With so many programs available for pursuing online education and teaching degrees, students need as much information as possible prior to making a decision. The following page simplifies the process in two specific ways. First, it provides a listing of online programs in education and teaching from some of today’s best colleges and universities. Second, it breaks down online learning in the field at all levels, from introductory courses at the associate level to advanced research and instruction at the doctorate. Find online degree programs and get an inside view of the online higher educational path.
For some people, a career in education means teaching. Spending hours in the classroom developing and delivering lessons, answering questions and helping students prepare for their next educational step. While true for many, some educators choose a path that doesn’t involve instruction. For example, graduates of online education degree programs can work as school administrators, instructional coordinators, vocational instructors and curriculum developers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). All of these careers require at least a bachelor’s degree, although there are job opportunities for individuals at the associate level, as well. Let’s begin by looking at the most common online education and teaching degrees and how they fit on the higher educational timeline.
Greg Beatty earned his PhD in English from the University of Iowa. He has over twenty years of experience in higher education and has taught traditional, online and hybrid courses at the master’s level and in multiple disciplines. Greg has developed curricula for several colleges and has served on a range of committees and advisory boards. He’s also won grants for course development and awards for teaching.
The biggest lesson I learned as a teacher was it is what students learn that matters, not what I teach, or what I think I’m teaching. And here’s one of my favorite quotations on education: ‘It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.’ (From Aristotle).
Everyone follows their own unique career path. For that reason, students enter online teaching and education degree programs from many different starting points, depending on where they are and where they want to be. With so many options available, it is important for students to understand all of the opportunities open to them in an online teaching program. This timeline identifies the various steps from associate degree to doctorate, and looks at the decisions to be made along the way.
An online associate degree in teaching and education serves as a great first step, and can help students prepare for introductory careers such as teaching assistant and teacher’s aide. Prospective students can choose from a wide range of associate degree programs in education, including early childhood, elementary education, special education and K-12, depending on their area of interest. In addition to sharpening critical thinking and writing skills with general courses in humanities and sciences, students learn fundamental teaching principles by taking courses in child development, literacy, child psychology and educational technology.
Many students pursue an associate degree with the intention of transferring to a bachelor’s program after graduation. Although this can be a cost-effective way to earn an undergraduate degree, it is important to meet with an academic advisor at both institutions as early as possible. Academic advisors can identify which courses students should take and provide tips that will simplify the transfer process later on.
The online bachelor’s degree in education and teaching expands on concepts introduced at the associate level in order to prepare students for professional licensure and classroom teaching. Because there are so many specialties within the field of education, colleges and universities offer a many types of online teaching degrees, such as:
No matter which online education program in which a student enrolls, there are certain courses they all have in common. These courses provide students with the foundational skills and academic knowledge to be competent and effective educators in any classroom. Below are a few examples of some of the core teaching courses included in years three and four of a bachelor’s in education degree:
Instructional strategies: Focuses on effective instructional planning and the development of lesson using a variety of approaches and technologies. Strategies covered include teaming, skill shaping, motivation, adaptation and inclusion.
Foundations for education: Examines what it means to be a teacher in terms of society’s expectations and challenges and the way students think about social structures by providing a historical and sociological perspective of education.
Child development: Covers physical, social, emotional, intellectual and language theories of development in children from conception through adolescence. Areas of study include differences in brain development, temperament and biology.
The exceptional child: Provides an overview of teaching exceptional children with emphasis on methods and materials for integrating students into the general classroom. Coursework includes legislation relating to individuals with disabilities.
Classroom and behavior management: Introduces best practices in classroom management including organization, student behavior, and making transitions. Also includes an overview of federal and state laws pertaining to the classroom.
In order to graduate with an online teaching degree and qualify for teacher licensure, a student teaching internship must be successfully completed. Student teaching is a full-time instructional experience closely supervised by a college advisor and an experienced classroom teacher trained to be part of the program. Student teachers typically spent eight to twelve weeks in one or more traditional classroom settings, honing the skills learned in their online education and teaching program.
In online teaching programs, student teachers are placed in the appropriate grade level in a public school district or independent private school based on their major and previous placements. For example, elementary education majors usually have the opportunity to student teach in a primary grade (K-2) and an intermediate grade (4-6). Even though it doesn’t come with a paycheck, student teaching is a challenging full-time job. Student teachers generally arrive in the morning well before the class comes in and don’t leave until long after the children leave for the day. Before and after-school time is spent planning and collaborating with the cooperating teacher.
The two main responsibilities of a student teacher are preparing and presenting daily lesson plans. Cooperating teachers help them to ease into teaching duties a little at a time. By the end of the internship, student teachers are completely integrated and have total control of instructional time. Student teaching is an important component of an online education and teaching degree program, providing hands-on experience and the opportunity to network with other educators in the school system.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 52 percent of public school teachers have a master’s degree or higher. All master’s degree in education students must have a bachelor’s degree in some area. However, there are two types of graduate students who enroll in online education degree programs. First, there are the licensed teachers with classroom experience who want to expand their knowledge and develop advanced teaching skills. Second, there are individuals without classroom experience who want to pursue initial certification at the same time as they earn a master’s degree in education. Learn what it takes to earn an online master’s in education or teaching, see the best programs available today, and read about popular specializations and more.
A Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD) prepares students to strategically manage and lead complex education organizations in the areas of budgeting, teacher management and operations. Many graduates go on to careers in educational policy, research and school district administration. Some programs allow doctoral students to specialize in a specific area such as curriculum and instruction or educational technology. Get in-depth guidance and explore online PhDs in teaching.
With so many online education degree programs offered by private and public institutions of all sizes, it is important to be able to identify signs of an effective program before enrolling. There are a number of qualities shared by well-established education programs. Let’s take a look at four ways to find a strong online education program.
Educators work in a wide range of roles, as teachers, principals, superintendents, college instructors and more. Even within a school, educators can specialize in one subject area, such as reading, special education or social studies. An effective online teaching program takes this into consideration by offering multiple areas of specialization so that educators can further define their focus.
In addition to meeting a number of formal education requirements, all public school teachers must be licensed or certified in their state. An education degree program should offer assistance navigating the often complex teacher licensure regulations. It should also fully prepare graduates for obtaining state licensure and certification after graduation.
No matter which online teaching and education degree program a student is enrolled in, support is the key to success. For example, students benefit from being assigned an online academic advisor who can guide them through the process of online learning and answer questions that arise along the way. In addition, virtual tools are essential to an online program because students need to be able to access materials 24/7 and communicate with instructors on a regular basis. Finally, faculty support is important. An experienced and well-educated can make a big difference in the quality of education received at an online college or university.
Accreditation is critical to all higher education programs, whether offered on-campus or online. In the U.S., institutional accreditation is handled by one of six regional agencies. In addition, education degree programs can receive academic accreditation by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). When choosing an online education degree program, it is important to make sure the college or university is fully accredited both institutionally and academically.
For most occupations, professional certification is a credential awarded by a professional association or organization. However, in the field of education, certification refers to state licensing or certification the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).
Although state teacher certification requirements vary, the U.S. Department of Education explains that there are certain core requirements common to certification programs across the country. For example, all states require proof of a four-year degree earned from a regionally accredited institution. In addition, applicants must submit proof of the following:
National Board Certification is an advanced credential offered by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). It complements but does not replace a state teacher’s license in grades K-12. Applicants must participate in a voluntary assessment program. To qualify for this rigorous, peer-reviewed process, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a valid teaching license, and three years of teaching experience.
Students and alumni of online education and teaching degree programs can provide a unique look at the successes and challenges of the journey. They can share their perspective on the process of choosing and applying to an online education program, taking the required online courses, and graduating as a teacher seeking employment in the field. Let’s hear from Jennifer Monahan, a certified elementary school teacher with a master’s degree in education earned online.
1. Can you give us an overview of your educational path from undergraduate school to becoming an elementary school teacher?
I actually graduated from a traditional college in upstate New York with a bachelor’s degree in English. I didn’t decide to become a teacher until I had worked in sales for about a year. I checked out a lot of programs before finding an online program through the University of Phoenix that was very flexible, so that I could keep working until it was time to do my student teaching. I was able to fulfill the requirements for getting certified as a teacher and earning a master’s degree simultaneously.
2. How long did it take to complete the entire process?
I started out as a part-time grad student, so it took me a little longer. I finished the whole program in 2 ½ years with my teaching license and master’s degree in education. But there were people in my program who managed to get everything done within two years, which I think is more typical.
3. What was it like to do your student teaching as a graduate student?
I was a little older than some of the other student teachers at the school where I was assigned. I think there were 5 of us in all. I found it was a benefit to be a bit older because I was very confident about my passion for teaching. I was also closer in age to many of the teachers. But all of the student teachers had the same duties and responsibilities. It was a little scary to be “the teacher” at first. But it didn’t happen all at once and my supervising teacher was there to guide me along the way. I spent many hours before and after the school day working with her on developing lesson plans, preparing materials, etc. and she was so helpful and supportive.
4. How long did it take to find a teaching job after you graduated?
My school district is one of the most popular districts in the state. I found it easier to get a job as a teacher’s assistant for a year—which is how I got into the school where I teach now. I worked with the third grade team for a year and they really got to know me well. When one of the teachers on the team left on maternity leave, I was hired as a full-time substitute. When she decided to leave permanently, I was given the position. It was a little bit different path but with the same great result- I love my third grade classroom.
5. What was the biggest challenge along the way from starting your degree to starting your teaching career?
I think the biggest challenge was setting aside the 12 weeks to student teach after working full-time for so long. But I knew about it well in advance and was able to work it out with my job. I also set aside financial aid money from my student loans to cover expenses during that time. It wasn’t a particularly difficult situation. It just took time to work out all the kinks.
An online teaching degree provides the core knowledge needed to excel in as a professional in the academic field. We have analyzed every online teaching degree program in the country based on our methodology to create this list below. Schools ranked on this lists are the best options for prospective students who value affordability, student resources, proportional class sizes and other factors. Find out who made the list for the Best Online Teaching Degrees for the 2016-2017 school year.
| Rank | School Name | Score | Tuition & Fees | Financial Aid % | #ONLINE PROGRAMS | Student-teacher Ratio | Grad Rate | ||
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| 1 | East Mississippi Community College | 99.85 | 78% | 4 | 12:1 | 27% |
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| 2 | Arizona Western College | 99.15 | 20% | 4 | 21:1 | 18% |
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| 3 | Holmes Community College | 98.06 | 37% | 3 | 18:1 | 25% |
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| 4 | Northeast Community College | 97.57 | 38% | 4 | 17:1 | 43% |
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| 5 | Odessa College | 97.40 | 32% | 5 | 17:1 | 20% |
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| 6 | College of Southern Idaho | 97.21 | 46% | 5 | 21:1 | 18% |
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| 7 | Northwest Mississippi Community College | 97.21 | 26% | 3 | 23:1 | 18% |
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| 8 | Truckee Meadows Community College | 96.95 | 22% | 3 | 19:1 | 21% |
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| 9 | Haywood Community College | 96.61 | 9% | 3 | 6:1 | 20% |
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| 10 | Stanly Community College | 96.38 | 15% | 3 | 15:1 | 25% |
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| 11 | Eastern Wyoming College | 95.81 | 63% | 2 | 17:1 | 35% |
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| 12 | Edgecombe Community College | 95.67 | 8% | 6 | 26:1 | 12% |
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| 13 | Lenoir Community College | 95.54 | 13% | 2 | 10:1 | 12% |
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| 14 | Pamlico Community College | 95.41 | 11% | 3 | 9:1 | 67% |
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| 15 | Amarillo College | 95.40 | 17% | 3 | 22:1 | 15% |
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| 16 | Navarro College | 95.19 | 26% | 2 | 17:1 | 16% |
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| 17 | Montgomery Community College | 95.01 | 19% | 3 | 8:1 | 33% |
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| 18 | Casper College | 94.95 | 42% | 1 | 12:1 | 30% |
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| 19 | Arkansas Northeastern College | 94.87 | 26% | 1 | 14:1 | 20% |
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| 20 | Colorado Northwestern Community College | 94.86 | 62% | 3 | 12:1 | 33% |
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| 21 | Shoreline Community College | 94.76 | 19% | 3 | 17:1 | 26% |
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| 22 | Tri-County Community College | 94.48 | N/A | 3 | 16:1 | 28% |
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| 23 | Panola College | 94.06 | 24% | 2 | 18:1 | 20% |
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| 24 | Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College | 93.85 | 9% | 2 | 18:1 | 18% |
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| 25 | Tulsa Community College | 93.77 | 39% | 1 | 17:1 | 14% |
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| 26 | Mitchell Community College | 93.71 | 9% | 2 | 21:1 | 19% |
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| 27 | Lone Star College | 93.70 | 13% | 2 | 18:1 | 11% |
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| 28 | Henry Ford Community College | 93.67 | 1% | 4 | 24:1 | 6% |
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| 29 | Yavapai College | 93.42 | 15% | 1 | 18:1 | 17% |
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| 30 | Western Oklahoma State College | 93.26 | 63% | 1 | 15:1 | 20% |
