Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education Programs Guide

Online schooling is presently the more preferred mode of study for most students, especially in furthering education beyond a first degree. The online masters in elementary education is one of such online degrees that make life easier for scholars.

Flexible home study schedule is ideal for students with part-time jobs, childcare obligations and other important commitments. Moreso, it often comes with ample options like convenient time of study.

Basically, the idea of studying from any part of the world for the same degree holds a plethora of enticement for everyone or at least, most persons.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a non-educational field, this online master’s program is a direct way to become a certified elementary school teacher. Even better, you’ll be ready to meet licensing requirements in many states.

Table of Contents
  1. What is a Masters Degree in Elementary Education?
  2. How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Masters in Elementary Education?
  3. What Do I Need to Earn a Masters Degree in Elementary Education Online?
  4. Online Master’s in Elementary Education Admissions Requirements
  5. Why Should You Get An Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education other than Traditional On-campus Program?
  6. Benefits of Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education
  7. What Can I Do with an Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education other than Teaching Elementary School?
  8. How Can I Get a Masters Degree in Elementary Education Online?
    1. 1. Select the Best Online Schools for Your Master’s Degree in Elementary Education
    2. 2. Choose the Cheapest and Most Affordable Online Schools for Masters in Elementary Education
    3. 3. Choose an Accredited Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education Program
  9. How to Choose the Best Online Elementary Education Program?
  10. What is the Best Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education Programs in 2024?
    1. Ranking Methodology
    2. Mississippi College
    3. University of West Florida
    4. Saint Thomas University
    5. The University of Alabama
    6. University of North Dakota
    7. Appalachian State University
    8. Liberty University
    9. Ball State University
    10. Western Governors University
    11. Troy University
  11. What Else Can I Expect From an Online Masters in Elementary Education Program?
    1. Accreditation for Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees
    2. The Curriculum for an Online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education
    3. Certifications and Licenses an Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Holder Prepares For
  12. How Much Can You Make with an Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education?
  13. Online Master’s in Elementary Education Careers
    1. Prospective Job Outlooks
  14. Online Masters in Elementary Education FAQs
  15. Conclusion
  16. References
  17. Recommendations

What is a Masters Degree in Elementary Education?

What is a Master’s in Elementary Education? These curricula generally focus specifically on the needs of educators in the primary school system. Above all, they are intended for older liberal arts colleges who want to feed the next generation of students. Topics of study often include teaching techniques, classroom management methods, and common educational models. Students can learn to communicate effectively with school-age children and the parents of their students.

After completing one of these programs, graduates can design a curriculum that maximizes student learning outcomes. They must also have a sufficient understanding of psychology learning to detect developmental problems in the child. Programs generally reinforce public speaking and communication techniques.

The costs of these programs vary widely. To get the best value, students should consider traditional and online universities. The admission services of these establishments can provide more specific cost details.

Most graduates enter the field of education as teachers, but even within this specific professional outcome, there are many variations. Educators are needed in almost every community, and graduates may have the opportunity to work and live. There is also the possibility of specializing in specific subjects such as art, history, or mathematics. Some students further refine their experience with more academic training and a transition to work as school counselors, administrators, and psychologists.

You Can Check Out These 10 Cheapest Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Masters in Elementary Education?

Online Master’s degrees generally require 30 to 36 credits to complete, and students generally take 15 to 18 credits each year to graduate in two years. However, some elementary education master’s programs require more than 40 credits. For these elementary education programs, degree applicants must register to earn more than 20 credits per year or to spend more than two years in school.

The number of courses students must take per semester also varies based on the number of semesters offered during the school year. While more traditional schools offer fall, spring, and summer courses, online programs sometimes offer five or more enrollment sessions during the year. With these additional semesters, students can take fewer courses at a time or enroll in the same number of credits each semester to graduate quickly.

Students may also take additional courses each semester, although schools may charge additional tuition fees for course overcharges. Students who need more time to complete a degree may enroll in fewer courses per semester, but this part-time status can lead to higher tuition rates and fewer financial aid options.

What Do I Need to Earn a Masters Degree in Elementary Education Online?

There are many factors to consider when dealing with young students, so there are various educational requirements and regulations for teaching in elementary school. All states require that elementary teachers have at least a bachelor’s degree. Most teachers specialize in elementary education, while some states require that they also specialize in a content area, such as social studies or history. Other specialized teachers in fields related to relevant elementary education courses and field classroom training.

Prospective teachers generally join the teacher preparation program at their university, where they can learn more about best teaching practices, age-appropriate study programs, and child psychology. These courses allow them to prepare to teach children with different abilities, backgrounds, and needs. Some states require teachers to earn a master’s degree after earning their instructional certification. Therefore, it is important to verify the requirements of the state in which you want to teach.

