAEP or SACSCOC is crucial for quality education and career advancement.
References
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- Northeastern University. (2021, December). EMPLOYERS’ POSTCOVID BUSINESS STRATEGY AND THE RACE FOR TALENT: A VIEW FROM THE C-SUITE. Center for the Future of Higher Education and Talent Strategy. https://cps.northeastern.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/NUReport_CFHETS_EmployersPostCovid_12-22-2021.pdf
- Ortagus, J. C. (2022). Digitally Divided: The Varying Impacts of Online Enrollment on Degree Completion. University of Florida. https://ihe.education.ufl.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/IHE-Working-Paper-2201_Digitally-Divided.pdf
- University of South Florida. (2023). Cost of Attendance. https://www.usf.edu/financial-aid/cost-of-attendance/index.aspx
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, October 4). Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/kindergarten-and-elementary-school-teachers.htm
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022, 25-2021 Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252021.htm
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Occupations with the most job growth. Employment Projections. https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/occupations-most-job-growth.htm
