Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

Master's in elementary education online are for teachers and administrators. A one- to two-year program increases your chances for advancement.
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Updated on October 18, 2023
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  • Master's degrees in elementary education help teachers and administrators advance.
  • Completing an online program can increase your salary and opportunities for promotion.
  • These master's programs typically take one to two years to complete.
  • Some teachers may qualify for tuition reimbursement programs in their districts.

Elementary educators are teachers, staff, and administrators who instruct young children. From 2021 to 2031, the number of kindergarten and elementary teacher roles is projected to grow by 4%, about as fast as average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The number of principal jobs available will also increase by 5% over that period.

If you want to advance your career in this sector, a master's degree in elementary education might be right for you. Depending on your interest, you can pursue online programs with a teaching or an administrative focus.

This article discusses the benefits, cost, and timeline of an online master's in elementary education degree.

Why Should You Get Your Master's in Elementary Education Online?

  • It's flexible: An online degree can happen on your schedule, no matter how packed it is.
  • It's cost-effective: Save money on campus fees, tuition, commuting costs, and lost wages.
  • It's easier than ever: Online programs have gotten better since the pandemic — the best schools provide excellent support and guidance to help you get to the finish line.

"Teachers pour all their energy into their students. My master's degree was a way to have some of that teaching energy poured back into me," said Lindsay Henderson, now the principal at Alice Moore Alexander Elementary in Denton, Texas.

What Do You Learn in an Online Master's in Elementary School Program?

Core coursework for an online master's in elementary education typically includes the following:

  • Teaching reading at the elementary level
  • Research in elementary education
  • Classroom management
  • Differentiation in elementary education
  • School, family, and community partnerships

Additionally, many colleges and universities offer concentrations that align with specific career tracks, such as:

  • Curriculum and instruction
  • Special education
  • Educational leadership
  • Educational technology
  • Gifted and talented

"I focused on educational leadership because I wanted to translate my passion for teaching into developing and growing other educators," said Henderson.

Featured Online Master's in Elementary Education Programs

What Can You Do With a Master's in Elementary Education?

Careers You Can Pursue With a Master's in Elementary Education

  • Elementary school teacher
  • Special education teacher
  • Instructional coordinator
  • Elementary school principal
  • Assistant principal
  • School operations manager

In addition to giving you more refined tools to be successful inside the classroom, a master's in elementary education can help you access career opportunities outsidethe classroom, including roles in:

  • School and district administration
  • Curriculum development
  • Nonprofit youth development
  • Educational publishing
  • Government education agencies

"If you think you might want to get a master's degree and go into administration, I would urge you to first spend some time shadowing an administrator in your district. It's very different from the classroom," said Henderson.

What Are the Best Master's in Elementary Education Online Programs of 2023?

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#1 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

Brenau University

  • Gainesville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $785
Out of State | $785

Credits to Graduate
60

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Brenau's online master's program in elementary education prepares you to become a classroom teacher. The curriculum focuses on instructional skills, and students must complete in-person field experiences while enrolled in the program. The coursework will also prepare you for initial certification to teach grades preK-5.

Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university and have a minimum GPA of 2.75 on all college transcripts.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,000
Out-of-state
$30,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,356
Out-of-state
$13,356
Retention Rate
53%
Admission Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
2,813
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

Campbellsville University

  • Campbellsville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $310
Out of State | $310

Credits to Graduate
42

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Campbellsville University's MA in teaching focuses on the implementation of innovative teaching methods and real-world experiences. Students in this program must complete student-teaching requirements. CU's master's program prepares you to work with grades K-5.

Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree in the same field, a 2.75 overall undergraduate GPA or a 3.0 GPA in your last 30 credit hours of coursework. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
12,771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Edinburg, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $458
Out of State | $458

Credits to Graduate
30

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

UTRGV's master of education (M.Ed.) in curriculum and instruction focuses on elementary education and science. UTRGV's M.Ed. program does not require you to have prior teaching experience. 

Upon graduating, you can become a specialist in the high-demand areas of math and science and pursue career opportunities as a lead teacher, instructional leader, or content specialist. Applicants must submit official transcripts and have a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,233
Out-of-state
$17,049
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,458
Out-of-state
$13,820
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
32,441
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

University of Alaska Southeast

  • Juneau, AK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $352
Out of State | $800

Credits to Graduate
51

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

The master of arts in teaching (MAT) in elementary education program at UAS requires weekly intensive practicum assignments and one semester of student teaching. You'll also complete coursework to earn a graduate certificate in elementary education, which leads to an eligibility endorsement for an Alaska teaching certificate.

You must possess a bachelor's degree with a general education background and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additionally, you must have passing Praxis CASE/Core exam scores and submit two writing samples. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,250
Out-of-state
$23,154
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,978
Out-of-state
$23,091
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
2,070
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

University of West Alabama

  • Livingston, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $429
Out of State | $429

Credits to Graduate
34

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

University of West Alabama's online master's in elementary education program provides instruction in advanced teaching concepts. Topics of focus include technology, educational planning, statistics, and reading strategies. After graduating from this program, you'll be able to work in specialist roles, such as learning coach or content specialist. 

This program also allows you to earn a master's level teaching certificate. Applicants must submit official college transcripts.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,100
Out-of-state
$18,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,678
Out-of-state
$13,356
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
5,734
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

University of North Dakota

  • Grand Forks, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $498
Out of State | $498

Credits to Graduate
30

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

UND's online master's in elementary education program helps you advance your teaching, curriculum development, and assessment skills. You'll improve your ability to create supportive and productive learning environments and provide quality education to diverse students. 

