Elementary education involves the research and practice of teaching kindergarten and early grade school students. Elementary educators usually view high-quality teaching and learning as key to childrens' successful intellectual, social, and emotional development. Online master's in elementary education programs typically prepare graduates for teaching or school administration careers. Elementary education degrees include coursework in curriculum and instruction, classroom management, diversity, and contemporary education issues.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn $59,420 median annual salaries. The BLS projects an average growth rate of 4% for these teaching positions during 2019-2029. Master's in elementary education graduates may also find work as curriculum designers, school administrators, or community organization or program directors.
View Our Rankings List Here
Master's in Elementary Education Common Asked Questions
What can you do with a master's in elementary education?
Elementary education master's degrees often lead to careers in teaching, school administration, educational consulting, or nonprofit management.
How long does it take to get a master's in elementary education?
Accelerated master's programs featuring short, intensive courses may take as little as one year to finish, depending on prior coursework. Traditional master's programs usually require at least two years.
Do teachers with master's get paid more?
March 2021 PayScale data suggests that master's in elementary education graduates average about $53,170 annually. Bachelor's degree-holders earn $50,590 on average.
Do I need a license to be an elementary school teacher?
Public school K-12 teachers require teaching licensure from their state's education board. Requirements vary by state.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org 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.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in Elementary Education?
An elementary education master's degree develops specialized knowledge that can support career advancement. Professionals use advanced degrees to ascend their organizations' salary scales, qualify for career transition, or seek promotion to higher-paying administrative positions.
Working professionals can save money by pursuing their elementary education degrees online. Distance learners often pay discounted tuition and save on residency and commuting costs. Online programs frequently feature flexible scheduling, allowing enrollees to go at their own pace or complete their degrees outside of work.
How Much Does an Elementary Education Degree Cost?
Elementary education degree prices vary widely based on several factors. Public institutions typically charge significantly lower tuition rates than private institutions. At public institutions, in-state tuition costs much less than out-of-state tuition. The College Board's 2020 Trends in College Pricing reports that full-time tuition at public, in-state, four-year U.S. institutions averages $10,560 annually. At such a school, a two-year master's in elementary education could cost around $21,000.
Enrolling at public, nonprofit universities usually serves as the cheapest option. However, note that very well-endowed private schools may offer generous financial aid to eligible students. Online degrees often cost less than on-campus degrees, due partly to savings on residency and commuting costs. Distance learners may pay reduced, in-state tuition rates, even at out-of-state schools.
The College Board reports that California in-state schools charge less than one-third the rates of New Hampshire in-state institutions. Attending online schools based in less expensive states may save even more money.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Elementary Education Majors Make?
A master's in elementary education degree can support careers in nonprofit or for-profit sectors. Elementary education salaries differ based on field, position, employer, and credentials. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn a median annual salary of nearly $60,000. Master's-level education can support promotion to higher paying administrative jobs, including K-12 principal, garnering a $96,400 median annual salary.
Other possible careers for elementary education degree-seekers include school counselor, curriculum designer, and community organization or program director. These careers provide median annual salaries ranging from $57,040-$67,150.
Some careers require additional education or professional credentials. School counselors usually need counseling-specific education and licensure. Elementary education master's degree-holders seeking careers as education professors usually need doctoral degrees. According to the BLS, professors earn a median annual salary of around $80,000.
Earning professional credentials, such as specialized certifications, can also help increase hireability and pay. Read further for common credentials for those with a master's in elementary education.
Courses in Elementary Education
Elementary education master's degrees typically entail 30-40 credits of core and specialization coursework. Common curriculum specialization offerings include special education, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, or STEM education.
Many programs align their core curriculum with state teaching certification education requirements. Some common core courses appear below. Many programs include supervised practica or internships, allowing students to apply new knowledge to real teaching and learning contexts. Master's programs typically require a capstone thesis or project that cultivates research, writing, and analysis skills.
