Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

Earning a master's in elementary education can lead to increased career opportunities. Here, we list the top programs available.

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Updated August 24, 2023

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Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

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Elementary education involves the research and practice of teaching kindergarten and early grade school students. Elementary educators usually view high-quality teaching and learning as key to childrens' successful intellectual, social, and emotional development. Online master's in elementary education programs typically prepare graduates for teaching or school administration careers. Elementary education degrees include coursework in curriculum and instruction, classroom management, diversity, and contemporary education issues.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn $59,420 median annual salaries. The BLS projects an average growth rate of 4% for these teaching positions during 2019-2029. Master's in elementary education graduates may also find work as curriculum designers, school administrators, or community organization or program directors.


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Master's in Elementary Education Common Asked Questions


What can you do with a master's in elementary education?

Elementary education master's degrees often lead to careers in teaching, school administration, educational consulting, or nonprofit management.

How long does it take to get a master's in elementary education?

Accelerated master's programs featuring short, intensive courses may take as little as one year to finish, depending on prior coursework. Traditional master's programs usually require at least two years.

Do teachers with master's get paid more?

March 2021 PayScale data suggests that master's in elementary education graduates average about $53,170 annually. Bachelor's degree-holders earn $50,590 on average.

Do I need a license to be an elementary school teacher?

Public school K-12 teachers require teaching licensure from their state's education board. Requirements vary by state.

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Why Get a Degree in Elementary Education?

An elementary education master's degree develops specialized knowledge that can support career advancement. Professionals use advanced degrees to ascend their organizations' salary scales, qualify for career transition, or seek promotion to higher-paying administrative positions.

Working professionals can save money by pursuing their elementary education degrees online. Distance learners often pay discounted tuition and save on residency and commuting costs. Online programs frequently feature flexible scheduling, allowing enrollees to go at their own pace or complete their degrees outside of work.

How Much Does an Elementary Education Degree Cost?

Elementary education degree prices vary widely based on several factors. Public institutions typically charge significantly lower tuition rates than private institutions. At public institutions, in-state tuition costs much less than out-of-state tuition. The College Board's 2020 Trends in College Pricing reports that full-time tuition at public, in-state, four-year U.S. institutions averages $10,560 annually. At such a school, a two-year master's in elementary education could cost around $21,000.

Enrolling at public, nonprofit universities usually serves as the cheapest option. However, note that very well-endowed private schools may offer generous financial aid to eligible students. Online degrees often cost less than on-campus degrees, due partly to savings on residency and commuting costs. Distance learners may pay reduced, in-state tuition rates, even at out-of-state schools.

The College Board reports that California in-state schools charge less than one-third the rates of New Hampshire in-state institutions. Attending online schools based in less expensive states may save even more money.

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How Much Do Elementary Education Majors Make?

A master's in elementary education degree can support careers in nonprofit or for-profit sectors. Elementary education salaries differ based on field, position, employer, and credentials. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn a median annual salary of nearly $60,000. Master's-level education can support promotion to higher paying administrative jobs, including K-12 principal, garnering a $96,400 median annual salary.

Other possible careers for elementary education degree-seekers include school counselor, curriculum designer, and community organization or program director. These careers provide median annual salaries ranging from $57,040-$67,150.

Some careers require additional education or professional credentials. School counselors usually need counseling-specific education and licensure. Elementary education master's degree-holders seeking careers as education professors usually need doctoral degrees. According to the BLS, professors earn a median annual salary of around $80,000.

Earning professional credentials, such as specialized certifications, can also help increase hireability and pay. Read further for common credentials for those with a master's in elementary education.

Courses in Elementary Education

Elementary education master's degrees typically entail 30-40 credits of core and specialization coursework. Common curriculum specialization offerings include special education, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, or STEM education.

Many programs align their core curriculum with state teaching certification education requirements. Some common core courses appear below. Many programs include supervised practica or internships, allowing students to apply new knowledge to real teaching and learning contexts. Master's programs typically require a capstone thesis or project that cultivates research, writing, and analysis skills.

Certifications and Licensure for Elementary Education

An online elementary education master's degree usually meets or exceeds minimum degree requirements for many positions. Degree-holders generally qualify to become elementary school teachers, school administrators, curriculum designers, or community and social services managers. However, some jobs also require state licensure or professional certification. See below for a few common elementary education credentials.

