By Jennifer W. Eisenberg
December 2019
How can you fit going back to school for another degree into your already challenging schedule? The truth is that you cannot afford to put it off any longer, getting your master’s in elementary education, and you can do it entirely online. Far from a few pilot programs, a whole distance education movement has grown up, perhaps just beyond your notice, and that is a very good thing considering how busy you probably are with day-to-day obligations. Online classes let you study on your own schedule. An advanced degree will not only equip you to function as a more skilled and knowledgeable teacher in the classroom, but the programs will prepare you for leadership roles in your school. In addition, earning a master’s degree in education in many states will land you a higher salary. Several of the programs included here lead to certification, but others will require possession of a current, valid teaching license. Since licensing requirements differ from state to state, you would be wise to learn those stipulations before enrolling in any program.
According to figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for kindergarten and elementary teachers will grow 7% by 2026, about as fast as average, but an advanced degree will provide an advantage in the job market.
The schools and education programs spotlighted here have been thoroughly researched for their quality and value. They are ranked according to the criteria shown in the charts in regard to tuition, salary ranking of graduates, and accreditation. Where ties in points occur, extra weight will be awarded for lower tuition rates. CAEP accreditation refers to the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Hourly Tuition Rate:
- $400 and under – 5 points
- $600 and under- 4 points
- $800 and under – 3 points
- 1,000 and under – 2 points
- $1,001 and above – 1 point
Regional Accreditation: 5 points
CAEP Accreditation: 5 points
Payscale.com salary rankings:
- 300 and below – 5 points
- 600 and below – 4 points
- 800 and below – 3 points
- 1,000 and below – 2 points
- Above 1,001 – 1 point
#25 – Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, New Mexico
Online MAE with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction and an Emphasis in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $282.41
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: not ranked
CAEP Accreditation: No
Points: 10
Website
The Eastern New Mexico University online master of arts in education, with a concentration in curriculum and instruction and an emphasis in elementary education degree, is 100% online. The school site emphasizes affordability and maintaining Blackboard and Mediasite resources. Admissions requires transcripts and an online graduate school application. Eastern New Mexico University’s MAE with a concentration in curriculum and instruction and an emphasis in elementary education online degree includes the following courses: teacher as researcher; graduate seminar in curriculum, instruction, and assessment; and critical pedagogy in education reform. Concentration area courses include trends in mathematics and science and content area literacy.
#24 – East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, Tennessee
Online MEd in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $720
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 1,228th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 13
Website
Open to elementary education license holders, the East Tennessee State University online master of education in elementary education is a 37 credit hour program that entails a limited number of on-campus meetings. A GRE score is required of all applicants with a sub 3.0 undergraduate GPA. East Tennessee State University’s MEd in elementary education online draws from top institutions to field a strong faculty that is as invested in the online student body as in the brick and mortar one. The curriculum may include the following courses: technology in teaching and learning; elementary school curriculum and assessment; and diagnostic and remedial procedures in reading.
#23 – University of Alabama Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama
Online MEd in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $1,066
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 751st
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 14
Website
The University of Alabama Birmingham has a 33 credit hour, online master of education in elementary education degree. The admission process calls for a current, valid teaching license, GRE/MAT scores, and a $50 fee. The inquiry-focused program is designed to prepare teachers to assume roles of leadership in their schools for developing curriculum and delivering instruction. The coursework for the University of Alabama Birmingham’s MA in elementary education online degree includes the following: teaching mathematics (and/or social studies, science, or language arts) to K-6; introduction to exceptional learners; critical pedagogy advocacy collaboration; and Piaget and perspectives in learning.
#22 – Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
MS in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $1,025
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 629th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 14
Website
Nova Southeastern University offers a 40 credit hour, 100% online master of science in elementary education degree. Admission to the program requires transcripts showing a minimum 2.5 GPA and a $50 fee. Coursework in the online MS in elementary education degree at Nova Southeastern University includes the following: methods of teaching reading in the elementary school; classroom TESOL, theory and strategies for teachers; second language learning–theory, methods, and evaluation; methods of teaching mathematics in the elementary school; teaching of science in the elementary school; and teaching language arts in the elementary school.