To apply, you must submit official college transcripts and GRE scores. You must also submit a statement of goals and three academic or professional references. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,540
Out-of-state
$12,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,060
Out-of-state
$16,590
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
13,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

  • Pembroke, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $238
Out of State | $963

Credits to Graduate
30

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

UNC at Pembroke's MA in teaching program prepares you to earn a K-6 teaching license in North Carolina. This fully online program allows you to teach with a temporary license after graduating.

Possible career paths include lead teacher, content specialist, and researcher. You must submit official college transcripts and professional references. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,000
Out-of-state
$5,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,280
Out-of-state
$16,344
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
8,262
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

Delta State University

  • Cleveland, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $469
Out of State | $500

Credits to Graduate
30

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

You can complete Delta State's master's in elementary education program in one year. To graduate, you'll have to take comprehensive exams to demonstrate competency. You can also elect to complete a thesis for credit.

You must have an overall undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or a GPA of 2.75 on the last 64 hours of required coursework. The program also requires you to possess a Class A teaching certificate or its equivalent and satisfactory verbal scores on nationally recognized standardized tests. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,951
Out-of-state
$7,951
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,951
Out-of-state
$7,951
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
2,999
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $518
Out of State | $518

Credits to Graduate
42

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Completing the MA in teaching program at ULM allows you to pursue teacher certification in Louisiana. The program is part of a teacher certification reciprocity agreement with 41 states, meaning you might be eligible for initial licensure in your home state. 

You must submit official college transcripts and GRE or GMAT scores to apply.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,490
Out-of-state
$18,590
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,888
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degrees 2023

Stephen F Austin State University

  • Nacogdoches, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $600
Out of State | $1008

Credits to Graduate
36

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

SFA's master in elementary education program prepares certified elementary school teachers for leadership roles. The program offers three areas of concentration: reading specialist, standard elementary, and all-level professional reading specialist certification preparation. 

To apply, you must have an overall undergraduate GPA of 2.5 and submit GRE or GMAT scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,842
Out-of-state
$18,858
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,262
Out-of-state
$13,524
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
12,620
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Is an Online Master's in Elementary Education Worth It?

Yes, if you want to:

1. Earn a higher salary

According to the National Council on Teacher Quality, 88% of large districts offer additional pay to teachers with master's degrees.

Master's degree-holders earn an average of $2,760 more in their first year of teaching than teachers with bachelor's degrees. This education pay gap expands over time, with teachers at the top of the pay scale earning an average of $7,360 more annually.

2. Boost your credentials

By pursuing a master's degree, you can hone your teaching skills and stay up to date with the latest in pedagogy and classroom management. A graduate degree can also help you stand out in an increasingly competitive pool of job candidates.

"As a principal, if I'm considering two teaching candidates with the same experience, but only one has a master's degree, I'll go with that added education value every time," said Henderson.

3. Pursue leadership positions

Administrative positions at both the campus and district levels — including assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent — typically go to candidates with advanced degrees.

"There is a lot of opportunity for good leaders in the public school system right now. During the pandemic, it became clear how important relational leaders really are. Administrators who supported their people well saw way less turnover and burnout. Their districts performed so much better it was shocking," said Henderson.

How Much Money Can You Make With a Master's in Elementary Education?

(Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Let's cut to the chase: Most teachers are woefully underpaid in this country, especially for such a highly-degreed group of workers.

"None of us get in this line of work to get rich," said Henderson. "But a master's degree is a good way to push your salary into a more comfortable place."

Several factors can affect how much you earn, including your job title, employer, years of experience, and location. Because most schools use pay scales, teachers with more experience or more education often earn substantially more.

How Much Does an Online Master's in Elementary Education Degree Cost?

Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Master's Degree

Average Total Cost per Year of a Master's in Education

$19,749

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Online courses vary in price depending on the institution offering them

Yes, graduate school is expensive. And no, paying off student loans on a teacher's salary isn't much fun.

But if you play your cards right, you won't be paying off those loans. Under the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program, eligible teachers can qualify for federal loan forgiveness of up to $17,500.

"If you're a Title 1 teacher, there is no reason not to get a master's degree," said Henderson. "Financially, it's a win-win: The government pays the bill, and you get a salary bump."

Even if you don't qualify for public service loan forgiveness, many districts provide tuition reimbursement or tuition benefits. Make sure to research the resources available to you.

How Long Is an Online Master's in Elementary Education Program?

Required Course Credits

30-40*

Field Study Requirements (Y/N)

Yes

*Credits vary depending on the specific program

Most master's in elementary education online programs take 1-2 years to complete, and also require a practicum or teaching internship (especially if you don't already have teaching experience).

Featured Online Master's in Elementary Education Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master's in Elementary Education Programs

What is the difference between a master's in teaching (MAT) and a master of education (M.Ed.) in elementary education?

Both degrees qualify you for classroom teaching. An MAT focuses specifically on pedagogy and classroom management, while an M.Ed. is a broader degree that can prepare you for leadership roles outside of the classroom as well.

What are the admission requirements for an online master's in elementary education program?

Most master's in elementary education online programs require that applicants hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 or 3.0. However, GPA requirements can vary by school or program.

Sometimes, graduate schools only consider the GPA from your last two years of college. If your GPA is lower than these minimums, you may still be granted probationary admission.

What are the highest-paying jobs in elementary education?

Administrators — like principals and superintendents — have the highest-paying jobs in elementary education. Annual salaries for primary and secondary school principalshit a median of $98,420 in 2021, according to the BLS. The top 10% of earners took home median yearly salaries of over $153,520. The average school superintendent earned $140,000 per year as of July 2023, according to Payscale.

Do I need a teaching license to work at an elementary school?

Teachers at public elementary schools need a teaching license to teach, whereas private school teachers do not need a teaching license. Though principals do typically need teaching experience, they may not have teaching licenses, especially if they work at private schools. Most public school principals must pursue school administrator licensure.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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