If you want to specialize and work with a particular group of children, such as gifted children or children with special needs, you will need additional training to gain approval in your specialty area.

For now, let’s take a look at how online elementary degree programs work compared to traditional programs.

Online Master’s in Elementary Education Admissions Requirements

Applicants for online master’s degree programs in elementary education often need to have a valid certification or teaching license. And some programs require this license to be in elementary education.

They must also have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, and some programs require that the degree is in elementary education. Finally, certain study programs require satisfactory GRE or MAT scores.

However, taking an online masters degree in elementary education may not requure so much.

Why Should You Get An Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education other than Traditional On-campus Program?

Earning an online master’s degree in elementary education can be ideal for teachers and education professionals who want to occupy leadership positions. Education employment opportunities continue to grow at the national average rate for all occupations.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for elementary school teachers are expected to increase by 7% between 2016 and 2026. In addition, jobs for elementary school principals are expected to increase by 8% and jobs for pedagogical coordinators. 10% percent during the same period.

Unlike a Master of Arts in Education, which assumes that students are not certified teachers, an online Master of Education is a good option for teachers who want to improve their skills and advance their careers.

An online master’s degree program in elementary education offers flexibility to students who are also professionals. Web-based programs generally follow the same rigorous curriculum as physical options, creating similar advancement opportunities for graduates. The online format is also ideal for students facing additional commitments, such as childcare or family care, in addition to their work and class hours.

Benefits of Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education

The benefits of an online education program include flexibility, convenience, and accessibility. Therefore, an online M.Ed is the best option for students who are short on time, want to access a program from a remote campus, or who cannot (or simply do not want to) leave work or personal movement for school.

You can take online courses at home, or from your office after work or your hotel on vacation, and the time commitment is limited to life courses, homework, and studies. Commuting is not required. Masters Degree in Elementary Education online programs are therefore ideal for:

  • Full-time workers;
  • Parents who work or stay at home;
  • Those who can’t relocate or commute to school;
  • Those who live far from the desired program with an online component.

An online master’s degree in elementary education can also allow students to graduate faster than would be possible in a traditional campus program. Travel logistics may require a student on campus to continue their studies part-time. While the flexibility and convenience of an online program could allow them to take a full-time course load. The difference between pursuing a full-time and part-time M.E.d could be the difference in graduating in a year or three!

But again, that doesn’t mean that an online master’s degree in elementary education program is good for everyone. There are a variety of factors that could lead to a more logical traditional format for your education.

What Can I Do with an Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education other than Teaching Elementary School?

People who wish to become principals must have an online master’s degree in elementary education. But other than that, there are other careers you can venture into besides being an elementary school teacher.

Another option for teachers with an online master’s degree in education is to pursue a career as an instructional coordinator. Sometimes called “program managers,” instructional coordinators are responsible for setting the school’s teaching standards and designing the educational program for a school district.

These professionals work with school administrators to create and implement new and improved teaching strategies. Instructional coordinators must have a master’s degree in education.

Similarly, individuals with a basic master’s degree can also play a role in federal, state, or local government departments that shape education policy. With a direct understanding of elementary education, policymakers can work with politicians to assess the effects of existing legislation. As well as help draft legislation, and develop budget recommendations for new projects in elementary schools.

Students pursuing an online master’s degree in elementary education may also be qualified to work as school counselors. This professional career involves working directly with students to help them through difficult times. As well as help them solve problems and respond to specific concerns or problems they may have, academically or with relationships with their peers.

Becoming a counselor is a viable option for those who want a graduate degree and who want to help students but don’t want to teach a specific subject.

As this guide shows, many careers open to students after completing an online masters’ degree in elementary education. The leadership, organization, and teaching skills acquired during this degree are useful in virtually all positions with an educational component. Especially for those who work with children.

How Can I Get a Masters Degree in Elementary Education Online?

Here is our simple procedure of how to get an online Masters degree in Elementary Education:

1. Select the Best Online Schools for Your Master’s Degree in Elementary Education

When choosing an online elementary education degree, keep in mind that all schools offer their students unique strengths and resources. In addition to considering tuition fees and length of study, choose a school that offers opportunities to develop a solid foundation of skills or offers a specialized area of ​​expertise within a degree in Elementary education.

The best schools tailor training and education to each student to prepare them as a standout option for potential employers. In the ranked list that follows, we provide essential details of the best online elementary education programs to help you make an informed choice for your academic goals and career aspirations.

