Pursuing a degree in elementary education online offers the flexibility and convenience necessary for many aspiring teachers balancing various commitments.
Online programs provide high-quality education, preparing students to teach and inspire young minds from kindergarten through sixth grade. This comprehensive guide explores the top 15 online colleges for elementary education degrees in 2024, highlighting the unique features, costs, and benefits of each program.
Whether you are a working professional looking to advance your career or a recent high school graduate aiming to enter the teaching profession, these online programs offer a range of options tailored to diverse needs and schedules.
From universities with accelerated courses to those providing specialized certifications, these top-ranked institutions ensure you receive the best training and education to become a successful elementary school teacher.
Online colleges for Elementary Education eDgree
1. University of Northern Iowa
Location: Cedar Falls, IA
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $350
- Out-of-State: $350
Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) offers an online bachelor’s degree in elementary education designed for working professionals with an associate degree. This customizable program allows for a double major in elementary and middle-level education, with minors available in literacy education, early childhood education, or social and emotional learning.
Over two years, students engage in live streaming and asynchronous coursework, covering topics like early literacy teaching methods, classroom assessment, and field experiences. The program fosters a supportive cohort environment and includes opportunities for on-the-ground learning. Admission requires an associate degree.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $8,111
- Out-of-State: $19,265
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $9,691
- Out-of-State: $20,774
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Students Enrolled: 8,848
- Institution Type: Public
- Percent Online Enrollment: 54%
- Accreditation: Yes
2 University of South Carolina-Columbia
Location: Columbia, SC
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP
Cost per Credit (part time):
- In-State: $433
- Out-of-State: $869
Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of South Carolina-Columbia (UofSC) offers a bachelor’s degree in elementary education designed to prepare teachers for grades 2-6 with field experiences essential for certification in South Carolina.
This 120-credit degree completion program spans 2-3 years, including a 12-month internship. Coursework includes classroom management, instructional methods, literacy and reading instruction, and child growth and development. Admission requires at least 25 credits from an accredited school and a GPA of 2.5 or higher. The Office of Clinical Experiences coordinates classroom placements.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $12,288
- Out-of-State: $33,528
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $13,374
- Out-of-State: $29,760
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Acceptance Rate: 64%
- Students Enrolled: 36,035
- Institution Type: Public
- Percent Online Enrollment: 56%
- Accreditation: Yes
3. Drexel University
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $459
- Out-of-State: $459
Quarter Credits to Graduate: 180
Drexel University’s bachelor’s in elementary education program offers a pathway to teaching certification and an optional special education credential.
The part-time program, approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, takes 2.5-5 years to complete. It includes 12 weeks of teaching experience and 190 hours of in-school activities. The program also has a non-certification option. For those with less than 24 college credits, high school transcripts and a personal essay are required.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $54,766
- Out-of-State: $54,766
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $36,234
- Out-of-State: $36,234
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Students Enrolled: 23,216
- Institution Type: Private
- Percent Online Enrollment: 50%
- Accreditation: Yes
4. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Location: Stillwater, OK
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $420
- Out-of-State: $938
Credits to Graduate: 124
Oklahoma State University’s online elementary education program leads to teaching certification recommended by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
The program includes three field experiences totaling 144 hours and a senior year internship, with most coursework completed online. This four-year degree prepares students to teach elementary social studies, science, math, and literature. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 2.5 and an ACT score of 22 (including writing) or an SAT score of 1120.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $5,417
- Out-of-State: $20,937
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $4,208
- Out-of-State: $15,836
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Students Enrolled: 25,390
- Institution Type: Public
- Percent Online Enrollment: 52%
- Accreditation: Yes
5. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Location: Charlotte, NC
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $189
- Out-of-State: $800
Credits to Graduate: 60
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a bachelor’s in elementary education degree completion program tailored for teacher assistants aiming to become certified teachers.
The program, which can be completed full-time or part-time, includes live lectures and deadline-driven assignments. Courses cover instructional design and assessment, equitable education practices, and instruction planning for diverse populations. Admission requires an associate degree, a minimum GPA of 2.7, a recommendation letter from a school administrator, experience as a teacher assistant in North Carolina, and passing Praxis scores.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $3,812
- Out-of-State: $17,936
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $4,337
- Out-of-State: $18,482
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Students Enrolled: 29,668
- Institution Type: Public
- Percent Online Enrollment: 69%
- Accreditation: Yes
6. Kansas State University
Location: Manhattan, KS
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $394
- Out-of-State: $394
Credits to Graduate: 120
Kansas State University’s elementary education bachelor’s degree combines classroom experience and theoretical learning. The 120-credit program progresses through three blocks: Block A focuses on education technology, psychology, and teaching skills with a lab; Blocks B and C provide classroom experience through two field practicums.
