The Best Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Programs of 2020
Individuals who enjoy working with young learners can earn a bachelor's in elementary education online. This degree can lead to rewarding career opportunities at public and private schools. Additionally, practicum and student teaching experiences provide networking opportunities for students prior to graduation.
This page includes a general overview of this type of program, including common coursework, admission requirements, and top program options. Other topics include potential career paths, frequently asked questions, and similar degree tracks.
What Are the Best Elementary Education Programs of 2020? Here Are Our Top 10:
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Baptist College of Florida | Graceville, FL |
| 2 | Fort Hays State University | Hays, KS |
| 3 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT |
| 4 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC |
| 5 | East Carolina University | Greenville, NC |
| 6 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
| 7 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe, LA |
| 8 | Central Methodist University | Fayette, MO |
| 9 | Bemidji State University | Bemidji, MN |
| 10 | The University of Montana Western | Dillon, MT |
Earning a bachelor's in elementary education online may lead to state licensure, which qualifies graduates for lead classroom roles as kindergarten and elementary school teachers. Without a bachelor's (or higher) in this field, professionals usually only qualify for teacher assistant positions.
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show that elementary school teachers earn a median annual salary of $57,980, while teacher assistants earn about $27,000. BLS data also projects a 3% increase in demand for elementary and kindergarten educators between 2018 and 2028.
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2020 Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Programs
| Rank | School | Location | Cost | Graduation Rate | Description | Toggle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
The Baptist College of Florida |
Graceville, FL | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 62% |
BCF offers all of its undergraduate and graduate programs entirely online. The college's bachelor's in elementary education features a 124-credit curriculum that emphasizes professional education with coursework in teaching diverse populations and disciplinary literacy. Also, students complete two internships at a local school — a requirement for a teaching license. The college's library boasts a variety of research tools, databases, and journals, which help on-campus and online students succeed academically. Additionally, online learners can use Zoom software to connect with a college writing tutor. In addition to transcripts and standardized test scores, applicants submit two recommendation letters, one of which must come from a pastor. As a private school, BCF charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all students. Incoming students can apply for ministerial and institutional scholarships. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: ACT or SAT Contact Phone: (800) 328-2660 |
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| 2 |
Fort Hays State University |
Hays, KS | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 44% |
The online bachelor's in elementary education at FHSU qualifies graduates to earn an initial K-6 Kansas teaching license. The curriculum includes an internship, student teaching, and coursework that covers topics like diverse learners and elementary art. Career services resources at FHSU include cover letter critiques and practice interviews. The university also features workshops and specialized support for students planning to attend graduate school. These and other services set degree-seekers up for success — 96% of recent graduates have found a full-time job or started a graduate program. FHSU uses GPA and test score cutoffs. Applicants also complete a teacher disposition assessment — a tool that helps professors create a personalized educational growth plan for each student. All online degree-seekers pay the same per-credit tuition rate. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (785) 628-4204 |
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| 3 |
Western Governors University |
Salt Lake City, UT | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 29% |
WGU's bachelor's in elementary education emphasizes academic knowledge and the practical skills students need for a successful career. As learners progress through the program, they create a professional portfolio that includes a resume and a philosophy of teaching statement. This portfolio helps most graduates find employment within one year of earning a degree. Student success resources at WGU include informative guides on many topics, such as time management and study skills. The university also maintains a blog that covers employment trends and alumni spotlights. New courses begin on the first of each month, and prospective students can consult with an enrollment counselor before applying. WGU accepts GED scores and requires an interview and a readiness assessment. The university offers four scholarships exclusively to students preparing for a teaching career. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Contact Phone: (855) 948-8495 |
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| 4 |
University of North Carolina Wilmington |
Wilmington, NC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 73% |
The online bachelor's in elementary education track at UNCW operates as a degree completion program. Participants can choose from nine concentration options, making the program a good choice for degree-seekers who want an individualized education. Core coursework covers issues related to instructional technology and all participants complete a field experience. Ninety-eight percent of recent graduates passed their Praxis II Special Area Test. The Office of Student Advising and Integrated Leadership (OSAIL) provides exam preparation resources and works with students to locate appropriate student teaching placements. On-campus and online learners can also contact OSAIL to learn more about study abroad opportunities. Program application materials include Praxis I scores and transcripts. Aspiring teachers can apply for a TEACH Grant and other financial aid programs. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.7 minimum Contact Phone: (910) 962-2917 |