2. Choose the Cheapest and Most Affordable Online Schools for Masters in Elementary Education

Another factor you need to consider is the tuition fee. Masters in Elementary Education programs are always very expensive. Hence, it is very much important that you choose the schools that are cheap so you won’t have to be paying your bills even after graduating.

Though there is no university that you can say their tuition for Masters program is cheap, yet there are schools that their tuition is considerably lower than others. Apply to those schools.

But if you are keen to study in the best school not minding the cost, then go for it. It all depends on what you really want. However, most of these schools that offer online programs have scholarships in elementary education that you can apply for.

Our Online scholarship category has the best scholarships for a Master’s degree in Elementary Education that you can apply for in any part of the world.

3. Choose an Accredited Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education Program

Accreditation status is one of the most important considerations for future master’s degree students in elementary education. Colleges and universities in the United States receive accreditation from organizations recognized by the United States Department of Education. The accreditation process involves a comprehensive review of the school’s educational programs and student services.

Accreditation of a school has an impact on the transferability of course credits, as well as the eligibility of students for federal financial assistance, so students must ensure that the school offering the program has obtained national accreditation or regional accreditation.

How to Choose the Best Online Elementary Education Program?

Several important factors affect the online degree program to choose from. Each school has unique characteristics, online resources, and faculty members for its elementary education program. In addition to cost, graduation rates, and retention rates, consider what teachers, student resources, and major programs of study offer in terms of career readiness.

The value of an education is also related to the reputation and accreditation status of a school. Below is a guide on how you can choose the kind of program you should get to study.

Students pursuing a master’s degree in elementary education online is free to choose a concentration. For example, you could focus your studies on literacy, curriculum development, social justice, special education, early childhood education, or English as a second language.

An increasing number of programs offer concentrations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Having these options can be helpful if you have a career or specific interest that you want to pursue.

You can also study literacy and classroom management concepts. Each course gives you an in-depth understanding of a key aspect of teaching and learning from kindergarten through sixth grade.

Most online master’s degree programs in elementary education require an internship or training. Students learn from established teachers, school principals, administrators, or counselors during their daily work. Some programs also require a final thesis or a synthesis project.

However, an academic advisor can help decide which courses best fit your needs.

What is the Best Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education Programs in 2024?

If you’re curious about how we compile our rankings, be sure to take a few moments to check out the World Scholarship Forum Ranking Methodology.

Here is a list of 10 Best Masters Degree Programs in Elementary Education Online in 2024:

What Else Can I Expect From an Online Masters in Elementary Education Program?

There are no two online master’s degrees in elementary education programs that are the same. And the experiences you have and the courses you take vary depending on the school you choose.

However, there are common themes that you will likely encounter, including literacy, classroom management, leadership, and child development.

Below are three examples of what you should be expecting when you enroll in an online master’s degree for an elementary teacher.

Accreditation for Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees

Basically, when looking for online master’s programs in elementary education, one factor to consider is the accreditation status of each school. Regional accreditation is by far the most common form of accreditation and is generally considered to be more prestigious.

However, many nationally accredited schools offer strong programs and tend to be more affordable than their regionally accredited counterparts. On the other hand, students from nationally accredited schools may have a harder time finding a job or receiving federal financial assistance. Eliminate any consideration of colleges or universities that do not have any type of accreditation.

There are five regional accreditation agencies to search for when viewing online master’s degrees in elementary education.

These include the Higher Learning Commission, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Meanwhile, the national accreditors include the Distance Education Accrediting Council and the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

In addition, most online master’s degree programs in elementary education receive special certification from the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

The Curriculum for an Online Master’s Degree in Elementary Education

In this class, the elementary school teacher’s online students learn how to help children become qualified readers. The course covers topics such as word recognition, phonetics, print concepts, and independent reading.

Applicants also assess the common barriers children face in developing reading and writing skills and how teachers can help them overcome these challenges.

Students specifically learn about the different ways that children develop socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically. The course also covers the principles, theories, and best practices for creating and implementing research-based classroom learning experiences suitable for children ages 5-12.

In this course, students learn to design and implement collaborative, individualized classroom environments for engagement, social interaction, and independent learning. The course also explains how teachers can build strong relationships with students, families, colleagues, and principals. Applicants learn to foster children’s emotional, social, intellectual, and physical growth.

STEM applicants can expect courses based on analytical areas. Most importantly, graduates of this sector develop teaching strategies that engage and interest children for better student participation. Above all, graduates can become teachers in STEM fields.

These programs include many general concepts of education with particular emphasis on the curriculum designed for gifted children. However, students at this concentration are preparing to teach gifted and talented students in the classroom. Graduates may also offer extracurricular programs for advanced students.

Certifications and Licenses an Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Holder Prepares For

Many online master’s degrees in elementary education prepare students for a license to teach from kindergarten through sixth grade. Generally, you can transfer your license to a new state if you meet the requirements of the new state.

Almost all teaching jobs in public and private schools require a license. Hence, getting a license after pursuing you masters degree is important.

In order to serve as a principal, you will need an educational administration license. An online master’s degree program in elementary education can help applicants meet the requirements for this certification. You will also likely need to have significant teaching experience, pass an exam, and pass a background check. Find online masters in elementary education programs that allow you to meet these requirements and specialize in the principal.

How Much Can You Make with an Online Masters Degree in Elementary Education?

You can pursue a wide range of careers with a master’s degree in elementary education. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that teaching positions, including kindergarten, preschool, and elementary, will increase by 7 to 8% by 2026.

According to Payscale, acquiring a Masters Degree in Elementary Education with a focus on one area of A major such as science, reading, or Spanish can increase earning potential.

Online Master’s in Elementary Education Careers

Professionals with an online master’s degree in elementary education have a variety of career options. While some remain in the classroom as teachers, many others become directors, counselors, and curriculum specialists. Whatever may be your career path, as a professional you must have strong leadership, organization, and communication skills.

Please note that no degree whether bachelor or master and PhD guarantees a particular career or salary. The section below lists several careers that are typically pursued by graduates of a bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degree in elementary education.

You Can Check Out Top 21 Careers In Education and Salaries

Prospective Job Outlooks

Basically, an elementary principal is responsible for the management of schools, staff, and students. Also, these principals develop and apply program standards, provide guidance and discipline to students, and evaluate teacher performance.

In addition, they can meet with parents regularly and develop plans to improve academic achievement. Additionally, school principals are responsible for ensuring the safety of the school, as well as budgeting, supervising maintenance, and approving class schedules.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Median Annual Salary is $94,390, and the Projected Growth Rate is 8%.

School counselors respond to the social and emotional needs of young students. They assess the root causes of problems such as poor school attendance, delays, and misbehavior.

Counselors can also help students develop key skills like time management, positive study habits, and organization. Sometimes they work with parents and refer children to various support services.

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the the Median Annual Salary is $55,410, and the Projected Growth Rate is 13%.

Specifically, Instructional coordinator professionals continually improve the curriculum and education provided to students. Also, they plan and direct teacher training, review student test data, provide advice on teaching methods and adjust curriculum standards as needed.

Instructional coordinators must also keep abreast of technological change and research-based best practices.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Median Annual Salary is $63,750 and the Projected Growth Rate is 11%.

Although they are in the elementary education profession, those with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education have the organizational, interpersonal, and leadership skills necessary to be managers of social or community services. They often work in communities to develop service programs for children, the homeless, the elderly, and veterans.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Median Annual Salary is $64,100 and the Projected Growth Rate is 18%.

Basically, teaching assistants help reinforce the lessons presented by the head instructor by reviewing the material with students. Attendees work individually or in small groups.

However, some assistants specialize in working with children with special needs, including the blind, the deaf, autistic, and students with learning disabilities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Median Annual Salary is $26,260 and the Projected Growth Rate is 13%.

Recreational work is another popular career path outside of the traditional elementary school setting. In these positions, highly organized and qualified instructors work with people from all walks of life.

Recreation workers often work with children in summer camps, gyms, aquatics centers, libraries, and public parks.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Median Annual Salary is $24,540 and the Projected Growth Rate is 16%.

Online Masters in Elementary Education FAQs

What is a Master’s in Elementary Education? These curricula generally focus specifically on the needs of educators in the primary school system. They are intended for older liberal arts colleges who want to feed the next generation of students. Topics of study often include teaching techniques, classroom management methods, and common educational models. Students can learn to communicate effectively with school-age children and the parents of their students.

Online Master’s degrees generally require 30 to 36 credits to complete, and students generally take 15 to 18 credits each year to graduate in two years. However, some elementary education master’s programs require more than 40 credits. For these elementary education programs, degree applicants must register to earn more than 20 credits per year or to spend more than two years in school.

There are many factors to consider when dealing with young students, so there are various educational requirements and regulations for teaching in elementary school. Some states require teachers to earn a master’s degree after earning their instructional certification. Therefore, it is important to verify the requirements of the state in which you want to teach.

Applicants for online master’s degree programs in elementary education often need to have a valid certification or teaching license. And some programs require this license to be in elementary education.

Conclusion

The online master’s program in elementary education emphasizes the education of children from kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade. This is a guide to help you throughout your application process.

Most importantly, this guide answers all the questions you have been asking about choosing an online master’s degree program in elementary education.

References

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