Students complete a teaching internship involving classroom observation and independent teaching. The program also encourages earning a minor or certification.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $9,632
- Out-of-State: $25,944
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $10,294
- Out-of-State: $23,018
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Students Enrolled: 19,707
- Institution Type: Public
- Percent Online Enrollment: 44%
- Accreditation: Yes
7. University of North Dakota
Location: Grand Forks, ND
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP, North Dakota Educational Standards and Practices Board
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $384
- Out-of-State: $577
Credits to Graduate: 125
The University of North Dakota (UND) offers a bachelor’s in elementary education designed to prepare students to teach grades 1-8. The program offers multiple minors, including early childhood education, English language learners and bilingual education, literacy education, middle school education, and special education.
Students receive training through various field experiences and learn to teach reading, social studies, math, and science. A dual program option allows students to earn a master’s in elementary education faster.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $8,882
- Out-of-State: $13,324
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $11,963
- Out-of-State: $17,944
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Students Enrolled: 13,917
- Institution Type: Public
- Percent Online Enrollment: 70%
- Accreditation: Yes
8. Viterbo University
Location: La Crosse, WI
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $335
- Out-of-State: $335
Credits to Graduate: 53
Viterbo University’s bachelor’s in elementary education completion program can lead to teaching certification in 2-3 years for those with an associate degree. An additional nine credits can earn a special education license. Viterbo has a long history of training elementary educators since 1890. The curriculum blends Franciscan values with modern teaching approaches and technology-enhanced instruction.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $29,230
- Out-of-State: $29,230
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $9,488
- Out-of-State: $9,488
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Students Enrolled: 2,520
- Institution Type: Private
- Percent Online Enrollment: 51%
- Accreditation: Yes
9. Buena Vista University
Location: Storm Lake, IA
Duration: 2 years
Format: Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $465
- Out-of-State: $465
Credits to Graduate: 120
Buena Vista University (BVU) offers an online elementary education degree that provides a foundation in instructional technology, elementary literacy, teaching methods, and educational psychology. The program prepares students to teach grades K-6 and includes access to online tutors and a student lounge. Through the Plus One Program, students can complete a master’s in organizational leadership or English as a second language in one year.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $37,518
- Out-of-State: $37,518
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $9,936
- Out-of-State: $9,936
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Students Enrolled: 1,242
- Institution Type: Private
- Percent Online Enrollment: 59%
- Accreditation: Yes
10. Campbell University
Location: Buies Creek, NC
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $450
- Out-of-State: $450
Credits to Graduate: 124
Campbell University’s online B.S. in elementary education program is offered in an eight-week accelerated format. The program covers various subjects including assessment, data-informed teaching, education technology foundations, special education, and adaptive technology. The curriculum focuses on developing skills and knowledge to become a teacher, with coursework on curriculum creation, assessment techniques, instructional practices, and addressing diverse needs of students and families for grades K-6.
- Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $35,580
- Out-of-State: $35,580
- Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $14,041
- Out-of-State: $14,041
Retention Rate: 75%
Acceptance Rate: 89%
Students Enrolled: 5,259
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 27%
Accreditation: Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the admission requirements for online elementary education programs?
Admission requirements vary by institution, but generally, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs require a minimum GPA, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), and completion of prerequisite courses. Additionally, certain programs may ask for letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and relevant work experience, especially for degree completion programs.
2. Can I complete my student teaching requirement online?
While coursework can be completed online, student teaching typically requires in-person participation. Most programs arrange student teaching placements at schools near your location, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in a real classroom setting. This practical component is crucial for meeting state certification requirements.
3. How do online elementary education programs handle field experiences and internships?
Online programs often have partnerships with schools and educational organizations to facilitate field experiences and internships. These placements are coordinated to be convenient for online students, often allowing them to complete these requirements locally. The specific structure and duration of these experiences vary by program but are designed to provide comprehensive, practical teaching experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right online college for your elementary education degree is a significant step towards a fulfilling career in teaching. The top 15 online programs of 2024 offer a blend of flexibility, affordability, and comprehensive training that cater to the diverse needs of students. From initial coursework to hands-on teaching experiences, these programs equip future educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in elementary education.
By carefully considering program specifics, costs, and personal career goals, you can select an online college that aligns with your aspirations and sets you on the path to becoming an effective and inspiring elementary school teacher.