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| 31 | Dakota College at Bottineau | 92.94 | 40% | 2 | 9:1 | 28% |
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| 32 | Kilgore College | 92.93 | 21% | 1 | 17:1 | 17% |
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| 33 | North Central Missouri College | 92.80 | 21% | 2 | 19:1 | 30% |
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| 34 | Arkansas State University - Mountain Home | 92.62 | 18% | 1 | 20:1 | 28% |
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| 35 | Allen County Community College | 92.57 | 68% | 1 | 20:1 | 23% |
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| 36 | Front Range Community College | 92.56 | 9% | 3 | 20:1 | 18% |
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| 37 | Pima Community College | 92.56 | 9% | 2 | 25:1 | 7% |
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| 38 | Tyler Junior College | 92.53 | 17% | 2 | 21:1 | 15% |
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| 39 | Bay Mills Community College | 92.37 | 53% | 1 | 15:1 | 16% |
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| 40 | Baltimore City Community College | 92.36 | 13% | 1 | 17:1 | 5% |
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| 41 | Gateway Community and Technical College | 92.30 | 9% | 2 | 12:1 | 34% |
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| 42 | Bluegrass Community and Technical College | 91.91 | 2% | 2 | 16:1 | 18% |
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| 43 | Ozarks Technical Community College | 91.80 | 4% | 2 | 23:1 | 20% |
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| 44 | El Paso Community College | 91.73 | 3% | 1 | 26:1 | 10% |
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| 45 | Nebraska Indian Community College | 91.73 | 83% | 1 | 6:1 | 13% |
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| 46 | Central Texas College | 91.69 | 13% | 1 | 18:1 | 14% |
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| 47 | Collin College | 91.36 | 2% | 1 | 26:1 | 11% |
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| 48 | Dawson Community College | 91.31 | 60% | 1 | 12:1 | 35% |
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| 49 | Washtenaw Community College | 91.30 | 14% | 1 | 19:1 | 16% |
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| 50 | Coconino Community College | 90.85 | 10% | 1 | 27:1 | 5% |
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| Rank | School Name | Score | Tuition & Fees | Financial Aid % | #ONLINE PROGRAMS | Student-teacher Ratio | Grad Rate | ||
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| 1 | Dickinson State University | 99.77 | 63% | 7 | 11:1 | 35% |
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| 2 | Fort Hays State University | 99.67 | 72% | 10 | 17:1 | 41% |
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| 3 | North Carolina Central University | 99.53 | 81% | 5 | 15:1 | 43% |
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| 4 | East Carolina University | 99.28 | 50% | 22 | 18:1 | 58% |
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| 5 | University of Southern Mississippi | 99.07 | 74% | 10 | 17:1 | 50% |
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| 7 | Judson College | 98.21 | 95% | 5 | 9:1 | 37% |
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| 8 | University of Alaska Fairbanks | 97.92 | 43% | 11 | 14:1 | 33% |
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| 9 | University of Northern Colorado | 97.90 | 79% | 10 | 17:1 | 45% |
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| 10 | Chaminade University of Honolulu | 97.54 | 10% | 6 | 11:1 | 36% |
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| 11 | Liberty University | 97.15 | 78% | 20 | 18:1 | 46% |
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| 12 | Mayville State University | 97.15 | 76% | 4 | 17:1 | 39% |
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| 13 | Eastern Kentucky University | 97.05 | 41% | 9 | 15:1 | 37% |
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| 14 | The University of West Florida | 97.04 | 45% | 9 | 23:1 | 45% |
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| 15 | Western Kentucky University | 97.01 | 37% | 19 | 18:1 | 50% |
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| 16 | North Carolina A & T State University | 96.96 | 59% | 4 | 18:1 | 43% |
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| 17 | Great Basin College | 96.91 | 40% | 7 | 17:1 | 14% |
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| 18 | Granite State College | 96.58 | N/A | 10 | 12:1 | 50% |
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| 19 | Southwestern College | 96.50 | 95% | 8 | 8:1 | 51% |
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| 20 | SUNY College at Oswego | 96.44 | 77% | 4 | 18:1 | 58% |
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| 21 | Wayland Baptist University | 96.33 | 33% | 11 | 10:1 | 36% |
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| 22 | University of Nebraska at Kearney | 96.07 | 55% | 8 | 15:1 | 56% |
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| 23 | University of Alaska Southeast | 95.92 | 48% | 6 | 15:1 | 10% |
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| 24 | Hobe Sound Bible College | 95.85 | 58% | 5 | 11:1 | 44% |
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| 25 | Northern Arizona University | 95.80 | 66% | 19 | 18:1 | 49% |
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| 26 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | 95.67 | 49% | 11 | 17:1 | 54% |
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| 27 | Western Carolina University | 95.65 | 67% | 6 | 16:1 | 48% |
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| 28 | Southern Arkansas University Main Campus | 95.44 | 82% | 5 | 16:1 | 35% |
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| 29 | Minot State University | 95.44 | 70% | 4 | 13:1 | 33% |
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| 30 | Southeastern Oklahoma State University | 95.27 | 59% | 4 | 17:1 | 30% |
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| 31 | Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | 95.26 | 70% | 13 | 19:1 | 58% |
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| 32 | Concordia University-Saint Paul | 95.17 | 85% | 12 | 15:1 | 47% |
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| 33 | Lesley University | 95.04 | 99% | 6 | 10:1 | 46% |
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| 34 | University of the Southwest | 94.97 | 98% | 8 | 17:1 | 22% |
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| 35 | Sterling College | 94.94 | 10% | 2 | 14:1 | 34% |
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| 36 | Appalachian State University | 94.83 | 39% | 9 | 16:1 | 66% |
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| 37 | Chadron State College | 94.77 | 66% | 4 | 21:1 | 42% |
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| 38 | University of South Dakota | 94.68 | 63% | 3 | 17:1 | 45% |
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| 39 | Indiana State University | 94.65 | 75% | 11 | 20:1 | 43% |
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| 40 | Arkansas Tech University | 94.52 | 56% | 4 | 20:1 | 41% |
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| 41 | University of Central Missouri | 94.42 | 60% | 7 | 18:1 | 49% |
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| 42 | University of Missouri-Columbia | 94.38 | 62% | 9 | 20:1 | 71% |
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| 43 | Ferris State University | 94.34 | 63% | 2 | 16:1 | 53% |
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| 44 | Western New Mexico University | 94.30 | 26% | 7 | 16:1 | 16% |
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| 45 | Newman University | 94.22 | 99% | 5 | 14:1 | 43% |
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| 46 | University of West Alabama | 94.20 | 47% | 15 | 15:1 | 27% |
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| 47 | Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus | 94.11 | 42% | 7 | 19:1 | 29% |
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| 48 | Northeastern State University | 94.08 | 50% | 3 | 18:1 | 30% |
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| 49 | Wilmington University | 94.07 | 20% | 8 | 14:1 | 34% |
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| 50 | Winston-Salem State University | 93.98 | 67% | 1 | 14:1 | 40% |
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As one of the largest fields of online learning, students have countless options for online education programs at any degree level. While many may have the perfect concentration area and offer the flexibility needed, only some may provide proper licensure for the student’s state or have the learning resources they desire. The search tool below will consider all of these factors and more to create a list of online education programs tailored to each student’s needs.
| RANK | COLLEGE | Score | Student-Teacher Ratio | Financial Aid | Cost | MORE INFO | |
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| 1 | University of Southern Mississippi | 97.85 | 17:1 | 96% | |||
The University of Southern Mississippi offers bachelor's degrees in elementary education and special education through distance learning programs. To complement online instruction, the curriculum includes student teaching as a way to gain field experience. Both of these programs are designed for aspiring teachers, particularly teacher assistants who wish to become certified. Sample courses could include child psychology or child development, foundations of early childhood education, geometry for elementary school teachers, social studies and foreign languages. Special education majors can expect to take courses such as:
Admissions criteria for the elementary education and special education degree programs include a composite ACT score of 21 or higher. Acceptable SAT scores start at 860 for verbal and quantitative. Candidates for student teaching need a 2.75 GPA in the program's 44 credit hours of core courses. They must also sign up for the statewide assessment system and pass the basic technological literacy exam. Instructors and students connect during the program with tools like video conferencing, campus email and discussion forums as well as the Learning Enhancement Center and Blackboard Collaborate. These resources are used to deliver proctored examinations, class schedules and course materials. |
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| 2 | Liberty University | 97.59 | 18:1 | 95% | |||
Students looking for online studies in the field of education can find degree programs at Liberty University. Majors in early childhood education, elementary education and special education are offered through Liberty University Online. Students in the elementary education degree program can opt for a fifth year of college in order to prepare them for licensure qualifications in the state of Virginia. These online bachelor's degrees are awarded in interdisciplinary studies, and the programs seek to build a base in Christian education. A related online program is the bachelor's degree in Biblical and educational studies. Also available are online associate degrees in education and early childhood education. Though these baccalaureate programs are entirely online, they often include a practicum for field experience. To reach the 120 credit hours required, students can request to use prior learning and life experience for college credit. Some credentials might be accepted for transfer, including the child development associate, Christian child development education or the preschool associate credential. For transfer students, 30 hours of coursework must be taken through Liberty University, as well as 50 percent of courses required for the major. Each course is delivered in an eight-week format. Students have the option of attending a one-week intensive course at the campus in Lynchburg, as well as the opportunity to attend tours and commencement ceremonies. |
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| 3 | Mayville State University | 97.25 | 17:1 | 95% | |||
Mayville State University has embraced online learning in a big way, with a choice of undergraduate degree programs in education. The school also offers certificates and endorsements for teachers through distance learning. The online degree programs include:
The ECE bachelor's degree uses interactive video classes available in North Dakota and may require on-campus summer sessions, depending on a candidate's prior background. The special education and mathematics education degrees can be earned entirely online. For the math education program, participants who already have a bachelor's degree need to complete the core mathematics and professional education requirements. Students can expect small class sizes of 20 students or less, and courses taught by the same professors who teach the on-campus programs. Mayville State University uses the Moodle learning platform. To ensure academic honesty, some professors require proctors for examinations; students can request approval of their own proctors prior to the testing date. Distance education students can take advantage of opportunities for school services, including the library, career services, tutoring and an online bookstore. |
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| 4 | North Greenville University | 97.24 | 14:1 | 100% | |||
North Greenville University offers two options for students seeking an online bachelor's degree program in teaching. The bachelor's degree program in early childhood education is offered fully online and prepares students for teacher licensure and positions in early childhood care centers, as well as teaching positions in elementary schools. Although classes are completely online, students must still complete a 140-hour teaching experience in the fall of their senior year. Additionally, a 60-day, full-time teaching internship is required for graduation. The online bachelor's degree program in elementary education prepares students for teacher licensure in grades 2-6. Courses in the program include language arts assessment, classroom management, professional development, and curriculum development. Elementary education students must also fulfill the field experience and internship requirement. At the completion of the program, students are recommended for teacher licensure in South Carolina. To be admitted into the program, students must first fulfill 45 credits of general education requirements. Applying to the teacher education program is a separate process from applying to the university, and university students are not guaranteed placement into the teacher education programs. Current students must take the Praxis II exam, maintain a 2.75 GPA, and pass a background check. |
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| 5 | University of Florida | 97.18 | 21:1 | 96% | |||
The University of Florida has an online degree program that awards a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Behavior. The program incorporates studies in health science, sociology, community health and education, building a background for professionals teaching about health and nutrition in schools, nonprofit organizations and other settings. Students learn to work with diverse groups, promoting healthy lifestyles and educating individuals and communities about health risks. Major courses in the program include personal and family health, health program evaluation and health education materials. The curriculum covers 120 credits of coursework, including a 15-credit internship in the field, usually in the final semester. The program graduation requirements include a 2.5 GPA in courses for the major and an overall 2.0 GPA at the University of Florida. Applicants to UF are required to submit official ACT or SAT scores for admission to the university and must meet requirements such as course work in a foreign language. The curriculum in the online bachelor's degree program is identical to the on-campus program. Online classes at UF include written and prerecorded lectures, as well as discussion boards where students answer questions and share ideas with instructors and each other. Students may participate in interactive labs or work on group projects with peers. |
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| 6 | Valley City State University | 97.12 | 11:1 | 99% | |||
Founded in 1890 as a North Dakota teacher's college, Valley City State University has grown to become a nationally recognized institution offering more than 80 undergraduate programs. During the last five years, the school has consistently ranked in one of the top two spots on the U.S. News list of best public colleges in the Midwest. Although the school now provides degrees in everything from math to music, its roots are in education. Currently, online students can earn a bachelor's degree in education in the following specializations.
With the exception of the career and technical education degree, these programs are designed to prepare students to teach at the junior and senior high school level. The career and technical program may lead to teaching jobs at Career and Technical Education public school programs, post-secondary schools and technical colleges. Valley City State University is nationally accredited, and its programs meet all the requirements needed for North Dakota teacher licensure. However, the school notes online students residing in other states should contact their state licensing boards to confirm whether the program meets requirements there. The university makes laptops available for distance education students who do not have access to their own and even provide laptops free of charge to eligible online students. |
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| 7 | University of Louisville | 97.07 | 11:1 | 97% | |||
The Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning is aimed at students with at least five years of significant work experience, as well as a two-year degree or some prior college credits. Students must complete 123 credits to graduate, including general education courses, elective courses, major concentration courses and work specialization. The degree may be completed in three intensive enrollment semesters, and students may receive up to 48 prior-learning credits. Graduates may pursue careers in instructional design, human resources, training development and workplace development. Job growth for graduates with this degree is projected at 13 percent until 2020. |
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| 8 | University of Georgia | 96.97 | 17:1 | 94% | |||
University of Georgia offers an online Bachelor of Science in Special Education for students seeking teacher licensure in grades K-12. This option is a degree completion program, which includes 61 hours of coursework and 30 hours of service learning experiences. Online courses in teaching include language development, students with special needs, teaching students with mild disabilities and classroom behavior management. Because of student teaching and practicum requirements, online students are required to visit the University of Georgia campus on two occasions. In the junior year of the program, students complete a special education practicum, and in the final year, students complete the teaching experience. Some online course at University of Georgia may be asynchronous and accessible 24-hours per day, while other courses may be delivered on a set schedule, requiring students to log in at specific times to view live lectures and participate in discussions. Admission into the program requires 60 credits of undergraduate coursework, three professional references and 15 hours of service learning. Additionally, students must take a basic skills assessment exam administered by the state of Georgia. Before applying to the program, students should verify that University of Georgia is approved to offer distance courses in their state. |
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| 9 | University of Alaska Southeast | 96.74 | 9:1 | 79% | |||
For students living in rural Alaska communities, University of Alaska Southeast offers two online bachelor's degree programs in teaching. The Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education program is for students seeking Alaska teacher certification in grades K-8. A 128-credit program, it includes 48 hours of upper division courses, including 23 credits of breadth requirements related to the major, including humanities, social science and mathematics for elementary school teachers. Courses in the education major include curriculum and instruction, educational technology, literacy and language development and multicultural education. The online bachelor's degree program in special education prepares students to work with exceptional students in secondary schools. The curriculum is similar to the elementary education program, with added courses in special education topics, such as assessment and intervention, assessment of students with disabilities and inclusive classrooms. In the final year of each program program, students complete student teaching and field work experiences. The elementary education program culminates in a professional portfolio presentation, and the special education program culminates in a practicum and seminar. To be admitted into the programs, students must first complete all general education courses. Additional requirements include a 2.75 GPA, Praxis exam scores, and a background check. |
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| 10 | Southwestern Adventist University | 96.62 | 12:1 | 100% | |||
The Bachelor of Science in elementary education program is offered completely online. Traditional, on-campus students may take online courses through the Summer Distance Education program, which offers the course schedule to students prior to the beginning of summer registration. Regardless of which path students take, they will engage through the Desire2Learn platform, which will serve as their course management system. Some classes include video lectures, and all students must have a reliable Internet connection and email. In some rare cases, under extraordinary circumstances, students may take individual courses outside of the set program. |
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| 11 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | 96.59 | 17:1 | 69% | |||
Adults who want to teach children could pursue an online Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. The program operates through the school's Watson College of Education. Courses are delivered online, however, the curriculum also includes observation, field experience and a practicum. Learning outcomes associated with the program include understanding course development and the use of technology to enhance education. Among the core courses required to graduate are these:
A minimum of 15 to 16 hours a semester are needed to finish the program on a full-time basis. Each week it generally takes three times the number of credits in a course to finish coursework and study. For example, it could take nine hours a week to stay apace in a 3-credit course. Graduates from the program can apply for a teaching license for children through kindergarten age. Admissions applications are accepted online via the SeaLevel portal. SeaNet houses class schedules and a list of online courses related to the undergraduate teaching degree. Other distance learning resources include the Blackboard system, a digital bookstore, web-based lectures, campus email, technology assistance center, online writing consultation and My Seaport. The school uses Seaport to connect students and instructors. |
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| 12 | Western New Mexico University | 96.58 | 14:1 | 97% | |||
Established in 1893, Western New Mexico University currently offers more than 70 fields of study and nearly 200 online courses each semester. The university prides itself on being an affordable higher education option with a low instate tuition rate and special discounts for students in certain other states. Western New Mexico University offers 15 online degrees at the associate, bachelor's and master's levels. For undergraduates interested in education, there is a bachelor's degree in career and technical education which can lead to a teaching career at the secondary or postsecondary level. The Bachelor of Applied Science in Career and Technical Education is a 2+2 program, meaning students are expected to have already earned their associate degree or have an equivalent level of education. Online classes for the program are asynchronous so students can study at whatever time is convenient for them. However, field experience is required prior to graduation. Online students should expect to spend 6-15 hours per week on a class, and Western New Mexico University notes most successful students log-in to their courses five to seven times per week. For those who need extra help, the university provides assistance through Smarthinking, an electronic service connecting students to live tutors. Online students also have access to the university library and its electronic resources. |
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| 13 | Gods Bible School and College | 96.57 | 12:1 | 92% | |||
Students who are seeking a degree in ministerial education can find fully online programs through God's Bible School and College at both the associate and bachelor's level. The college's Aldersgate Distance Education Program allows students to choose from fully online courses or hybrid courses blending distance learning with attendance at on-campus sessions in Ohio a few times each semester. Students who enroll in the ministerial education bachelor's degree program can choose from tracks such as education, Christian counseling or youth ministry. Courses focus on the Bible and theology, church history and religion, and preaching. In addition, electives can steer students toward the track they prefer. Online study options range from general education requirements to courses in Greek and Hebrew. Non-credit Christian service activities are required for graduation. Distance education makes frequent use of recorded lectures, and allows students to work at their own pace, as long as they meet instructors' deadlines. Students who want to learn more about the online learning methods and delivery systems can preview a course for free before enrolling. Though course requirements differ, in most cases students are expected to log onto the online portal at least once per week. Those with slow Internet connections have the advantage of uploading assignments through the installed “player” while they are offline. |
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| 14 | Mississippi State University | 96.50 | 19:1 | 93% | |||
Mississippi State University offers an online bachelor's degree program in elementary education administered through the College of Education. Instruction is primarily online; however, because of state teaching requirements, the program includes field work in elementary and middle schools, depending on the concentration. In addition, the senior courses in teaching methods incorporate 100+ hours of field work. These classroom experiences lead up to the culminating 15-week full-time internship at a K-8 school, which is required for graduation. Online classes at Mississippi State University are mainly asynchronous and do not require live participation. Delivered through the Blackboard learning platform, online classes can be accessed 24 hours per day, and the curriculum is the same as for the on-campus teaching program. Graduates who successfully complete the online program and internship are recommended for teacher licensure in Mississippi. To qualify for licensure in another state, students should contact that state's Department of Education. To be admitted into this online program, applicants must have a 2.75 GPA for 44 hours of core coursework, including general education. Students must take the Praxis or ACT exam, submit to a background check and have 40 hours of relevant work experience with children. For interested individuals who hold a bachelor's degree, MSU also has online master's degree programs for educators. |
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| 15 | Midway College | 96.43 | 13:1 | 100% | |||
The teacher education program provides students with all the skills and coursework required to apply for the initial teaching certification after graduation. Past graduates of the program have successfully received their provisional licensure following graduation. The P-5/5-9 program prepares prospective educators to teach in both elementary and middle schools. Through reciprocal agreements, graduates can qualify for working not only in Kentucky, but some other states as well. Students must choose one area of emphasis, such as math, English/communication or fine arts/humanities. Some students meet minor requirements while pursuing their areas of emphasis. |
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| 16 | Warner University | 96.38 | 22:1 | 99% | |||
Students who graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in educational studies should be prepared to enter graduate school or start a career in education. The program is aimed at adult students who are at least 23 years old and have a minimum of 45 transferable credits and a minimum GPA of 2.5. The university works with the Educator Preparation Institute to help those with bachelor's degrees in non-related fields earn professional certification for teaching in K-12 classrooms. For this reason, all coursework is designed to prepare students to teach in Florida schools. |
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| 17 | Appalachian State University | 96.38 | 16:1 | 67% | |||
The online teacher education program at Appalachian State University includes a Bachelor of Science in business education and grade 6-12 licensure in North Carolina. While coursework can be completed entirely online (with the exception of occasional school visits), one semester of on-site student teaching is required for graduation and licensure. The degree plan at ASU is a cohort program for between 18 and 25 students who work together throughout the entirety of the program. Priority placement goes to applicants who have completed a 44-hour core at a NC community college or a NC associate degree. |
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| 18 | Florida International University | 96.29 | 27:1 | 91% | |||
A bachelor's degree in early childhood education is available through FIU Online, the distance learning arm of Florida International University. This fully online program focuses on the early childhood development track, addressing the cognitive, language and social/emotional development of children. The courses also address general and early education practices and theories. Students earn 120 credit hours in the program, divided evenly between upper and lower division courses. Thirty credit hours focus on foundations, curriculum, teaching methods and early childhood education. Another 30 hours of coursework targets family and community studies, literary, language and reading development. Nine hours of elective courses are also required. This early childhood education bachelor's degree does not result in teacher certification. Individuals who already have a bachelor's degree can explore the university's online options for master's degrees in education. Candidates for admission to the early childhood education bachelor's degree program must have completed either 60 credit hours satisfying general education/core requirements or an associate degree from a Florida public university. Applications are accepted during the spring, summer and fall terms. Students need least a 2.5 GPA for their lower-division work in order to be accepted. Upon enrollment, each student is paired with a coach to assist them in navigating through their online degree program at Florida International University. |
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| 19 | Fontbonne University | 96.19 | 10:1 | 92% | |||
The Paraprofessional Pathways program at Fontbonne University is geared toward adult learners and non-traditional students who wish to become certified special education teachers while earning their bachelor's degree at the same time. The program is offered in an online format with two 16-week online courses in the fall and spring and two 10-week courses in the summer. Instructors are educational practitioners who bring their real-world expertise to the online classroom. All students are required to complete two clinicals/practicums on the job as part of their degree plan and must have 60 credit hours from a recognized institution to be accepted into the program. |
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| 20 | Wilmington University | 96.14 | 14:1 | 87% | |||
Wilmington University got its start in 1968 with a charter class of only 194 students. Today, the school serves more than 18,000 students at its 14 campus locations as well as through its online degree programs. Wilmington University reports 37 percent of its student body was enrolled in online classes during the 2013-2014 school year. Wilmington offers several online bachelor's degree programs for aspiring educators:
Each program results in a bachelor's degree in education studies, and Wilmington University notes these degrees do not qualify graduates to be certified or licensed as teachers. For those wishing to teach in Delaware, the university will automatically transition students meeting minimum standards into an appropriate licensure or certification program. Students in other states should consult their state licensing board before enrolling to learn the teaching requirements there. The school also offers an online Bachelor of Science in Career and Technical Education for students seeking preparation and certification as a Skilled and Technical Sciences Teacher. Classes at Wilmington University may run on a 15 week or 7 week schedule, and three semesters and six blocks are offered each year. Coursework is asynchronous, allowing students to review class materials and submit assignments at any time of the day. Technical support is available 24/7. |
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| 21 | SUNY Empire State College | 96.11 | 14:1 | 94% | |||
For students interested in working with young children, SUNY Empire State College offers an online bachelor's degree program in educational studies. Although it is not a teacher certification program that leads to state licensure, the program is transferrable to post-bachelor's teacher education programs. Additionally, students who complete a bachelor's degree can transfer into the college's Master of Arts in Teaching program, which does lead to state licensure. Students in the bachelor's degree program can choose from a variety of concentrations, including early childhood or adult education, lifelong learning, training and staff development, family education and instructional technologies. Offered by the Center for Distance Learning, online courses at SUNY Empire State College allow students to work at their own pace, without having to log in to online courses on a set schedule. Courses are completely online and do not require any travel to campus, although some courses may require students to take proctored exams at a test site. Depending on the course, instructional materials may include traditional textbooks and/or e-books, online discussions, videos, and, software. Online classes are delivered thorough the Moodle online learning platform and specific technical requirements can vary from course to course. |
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| 22 | Hope International University | 96.01 | 14:1 | 98% | |||
When students complete the BA in liberal studies: teacher preparation, they can enter the workforce as qualified and effective educators. The program not only strengthens communication and leadership skills but also weaves the foundations of the Christian faith into the coursework. The program features small classes, many of which are taught by working educators, as well as one-on-one mentorship programs. Students who complete the five-semester, 120-unit BA program will be prepared to work in public and private institutions upon graduation or to transition to a graduate program where they can earn one of several different credentials. |
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| 23 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | 96.00 | 23:1 | 96% | |||
University of Louisiana – Monroe offers an online bachelor's degree program in elementary education, which prepares students for licensure to teach grades K-5. Apart from the student teaching requirements, the program is offered fully online, with courses in general studies, professional and pedagogical studies, and integrative studies. In the content studies phase of the program, students take courses that will prepare them to teach classes at the elementary school level, including health and physical education, social studies, science, math, and language arts. Courses related to the teaching profession include classroom management, student assessment, educational psychology, and behavior intervention. During the student teaching experience, students commit one semester to working with a mentor at an elementary school. Graduates receive endorsement for teacher licensure in the state of Louisiana. Online students at University of Louisiana – Monroe spend an average of 5-18 hours per week on academics. As part of the university's distance learning program, students have access to an online homework application that allows them to set up homework reminders and organize assignments. Before they can be admitted into the teacher education program, students must take the reading, writing and math sections of the Praxis I exam. |
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| 24 | University of Hawaii – West O’ahu | 95.95 | 13:1 | 79% | |||
At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, students can earn a Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education or Special Education primarily through online coursework. Students travel to the UH campus on select weekends and take online classes over the course of a two-year cohort program. The elementary education program is designed to prepare students to teach in K-6 schools, while the special education program prepares students to teach grades K-3. In addition to taking online courses, students complete three semesters of field experiences with a mentor and one semester of student teaching. A 48-month program, it requires students to attend on a full-time basis. The student teaching experiences may be completed on any of the Hawaiian Islands. To be admitted into the licensure-track program, applicants must first complete 55 credits of coursework at UH or hold an associate's degree. Additionally, applicants are required to complete an admissions interview and take a basic skills test administered by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board. To demonstrate knowledge of working with children, applicants need 40 hours of documented experience working with K-6 students or K-3 students. Before the student teaching experience, students must take the Praxis exam. |
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| 25 | Ball State University | 95.90 | 16:1 | 87% | |||
Designed specifically with full-time childcare professionals in mind, the Bachelor of Science in early childhood education degree from Ball State University has a built in minor in early childhood special education and can be completed in a convenient, fully-online format. Curriculum is taught by the same faculty that teaches the on-campus courses, and online learners are given all the benefits of traditional students, including academic advising and scholarship opportunities. Graduates of the program should come away with an advanced understanding of learning and development in children ages zero through five years, and will be prepared to work in educational environments such as Head Start programs or pre-K classes. |
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| 26 | Granite State College | 95.83 | 11:1 | 70% | |||
The School of Education at Granite State College offers several degree programs entirely online. These include the bachelor's degree in education as well as the early childhood education (ECE) programs for associate or bachelor's degrees. The online ECE and education baccalaureate programs have an optional track to prepare for teacher certification in the state of New Hampshire. These online bachelor's degree programs require four years of study and completion of 40 courses. Many programs also require a portfolio for graduation. Though the courses are entirely online, students complete field work during their final year of study in order to be eligible to pursue teacher certification. Through the online degree completion program, students with an associate degree and the proper transfer credits can complete their bachelor's degree in education from Granite State College. The program might require as few as 15 courses, and relevant life experience could potentially count toward college credit. Students in online classes can attend full-time or part-time, and flexible learning options allow them to choose a format that suits them. Asynchronous learning means that students work at their own pace as long as they meet established deadlines. Distance education relies on student interaction with peers and professors through discussion boards, emails and the like. In addition, the teacher education program encourages participants to use tablets in the field. |
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| 27 | Utah State University | 95.82 | 21:1 | 81% | |||
A Bachelor of Science degree in communicative disorders and deaf education is the first building block for a student pursuing a career in audiology or speech/language pathology. The degree is a requirement for any student who wants to work as an audiologist or speech/language technician or assistant. This degree also prepares students for entrance into a graduate program, which is required for professional licensure. The university teaches more than 1,100 students a year through online education and recommends that students contact the state in which they plan to work to get a better grasp of job opportunities for graduates who hold this degree. |
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| 28 | University of Northern Iowa | 95.80 | 16:1 | 87% | |||
The University of Northern Iowa offers a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education as a 2+2 distance learning program. To finish the degree within two years, adults must have an Associate of Arts prior to starting the program. While the majority of the instruction is delivered online, education majors complete at least 100 hours of classroom teaching. Generally, they work alongside a licensed teacher as they complete the field experience requirements. The program aims to prepare adults to work with elementary aged children and develop materials to engage them with innovative learning techniques. Participants learn how to use computer programs to design early childhood training modules. Courses students can expect to take include:
Admissions requirements include an education major and completion of at least 24 college credit hours. Other admissions criteria include a cumulative 2.5 GPA or higher, as well as a minimum grade of C- for oral communications, writing and research courses. Candidates need credits from a community college that satisfy the University of Northern Iowa's liberal art core requirements. The school's virtual campus offers tutorials on distance learning, interactive video conferencing, email, MyUniverse, CatID, e-textbooks and digital access to library services as well as other resources. |
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| 29 | Arkansas Tech University | 95.77 | 20:1 | 95% | |||
Aspiring teachers who want to work with young children in pre-kindergarten through fourth grade can earn their education through the Bachelor of Science in early childhood education program at Arkansas Tech University. Offered as a partnership with North Arkansas Community College and Ozarka Community College, approximately 50 percent of the coursework is accessed online. In addition to general education requirements, coursework that prepares students to become teachers includes studies in child development, curriculum strategies, diagnosis and assessment, guidance of young children, and language and literacy. The program ends with a required internship in an educational setting. All online courses are delivered through eTech, which makes use of the Blackboard learning system. The OneTech Portal allows students to communicate with peers and professors via email. Students who want to pursue online education must be accepted as a student at Arkansas Tech University, then enroll in the proper online courses. Technical help is available via email, online or through an around-the-clock phone help desk. Students who reside outside of Arkansas may not be eligible to take online courses through Arkansas Tech University. Additional information can be obtained through the state's higher education commission. |
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| 30 | University of Central Florida | 95.76 | 31:1 | 96% | |||