#21 – Appalachian State University
Boone, North Carolina
Online MA in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $895.50
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 891st
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 14
Website
The Appalachian State University online master of arts in elementary education degree is a 39+ credit hour program that encompasses studies in diversity, instructional technology, and curriculum design. GRE scores are required for admission, but waivers are available. Appalachian State University’s MA in elementary education online degree can lead to certification or licensure depending on several factors. If your teaching experience does not include K-6 student teaching or teaching, you must take C I 5900 – Internship/Practicum, a 1-6 hour course. Students must provide three references, a copy of valid teaching license, a current resume with the application packet, a 3.4 GPA, and a $65 fee.
#20 – East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
Online MAE in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $877.35
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 805th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 14
Website
The first requirement of East Carolina University’s 37 credit hour, online master of arts in education in elementary education degree is proof of a valid teaching license. In addition, you must submit three letters of recommendation, transcripts, statement of purpose, GRE/GMAT scores (waivers available), and a $75 fee. There are four application deadlines each school year. Coursework for East Carolina University’s online master of arts in education in elementary education degree includes the diverse gifted child, problem-solving in the elementary school, and clinical procedures in the identification and evaluation of reading disabilities.
#19 – Gardner Webb University
Boiling Springs, North Carolina
MA in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $469
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: not ranked
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 14
Website
The online Gardner Webb University master of arts in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in elementary education degree allows current teachers to explore roles as potential teacher leaders. Gardner Webb University’s online MA in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in elementary education is a five semester, 33 credit hour program. There is a one-credit internship component to the final three semesters. The 21-course curriculum includes research chair and methods, assessment and evaluation module, instructional leadership module, and dissertation coaching/clinical experience seminar. To apply, submit transcripts, three professional references, GRE/MAT/or Praxis II scores, and a $40 fee.
#18 – Western New Mexico University
Silver City, New Mexico
Online MAT in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $340.77
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: not ranked
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 15
Website
The online master of arts in teaching in elementary education degree offered by Western New Mexico University is designed for those with an undergraduate degree in a field outside education who wish to earn initial licensure in teaching. To apply, submit transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 in the final 64 hours of coursework and a $40 fee. Western New Mexico University’s MAT in elementary education degree is a 43 credit hour, online program that includes such courses as multicultural education, integrating technology in curriculum, introduction to exceptional children, classroom management, and practice teaching as the capstone.
#17 – University of Louisiana Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
MEd in Curriculum and Instruction in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $300
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: not ranked
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 15
Website
The online master of education in curriculum and instruction in elementary education degree offered by the University of Louisiana Monroe is a 36 credit hour, 15 month, 12 course program. The curriculum covers a wide array of topics including cognitive learning: children and their world, prioritizing and mapping the curriculum, teacher leader II: improving school performance, and advanced studies in mathematics and science. To apply to the University of Louisiana Monroe for their online MEd in curriculum and instruction online degree, submit transcripts showing a minimum 2.75 GPA with 3.0 in final 60 hours, copy of teaching certificate, and a $40 fee.
#16 – University of North Carolina Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina
MEd in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $910
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 509th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 16
Website
The master of education in elementary education online degree offered by the University of North Carolina Charlotte boasts five concentrations which are academically or intellectually gifted, anti-racism in urban education, elementary mathematics, literacy, and STEM. The curriculum for the 30 credit hour online MEd in elementary education program includes current issues in global and urban elementary schools and teacher inquiry and data analysis in the elementary classroom. The University of North Carolina Charlotte admission process asks for transcripts showing a minimum 2.75 GPA, GRE/MAT scores, and a statement of purpose.
#15 – Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
MAE with a concentration in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $651
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 905th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 16
Website
Ball State University’s master of arts in education with a concentration in elementary education online degree is a 30 credit hour program that does not lead to initial licensure. This program is open to already-licensed education professionals who wish to expand on their knowledge and expertise. Ball State University asks that applicants to the online MAE with a concentration in elementary education have at least a 2.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale, and no GRE score is required. Sample courses include play and creativity in early childhood, observation and assessment in early childhood, and early childhood program leadership.
