35 Best Online Master's in Elementary Education for 2020

Do you want to impact future generations? Getting your online Master’s in elementary education can help you achieve this goal.

Although no one gets into the education field to get rich, getting your Master’s in elementary education can have a high payoff. There are several different career paths you can take with this degree. Most programs will prepare you for either your initial teaching license or an advanced teaching license.

What Is an Elementary Education Degree?

If you have your bachelor’s in education but want to be a leader in the school, then this program is meant for you. This program will train you in how to lead and to teach. Some career opportunities you may explore with this Master’s include principal, instructional specialist, or even an educational consultant.

You will learn to develop lesson plans, create assignments, and prepare your classroom for an effective and efficient learning environment. You will also learn how to communicate to promote a cooperative environment as well as develop problem-solving strategies. Most programs require student-teaching experiences as well.

How Much Can You Earn With an Elementary Education Degree?

Now let’s get into one of the most important factors: what will your salary look like? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, elementary, middle, and high school principals earned a median salary of $95,000 as of 2018.

This field has an average growth rate of four percent, which is just under the five percent average for all occupations. Unlike teachers, as a principal, you will likely have to work full-time and year-round. The pay for this position is contingent on state and local budgets and student enrollment overall.

What Is Required for a Master’s in Elementary Education?

In order to enroll in a Master’s in elementary education program, you will need your bachelor’s degree. Most programs require that you have experience in higher education before enrolling. The minimum GPA requirement is typically 3.0, and most schools require GRE scores as well.

Some schools require that you already hold a current teaching license. You may also need to submit a personal statement or letters of recommendation. Some common courses you may need to complete in order to earn a Master’s in elementary education include those in curriculum development, philosophy of teaching, and educational research.

What Are the Best Elementary Education Degrees?

OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.

The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.

Western Governors University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,500(in state) / $6,500(out of state)
- Requires 49 units
- Features monthly start dates
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction64.80%
Admission RateNot Reported
Programs offered online29
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department16
Popularity at School12.17%
100%
OSR Score
WGU offers an MA in Teaching, Elementary Education that can lead to teaching licensure. In this program, you will be assigned a mentor who will help you create your customized course of study. Graduates of the program have gone on to teach in inclusionary K–12 classrooms, private and charter schools, and middle schools.
Prescott College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $20,280(in state) / $20,280(out of state)
- Requires 36 credits
- Fingerprint clearance card required
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction85.40%
Admission Rate95%
Programs offered online36
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department9
Popularity at School19.13%
98%
OSR Score
Prescott College offers a Master of Education program in which you can specialize in Elementary Education. This program requires you to complete six days of residency per year. You may also qualify for the Prescott College Institutional Recommendation (IR), which leads to Arizona provisional teacher certification.
University of West Alabama
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,678(in state) / $13,356(out of state)
- Requires 34 credits
- Accepts up to nine transfer credits
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction77.80%
Admission Rate28%
Programs offered online13
Program Level
Median Debt$38,266
Programs in Department9
Popularity at School17.80%
94%
OSR Score
UWA offers an M.Ed. in Elementary Education, K-6 for those seeking to acquire the Alabama Teaching Certification. Some topics you will explore in this program include educational planning, teaching reading, and technology. You will, however, need to pay a $50 technology fee each semester.
Grand Canyon University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,737(in state) / $9,737(out of state)
- Requires 47 credits
- Accepts up to 12 transfer credits
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction69.20%
Admission Rate67%
Programs offered online37
Program Level
Median Debt$33,812
Programs in Department19
Popularity at School11.02%
92%
OSR Score
The M.Ed. in Elementary Education at GCU prepares you to create engaging learning environments for diverse elementary and middle school learners. Graduates of this program can find themselves on career paths for curriculum specialists and department or grade-level chairs. In this program, you will also take advanced coursework with classes in special education, child and adolescent development and psychology, and classroom management and engagement.
National University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $14,976(in state) / $14,976(out of state)
- Requires a minimum of 54 quarter units
- Features year-round enrollment
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction70.80%
Admission RateNot Reported
Programs offered online46
Program Level
Median Debt$29,624
Programs in Department11
Popularity at School8.16%
87%
OSR Score
The Master of Education program at NU leads to Nevada elementary-teaching licensure. In order to receive your teaching license, you will be required to complete an electronic portfolio that will be reviewed and approved by a faculty member. What’s more, this school is military friendly and offers tuition discounts to servicemembers and dependents.
Liberty University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,217(in state) / $8,217(out of state)
- Requires 36 credits
- Can transfer up to 50% of your degree
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction73.40%
Admission Rate30%
Programs offered online23
Program Level
Median Debt$34,767
Programs in Department15
Popularity at School7.69%
87%
OSR Score
Liberty University offers an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction that allows you to specialize in Elementary Education. You will take core classes in teaching reading skills, math, natural sciences, and language acquisition. This program is for those who desire to teach elementary education, though the degree does not lead directly to licensure.
Delta State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,739(in state) / $6,739(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Requires a Class A teaching certificate or its equivalent
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction75.80%
Admission Rate87%
Programs offered online2
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department4
Popularity at School23.60%
86%
OSR Score
The M.Ed. in Elementary Education at Delta State University is designed to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to effectively teach elementary school students. Here, you will be required to take comprehensive exams on campus or at a secured site that is approved by an advisor. This school has mutually beneficial partnerships with P-12 schools.
Missouri State University-Springfield
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,824(in state) / $9,702(out of state)
- Requires 34 credits
- Offer accelerated program
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student SatisfactionNot Reported
Admission Rate84%
Programs offered online24
Program Level
Median Debt$18,036
Programs in Department9
Popularity at School12.94%
85%
OSR Score
The elementary education program at MSU is designed for those who already have their teaching certificate. This school lets you customize and tailor your degree to your specific interests, so you can choose up to half of your classes. Graduates of the program who chose not to teach have gone on to become instructional coaches and school leaders or used the degree to enroll in a Ph.D. program.
University of Northern Iowa
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,950(in state) / $19,424(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- No entrance exam requirements
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction73.20%
Admission Rate81%
Programs offered online2
Program Level
Median Debt$17,415
Programs in Department9
Popularity at School17.36%
85%
OSR Score
You must already have your teaching license in order to enroll in the Elementary Education (MAE) program at the University of Northern Iowa. The curriculum in this program is aligned with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. It should come as no surprise, then, that this program was ranked among the Top Online Master’s in Elementary Education by TheBestColleges.org.
Northern Arizona University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,313(in state) / $17,915(out of state)
- Requires a minimum of 30 credits
- Must be completed within six years
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction73.80%
Admission Rate81%
Programs offered online26
Program Level
Median Debt$27,368
Programs in Department11
Popularity at School9.31%
84%
OSR Score
In the M.Ed. in Elementary Education at NAU, you will learn how to design and develop curriculum as well as apply your strategies to the classroom. In addition, there are several emphases from which you can choose, including Elementary National Board Preparation, Reading K-8, and Positive Behavior Support. This program does not lead directly to state certification in Arizona.
William Carey University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,400(in state) / $8,400(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Accepts up to 12 transfer credits
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction79.00%
Admission Rate49%
Programs offered online7
Program Level
Median Debt$20,500
Programs in Department7
Popularity at School11.03%
84%
OSR Score
William Carey University offers an M.Ed. program with a concentration in Elementary Education. In this program, you can take additional courses beyond the core requirements if you want to secure licensure in a subject area not covered by your bachelor’s degree. Additionally, you will be required to take a written comprehensive examination prior to graduation.
University of the Cumberlands
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,670(in state) / $5,670(out of state)
- Requires 42 credits
- Accepts up to nine credits
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction75.80%
Admission Rate74%
Programs offered online15
Program Level
Median Debt$15,649
Programs in Department14
Popularity at School8.50%
84%
OSR Score
University of the Cumberland’s online MAT program features a concentration in Elementary Education. Through this program, you can gain your teaching certificate for the state of Kentucky. If you already have your teaching license, however, you cannot enroll in the program.
East Carolina University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,749(in state) / $17,898(out of state)
- Requires 36 credits
- Research project and presentation required
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction75.40%
Admission Rate79%
Programs offered online19
Program Level
Median Debt$27,553
Programs in Department14
Popularity at School8.10%
83%
OSR Score
The MAEd program at East Carolina University is designed to provide you with advanced methods for teaching and assessing students to better meet their needs. Some coursework you will explore in this program centers around grant writing and advanced pedagogy. You can also specialize in a certain area for your degree, such as in Content Expertise or Working with Other Language Learners.
Nova Southeastern University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $18,932(in state) / $18,932(out of state)
- Requires 40 credits
- Offers employer tuition discounts
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction72.60%
Admission Rate58%
Programs offered online8
Program Level
Median Debt$30,750
Programs in Department24
Popularity at School2.75%
82%
OSR Score
NSU offers an MS in Elementary Education that will set you apart in the elementary school world. Here, you’ll be required to complete a capstone in which you’ll document and evaluate your progress as a teacher in an educational setting. What’s more, this school has an Office of Placement Services that will help you find invaluable field experiences, internships, and more.
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,713(in state) / $16,713(out of state)
- Requires 40-44 credits
- Features locked-in tuition
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction74.80%
Admission RateNot Reported
Programs offered online36
Program Level
Median Debt$32,988
Programs in Department9
Popularity at School2.24%
81%
OSR Score
The MA in Education / Elementary Teacher Education at this school serves as an initial teacher-licensure program. Here, you will have access to the school’s career services platform, PhoenixLink, which will help you network with employers and alumni. The program is designed especially for those who hold a bachelor’s degree in disciplines other than education.
Mississippi College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,584(in state) / $10,584(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Multiple start dates available
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction77.40%
Admission Rate39%
Programs offered online6
Program Level
Median Debt$34,235
Programs in Department6
Popularity at School11.40%
81%
OSR Score
MC is a Christian-based school and integrates faith and learning throughout its programs. Upon completion of the M.Ed. in Elementary Education program, you can apply to the Mississippi Department of Education to upgrade from a Class A license to a Class AA license. Applicants should note that their bachelor’s degree must be in Elementary Education for admission.
Kennesaw State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,851(in state) / $17,541(out of state)
- Requires 36 credits
- Requires two administrator recommendation forms for admission
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction74.20%
Admission Rate61%
Programs offered online10
Program Level
Median Debt$21,735
Programs in Department10
Popularity at School7.47%
80%
OSR Score
The M.Ed. in Elementary Education program at KSU is designed for those who are already certified in Early Childhood Education. Interested students should note that this program’s schedule coincides with the public school calendar. In addition to the M.Ed. degree, you can earn a KSU certificate or endorsement in multiple areas, such as the Reading Endorsement or Teacher Leadership Endorsement.
University of Nebraska at Kearney
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,712(in state) / $12,528(out of state)
- Requires 36 credits
- Requires thesis completion
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction71.40%
Admission Rate82%
Programs offered online7
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department8
Popularity at School13.97%
80%
OSR Score
The MA in Education program at UNK offers a concentration in Elementary Education. This program is designed for teachers who want to improve their classroom teaching and curriculum design. As such, you will be required to already possess a certificate, as this program does not lead to certification.
City University of Seattle
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,264(in state) / $15,264(out of state)
- Requires 39 credits
- Requires capstone
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction68.60%
Admission RateNot Reported
Programs offered online17
Program Level
Median Debt$41,000
Programs in Department8
Popularity at School12.32%
80%
OSR Score
City University of Seattle offers an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction program that enforces research-based principles that allow you to enhance student learning. The school offers a specialization in Elementary Education through which you can earn a WA state Elementary Education endorsement. This school also offers military tuition benefits.
University of Central Missouri
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,016(in state) / $14,033(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Accepts up to 12 transfer credits
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction73.80%
Admission Rate84%
Programs offered online6
Program Level
Median Debt$15,815
Programs in Department5
Popularity at School14.29%
79%
OSR Score
You must already have your teaching license or professional endorsement in order to enroll in this MSE in Elementary Education program. The program at UCMO is designed to address the five propositions of accomplished teaching that were created by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Best of all, this program can be completed entirely online, which means you can fit it into your schedule for maximum convenience.
University of Mobile
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,800(in state) / $7,800(out of state)
- Requires 24 credits
- GRE/MAT scores not required
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction79.00%
Admission Rate47%
Programs offered online4
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department2
Popularity at School12.78%
79%
OSR Score
University of Mobile offers an MA in Education that features a track in Elementary Education. The program also features an Early Childhood Education track, which can be combined with the Elementary Education track for dual certification. Upon graduation, the program leads to Class A certification.
Appalachian State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,839(in state) / $18,271(out of state)
- Requires a minimum of 39 credits
- Requires GRE/MAT scores for admission
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction75.20%
Admission Rate70%
Programs offered online7
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department6
Popularity at School10.83%
79%
OSR Score
The MA in Elementary Education at Appalachian State University leads to “M-level” licensure in grades K-6. In order to be accepted into the program, you must already have a valid “A-level” teaching license in the state of North Carolina or its equivalent. This program’s coursework primarily focuses on the pedagogical aspects of elementary education and prepares learners to create effective elementary-level curricula.
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $4,397(in state) / $9,257(out of state)
- Requires 32-35 credits
- Features three areas of emphasis
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction73.00%
Admission Rate83%
Programs offered online5
Program Level
Median Debt$12,500
Programs in Department3
Popularity at School14.08%
78%
OSR Score
NWOSU offers a Master of Education program in which you can develop Master teaching skills and make educational decisions based on research-based strategies. In order to be eligible for the program, you must have an Elementary or Secondary teaching certificate. Core subjects covered in this program include research, psychology, foundation, and diversity.
Western New Mexico University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $3,177(in state) / $8,730(out of state)
- Requires 27- 34 credits
- Can lead to endorsement
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction78.80%
Admission RateNot Reported
Programs offered online13
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department4
Popularity at School6.75%
77%
OSR Score
The MA in Teaching at Western New Mexico University offers three program varieties: MAT Specialization, MAT Initial Licensure, and MAT Alternative Licensure. Furthermore, you can choose from over 15 concentrations. The coursework in this program is guided by the State of New Mexico Teaching Competencies requirements to ensure that you’ll be receiving the highest quality education around.
Indiana State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,272(in state) / $14,274(out of state)
- Requires 33 credits
- Requires research project
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction72.60%
Admission Rate85%
Programs offered online19
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department9
Popularity at School7.09%
76%
OSR Score
Indiana State University offers an M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning in which you can specialize in Elementary Education. This program does not lead to initial licensure, though it does provide the education necessary for taking additional steps in that direction. As a part-time student in this program, you can take up to seven years to complete your degree.
Eastern Kentucky University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,900(in state) / $14,850(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Accepts up to nine transfer credits
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction74.40%
Admission Rate87%
Programs offered online17
Program Level
Median Debt$24,785
Programs in Department9
Popularity at School7.54%
76%
OSR Score
EKU offers an MAEd program in which you can choose a concentration in Elementary Education. The program is designed for certified teachers who want to expand their knowledge, increase their salary and rank, and advance in their careers. Through EKU, you will be assigned a personal advisor who will help keep you on track throughout your academic career.
Salem College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,740(in state) / $7,740(out of state)
- Requires 33 credits
- Requires a background check for admission
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction78.80%
Admission Rate57%
Programs offered onlineNot Reported
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department2
Popularity at School12.63%
76%
OSR Score
The Masters of the Arts in Teaching at Salem College is designed for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education. The first phase of this program will lead to your initial licensure, and the second phase will give you the opportunity to get an advanced degree. Interested applicants who have military experience should note that this school also offers veteran benefits.
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,130(in state) / $7,650(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Requires internship/student teaching
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction76.60%
Admission Rate69%
Programs offered online2
Program Level
Median Debt$18,237
Programs in Department8
Popularity at School7.56%
76%
OSR Score
SAU offers a Master of Arts in Teaching for those who hold a bachelor’s degree and aim to become teachers. For enrollment in this program, you must have maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 hours of your bachelor’s program. For the Elementary Education license track, you will take courses in STEM education, literacy, and teaching reading and writing.
Ball State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,554(in state) / $21,172(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Military-friendly school
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction73.20%
Admission Rate62%
Programs offered online6
Program Level
Median Debt$33,250
Programs in Department11
Popularity at School7.58%
76%
OSR Score
If you’re looking for a customizable Master’s in Elementary Education, then you may want to put Ball State University high on your list. Here, you can choose from a multitude of areas to specialize in, including in English as a New Language or Response to Intervention. Completing this program does not lead to initial licensure, though it does lay the groundwork for future pursuit.
Pittsburg State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,392(in state) / $16,758(out of state)
- Requires 33 credits
- Does not lead to a Kansas teaching license
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction74.00%
Admission Rate87%
Programs offered online2
Program Level
Median Debt$18,015
Programs in Department5
Popularity at School12.64%
75%
OSR Score
This Kansas school offers an MS in Teaching with an emphasis in Elementary Education. The program here is designed for those who already hold their licensure and would like to learn about pedagogy and how to best teach children. For the quality of this program, the degree has been ranked among the Top 25 Best Online Graduate Education Programs by U.S. News & World Report.
Old Dominion University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,168(in state) / $26,820(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Thesis required
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction75.20%
Admission Rate86%
Programs offered online19
Program Level
Median Debt$28,000
Programs in Department6
Popularity at School6.42%
73%
OSR Score
The MS in Education degree at ODU requires that you have a Virginia Professional License or an equivalent from another state prior to enrollment. Some classes in this program follow live, regularly scheduled times, while others are more flexible. Throughout your coursework, you will have an academic advisor who will help you through any difficulties.
Northern Kentucky University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,512(in state) / $16,164(out of state)
- Requires 30 credits
- Requires prior teaching licensure for admission
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction75.40%
Admission Rate90%
Programs offered online14
Program Level
Median Debt$21,882
Programs in Department4
Popularity at School7.32%
72%
OSR Score
NKU offers an excellent MA in Education – Teacher as Leader in Curriculum & Instruction program. The goal here is to teach you how to develop effective curricula, integrate technology in the classroom, and evaluate how your students are learning. After completion of the program, you can attain the Rank 2 teaching certification in Kentucky.
Marshall University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,966(in state) / $18,400(out of state)
- Requires 36 credits
- No Praxis II exam required
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction77.00%
Admission Rate90%
Programs offered online4
Program Level
Median Debt$27,255
Programs in Department4
Popularity at School11.80%
72%
OSR Score
Marshall University offers an MA in Education with an Elementary Mathematics Specialist emphasis. This program is aimed at those who want to learn progressive mathematics pedagogy for elementary school students. After completion of the program, you can apply for the Elementary Mathematics Specialist endorsement.
Wisconsin Lutheran College
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,810(in state) / $9,810(out of state)
- Requires 42 credits
- Features Christian-based education
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student Satisfaction81.40%
Admission Rate90%
Programs offered online1
Program Level
Median DebtNot Reported
Programs in Department8
Popularity at School7.98%
71%
OSR Score
WLC offers a Transition to Teaching program that is designed for bachelor’s-level degree holders or mid-career professionals who want to transition into teaching. Prior to graduation, you will be required to complete a capstone that melds pedagogy and practice. This program does lead to elementary certification upon completion.
The University of Alabama
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,780(in state) / $28,100(out of state)
- Requires 30-36 credits
- GRE/MAT scores required
Program Web Page
School Wide
Student SatisfactionNot Reported
Admission Rate53%
Programs offered online10
Program Level
Median Debt$29,877
Programs in Department3
Popularity at School7.82%
71%
OSR Score
The University of Alabama offers an MA in Elementary Education designed for new and veteran teachers alike. In order to be eligible for the program, you must have a bachelor’s-level teaching certificate. Once enrolled, you can customize your program by choosing two specialties from a list of five, including options in Language Arts, Mathematics, and Social Studies.