Pursuing a Master of Education (MEd) in Elementary Education can be a pivotal step in your teaching career. If you’re passionate about shaping young learners’ futures, an online MEd in Elementary Education offers the flexibility and depth of expertise to help you make a greater impact in the classroom. This guide walks you through top programs, common questions, career pathways, and costs to help you decide whether this degree is right for you.
Author: Shannon Lee
Expertise: Graduate Ed.CareersOnline LearningEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - Career Options
What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
Read more - Top Schools
A list of the best schools currently offering the best online and hybrid master’s programs in the state...
Read more
Popular Online Elementary Education MEd Programs
Arizona State University — M.Ed. in Elementary Education (Teacher Certification)
Arizona State’s online MEd in Elementary Education – Teacher Certification program is designed for career changers entering the teaching profession. It combines online coursework with real-world internships and student teaching to prepare you for K–8 licensure.
Students learn evidence-based teaching strategies, classroom management, and curriculum design through ASU’s nationally ranked Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. Students who commit to teaching in Arizona after graduation may qualify for the Arizona Teachers Academy scholarship, which can cover full tuition.
Graduates earn both a master’s degree and eligibility for Arizona teacher certification, making this a streamlined pathway into the classroom. Academic and career advisors provide support throughout the program, and ASU’s strong reputation helps graduates enter the field well prepared.
Duration: 33 credits
Mode: Online coursework + in-person internships/student teaching
Cost: $8,440 total | Arizona Teachers Academy may cover full tuition for eligible students
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in any field (minimum 3.0 GPA in last 60 credits)
- Official transcripts
- IVP fingerprint clearance card (required before field placement)
- Application and statement of intent
- No GRE required
University of Central Florida — M.Ed. in Elementary Education
The University of Central Florida’s online MEd in Elementary Education is geared toward experienced teachers who want to deepen their expertise or add endorsements. The program is housed within UCF’s nationally ranked College of Education.
Coursework emphasizes research-based teaching practices and offers elective tracks for Reading or ESOL endorsements, as well as specializations in gifted and exceptional education. Florida-certified teachers on temporary licenses can use this degree to qualify for a professional teaching certificate after passing required state exams.
Students receive ongoing support from faculty mentors and UCF Online student success coaches, and financial aid and scholarships are available.
Duration: 30 credit hours
Mode: Fully online, asynchronous
Cost: $327 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (education or related field preferred)
- Valid K-6 teaching certificate (temporary or professional) with at least 1 year of teaching experience
- Preferred 3.0 GPA in last 60 credits
- Official transcripts
- Goal statement or essay
- No GRE required
University of Alabama — M.A. in Elementary Education
The University of Alabama’s online MA in Elementary Education is a flexible option for licensed teachers seeking career advancement. The program is CAEP-accredited and emphasizes the connection between theory and classroom practice.
Courses cover instructional strategies, curriculum design, and educational research. Students also complete practicum experiences in their own schools or communities, allowing them to apply new approaches directly to their classrooms.
This program meets Alabama’s requirements for Class A (master’s-level) teacher certification, which may lead to salary increases. Students also have access to UA’s online library, advising, and career services.
Duration: 30–36 credits
Mode: Fully online, asynchronous
Cost: $440 per credit + $10 per credit College of Education fee
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Valid bachelor’s-level teaching certificate in Elementary Education (K-6)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (undergraduate or prior graduate work)
- Official transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- Fingerprint/background clearance
- Completed UA Graduate School application
FAQs from Prospective Elementary Education MEd Students
Q: Are online MEd in Elementary Education programs accredited and respected?
A: Yes — when the program is properly accredited.
Look for regional accreditation at the institutional level and CAEP accreditation for educator preparation programs. School districts and employers generally recognize reputable online programs from established universities, and delivery format rarely affects credibility.
A fully accredited online MEd in Elementary Education is widely respected in the field.
Q: Do I need a teaching license to enroll, and will an MEd program lead to licensure?