The Bachelor of Science in technical and industry training features upper-division courses. Most students who pursue the degree are adults enrolling on a part-time basis. Graduates prepare to teach in middle or secondary schools, post-secondary schools, adult technical institutes and correctional facilities. They may also become instructors or trainers in the business world. The program culminates in a mentored internship experience in a school or industry environment over the course of one or two semesters, depending on the student's career aspirations. The internship may also be taken at UCF with faculty supervising as a student assists teaching web-based courses. |
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| 31 | Ferris State University | 95.67 | 16:1 | 96% | |||
Students who are interested in the field of technical education can find online opportunities at Ferris State University. The Professional Modularized Teacher Education program, otherwise known as Pro-Mo-TEd, is designed for individuals who want to earn their bachelor's degree in education and/or seek secondary certification. The program lasts for 12 months, starting during the summer semester. The blended format begins with a two-week intensive training course for face-to-face learning. Courses continue online throughout the fall and spring terms, culminating with a final two-week course on the Michigan campus. The degree is completed with directed field experience and a seminar. Admission to the program requires prior education and other qualifications, typically an associate degree in an occupational major with a minimum 2.5 GPA, or 56 transferable credits including general education courses such as algebra and English composition. Candidates must also pass the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification - Professional Readiness Exam. Each professor might take a different approach to online learning, but students are usually required to meet weekly deadlines. Before enrollment, students must take the Online Readiness Tutorial to learn about the technical elements of digital instruction. Students considering enrolling in the program should refer to Ferris State University's page describing each state's requirements for online learning. |
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| 32 | Northern Arizona University | 95.59 | 19:1 | 83% | |||
In just two years, online students can earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education. After they graduate, students may be eligible for state certification in elementary education for grades 1-8. NAU is the only university in Arizona accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Online students take courses through the Blackboard Learn platform and have access to professors, peers, lecture presentations and discussions. Students have the flexibility of an asynchronous schedule, meaning they can self-pace by logging in whenever they want and attend class at their convenience, as opposed to following a set schedule. |
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| 33 | University of Arkansas | 95.57 | 19:1 | 81% | |||
The online bachelor's degree in human resources and workforce development education is aimed at students seeking a career as a training specialist - an occupation for which job growth in Arkansas is expected to reach 21 percent. Students will learn to apply integrated training, organizational development, and career planning and counseling skills, all of which will help them design, implement, manage and evaluate programs. Graduates should attain a level of education that makes them eligible to pursue advanced degrees. Students can complete the program - which requires the completion of 120 credit hours - in four years or less. |
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| 34 | Old Dominion University | 95.56 | 20:1 | 82% | |||
Students in the elementary education (interdisciplinary studies: teacher preparation) program can pursue a bachelor's degree that is designed to lead into ODU's Master of Science in Education program, including licensure for the state of Virginia at the post-baccalaureate level. Students attend online courses on a set schedule, but can access their coursework from anywhere, 24 hours a day. 49-50 credit hours are required for major content, plus 33 for professional education and practice. Graduates should be able to teach at the pre-K, primary and elementary levels, and supplemental education could lead to several other career paths, including principalship or superintendency. |
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| 35 | Indian River State College | 95.55 | 25:1 | 79% | |||
The BS in education program gives students both a firm grasp on the fundamentals of education, as well as real-world classroom experience. The schedule makes it possible for students to participate in different practicums in area schools and finally have their student teaching experience at local schools. Students may focus on one of the following specializations: reading and ESOL (English for speakers of other languages), exceptional student education with ESOL, middle grades math, middle grades science, secondary biology or secondary math. Students can earn their degrees entirely online through the school's virtual campus. |
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| 36 | Touro University Worldwide | 95.54 | 3:1 | 100% | |||
The Bachelor of Science in health sciences, health education concentration is a new program that prepares students for a career as a health educator. Students can learn the skills needed to organize communities and implement education strategies in the health educational field. The program requires 120 credit hours for completion, including 45 general education credits, 21 prerequisite requirement credits, 30 major and core credits and 24 elective credits. Class sizes are small and personal, and instructors are chosen not only for their credentials and experience but also for their passion for education. |
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| 37 | University of South Carolina-Columbia | 95.46 | 18:1 | 90% | |||
The University of South Carolina Columbia offers a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education through a blended instructional delivery format. Graduation requires between 122 and 128 credits, including 64 credits available online from USC's Palmetto College, in addition to at least 60 credits earned previously. The curriculum includes multiple opportunities for field work through a practicum and internships. The program is structured to prepare adults to teach grades 2 through 6. Courses built into the curriculum include:
Graduates of the elementary education degree program are recommended for teacher certification. Some states may require advanced credentials such as a Master of Education before teachers can lead classroom instruction independently. On a full-time basis, it takes approximately four to five years to earn this undergraduate degree, including prior studies. Students may be expected to attend instructor led lectures and discussions as scheduled. However, there is the option to complete self-paced courses. Some of the school's online learning models are available year round. Digital technology used in the program includes video conferencing, campus email and discussion forums. |
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| 38 | Union Institute & University | 95.33 | 8:1 | 90% | |||
Union Institute and University offers two online bachelor's degree programs for aspiring teachers. The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education program prepares students to teach grades K-6 in public and private schools. Graduates of this online program are eligible for teacher licensure in the state of Florida. Additionally, students who choose a concentration in early childhood/primary education are eligible for certification/licensure in preschools and primary schools. There are 48 credit hours of coursework in the major, including foundation courses in education, major courses and electives. Toward the end of the program, students complete a student teaching seminar as well as student teaching experiences. Union's Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education program prepares students for teacher licensure in public and private high schools. Secondary education students choose a content area that they wish to teach, including English, mathematics, science or social science. In addition to foundational education courses, students take core courses in areas such as educational assessment, personality theories, abnormal psychology, and instructional practices. The secondary education program has the same student teaching requirements as the elementary education program. Applicants to the teacher education programs are required to take the Florida Teacher Certification Exams (FTCE), which includes testing in English, mathematics and reading. |
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| 39 | Shasta Bible College and Graduate School | 95.21 | 5:1 | 100% | |||
The Bachelor of Arts in Christian teacher education program is aimed at online students who are pursuing a career as a private school teacher. Although the program does not lead to credentialing in California, it offers coursework that is designed to meet the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) standards for teacher and administrative certification and certification renewal. Online students can expect to spend between six and nine hours a week on coursework. Generally, students may self-pace and are not required to be online at a set time or on a specific schedule. Class pages are available all day, every day. |
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