Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Programs
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- A bachelor's degree in education can set future teachers on the path toward licensure.
- Although education degrees are available online, learners should be prepared to complete student teaching requirements in person.
- States have various requirements for licensure beyond a bachelor's degree in education.
- Students seeking licensure for specific subjects or grades can pursue different education degrees, like a special education or elementary education degree.
An online bachelor's in education program helped Roma EsteMcDonald fulfill her dream of becoming a teacher. "A traditional degree would have required me to attend classes on campus, take 3-4 classes per semester, and pay way too much money," she said. She earned her education degree in interdisciplinary studies (K-8) online.
An online program's flexibility is helping Candi C. earn her degree in elementary education with a specialization in middle school social studies. "The benefit for me [of] doing online courses is that I can still work," she said.
Best Online Bachelor's in Education Degrees
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Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $390 (Full-time) $460 (Part-time)
Out of State | $390 (Full-time) $460 (Part-time)
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
LU’s bachelor's of science in special education is a non-licensure track that builds a foundation in interdisciplinary studies. Topics covered include learning and behavior problems, autism spectrum disorders, and intervention for students with intellectual disabilities.
You need a GPA of 2.0 or above for this special education degree. You'll need to submit an application, official transcripts, official high school transcripts or a self-certification form, and an application fee. Graduates may be able to complete an MA in teaching and earn licensure after program completion.
Bay Path University
Longmeadow, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $410
Out of State | $410
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education
BPU's online bachelor of education, offered through The American Women's College, prepares you with an understanding of the psychology of early childhood development, including behavior, personality, and cognitive growth. You can choose from four online bachelor's degree tracks: early childhood education, early childhood leadership, education studies, or elementary education.
To apply, you'll need to submit an application and official high school transcript from an accredited school or high school equivalency certificate. You can also submit optional writing samples, essays, or letters of recommendation. Note that this program is for women only.
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $399
Out of State | $399
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
In WilmU's BS in education program, you can choose from four concentrations: early childhood education, elementary education, middle-level education, or skilled and technical sciences.
Each program offers an interdisciplinary foundation of general education and explores child development, learning theories, educational psychology, and best practices in education.
To apply to WilmU's education program, you'll need to submit an application, official transcripts, and immunization records, along with a $35 application fee. You'll need to take placement tests after submitting the application.
Franklin Pierce University
Rindge, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $399
Out of State | $399
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education
FPU's BA in elementary education, secondary education, or special education degree gives you tools to create a nurturing classroom and instill a lifetime love of learning.
You'll get hands-on experience throughout the program along with mentoring in a supportive community of educators. In FPU's education program, you can choose from seven specializations.
To apply, you'll need to submit an application, an official high school transcript or GED, a letter of recommendation, and an essay. Standardized test scores aren't required.
Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $641
Out of State | $641
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
ASU bachelor of education (BAE) lets you choose from 11 core tracks including business, community health, and environmental education. You can also earn an accelerated BAE with a master's in education policy or learning sciences in five years.
To apply for ASU's education program, submit an application and official transcripts, and pay the application fee of $50 to $85. For acceptance, you'll need to be in the top 25% of your high school class, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, or meet optional standardized test score requirements.
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $265
Out of State | $673
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
You can choose between two tracks in TTU's online bachelor of science in education: English as a second language or special education. You can select an additional focus area, including bilingual education, STEM education, literacy education, or AVID education.
To apply to TTU's education program, you'll need to submit an application with your academic record and pay the $75 application fee. Letters of recommendation, essays, resumes, and test scores are optional.
North Greenville University
Tigerville, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $395
Out of State | $395
Credits to Graduate
117
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
NGU's online bachelor of arts in elementary education offers a track to help young students thrive academically, spiritually, and socially. Coursework includes educational psychology, historical education perspectives, childhood development, methods and materials for young children, and literature for children.
You can choose an optional second minor as a student in the online BA in education. To apply, you only need to fill out an application and submit it by email or mail with official high school transcripts.
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes or Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $375
Out of State | $375
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
KSU's online bachelor of science in education sciences (BSES) prepares you for a career that doesn't require a teaching license. The curriculum includes human development, schooling and popular culture, adult education, and international education.
To apply for KSU's education program, submit the application, a $40 application fee, and official transcripts, along with optional test scores. For acceptance as a first-year student, you'll need a high school GPA of 3.25+, an ACT score of 21 or higher, or an SAT ERW+M score of 1060+.
What Can I Expect During a Bachelor's in Education Program?
Earning a bachelor's degree online requires you to complete specific assignments, meet deadlines, take quizzes, and pass tests. The rigor resembles that of an in-person program. The difference is the amount of interaction you have with others.
While professors are accessible via email or phone calls, teaching assistants may lead study groups. Students are often assigned a success coach or mentor to help keep them on task. Courses are self-paced, and you can take exams at any time and location.
"You have to be very self-motivated. It is very easy to get caught up with everything else and put your studies on the back burner. If you crave face-to-face connection, online is not for you."
— Roma EsteMcDonald, B.A. Interdisciplinary Studies (K-8), Western Governors University
An online experience is also purely about doing the work. While many schools allow remote students to participate in on-campus activities, the dynamic is different. "The downfall of online courses is that you don't get the traditional college experience," Candi C. said.
Learn More: What Is Student Teaching?
Learn More: What Courses Do You Take in a Bachelor's in Education Program?
How Much Does an Online Bachelor's in Education Cost?
Tuition for an online bachelor's degree varies between schools, with private schools often costing more. Explore the average annual tuition for public and private schools below, which reflects all bachelor's degrees rather than just elementary education degrees or other education programs.