These state-issued licenses qualify their holders to teach preschool and early elementary education. Requirements vary by state, but usually include a related degree, passing scores on various assessments, and supervised internships and professional experiences. This professional certification serves aspiring school principals. Requirements vary by state but typically include an accredited bachelor's, three years of experience, certification program completion, and a passing certification exam score. The Association for Talent Development offers this credential to students who complete a related certificate program. Participants study curriculum and instructional design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. Certificate-holders often pursue careers as teachers, curriculum designers, or educational program directors.

Scholarships for Elementary Education

Online master's in elementary education enrollees may qualify for various scholarships based on identity membership, financial need, academic merit, or community service. Many scholarships support applicants focusing on specific fields or career paths. Students pursuing an elementary education degree may qualify for scholarships like the three below.


Scholarships for Elementary Education
Scholarship Amount Who Can Apply

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant

Up to $4,000 per year, renewable The federal government administers TEACH grants to high-performing students seeking teaching careers. Eligible candidates demonstrate minimum a 3.35 GPA or top-75th percentile standardized test scores and enrollment in a TEACH-Grant-eligible program. Upon graduation, recipients must complete a teaching obligation in a high-needs field or income area.

National Association of Junior Auxiliaries Scholarship

Varies NAJA offers this scholarship to U.S. citizens pursuing graduate degrees and careers directly serving special needs children and youth. Only permanent residents of states containing NAJA chapters can qualify for this scholarship.

Montessori Teacher Education Scholarships

Varies The American Montessori Society offers scholarships to students enrolled in AMS-affiliated teacher education programs. Eligible applicants demonstrate financial need and submit three recommendation letters and a compelling personal statement.

Online Master's In Elementary Education Programs

#1 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

Appalachian State University

  • Boone, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners enrolled at Appalachian State University can pursue an online elementary education master's degree. Based in Boone, North Carolina, the public institution educates 4,490 online students. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.

Degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum and gain field-specific training while fulfilling requirements for the master's degree in elementary education. The MA program features electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. The online program prioritizes flexible scheduling and career-specific training. After earning the degree, graduates often secure high-paying elementary education positions with additional responsibilities. Master's students can use the institution's career services to plan their professional futures.

Student support services, including career advising and financial aid counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. In addition to federal funding, learners can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,049
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$18,271
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
19,280
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Louisiana at Monroe educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. The school offers 14 bachelor's programs and 16 master's programs in an online format that is ideal for busy learners.

The institution's online master's degree in elementary education is ideal for degree-seekers interested in careers teaching grades 1-5. Program graduates can apply for new positions in the field or advance their current elementary education career. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support master's students' overall success.

Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.

University of Louisiana at Monroe Facts:

Students Receiving Aid: 98%

Students Receiving Loans: 41%

Total Master's Programs: 24

Total Online Master's Programs: 24

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,490
Out-of-state
$18,590
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
8,673
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

Southeast Missouri State University

  • Cape Girardeau, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Southeast Missouri State University is a leader in online learning. This institution offers online and on-campus master's degree options, including an MA in elementary education. The school may request some applicants’ test scores. The university hires advisors, IT professionals, and other support staff for distance learners. The school's virtual classrooms let students interact with faculty and peers.

According to the institution, 96% of learners receive financial aid and 42% take out loans. The application process requires school transcripts.

Southeast Missouri State University at a Glance:

Total Number of Online Learners: 5,553

Distance Learning Master's Degrees: 13

Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,242 in-state; $9,796 out-of-state

Average Aid Awarded: $6,845

Average Price After Aid: $12,350

The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,606
Out-of-state
$12,636
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,242
Out-of-state
$9,796
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
10,637
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

University of North Alabama

  • Florence, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of North Alabama offers an online elementary education program for distance learners. The school enrolls 3,037 students in its online classes. Graduate students can earn their master's degree in elementary education online at the school. The accredited program offers a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The program provides advanced training for elementary education careers.

Degree-seekers benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty. Prospective students can learn more about online support services on the school's website. The online program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the program an affordable option for graduate students on a budget. The school reports a graduation rate of 49% for its programs.

University of North Alabama Fast Facts:

Total Online Enrollment: 5,068

Number of Online Master’s Programs: 13

Graduate Tuition: $6,660/year in-state; $13,320/year out-of-state

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,706

Average Net Price: $14,033

The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$19,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,660
Out-of-state
$13,320
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
7,702
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

University of New Mexico

  • Albuquerque, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of New Mexico provides online options for graduate-level learners interested in pursuing degrees remotely. With nine online programs, including six online master's programs, the public institution educates students throughout the country. Degree-seekers can enroll in the school's MA in education. The online program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.

