Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

Amy Boyington
By
Updated on September 13, 2024
Edited by
Reviewed by
Our Integrity Network

BestColleges.com is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for BestColleges.com as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

Learn more about our editorial process
If you love working with children, a bachelor’s in elementary education can kickstart your career. Discover the best elementary education programs here.
BestColleges Top-Ranked-2024 Badge2024

Do you miss the days of using candy to learn division and Play-Doh to create shapes? Well, maybe you should go back to elementary school — just not as a student.

A bachelor’s degree in elementary education prepares you to work as a K-5 or K-6 teacher.

In an elementary education program, you’ll study instruction techniques and ways to teach specific subjects like literature and social studies. And your coursework will also prepare you for certification exams.

If you’re considering an online elementary education degree, here’s what to do next:

  • Explore this page to determine whether this path is the right choice for you.
  • Check out the top-ranked online bachelor’s in elementary education programs, as well as our sponsored programs.
  • Request more information from schools you’re interested in to find the best fit for you.

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site

The 10 Best Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

#1 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

University of Northern Iowa

  • Location-markerCedar Falls, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$8,111
  • Out-of-state$19,265
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,691
  • Out-of-state$20,774
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate95%
  • Students Enrolled8,848
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment54%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

University of South Carolina-Columbia

  • Location-markerColumbia, SC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$12,288
  • Out-of-state$33,528
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$13,374
  • Out-of-state$29,760
  • Retention Rate90%
  • Acceptance Rate64%
  • Students Enrolled36,035
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment56%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

Drexel University

  • Location-markerPhiladelphia, PA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$54,766
  • Out-of-state$54,766
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$36,234
  • Out-of-state$36,234
  • Retention Rate90%
  • Acceptance Rate83%
  • Students Enrolled23,216
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment50%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

  • Location-markerStillwater, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,417
  • Out-of-state$20,937
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,208
  • Out-of-state$15,836
  • Retention Rate84%
  • Acceptance Rate71%
  • Students Enrolled25,390
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment52%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

  • Location-markerCharlotte, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,812
  • Out-of-state$17,936
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,337
  • Out-of-state$18,482
  • Retention Rate84%
  • Acceptance Rate80%
  • Students Enrolled29,668
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment69%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

Kansas State University

  • Location-markerManhattan, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,632
  • Out-of-state$25,944
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,294
  • Out-of-state$23,018
  • Retention Rate86%
  • Acceptance Rate95%
  • Students Enrolled19,707
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment44%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

University of North Dakota

  • Location-markerGrand Forks, ND
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$8,882
  • Out-of-state$13,324
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,963
  • Out-of-state$17,944
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate83%
  • Students Enrolled13,917
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment70%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

Viterbo University

  • Location-markerLa Crosse, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$29,230
  • Out-of-state$29,230
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,488
  • Out-of-state$9,488
  • Retention Rate74%
  • Acceptance Rate77%
  • Students Enrolled2,520
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment51%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

Buena Vista University

  • Location-markerStorm Lake, IA
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$37,518
  • Out-of-state$37,518
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,936
  • Out-of-state$9,936
  • Retention Rate76%
  • Acceptance Rate78%
  • Students Enrolled1,242
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Top Online Elementary Education Programs of 2024

Campbell University

  • Location-markerBuies Creek, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$35,580
  • Out-of-state$35,580
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$14,041
  • Out-of-state$14,041
  • Retention Rate75%
  • Acceptance Rate89%
  • Students Enrolled5,259
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment27%
  • AccreditationYes

badge-check How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Online Bachelor’s in Elementary Education Coursework

Earning an online elementary education degree requires a significant amount of time and money. So it’s important to understand what these programs entail before making a commitment.

In this section, we cover some common program elements to help you make an informed decision.

Courses

While coursework can vary from school to school, most elementary education curricula cover similar topics to prepare you for the classroom.

Common courses include:

  • Educational Technology
  • Children’s Literature and Literacy Instruction
  • Social Studies in the Elementary Classroom
  • Reading and Language in the Elementary Classroom
  • Classroom Management
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Elementary School Settings

Specializations

In addition to foundational core coursework, some schools also offer specializations like:

Student Teaching

As with other K-12 education degrees, if you’re seeking an elementary education degree online, you typically need to complete student teaching experience to qualify for graduation and licensure.

Student teaching usually lasts a full semester and is a required, unpaid part of the degree. Keep in mind that specific time requirements vary by state, so you should check with your board of education for more details.

How Much Does an Online Bachelor’s in Elementary Education Cost?

Average Annual Cost of a Bachelor’s Degree

Tuition & Fees | 2022-2023

$17,709

Total Cost | 2022-2023

$30,884

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

A bachelor’s degree in elementary education — like any college degree — is a financial commitment. While public institutions typically cost less than private institutions, both cost chunks of change to complete.

But there’s some good news: You can make your degree more affordable through scholarships for education majors. Federal and private student loans are also available, too. For those taking federal student loans, many teachers also qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).

Elementary Education Scholarships:

Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program

The Underwood-Smith Teaching Scholars Program grants students pursuing a teaching career in a West Virginia public school up to $10,000 per year for four years to use toward tuition, fees, and relevant college expenses. After graduating, recipients must teach elementary education, special education, math, or science in an eligible school for at least five years.


Mrs. Prindables Future Educator Scholarship

The Future Educator Scholarship from Mrs. Prindables awards $1,000 each year to one student majoring in education, applicable to their tuition and related expenses. Students must fill out an online form to apply and explain their reasons for becoming an educator.


Gates Millennium Scholars Program

Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program offers renewable scholarships for diverse students in need who study education or other fields. The award goes to 1,000 students annually, with an average annual scholarship of more than $12,000.

Read More:How to Find Scholarships for College Students: Top 12 Resourcesarrow-right

Read More:Scholarships for Education Majorsarrow-right

How Do I Choose a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education Degree Program?

To ensure that your degree aligns with your goals as an educator, look for a bachelor’s degree in elementary education that fits your learning style, interests, and educational needs. Consider the following as you search for the right elementary education degree online.

Cost

The cost of an online program varies significantly by school. While public schools tend to have lower tuition rates than private schools, many private schools don’t charge higher rates for out-of-state online students. If you’re considering pursuing an online elementary education degree in another state, you might find a private school more cost-effective.

Don’t forget to include the cost of books and fees in your total costs when comparing programs.

Program Format

An online elementary education degree may have synchronous or asynchronous coursework or a blend of both. Synchronous courses require you to meet virtually for live classes at specific times, while asynchronous courses don’t have set meeting times. If you prefer a more self-paced format, you need an asynchronous program.

Also, remember that many elementary education programs require student teaching, usually in person. See if you can complete your student teaching requirements at a school of your choice, especially if you live out of state.

Location

Online and on-campus programs offer the same curriculum, so you don’t need to worry about not having a quality education if you study online. Just be aware that some programs may change certain elements — like practicums and labs — depending on the delivery method.

However, the cost of online and in-person degrees sometimes varies. Some schools have a separate tuition rate for online learners but may tack on a per-credit or per-semester technology fee to access the school’s virtual services.

To stick to your budget, consider looking for a school that includes digital textbooks and materials in your tuition costs and charges minimal or no technology fees to online learners.

Accreditation

If you plan to become a licensed educator, look for an elementary education degree from an accredited college or university. Accreditation spotlights schools providing high-quality academics through a supportive environment.

You can usually find accreditation information on a school’s website, but be sure to cross-check their accreditation status on the accrediting body’s website.

Institutional accreditation is important for legitimacy and transfer credits, but programmatic accreditation is important too. For elementary education degrees online, check for accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Student Support

Student support services are important to every student, but can be especially helpful to you as an online learner. Services like online tutoring, career coaching, and virtual socialization and networking events can give you academic and social support while keeping you involved in your school.

If you can’t find information about a school’s support service on its website, contact an academic advisor to ask what’s available.

Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education Worth It?

A bachelor’s in elementary education is worth it for those seeking a job as an elementary school teacher. Many states require a degree in elementary education in order to teach. You’ll also prepare for any necessary licensing exams and complete student-teaching experience.

When making a decision on whether a bachelor’s in education is worth it for you, it’s important to consider your own interests and economic situation. A degree is a large investment, and you should measure the return on investment (ROI) of your college degree.

With an average annual salary of $63,670 (The Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023), you may wish to consider scholarships or loan-forgiveness programs to make your degree more affordable.

What Jobs Can You Get With a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education?

An elementary education degree often leads to teaching roles for preschool or elementary-aged students. However, other career possibilities besides those listed below are available for graduates. For example, some graduates may lead community youth programs or tutor children just learning to read.

Because many elementary education programs require students to complete several hours of student-teaching in real classrooms to graduate, they prepare learners well for various relevant careers, whether in or out of the classroom.

The following careers are some of the most common to pursue after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.

Elementary Education Careers and Wages
Elementary Education CareerMedian Annual Wage (2023)
Kindergarten or Elementary School Teacher$63,680
Childcare Worker$30,370
Preschool Teacher$37,130
Special Education Teacher$67,190
Social and Community Service Managers$77,030
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

If you plan to move forward with a master’s degree in elementary education, you could broaden your opportunities with potential careers such as principal or instructional coordinator.

Frequently Asked Questions About a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education

Most elementary teachers have a bachelor’s degree in elementary education or general education. An elementary education degree provides specialized knowledge future teachers need to teach elementary school students, like giving assessments and building literacy skills.

Explore More College Resources

Best Online Master’s in Higher Education Programs

Best Online Master’s in Higher Education Programs

Earn your online master’s degree in higher education to prepare for a dynamic and challenging career in university administration or a related field.

Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

by Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

Updated April 30, 2024

Best Online Master’s in Secondary Education Programs

Best Online Master’s in Secondary Education Programs

Online master’s in secondary education programs can prepare you for a slew of teaching and administrator positions. Here are the top online programs.

Margaret Attridge

by Margaret Attridge

Updated May 28, 2024

Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Best Online Early Childhood Education Programs of 2024

Explore early childhood education programs that provide the highest return on investment and what you need to know about this degree.

Margaret Attridge

by Margaret Attridge

Updated June 25, 2024