Average Annual Cost of a Bachelor's Degree
Average Public cost:
$9,596
Average Private cost:
$34,041
Ways to Fund an Online Degree in Education
There are many ways to fund an elementary education degree and other types of online education programs. "Lynn [University] online students take advantage of federal financial aid in the form of grants and loans," explained Director of Graduate and Online Admission at Lynn University Steve Pruitt, MBA.
"Many online students receive tuition assistance from their employer. . . the federal government allows workers to receive up to $5,250 per year in nontaxable income if used to pay for tuition."
Talia Hollis, who is pursuing her degree in early childhood education K-5, recommends using various funding sources, including federal work-study programs, Pell Grants, scholarships, and payment plans.
In addition, you can check if your state offers specific grants.
Learn More: Most Affordable Online Education Programs
Learn More: Fastest Online Education Degree Programs
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Admission Requirements for Bachelor's in Education Programs
Online degree programs have similar requirements as in-person programs.
You start by applying to a program, which often involves paying an application fee. You can also complete the Common App to apply to several schools, though you must still pay the application fee for each school.
Programs need your high school or GED certificate transcript. Some schools request entrance test scores, like those from the ACT and SAT. Other programs look for people who have already earned an associate degree.
You may also need to provide letters of recommendation from people who can speak highly of your ability to succeed in college. Some schools also ask you to write application essays.
Requirements Checklist
-
Fill out an application and pay a fee. -
Send high school or GED transcripts. -
Provide entrance test scores (ACT, SAT). -
Submit letters of recommendation. -
Write an entrance essay.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Education?
Starting a teaching career is a common next step after earning a degree in education, such as an elementary education degree.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job growth for school teacher jobs to increase at an average rate of 4-5% from 2021-2031. The BLS projects career and technical education teacher jobs to grow at a slower rate of 2% from 2021-2031. You can also become an adult education and ESL teacher, but the BLS projects these jobs to decline by 6% from 2021-2031.
| Job Title | 2021 Median Pay |
|---|---|
| Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teacher | $59,720 |
| Career and Technical Education Teachers | $61,160 |
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers | $61,350 |
| Middle School Teachers | $61,320 |
| High School Teachers | $61,820 |
How Much Can I Make With an Online Bachelor’s Degree?
Average Teacher Salary With a Bachelor's Degree (by state)
Is an Online Elementary Education Degree Right For Me?
Colleges and universities are beginning to see an uptick in online learners, especially in the 18-24 age group. Online classes provide flexibility that can be challenging to achieve in on-campus programs. For instance, online students enrolled in asynchronous classes may complete their work around their jobs or caretaking duties for children or aging parents.
An online elementary education degree can also allow learners to study and complete assignments where and when it makes sense. "If my son had a game or track, I would use the mobile app and study in the car, stadium, or wherever and whenever I got the chance," EsteMcDonald said. "It is portable, easily accessible, and convenient."
However, students should also consider the potential drawbacks of studying elementary education online.
For instance, some learners excel with face-to-face instruction and, in turn, may need more help to learn some concepts than online videos and other resources offer. Similarly, many education degrees require in-person student teaching, which learners must accommodate in their schedules.
Prospective students must determine their ideal classroom environment, self-motivation level, and time commitment before deciding whether an online elementary education degree is the best option.
Benefits of Getting an Elementary Education Degree
- The demand for qualified elementary teachers is projected to grow by 4% from 2021-2031.
- All states require public school teachers to have, at minimum, a bachelor's degree for licensure.
- An elementary education degree can lead to multiple careers, like curriculum writer or school counselor.
Benefits of Getting a Degree in Education Online
- Online degrees provide scheduling flexibility for students with other personal or professional commitments.
- Online learning offers the convenience of studying wherever you have digital access.
- Some programs provide lower tuition rates for online programs than their on-campus counterparts.
What Else Should I Know About Starting a Career in Education?
Getting a degree is only a part of what you need to start a successful career in education. Being knowledgeable about educational technology also matters. Teachers should know how to communicate with students using technology, and have the skills to collaborate with other teachers.
Educators also need strong interpersonal skills. Connecting with students and providing academic, mental, and emotional support is a key part of the job.
Although a teacher may hold a degree, they may still need more schooling. Depending on their role or career goals, they may need extra licenses, certifications, and even further degrees.
Beyond the Bachelor's in Education Degree
A bachelor's degree is a starting point for teachers. Though the rules differ from state to state, each has licensing guidelines that educators must follow. You'll also need to do student teaching and potentially complete precertification requirements.
Teachers must also pass the Praxis exam before being licensed to teach. To move into specialized teaching areas or school administration, you'll need to earn specific certifications or a master's in education.
Questions About Education Degree Programs
Is a bachelor's degree enough to be a teacher?
No. You need more than a bachelor's degree to work as a teacher. While the degree is a necessary starting point, teachers must also earn licensure to instruct in their state. Other education career requirements may involve earning certifications. However, you don't need to earn a degree higher than a bachelor's to begin a teaching job.
Is a bachelor's in education worth it?
A bachelor's in education is worth the cost and effort it takes to earn your degree. It can launch your teaching career and be a starting point to pursue other education jobs.
What is the difference between BA and B.Ed.?
A bachelor of arts, or a BA degree, is a liberal arts degree in a particular topic. You can major in education when you get a BA degree. A B.Ed., or a bachelor's in education degree, prepares you to become a school teacher.
Can I get a bachelor's in elementary education degree online?
Yes. An online elementary education degree offers the same curriculum as an in-person program but with flexible online classes and resources. However, students may need to complete student teaching in person to fulfill their degree requirements.