#14 – University of Nebraska Kearney
Kearney, Nebraska
Online MAE in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education emphasis
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $309
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 1,028th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 16
Website
The University of Nebraska Kearney online master of arts in education in curriculum and instruction – elementary education emphasis degree will equip students with the techniques and knowledge to be able to design, develop, and evaluate school curriculum. Students must choose one of the eleven concentrations which include the following: early childhood education; English as a second language; school librarian; STEM; Montessori I and/or II; and early childhood and reading/special education. The University of Nebraska Kearney MAE in curriculum and instruction – elementary education emphasis online degree requires a valid, current teaching license and either GRE scores or a professional biography.
#13 – Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Online MAE in Elementary Education – Teacher Leadership
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $707
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 586th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
Website
The Western Kentucky University online master of arts in education in elementary education – teacher leadership degree is 30-37 credit hours in length and offers the following subjects for specialization: elementary education; elementary mathematics specialist endorsement; English as a second language endorsement; environmental education endorsement; gifted and talented endorsement; and instructional computer technology endorsement. Western Kentucky University’s MAE in elementary education – teacher leadership online degree asks students to have a recent (within five years) GRE score and an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75 to apply for the program in good standing.
#12 – Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona
MEd in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $575
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 613th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
Website
Northern Arizona University developed its master of education in elementary education online degree in order to deepen knowledge of issues and correct research on the best practices in the field. The curriculum includes the following: literacy I and II; graduate mathematics and evidence-based practices, grades 1-8; elementary curriculum and assessment; survey of special education; educational psychology applied to learning; and student teaching reflection seminar. Northern Arizona University’s admissions asks for transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA and a fee of $65 when applying for their online MEd in elementary education degree.
#11 – Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
MA in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $510
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 783rd
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
Website
The Eastern Kentucky University master of arts in elementary education online degree is open to current elementary teachers with a valid teaching license. Application must be made to both graduate school and the graduate program. Submit an application fee of $40 along with transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 overall GPA in undergraduate school or GRE/GMAT scores if your GPA is sub 3.0. Eastern Kentucky University has established a strong program in its master of arts in elementary education online degree and offers the following courses: leadership skills for teachers; research for teacher leaders; literacy programs P-5; and teacher leader capstone.
#10 – Marshall University
Huntington, West Virginia
MEd with an emphasis in Elementary Mathematics Specialist Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $365.75
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 991st
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
Website
While taking your 36 credit hours at Marshall University for your online master of education in elementary mathematics specialist degree, you will focus on a specialist certificate or on course work, primarily. Admissions calls for an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.5, transcripts, and proof of a current elementary education license. Marshall University’s online MEd in elementary mathematics specialist degree has been designed to prepare you for modern trends in mathematics pedagogy. Area coursework in mathematics includes these courses: technical mathematics for mathematics educators; application software in the classroom curriculum area; algebra for mathematics educators; and mathematics for elementary teachers I and II.
#9 – University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Online MS in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $439
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 393rd
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 18
Website
The University of North Dakota online master of science in elementary education degree does not charge out of state fees to non-residents. This 32 hour program is intended for part-time study and can be finished in around two years. Applicants for the University of North Dakota MS in elementary education online degree can expect to be asked to provide a three-page personal statement, a copy of a current teacher’s license, and evidence of at least a 2.75 GPA over previous college coursework. Course titles for the degree include science in the elementary school, action research, and a practicum.
#8 – University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Online MA in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $420
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 359th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 18
Website
The University of Alabama has an online master of arts in elementary education degree that is 30-36 credit hours. Two courses must be taken if you have not already done so: evaluation of classroom learning and introduction to exceptional children. You must also choose at least one specialty from this list (two are recommended): language arts; literacy; mathematics; science; and social studies. To apply to the University of Alabama’s MA in elementary education online degree, submit a copy of current teaching license, transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 in the last 60 hours of undergraduate course work, GRE/MAT scores, and a $40 fee.
#7 – Missouri State University
Springfield, Missouri
Online MSE in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $295
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 652nd
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 18
Website
Missouri State University’s online master of science in education in elementary education degree is a 34 credit hour program that requires the candidate to have a valid, current teaching license. Other admission stipulations are for a 3.0 minimum GPA in the final 60 hours of undergraduate work, letter of intent, and three professional letters of recommendation. The MSE in elementary education online degree offered by Missouri State University includes the following courses in its curriculum: the emerging master teacher; advanced theories of practice in student assessment and evaluation; contemporary issues in elementary curriculum; and research seminar in elementary education.
