Elementary education typically includes kindergarten through fifth grade. These pivotal years help students prepare for more complex learning through middle and high school while giving them the tools they need for academic, social, and developmental success.
As of the 2020-2021 school year, 41% of all public school teachers in the United States had a bachelor's degree as their highest academic achievement, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
An online bachelor's in elementary education explores early literacy, classroom management techniques, and foundational education skills for elementary classroom teachers. Additional career options, like paraprofessional, childcare center director, and special education teacher, are also available for graduates.
Continue exploring this page to learn what to expect from an elementary education degree.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
5 Best Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Degrees
Price Check
Check with your state for educator tuition breaks. Several states, including Iowa and West Virginia, have or are considering implementing tuition-free or discounted education programs to combat educator shortages.
Why Should I Get an Elementary Education Degree Online
This rewarding career path positively impacts the lives of children.
An elementary education degree can lead to careers in teaching or beyond the classroom setting.
Online programs offer flexible scheduling and the ability to learn from anywhere.
Learners participate in student teaching experiences to gain real-world skills.
Some programs lead directly to state teaching licensure.
A bachelor's degree in elementary education is the basis for additional academic opportunities in the field, including a master's degree or doctorate in education.
What Would I Learn in an Elementary Education Degree Program?
The curricula for elementary education degrees blend theory and practice. During an online elementary education program, learners examine best practices for building literacy skills, assessing student learning, and designing lesson plans. Many programs offer science instruction, educational technology, and special education courses.
During student teaching, elementary education majors apply their knowledge in classroom settings. Distance learners typically complete student teaching requirements at local schools and receive placement assistance.
Common Courses in Elementary Education Degree Programs
Childhood development and psychology
Introduction to curriculum and assessment
Elementary literacy
Effective planning and instruction strategies
Teaching reading to diverse learners
Integrating technology into the classroom
Social studies and the arts instruction and assessment
Social justice for educators
How Much Does an Online Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education Cost?
The cost of an elementary education degree varies by school and learning format. According to EducationData.org, in-state tuition at public universities costs an average of $9,678 per year. However, learners at private schools pay an average of $38,768 per year in tuition and fees. Since a bachelor's degree usually requires four years, students may pay $40,000-$160,000 for an online elementary education degree.
Additional Online Student Fees
In addition to tuition costs, prospective students should budget for fees and expenses. Online learners may pay additional technology or graduation fees. Degree-seekers should also factor in the cost of books and supplies, which cost an average of $1,216 per year at four-year public schools, according to EducationData.org.
Some online programs feature in-person requirements, so learners should budget for travel expenses. Distance learners may also need new laptops and high-speed internet. Elementary education majors should also research state teaching licensure costs.
Scholarships and Grants for Elementary Education Majors
TEACH grant: The TEACH grant is for students pursuing a teaching career in a high-need subject area, like math or bilingual education. This federal grant provides up to $4,000 a year for students to complete their program, but they must commit to teaching for at least four years at a school serving low-income students.
PDK Educational Foundation Scholarship Program: These scholarships offer one-time awards of up to $4,000 for students pursuing public education careers. Applicants must be a member of a named educational organization, including the PDK Association and Educators Rising.
Montessori Teacher Education Scholarships: Future educators attending American Montessori Society-affiliated programs can apply for this scholarship. The application period typically opens for the upcoming school year in February.
Careers in Elementary Education
Commonly, graduates of elementary education programs pursue careers as elementary school teachers, instructing classes of students in kindergarten to fifth grade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), elementary school teachers earned a median salary of $61,620 as of 2022. The BLS projects only a 1% employment growth rate from 2022-2032 — lower than the 3% average for all occupations.
This degree can also lead to other education-focused careers, including the following:
Special Education Teacher: Special education teachers work with students who have physical, emotional, and educational needs.
Median salary (2022): $62,950
Job Growth (2022-32): 0%
Paraprofessional: Also known as teacher assistants, paraprofessionals help teachers with classroom needs, including supervising students, taking attendance, and helping learners with assignments.
Median salary (2022): $30,920
Job Growth (2022-32): 0%
Childcare Center Director: Childcare center directors supervise the staff and operations of childcare centers. These professionals frequently assess instructional practices, family communication, and curriculum.
Median salary (2022): $49,690
Job Growth (2022-32): -3%
Licensure for Teachers
Public school teachers need state licensure. Prospective elementary school teachers should research their state's requirements, as licensure varies by jurisdiction. Most states require a candidate to hold a bachelor's degree and complete an approved teacher training program. An online elementary education degree can meet licensure requirements.
Licensure candidates must pass an exam testing their knowledge of pedagogy, elementary subjects, and teaching methods. Some states also require a background check and student teaching experience.
Licensed educators complete continuing education to maintain licensure. Experienced teachers and master's degree-holders may qualify for advanced licensure. Some states also require school administrators to hold licensure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elementary Education Degrees
What are the admission requirements for an online elementary education bachelor's program?
Elementary education degrees typically require applicants to submit official high school transcripts and have a minimum 2.0 GPA. State-approved programs that lead to licensure may have additional requirements, like a 3.0 GPA and prerequisite coursework in math, English, history, and science.
How long does a bachelor's program in elementary education take?
A typical bachelor's program in elementary education includes 120 credits and takes about four years to complete. However, some programs offer accelerated or part-time formats to help students align their degrees with their schedules.
Is an elementary education major worth it?
An elementary education degree is the first step toward becoming a licensed teacher in most states, making it a worthwhile venture for prospective elementary school teachers. These programs can also benefit students interested in becoming special education teachers or childcare center directors.
What state pays elementary teachers the most?
According to BLS data from 2022, California pays elementary teachers the highest average salary ($90,470), followed by New York ($89,580), Washington ($85,580), and Connecticut ($84,580). Ten other states also pay elementary teachers an average salary of at least $67,980.
What degree do most elementary teachers have?
The most common degree for elementary teachers is a bachelor's in elementary education or a similar education-related degree. However, depending on their state's requirements, some teachers may have degrees in specific subject areas they'd like to teach, like music education or math.