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| 5 |
East Carolina University |
Greenville, NC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 65% |
Aspiring K-6 educators who live in North Carolina should consider earning ECU's BS in elementary education. This degree completion program — known as Partnership Teach — accepts students who earned an associate degree from an in-state community college. Degree-seekers can select a full-time or part-time cohort learning model, and nearly 100% of recent graduates have found employment within one year of earning a degree. The College of Education at ECU features an academic success center that provides advising, student outreach, and many other resources. The center also boasts multiple professional development opportunities for practicing educators. ECU uses a five-step application process that involves meeting with an admissions coordinator and passing the Praxis I exam. Incoming students who need financial aid should apply by the January 15 deadline. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: Hybrid (online/on campus) Admission Requirements GPA: 2.5 minimum Contact Phone: (800) 398-9275 |
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| 6 |
Liberty University |
Lynchburg, VA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 5% |
Liberty's online bachelor's in elementary education prepares students for careers that do not require a teaching license. The 120-credit curriculum emphasizes teaching fundamentals and coursework in Christianity-related topics. Graduates can use their degree to work as education ministers, homeschool teachers, and tutors. The school's online writing center allows distance learners to submit papers for review and speak to writing tutors through Skype. Liberty boasts a generous transfer policy and accepts GED scores from first-time college applicants. The university features multiple scholarship opportunities, many of which target veterans and first responders. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (800) 424-9595 |
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| 7 |
University of Louisiana at Monroe |
Monroe, LA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 44% |
Although ULM's bachelor's in elementary education program does not offer concentrations or specializations, students can customize their degree by selecting 12 elective courses. All online courses last eight weeks, and students take 2-3 courses simultaneously. Also, the program satisfies all requirements for an initial Louisiana teaching license, which 42 states accept through reciprocity agreements. ULM's career center helps degree-seekers explore and prepare for life after graduation. Students can also participate in the alumni mentorship program, where learners can shadow alumni and learn valuable networking skills. ULM uses a "C" cutoff for transfer credit and accepts GED scores, although applicants need not submit standardized test scores or recommendation letters. The university posts new ULM Foundation Scholarships throughout the year. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: "C" minimum for transfer credit Contact Phone: (318) 342-3145 |
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| 8 |
Central Methodist University |
Fayette, MO | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 44% |
The online bachelor's in elementary education at CMU is offered through its College of Graduate and Extended Studies. The program boasts multiple concentration options and prepares students to earn an initial Missouri teaching license. Courses in the major curriculum include child health, creative arts, and child psychology. CMU's career resources include personality tests, career exploration software, and practice interviews. The school also uses Handshake software to post job opportunities exclusive to students and alumni. These and other resources have helped 89% of recent graduates find a job or enter a graduate program after earning their degree. Application requirements include a GPA cutoff for first-time and transfer applicants. Incoming first-year learners may qualify for $4,000-$12,000 in automatic merit-based scholarships; some of these rewards are renewable. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Education - Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.5 minimum high school; 2.0 minimum for transfer credit Contact Phone: (573) 777-5885 |
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| 9 |
Bemidji State University |
Bemidji, MN | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 46% |
BSU offers students multiple pathways to earn a bachelor's in elementary education. For example, the university's hybrid DLiTE program is intended for students who already hold an associate degree. Participants engage in three on-campus components each year and complete all requirements for a Minnesota teaching license. The education students receive has helped 90% of recent program graduates find a teaching position. Student resources include technical support, library services, and a writing resource center that provides one-on-one mentoring and individualized feedback. Also, degree-seekers can consult the extensive DLiTE Handbook to learn about additional support services, including the federal TRIO Program. Application requirements include an associate degree, a 500-word essay, and a professional recommendation. Applicants who do not meet all requirements may still receive conditional admission. Northern Minnesota residents can apply for the Gladys McKinley Distance Learning Scholarship. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: Hybrid (online/on campus) Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0 minimum for transfer Contact Phone: (218) 755-3734 |
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| 10 |
The University of Montana Western |
Dillon, MT | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 45% |
UMW's online bachelor's in elementary education program trains students to work in education settings that do not require a teaching license. The curriculum features coursework related to ways of knowing, social development, and child development research. Additionally, the program uses three degree-specific gateways to ensure that students master all core competencies. In addition to traditional student services, UMW offers a financial literacy program that helps students avoid debt; this program includes seminars and one-on-one counseling concerning debt forgiveness and scholarship opportunities. First-time college applicants can submit high school transcripts or GED scores. They must also send in their ACT or SAT scores. Montana residents save significantly on tuition. However, the university considers all students for institutional financial aid opportunities, regardless of residency. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.5 minimum Contact Phone: (406) 683-7042 |
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| 11 |
Kansas State University |
Manhattan, KS | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 64% |
K-State's bachelor's in elementary education program prepares students to apply for a K-6 Kansas teaching license. The program boasts multiple concentration options, including online teaching. The majority of alumni find teaching careers and overwhelmingly agree that the education they received prepared them for their future. Academic resources for success include advising, coaching, and online proctored exams. Students can also access a virtual tutoring center. Additionally, students can connect with alumni mentors by contacting the university's career center. Prospective students cannot apply to the elementary education program until they complete general education requirements with a minimum 2.75 GPA. The College of Education awards $1,000 to degree-seekers who maintain a 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need. Program Overview Program Name: Elementary Education Bachelor's Degree Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.0 minimum for high school or transfer Contact Phone: (785) 532-5574 |
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| 12 |
University of South Carolina |
Columbia, SC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 77% |
The online bachelor's in elementary education at UofSC prepares in-state students for careers as a South Carolina public school teachers. Education courses cover topics like schools in communities, culturally sustaining pedagogy, and introduction to assessment. Additionally, the program includes multiple field experiences in addition to student teaching. Support for online learners includes 24/7 Blackboard assistance and an IT troubleshooting app. When distance students need academic help, they can turn to resources like academic advising and coaching, preprofessional advising, and peer tutoring. The program accepts transfer students and UofSC learners who fulfill all general education requirements. Ninety-one percent of students at UofSC receive financial aid, making the school an attractive option for prospective degree-seekers who want to graduate with less debt. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.5 minimum Contact Phone: (888) 801-1053 |
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| 13 |
Regis University |
Denver, CO | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 69% |
Aspiring Colorado teachers may be interested in the online bachelor's in elementary education offered at Regis. This program features more than 100 student teaching placements throughout the state, and all degree-seekers receive a comprehensive education on how to teach K-6 academic subjects, including literature, humanities, and the sciences. The university's Center for Career and Professional Development offers hour-long Skype appointments and Handshake career exploration software. These and other services have helped nearly 90% of recent graduates find employment related to their field. Out-of-state prospective students may apply but should first determine whether a Colorado teaching license will transfer into their home state. The application process involves performing a background check, submitting a resume, and interviewing with a faculty member. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online or hybrid (online/on campus) Admission Requirements GPA: 2.5 minimum for transfer Contact Phone: (300) 458-4900 |
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| 14 |
Mississippi State University |
Mississippi State, MS | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 58% |
MSU offers the only online bachelor's in elementary education program in the state, and degree-seekers can concentrate in early childhood or middle school education. Students can continue working full time until their junior year, when the program requires field experiences, practica, and student teaching. Student services include the school's writing center and library. Both resources provide one-on-one assistance to learners in need. Georgia residents may not apply at this time; however, all out-of-state distance students pay in-state tuition rates. Academic scholarships award up to $9,000 per year to incoming degree-seekers who possess an outstanding GPA and excellent standardized test scores. Additionally, the Mississippi State Promise Program ensures that low-income students who maintain good grades can graduate without debt. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.75 minimum Contact Phone: (662) 325-2639 |
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| 15 |
University of Wisconsin - Superior |
Superior, WI | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 36% |
The online bachelor's in elementary education program at UW-Superior offers an optional specialization in special education. Students who select this specialization complete coursework that covers topics like inclusive management strategies and IEP development. Students and alumni can take advantage of UW-Superior's career planning resources, which include internship placements, resume critiques, and career resource videos. The university's commitment to students' success after graduation has helped 90% of recent elementary education graduates find employment at a K-12 school. UW-Superior accepts GED scores from first-year applicants, and all prospective students should submit standardized test scores. Nontraditional applicants receive special consideration. Incoming first-time students with a minimum 3.0 high school GPA and an ACT score of at least 21 receive an automatic merit scholarship. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: "D-" minimum for transfer credit Contact Phone: (715) 394-8230 |
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| 16 |
Wichita State University |
Wichita, KS | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 73% |
WSU's bachelor's in elementary education helps practicing paraeducators become licensed Kansas K-6 teachers. In addition to coursework, students complete 600 hours of fieldwork and curate an academic portfolio. The program's emphasis on hands-on learning qualifies graduates to apply for two teaching licenses: early child unified and elementary teaching. At the school's career development center, current and prospective students can explore fulfilling careers that align with their major. Other services include the federal TRIO program for low-income degree-seekers. Prospective students must work as a K-6 paraeducator and meet a GPA cutoff. WSU also requires three recommendation letters. Scholarship opportunities require a separate application and a minimum score of 24 or 1160 on the ACT or SAT. Program Overview Program Name: Early Childhood Unified/Elementary Education - Teacher Apprentice Program Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (316) 978-3300 |
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| 17 |
Dakota State University |
Madison, SD | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 47% |
The online bachelor's in elementary education at DSU prepares students to work as K-8 teachers. In their senior year, degree-seekers complete student teaching and a capstone experience at a South Dakota public school. DSU's career and professional development resources include resume critiques, faculty mentors, and practice interviews. The university's commitment to helping students find a fulfilling career results in a 99% job placement rate among recent graduates. DSU uses different GPA cutoffs for first-year and transfer applicants. Prospective students with GED scores can also apply. The university awards many scholarships, and degree-seekers should apply for aid by the March 1 deadline. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Education - Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.6 minimum Contact Phone: (605) 256-5177 |
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| 18 |
University of Alaska Southeast |
Juneau, AK | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 36% |
UAS created its bachelor's in elementary education program for prospective students who live in rural Alaska. Major coursework includes classes related to educational technology, and all degree-seekers complete a nine-month student teaching experience. Eight-one percent of recent graduates have found a teaching position or entered a graduate program. The career services office at UAS provides distance education students with an exclusive job board, advising over the phone, and collaborative sessions through Blackboard. The office also offers resume critiques and personality assessments. Prospective students can apply to begin taking classes in the fall, spring, or summer semester. Applicants must possess a high school diploma and pass a criminal background check. Students who maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA and attend full time can apply for institutional scholarships. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.5 minimum Contact Phone: (907) 796-6404 |
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| 19 |
North Carolina Central University |
Durham, NC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 46% |
First-year and transferring college students choose NCCU's online bachelor's in elementary education program to prepare for teaching careers that do not require a license. This program features four electives and coursework that covers world societies and social systems. Graduates can go on to pursue work as head start program directors and childcare providers. Before starting academic courses, online students must complete the Online Learning 101 course. Other student success resources include a virtual computer lab and online tutoring. Although NCCU does not use a GPA cutoff for first-time applicants, transfer credit should have been earned with a "C-" or higher. Nearly all undergraduate scholarship opportunities use a March 1 application deadline. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsStandardized Tests: ACT or SAT Contact Phone: (919) 530-7983 |
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| 20 |
Asbury University |
Wilmore, KY | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 62% |
Asbury is a Christian school that offers a bachelor's in elementary education program. Participants of this program prepare to be the next generation of K-6 Kentucky educators. All courses last eight weeks, making this program a good match for prospective students who want an accelerated curriculum. After earning their degree, 98% of recent graduates have found a job or entered a graduate program. Outside of class, students can contact the Center for Academic Excellence to receive tutoring and mentoring services. Additionally, through the Center for Career and Calling, learners can take personality assessments and develop a career goal that emphasizes spiritual fulfillment. Prospective students choose from four annual start dates, and Asbury accepts up to 75 transfer credits. The university does not charge an application fee. First-time college students can receive up to $9,300 in automatic scholarships if they possess excellent ACT or SAT scores. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Contact Phone: (859) 858-2804 |
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| 21 |
Bay Path University |
Longmeadow, MA | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 59% |
The online bachelor's in elementary education program at Bay Path features licensure and non-licensure tracks. Students who choose the former can earn an initial Massachusetts teaching license. Many graduates have gone on to pursue work as preschool teachers and childcare workers. Students nearing graduation can contact the school's career center to work with a career coach and network with the university's 16,000+ alumni. Degree-seekers who live near Pay Bath's Longmeadow campus can also attend career fairs Unlike other programs on this ranking, only women may apply. Other application requirements include a 2.0 minimum high school GPA and a phone interview. Incoming students may qualify for a STARTUP or REBOOT Scholarship, both of which award $1,000. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: Hybrid (online/on campus) Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (413) 889-3022 |
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| 22 |
Gardner-Webb University |
Boiling Springs, NC | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 53% |
Gardner-Webb's bachelor's in elementary education program is well-suited for prospective students looking for a degree-completion program. Degree-seekers complete fieldwork during their first three semesters before taking a student teaching assignment in their final semester. After graduation, the majority of elementary education alumni find a teaching position in a local school district. Academic support services at Gardner-Webb include a writing center and tutoring through the Learning Enrichment and Assistance Program. Additionally, the university's Center for Personal and Professional Development boasts an online learning lab with lessons on networking and interviewing. Prospective students should possess an associate degree or a substantial number of transfer credits. All degree-seekers pay the same tuition rate at this Christian university. The Barry Hambright Scholarship awards funding to students enrolled in degree completion tracks who demonstrate academic merit and financial need. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.0 minimum for transfer credit Contact Phone: (866) 498-4625 |
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| 23 |
Chaminade University of Honolulu |
Honolulu, HI | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 59% |
The online bachelor's in elementary education program at Chaminade features coursework in intercultural communication and Hawaii's contemporary peoples — classes that prepare degree-seekers to work with the state's diverse student population. In addition to student teaching, participants also complete a service learning project and multiple field experiences. The school's Office of Advising and Career Development oversees a tutoring center, advising services, and information concerning the university's four-year graduation guarantee. Learners can also attend biannual on-campus job fairs and work one-on-one with a career advisor. Chaminade accepts the Common Application. Prospective students can also submit GED scores. Automatic merit-based scholarships award up to $14,500 per year, and 97% of learners receive some form of financial aid. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.5 minimum Contact Phone: (800) 739-4652 |
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| 24 |
Southwestern College |
Winfield, KS | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 48% |
Southwestern's bachelor's in elementary education program includes coursework in areas like school methods and management, and students remain in good academic standing by maintaining a minimum 2.75 GPA. Graduates can apply for an initial Kansas teaching license. Elementary education alumni have gone on to work as teachers, consultants, and counselors, among other professions in the education field. Southwestern employs academic success coaches that work exclusively with online learners. Also, students can use CareerBeam software to research careers, take personality assessments, and write persuasive cover letters. Prospective students must possess at least six transferable credits. Southwestern provides active-duty service members and veterans with generous transfer credit opportunities and a 50% tuition discount. Financial aid opportunities that are open to all students include the New Learner Scholarship. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor's in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission RequirementsGPA: 2.75 minimum for transfer Contact Phone: (888) 684-5335 |
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| 25 |
University of Southern Mississippi |
Hattiesburg, MS | Cost: $$$$$ | Graduation Rate: 49% |
Mississippi teacher assistants can consider pursuing an online bachelor's in elementary education at USM. This licensure program emphasizes coursework in classroom management and educational evaluation of exceptional children. Additionally, it prepares graduates to work as teachers, curriculum specialists, and reading intervention specialists. USM's Office of Online Learning provides learners with access to a writing center, tutoring services, and academic success guides. The office also publishes multiple technology tutorials that cover software and IT troubleshooting. The program accepts first-year and transfer applicants, and prospective students who do not meet all application requirements can still receive conditional admission. Full-time students save money on tuition compared to part-time learners. Degree-seekers interested in financial aid can research and apply for university scholarships by using the GO System online portal. Program Overview Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Delivery Format: 100% online Admission Requirements GPA: 2.0 minimum Contact Phone: (601) 226-5518 |
Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Program Overview
Students who earn a bachelor's in elementary education online cover historical and contemporary theories and methods of instruction, developing an understanding of the learning process at multiple stages of life. Specific subjects include instructional development in language arts, social studies, science, and math; data-driven instruction methods; educational research; development; and psychology.
Coursework prepares students to become independent classroom teachers who can develop curricula, differentiate instruction for diverse learning needs, and effectively manage behavior. Many of the best programs also include special education coursework, preparing general education teachers to build inclusive classrooms. While students complete most of their coursework online, a bachelor's in education does emphasize supervised teaching experiences to prepare graduates to oversee their own classrooms.
Graduates are prepared to find success after graduation. However, students should note that state requirements for employment vary. For instance, some states require students to earn a master's degree in order to receive a teaching license. Check with your state's education department to determine applicable requirements.
Regardless of state or individual school requirements, teaching professionals often go on to earn a graduate-level education to qualify for leadership roles, teach specialized content, and/or earn higher wages.
Common Bachelor's in Elementary Education Degree Courses
- Child Development
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This course explores the socioemotional, physical, and cognitive progression of children. Other covered topics may include environmental influences on the development of young children, the impact of diversity on their identity, family patterns and practices, and challenging biases.
- Fundamentals of Differentiated Instruction
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This course offers base knowledge regarding qualitative instruction for students with varying abilities and interests. Students explore high-quality curriculum, the benefits of homogenous and heterogenous group work, continuous assessment, and the importance of classroom culture. This course also provides strategies for analyzing teaching environments and developing innovative solutions to meet students' needs.
- Educational Psychology
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Students examine applied and theoretical components of learning, human development, personality, assessment in educational settings, and motivation. Other topics include socialization and affective processes. Course objectives highlight the importance of understanding student behavior.
- Classroom Management and Discipline
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This course teaches students about the relationships between classroom behavior, learning, and environment. Coursework emphasizes disciplinary models and how they relate to student governance. Other topics include interactive and reflective discipline, proactive techniques, and effective decision-making. Course outcomes include developing comprehensive management plans and generating effective management recommendations.
- Data Driven Decision-making
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Data driven decision-making teaches emerging educators how to improve student learning and make effective instructional decisions. Topics include using data to develop age-appropriate instructional experiences, identifying and analyzing data in a continuous and systematic manner, and analyzing intersections of data to understand student achievement. Students must also create action plans to foster instructional change in classrooms.
Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Admission Requirements
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Transcripts
Transcripts let schools know that prospective students have completed the coursework necessary to succeed in a graduate program. Students with some college experience must submit official transcripts from their former schools, while first-time college students need to submit high school transcripts or GED scores. Transcripts from public and private schools typically meet these requirements, although homeschooled students should ensure their program covers the minimum requirements.
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Minimum GPA
Postsecondary schools usually consider a student's GPA during the admissions process, and most schools outline a minimum GPA requirement. Students with a high GPA may qualify for honors or accelerated programs, as well as merit scholarships.
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SAT/ACT
At the bachelor's level, students often need to submit SAT or ACT scores. Applicants should visit a school's website to see which of these test scores the school prefers.
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Letters of Recommendation
Colleges and universities may require letters of recommendation to learn more about a student's character. Recent high school graduates should consider asking former teachers and/or academic counselors. Students with some work or college experience may want to consider asking employers or professors to write a letter.
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Test of English as a Foriegn Language
International students attending college in the U.S. may need to complete the TOFEL. This exam evaluates students' mastery of English and their ability to study at the postsecondary level. This exam features four sections: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. International students have four hours to complete this exam.
Online Bachelor's in Elementary Education Career Paths
Earning a bachelor's in elementary education online can lead to employment opportunities beyond the entry-level education jobs of teacher assistants and preschool teachers.
Graduates may become a preschool or childcare director, or they may pursue work as kindergarten or elementary classroom teachers. A bachelor's in elementary education meets the minimum educational requirements needed to sit for the Praxis exam, which students may need to pass before qualifying for a teaching license.
Students can also pursue a concentration in elementary special education, which prepares them to earn a special education license. Special education teachers often work alongside general education teachers in the classroom.
Related Careers
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a bachelor's in elementary education?
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A bachelor's in elementary education program includes general education and core courses. Additionally, participants usually engage in a practicum and student teaching. Students typically earn their degree in four years with full-time attendance; part-time students take significantly longer to graduate. Some online programs offer coursework through the summer, which can shorten a learner's time commitment.
- What can I do with a bachelor's in elementary education?
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Some graduates may immediately sit for the Praxis exam and then apply for jobs as classroom teachers at public, private, and charter schools. Others may need to pursue a master's degree to qualify for teaching licensure. Students may also become directors of preschools, childcare centers, or other education-related programs. Some nonprofit organizations that work with children may also offer rewarding career opportunities.
- Can you get a bachelor's in elementary education online?
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Many schools strive to accommodate nontraditional learners by offering coursework online. However, this degree does require hands-on experience, so schools may require a methods course where students observe licensed classroom teachers at a local school. All programs leading to a license require a practicum and student teaching at an approved location.
- What jobs can I apply for with a bachelor's in elementary education?
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Graduates in some states can become classroom teachers with a bachelor's degree. Students who specialize in special education can work with other classroom teachers or lead their own classrooms. Other opportunities can be found at nonprofit organizations, and graduates may also consider tutoring jobs.
- How much does a bachelor's in elementary education cost?
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Public schools tend to charge lower tuition rates than private institutions — especially to in-state learners. Students who attend college out-of-state may need to pay steeper tuition rates, although some universities offer in-state rates to all online learners. Students can also save money by completing general education coursework at a community college.
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