A: It depends on the program.
Many online MEd programs are designed for already licensed teachers and do not lead to initial licensure. However, some programs — often labeled teacher certification tracks or MAT programs — are specifically built for career changers and do include licensure.
If you’re already licensed, most programs expect you to hold a teaching certificate but may help you earn endorsements or advanced certification levels. Always confirm licensure outcomes before applying.
Q: How long does it take to complete an online MEd in Elementary Education?
A: Most programs take about two years for working teachers.
Online MEd programs typically require 30–36 credits, which many students complete in roughly 24 months by taking two courses per term (including summers). Accelerated or year-round formats may shorten completion to 18 months, while a slower pace can extend timelines beyond three years. This flexibility is a key benefit of online programs.
Q: What are the typical admission requirements for an online MEd in Elementary Ed?
A: Admissions requirements vary, but most programs follow a similar structure. Applicants usually need:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- A minimum 3.0 GPA (often in the last 60 credits)
- Official transcripts
- A statement of purpose or goal essay
- Letters of recommendation
Licensed teachers may need to submit proof of certification. The GRE is rarely required for online MEd programs. International applicants may need to submit English proficiency scores.
Q: Will I need to complete student teaching or in-person practicums in an online MEd program?
A: Possibly, depending on the program and licensure goals.
Initial licensure programs include student teaching, typically arranged in a local school. Programs for licensed teachers may incorporate practicums, action research, or classroom-based projects instead. Fully academic or specialization-focused MEd programs may not require traditional student teaching. Always review program requirements carefully.
Understanding the Cost of Online Elementary Education MEd
Costs vary by institution and residency status. Public universities often offer lower in-state rates, though many online programs charge flat tuition regardless of location.
In addition to tuition, budget for:
- Technology or online program fees
- Graduation or program fees (often ~$100–$150)
Financial aid can offset costs through federal loans, scholarships, grants, and district tuition reimbursement. Always request a full tuition breakdown and ask about payment plans or cohort discounts.
| School | Credits | Cost per Credit | Est. Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Florida | 30 | $327.32 | $9,820 |
| University of Alabama | 30 | $440 | $13,200 |
| University of North Dakota | 30 | $498.45 | $16,590 |
Note: The above estimates are for tuition only; additional fees may apply.
After Graduation: What Can You Do with an MEd in Elementary Education?
An MEd in Elementary Education can deepen your teaching practice and open doors to leadership roles. Below are three common career paths for education graduates.
Elementary School Teacher (K–5/6)
What They Do: Master’s-level teachers often serve as grade-level leaders, mentor new teachers, or support curriculum planning.
Why It’s a Strong Path: Many districts offer salary increases for advanced degrees, and teachers gain enhanced instructional expertise.
Salary and Outlook: Median annual pay is $62,310 (May 2024). While projected growth is flat, 106,500 annual openings are expected due to retirements and turnover.
Instructional Coordinator (Curriculum Specialist)
What They Do: Instructional coordinators design curricula, train teachers, and evaluate instructional programs.
Why It’s a Strong Path: This role allows educators to influence teaching practices at a broader level while leveraging classroom experience.
Salary and Outlook: Median annual salary is $74,720, with 2% projected growth.
Elementary School Principal or Assistant Principal
What They Do: Principals oversee school operations, instructional quality, staffing, and community relations.
Why It’s a Strong Path: An MEd can serve as a stepping stone toward school leadership roles, often paired with additional administrative licensure.
Salary and Outlook: Median annual wage is $104,030, with 4% projected growth.
Best Online MEd Programs in Elementary Education
To help you find the right program, we’ve ranked the best online MEd in Elementary Education programs in the country. Our ranking methodology is focused on key factors like affordability, the number of online education programs/specializations offered, proper accreditation, and the strength of student services. We also considered program reputation and outcomes where available.
Use our rankings to discover which schools made our list and what makes each of them prime choices for elementary education professionals.