Issues in Classroom Management
This course examines various classroom management theories and application models. Enrollees acquire techniques for organizing classrooms, managing time, and regulating student behavior. Participants learn about relevant education laws, including laws related to ESL and special needs students. A version of this course appears in virtually all master's in elementary education programs.Curriculum and Instruction
This core course surveys curriculum principles, theories, development, and evaluation methods. Learners explore instruction and instructional evaluation methods. Students examine and develop their own educational philosophies and analyze academic success factors, including family, social, and cultural influences. The course cultivates data analysis skills useful in assessment and curriculum design.Infant and Early Childhood Development
This foundational course studies human development from conception through early childhood. Discussions cover shaping factors in family, community, and cultural contexts. Participants read current child development literature and conduct qualitative analyses of children's social lives. The class explores interventions and sociocultural changes that can support child development.
Certifications and Licensure for Elementary Education
An online elementary education master's degree usually meets or exceeds minimum degree requirements for many positions. Degree-holders generally qualify to become elementary school teachers, school administrators, curriculum designers, or community and social services managers. However, some jobs also require state licensure or professional certification. See below for a few common elementary education credentials.
These state-issued licenses qualify their holders to teach preschool and early elementary education. Requirements vary by state, but usually include a related degree, passing scores on various assessments, and supervised internships and professional experiences.
This professional certification serves aspiring school principals. Requirements vary by state but typically include an accredited bachelor's, three years of experience, certification program completion, and a passing certification exam score.
The Association for Talent Development offers this credential to students who complete a related certificate program. Participants study curriculum and instructional design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. Certificate-holders often pursue careers as teachers, curriculum designers, or educational program directors.
Scholarships for Elementary Education
Online master's in elementary education enrollees may qualify for various scholarships based on identity membership, financial need, academic merit, or community service. Many scholarships support applicants focusing on specific fields or career paths. Students pursuing an elementary education degree may qualify for scholarships like the three below.
Scholarships for Elementary Education
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant |
Up to $4,000 per year, renewable |
The federal government administers TEACH grants to high-performing students seeking teaching careers. Eligible candidates demonstrate minimum a 3.35 GPA or top-75th percentile standardized test scores and enrollment in a TEACH-Grant-eligible program. Upon graduation, recipients must complete a teaching obligation in a high-needs field or income area. |
National Association of Junior Auxiliaries Scholarship |
Varies |
NAJA offers this scholarship to U.S. citizens pursuing graduate degrees and careers directly serving special needs children and youth. Only permanent residents of states containing NAJA chapters can qualify for this scholarship. |
Montessori Teacher Education Scholarships |
Varies |
The American Montessori Society offers scholarships to students enrolled in AMS-affiliated teacher education programs. Eligible applicants demonstrate financial need and submit three recommendation letters and a compelling personal statement. |
Online Master's In Elementary Education Programs
#1 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners enrolled at Appalachian State University can pursue an online elementary education master's degree. Based in Boone, North Carolina, the public institution educates 4,490 online students. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.
Degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum and gain field-specific training while fulfilling requirements for the master's degree in elementary education. The MA program features electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. The online program prioritizes flexible scheduling and career-specific training. After earning the degree, graduates often secure high-paying elementary education positions with additional responsibilities. Master's students can use the institution's career services to plan their professional futures.
Student support services, including career advising and financial aid counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. In addition to federal funding, learners can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Louisiana at Monroe educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. The school offers 14 bachelor's programs and 16 master's programs in an online format that is ideal for busy learners.
The institution's online master's degree in elementary education is ideal for degree-seekers interested in careers teaching grades 1-5. Program graduates can apply for new positions in the field or advance their current elementary education career. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support master's students' overall success.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
University of Louisiana at Monroe Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 98%
Students Receiving Loans: 41%
Total Master's Programs: 24
Total Online Master's Programs: 24
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
Southeast Missouri State University
- Cape Girardeau, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southeast Missouri State University is a leader in online learning. This institution offers online and on-campus master's degree options, including an MA in elementary education. The school may request some applicants’ test scores. The university hires advisors, IT professionals, and other support staff for distance learners. The school's virtual classrooms let students interact with faculty and peers.
According to the institution, 96% of learners receive financial aid and 42% take out loans. The application process requires school transcripts.
Southeast Missouri State University at a Glance:
Total Number of Online Learners: 5,553
Distance Learning Master's Degrees: 13
Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,242 in-state; $9,796 out-of-state
Average Aid Awarded: $6,845
Average Price After Aid: $12,350
The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
University of North Alabama
- Florence, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Alabama offers an online elementary education program for distance learners. The school enrolls 3,037 students in its online classes. Graduate students can earn their master's degree in elementary education online at the school. The accredited program offers a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The program provides advanced training for elementary education careers.
Degree-seekers benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty. Prospective students can learn more about online support services on the school's website. The online program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the program an affordable option for graduate students on a budget. The school reports a graduation rate of 49% for its programs.
University of North Alabama Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 5,068
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 13
Graduate Tuition: $6,660/year in-state; $13,320/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,706
Average Net Price: $14,033
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
University of New Mexico
- Albuquerque, NM
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of New Mexico provides online options for graduate-level learners interested in pursuing degrees remotely. With nine online programs, including six online master's programs, the public institution educates students throughout the country. Degree-seekers can enroll in the school's MA in education. The online program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
Learners gain transferable skills and prepare for positions in the field during core coursework and classes. Experiential learning opportunities help graduate students bolster their resume and gain practical skills. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time. Prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor for details about application deadlines and requirements.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. In-state graduate learners at the institution pay an average tuition rate of $5,156, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $17,407. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans. The school reports that 94% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
East Tennessee State University
- Johnson City, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from East Tennessee State University. Learners throughout the country can pursue an online master's in elementary education from the public institution. The affordable, accessible program prepares working professionals to pursue leadership positions.
Graduate students work with faculty advisors while earning their master's degree and preparing for elementary education careers. The M.Ed. program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the field. While completing program coursework, master's students hone analytical and leadership skills they can apply to careers.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Degree-seekers can discuss funding options, including grants and fellowships, with qualified financial aid counselors. The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible.
East Tennessee State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 43
Total Online Programs: 5
Number of Online Students: 7,986
Graduate Tuition In-State: $8,640
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $23,760
Applies Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can enroll at Ball State University to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including elementary education. The public institution's student population includes degree-seekers studying on campus in Muncie, Indiana, along with 9,809 individuals pursuing online studies. Many online programs feature flexible scheduling options that benefit working professionals.
The master's degree in elementary's rigorous curriculum meets high academic standards to prepare degree-seekers for advanced elementary education positions. Students can customize the master's curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. The program's flexible scheduling options make earning a master's more convenient for busy learners. Graduates often benefit from increased elementary education career opportunities after earning their master's degree. Students and alumni can access career services from the institution.
The school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling to help graduate learners plan their academic and professional futures. Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. Scholarships and fellowships can also help students reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
Elizabeth City State University
- Elizabeth City, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
North Carolina-based Elizabeth City State University educates degree-seekers online and on campus.
The institution's online master of education in elementary education is ideal for degree-seekers interested in elementary education careers. Graduates of the elementary education program can apply for new positions in the field or advance their current career. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support master's students' overall success.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for enrollees to pursue graduate degrees. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Learners can also pay for their degree with scholarships, institutional aid, and other forms of financial aid.
Elizabeth City State University Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 97%
Students Receiving Loans: 62%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Statesboro-based Georgia Southern University provides graduate programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. The public institution's offerings include online master's degrees learners can earn from any location. The flexible M.Ed. in elementary education program offers affordable tuition rates and allows students to work while earning their elementary education degree.
Master's students take core elementary education classes to gain foundational knowledge in the field. The curriculum also features advanced elementary education coursework and elective options. Master's students can gain practical career preparation through faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
A master's degree can qualify elementary education professionals for leadership positions and raises. Master's students and alumni can work with faculty advisors and career counselors.
At the accredited institution, degree-seekers who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Current professionals can research tuition reimbursement programs to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. According to the school, 91% of students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online Master’s Programs in Elementary Education
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in East Carolina University's undergraduate and graduate programs online or on campus in Greenville, North Carolina. In addition to in-person options, the school offers multiple online graduate programs. The institution delivers an online master's degree in elementary education for busy students who want to earn their elementary education degree while maintaining employment.
The master's program features rigorous coursework as well as access to faculty and career advising. Learners can pursue the online elementary education program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a graduate education easier. Most graduate degree-seekers can finish the master's program in 1-2 years of full-time study.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. According to the school, 53% of its enrollees use loans to pay for their education. In addition, the institution reports that 79% of its learners obtain financial aid to fund their education.
East Carolina University Numbers:
Total Programs: 187
Number of Online Programs: 69
Online Master's Programs: 72
Number of Online Students: 13,890
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Reviewed by