#6 – Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Online MSEd in Education – PreK-4 Certification
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $600
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 180th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 19
Website
To earn the accelerated-track Mercy College online master of science in education – preK-4 certification, you will be expected to follow the new teacher certification program. The 30-36 hour program has a student teaching component with fourteen weeks of full-time teaching. For entry into Mercy College’s online MSEd in education – preK-4 certification, you need a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, proof of coursework in a number of grades 4-8 and secondary studies certification, a current resume, and two references. Courses such as social and political foundations of education, methods and theories for teaching mathematics, and multicultural diversity issues in education are part of the curriculum.
#5 – Kansas State University
Manhattan, Kansas
Online MAT Elementary Track
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $574.20
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 225th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 19
Website
Kansas State University’s 31 credit hour, online master of arts in teaching degree is intended for individuals with undergraduate degrees outside the field of teaching who wish to become teachers. The program can be completed in 12 months and prepares you to apply for your K-6 Initial Teaching License. Application to Kansas State University’s online master of arts in teaching calls for transcripts with a 3.0 minimum GPA in the final 60 hours, three professional references, statement of objectives, and a $65 fee. The curriculum includes teaching social studies, reading, and literacy in the elementary school and teaching health, movement, and fine arts.
#4 – Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Online MAT in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $475
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 271st
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 19
Website
Northwestern State University of Louisiana’s online master of arts in teaching in elementary education degree was designed for non-education baccalaureate degree holders who want to earn an initial Louisiana teaching certificate in elementary education grades 1-5 and earn the title of “highly qualified” educator. Admission to the program requires a passing score on Praxis II, transcripts, $20 fee, and a one-year internship in teaching. Northwestern State University of Louisiana includes the following courses for their 39 credit hour, 100% online MAT elementary education degree: early childhood education, pre-K-grade 3; middle school education, grades 4-8; and elementary education, grades 1-5.
#3 – Minnesota State University Mankato
Mankato, Minnesota
MS in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $427.45
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 258th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 19
Website
Minnesota State University offers a 31 credit hour, online master of science in elementary education degree that has three tracks, all of which call for 9 credit hours of instruction: STEM; math; and generalist. Admissions requires a valid, current teaching license, transcripts, and $40 fee. The curriculum for Mankato Minnesota State University Mankato’s online MS in elementary education degree is taught asynchronously and includes the following courses; integrating 21st century practices in the diverse elementary classroom; scholarly writing; and analysis of research in education. Along with the many electives from which to choose and coursework for the selected track, students will also complete research/capstone coursework.
#2 – Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, Utah
MAT in Elementary Education Online
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $360
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 543rd
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 19
Website
The Western Governors University master of arts in teaching in elementary education online is a 24 course degree that most students complete in 1-2 years. The degree requires an in-classroom experience component, but no travel to campus, and leads to teaching licensure. Western Governors University online MAT in elementary education charges a tuition of $3,240 per six month term. We divided this figure by 9 (which is a standard graduate load) and got a figure that correlates to $360 per credit hour at a more traditional university. Areas of study include content for teaching elementary mathematics, reading, language arts, science, and social studies.
#1 – Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, Kansas
Online MAT with an emphasis in Elementary Education
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Online Hourly Tuition (out of state, where applicable): $354
Payscale.com Salary Ranking: 169th
CAEP Accreditation: Yes
Points: 20
Website
Pittsburg State University has a 33 credit hour, 100% online master of arts in teaching in elementary education degree that was developed for holders of a baccalaureate degree in a field outside education but who wish to earn initial licensure. Enrollees must complete one 40-hour teaching practicum in a K or first or second grade classroom and another in an intermediate classroom in schools accredited by the state of Kansas. The online MAT in elementary education curriculum includes positive classroom management and individuals with exceptionalities. Pittsburg State University asks for transcripts with a 3.0 GPA, three professional recommendations, and a $35 fee.
Other Rankings of Interest: