Online Education Degrees 2022
Earning an education degree online can lead to a reading career. Here, we outline the top programs available.
Updated August 31, 2022
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Online Education Degrees
Learners can pursue an online education degree to qualify for careers as high school, elementary, and special education teachers. Master's degree-holders can also work as principals, administrators, and program directors.
Online education programs explore education theories and teaching fundamentals. Degree-seekers learn to write lesson plans, teach various topics, and administer tests.
Applicants to online education programs typically need a high school diploma or the equivalent. Learners pursuing a master's-level education degree online generally need an education-related bachelor's degree.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Education and Teaching Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Questions About Education Degrees
Students can pursue associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees online. Some online education programs offer specializations such as special education and high school teaching.
Most full-time students can earn their bachelor's-level education degree online in four years.
Graduates of online education programs can become teaching assistants, teachers, administrators, program directors, and principals.
Why Earn an Education Degree?
Individuals interested in working in educational settings can benefit from earning an online education degree. Graduates can pursue various careers in education. Degree-holders often become teachers, principals, administrators, and program directors.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for education, training, and library occupations to increase 10% from 2020-2030. Professionals in these fields earn a median annual salary of $57,220, compared to the median salary of $45,760 for all occupations.
Busy students often pursue their education degree online. Asynchronous online education programs offer the most flexibility, allowing students to complete coursework at convenient times. Learners in these programs often work full time while earning their online education degree.
How Much Does an Education Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), bachelor's degree-seekers at public schools paid an average of $9,400 in tuition and fees for the 2019-2020 academic year. The average cost of tuition and fees at private institutions was $36,700 for the same year. Full-time students typically complete a bachelor's degree in four years.
For the same academic year, the cost of tuition and fees for public school graduate programs averaged $12,410, according to NCES data. The average cost at private nonprofit schools was $28,430. Graduate programs vary in length, generally lasting 1-3 years.
Students earning their education degree online often save money on commuting and relocating. Online education programs may offer discounted tuition rates.
Additional Online Student Fees
Although students may save money by earning an online education degree, distance learners often pay additional costs. For example, online education programs require reliable technology and an internet connection. Students must also pay for books and supplies.
Many programs also require some campus visits. Education students complete in-person experiences such as student teaching. Learners should consider transportation costs and potential lost wages.
Additionally, students may need to pay graduation fees. Graduates typically pay to obtain teaching licensure or certification.
How Much Do Education Majors Make?
A graduate's earning potential depends on their position. For example, teacher assistants earn a median salary of $29,360 per year, according to the BLS. On the other hand, special education teachers and high school teachers both earn median salaries of $61,820 per year.
Teachers often increase their earning potential by pursuing higher education. Postsecondary teachers, who typically need a doctoral degree, earn a median annual salary of $79,640. Additionally, some school districts base teachers' pay on their experience and degree level.
Courses in Education
Online education programs cover teaching and education fundamentals. Degree-seekers learn about education theories and gain practical knowledge for working in a classroom. Learners prepare to write lesson plans, construct curricula, and assess students.
Some programs offer specialized coursework in areas such as teaching diverse populations or English language learners. Aspiring high school teachers may specialize in a particular topic, such as mathematics or science.
Not every program offers the courses below. However, students often encounter these classes in online education programs.
Introductory education courses explore educators' lives and professions at various academic levels. Coursework introduces challenges associated with academic settings. This class helps students assess whether teaching is the right profession for them.Educational Foundations
This class covers human development from childhood to adolescence. Degree-seekers study development from physical, cognitive, linguistic, and social perspectives. Teachers use this knowledge to apply age-appropriate instruction and assessment techniques. Educators also use these theories to teach diverse populations.Educational Psychology and Child Development
Aspiring elementary school teachers generally take this class. Coursework covers the best practices for teaching reading, writing, and literacy skills to young learners. Students learn how to identify and guide readers who need intervention and extra help.Elementary Reading Methods
Specializations for Education
Many online education programs offer specializations, also called concentrations or tracks. Some schools also offer separate majors in areas such as elementary or secondary education. Students in many programs complete foundational education courses before choosing a specialization.
Learners in programs without specializations can focus on an area by choosing relevant electives. Many online education programs feature the following specialization options. However, available specializations vary by program.
This specialization prepares degree-seekers to work with students with disabilities and special needs. Enrollees learn to teach students with varying developmental abilities. Graduates can work as special education teachers at various school levels.Special Education
Graduates with this specialization can teach students whose first language is not English. Learners pursuing this specialization prepare to teach English and other topics to non-English speakers. Graduates often teach English as a second language or teach general topics to non-English speakers.English as a Second Language
This specialization prepares students to teach young learners. Degree-seekers learn about child development and relevant instruction and assessment methods. Graduates can become kindergarten and elementary school teachers.Elementary Education
How to Become a Teacher
To become a teacher, graduates of education programs must follow their state's guidelines for obtaining licensure. Educators need licensure to teach at public schools and some private schools. Some states set different licensure requirements for high school and elementary school teachers.
Typically, teaching licensure requires a bachelor's degree in education. However, some states award licensure to individuals who have completed a non-education bachelor's degree and an alternative teacher preparedness program. Teach.org details licensure requirements for each state.
Teachers' responsibilities include instructing students, administering exams, grading assignments, and assessing learners' needs and progress.
Licensure for Teachers
Every state requires public school teachers to hold licensure. Specific licensure requirements vary by state. However, all states require licensure candidates to possess formal education and passing exam scores.
Licensure in most states requires a bachelor's degree in education. However, some states offer alternative pathways for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field. Educator training typically requires student teaching or shadowing.
After completing the necessary education, candidates demonstrate their knowledge and skills through a state-approved examination. Candidates submit paperwork to their state's education board. Licensed teachers must apply for licensure renewal every few years. Educators typically need continuing education credits to qualify for renewal.
Online Education Degrees 2022
#1
Prescott College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Prescott, Arizona |
| Admission Rate | 97% |
| Graduation Rate | 33% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
65%
|
Situated in Prescott, Arizona, Prescott College offers academic programs to prepare degree-seekers for careers in various industries. The school educates students through 52 programs, including 52 online programs. The college delivers an virtual bachelor of arts in education that is ideal for busy learners interested in advancing their education skills.
The online education program is ideal for individuals who need flexible scheduling options. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online program's customizable nature. Enrollees in online classes can participate in asynchronous discussions and network with peers. Undergraduates pursuing their degree full time typically graduate in four years.
Learners pursuing their bachelor's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Degree-seekers with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. The school's dedicated financial aid counselors work with students as they locate and apply for educational funding.
#2
The University of Missouri-Columbia
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Columbia, Missouri |
| Admission Rate | 81% |
| Graduation Rate | 71% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
32%
|
In addition to on-campus options in Columbia, Missouri, students at the University of Missouri-Columbia can pursue 58 programs in an online format. The school delivers 14 bachelor's programs online. The public institution's bachelor of science in human development and family science with an emphasis in early childhood education in a mobile society prepares distance learners to succeed in education careers.
Participants in the education program complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment. In addition to core coursework, students in the education program complete advanced classes in the field. The program's general education requirements help degree-seekers gain transferable skills to prepare for employment and advanced studies. Internship opportunities help undergraduates prepare to impress employers after graduation.
Student support services, including academic advising and career counseling, help distance learners succeed academically and professionally. Enrollees at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. Admitted students meet with academic and financial aid advisors to sign up for classes and create a plan to pay for their degree.
#3
Biola University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | La Mirada, California |
| Admission Rate | 70% |
| Graduation Rate | 74% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
36%
|
Biola University is a La Mirada, California-based private institution. The school offers 14 online programs for degree-seekers who prefer an remote enrollment option. Distance learners can pursue the institution's virtual bachelor of science in early childhood to qualify for positions in education after graduation.
After completing core requirements, degree-seekers in the education program gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Upper-division requirements help learners develop and strengthen important skills, such as critical thinking and communication. While most bachelor's students need four years to earn the 120 required credits, part-time enrollees may take longer to graduate.
The school provides student support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support learners' overall success. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA to receive federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant.
Biola University Numbers:
Admission Rate: 70%
Total Programs: 86
Total Bachelor's Programs: 48
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
#4
North Greenville University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tigerville, South Carolina |
| Admission Rate | 63% |
| Graduation Rate | 59% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
16%
|
North Greenville University's online bachelor's in early childhood education is one of the best virtual education degrees. Students with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the remote program's flexible scheduling options. Graduates of the online bachelor's program often pursue entry-level education careers.
While completing core coursework, degree-seekers in the education program gain transferable skills they can apply to a variety of professional roles. In addition to core courses, learners select elective classes based on their interests and take general education courses. General education requirements help students develop critical thinking and analytical skills. Learners consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals.
Along with on-campus programs in Tigerville, South Carolina, the private institution delivers 18 online programs. The school offers seven bachelor's programs for remote degree-seekers. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant.
#5
Liberty University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lynchburg, Virginia |
| Admission Rate | 51% |
| Graduation Rate | 47% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
92%
|
Based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. The private institution offers 161 online programs, including 30 online bachelor's programs. Graduates of the school's bachelor of science in early childhood education interdisciplinary studies often pursue lucrative careers in education.
Enrollees with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online education program's flexible scheduling options. Distance learners in the education program can study from anywhere using the virtual classroom environment. Online students participate in virtual discussions and communicate with faculty members online. Undergraduate degree-seekers typically graduate with the 120 required credits in four years, unless enrolled part time.
Individuals with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. The school charges an average per-credit tuition rate of $750 for its 120-credit bachelor's programs. Students can discuss funding options with financial aid counselors. Of the school's undergraduates, 99% obtain financial aid to fund their studies.
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