Learners gain transferable skills and prepare for positions in the field during core coursework and classes. Experiential learning opportunities help graduate students bolster their resume and gain practical skills. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time. Prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor for details about application deadlines and requirements.

The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. In-state graduate learners at the institution pay an average tuition rate of $5,156, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $17,407. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans. The school reports that 94% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,299
Out-of-state
$21,716
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,156
Out-of-state
$17,407
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
22,729
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

East Tennessee State University

  • Johnson City, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from East Tennessee State University. Learners throughout the country can pursue an online master's in elementary education from the public institution. The affordable, accessible program prepares working professionals to pursue leadership positions.

Graduate students work with faculty advisors while earning their master's degree and preparing for elementary education careers. The M.Ed. program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the field. While completing program coursework, master's students hone analytical and leadership skills they can apply to careers.

Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Degree-seekers can discuss funding options, including grants and fellowships, with qualified financial aid counselors. The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible.

East Tennessee State University Facts:

Online Master's Programs: 43

Total Online Programs: 5

Number of Online Students: 7,986

Graduate Tuition In-State: $8,640

Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $23,760

Applies Transfer Credits: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,340
Out-of-state
$25,487
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,640
Out-of-state
$23,760
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
14,191
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

Ball State University

  • Muncie, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners can enroll at Ball State University to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including elementary education. The public institution's student population includes degree-seekers studying on campus in Muncie, Indiana, along with 9,809 individuals pursuing online studies. Many online programs feature flexible scheduling options that benefit working professionals.

The master's degree in elementary's rigorous curriculum meets high academic standards to prepare degree-seekers for advanced elementary education positions. Students can customize the master's curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. The program's flexible scheduling options make earning a master's more convenient for busy learners. Graduates often benefit from increased elementary education career opportunities after earning their master's degree. Students and alumni can access career services from the institution.

The school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling to help graduate learners plan their academic and professional futures. Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. Scholarships and fellowships can also help students reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,358
Out-of-state
$26,138
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,850
Out-of-state
$21,954
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
22,443
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

Elizabeth City State University

  • Elizabeth City, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

North Carolina-based Elizabeth City State University educates degree-seekers online and on campus.

The institution's online master of education in elementary education is ideal for degree-seekers interested in elementary education careers. Graduates of the elementary education program can apply for new positions in the field or advance their current career. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support master's students' overall success.

The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for enrollees to pursue graduate degrees. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Learners can also pay for their degree with scholarships, institutional aid, and other forms of financial aid.

Elizabeth City State University Fast Facts:

Students Receiving Aid: 97%

Students Receiving Loans: 62%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,000
Out-of-state
$5,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,375
Out-of-state
$16,437
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
1,769
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

Georgia Southern University

  • Statesboro, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Statesboro-based Georgia Southern University provides graduate programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. The public institution's offerings include online master's degrees learners can earn from any location. The flexible M.Ed. in elementary education program offers affordable tuition rates and allows students to work while earning their elementary education degree.

Master's students take core elementary education classes to gain foundational knowledge in the field. The curriculum also features advanced elementary education coursework and elective options. Master's students can gain practical career preparation through faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.

A master's degree can qualify elementary education professionals for leadership positions and raises. Master's students and alumni can work with faculty advisors and career counselors.

At the accredited institution, degree-seekers who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Current professionals can research tuition reimbursement programs to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. According to the school, 91% of students receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,977
Out-of-state
$19,890
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
26,054
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can enroll in East Carolina University's undergraduate and graduate programs online or on campus in Greenville, North Carolina. In addition to in-person options, the school offers multiple online graduate programs. The institution delivers an online master's degree in elementary education for busy students who want to earn their elementary education degree while maintaining employment.

The master's program features rigorous coursework as well as access to faculty and career advising. Learners can pursue the online elementary education program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a graduate education easier. Most graduate degree-seekers can finish the master's program in 1-2 years of full-time study.

The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. According to the school, 53% of its enrollees use loans to pay for their education. In addition, the institution reports that 79% of its learners obtain financial aid to fund their education.

East Carolina University Numbers:

Total Programs: 187

Number of Online Programs: 69

Online Master's Programs: 72

Number of Online Students: 13,890

Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
28,651
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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