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 EducationCareer DevelopmentOnline LearningEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Which Student Are You?
Choosing the Right Elementary Education Program for You
Read more - 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 - Salary/Pay
Elementary Education Salary Outlook with a 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
Choosing the Right Elementary Education Program for You
Most elementary education master’s programs exist to get you licensed to teach grades K-6, but the path looks very different if you’re a career-changer without a teaching background versus a current teacher adding credentials. Pick the wrong format and you’ll add semesters of student teaching you don’t need. Find your match in the personas below.
Which Elementary Education Student Best Describes You?
The Career Starter
You’ve recently earned your bachelor’s degree and want the fastest path into an elementary classroom of your own, including the licensure you’ll need to teach.
An initial-licensure elementary program bundles the coursework and supervised student teaching your state requires — across every subject you’ll teach — into one sequence. A hybrid format keeps fieldwork in person while letting foundational coursework happen online.
The Career Changer
You’re leaving a career outside education and want a program built for career-changers, with the licensure pathway that lets you become a certified elementary teacher.
Alternative and accelerated licensure tracks are specifically built to admit career-changers without a prior education degree, pairing foundational teaching coursework with your existing background. A fully online format lets you complete coursework around a current job before your student teaching placement begins.
The Promotion Seeker
You’re a licensed elementary teacher who wants to move into instructional coaching, curriculum design, or a subject-specialist role.
Advanced, non-licensure coursework goes deeper into coaching, curriculum, and assessment than an initial-licensure program has room for — exactly what a specialist or coaching role requires. A hybrid format fits around your current classroom schedule.
The Working Balancer
You’re teaching full-time and want to finish your master’s — often for license renewal or a pay increase — without missing time in your own classroom.
A fully online, part-time program with summer and evening options fits the school-year schedule elementary teachers actually have, letting you make real progress over breaks rather than during the school day. Many states also tie salary increases directly to a completed master’s.
The Reading RTI Teacher
You want to specialize in helping struggling readers catch up, working one-on-one or in small groups rather than leading a full classroom.
A reading or literacy endorsement adds the diagnostic and intervention coursework general elementary licensure doesn’t fully cover, which is exactly what interventionist and Title I reading positions look for. A hybrid format pairs that specialized coursework with supervised practice working with struggling readers.
The Elementary STEM Specialist
You want to become your school’s go-to teacher for math and science — leading a STEM lab, coordinating grade-level curriculum, or teaching departmentalized STEM blocks.
A STEM-focused concentration builds deeper content and pedagogy in math and science than a generalist elementary program provides, matching the growing number of schools that departmentalize upper-elementary grades by subject. A fully online format works well for teachers already in the classroom building this specialization on the side.
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
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
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.
Elementary Education Salary Outlook with a Master’s Degree
A master’s in elementary education deepens your pedagogical expertise and often qualifies you for higher salary steps on district schedules, leadership roles, and instructional coaching positions. Graduates work as lead classroom teachers, literacy coaches, curriculum specialists, and elementary instructional leaders — shaping foundational learning for students in grades K-5. The credential is valued in both public and private school settings.
Elementary teacher compensation varies significantly by state and district, with advanced degrees typically earning teachers more on district salary schedules. Urban and suburban districts in higher cost-of-living areas tend to offer stronger base salaries.
Check the salary table below to see what elementary school teachers earn across the country, and benchmark teacher pay in your state.
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
| Area | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $63,970 | $81,450 | $104,340 |
| Alabama | $61,380 | $64,160 | $73,950 |
| Alaska | $79,260 | $97,090 | $98,610 |
| Arizona | $56,590 | $63,440 | $79,470 |
| Arkansas | $52,700 | $60,750 | $63,120 |
| California | $99,650 | $119,970 | $127,070 |
| Colorado | $63,410 | $80,160 | $98,950 |
| Connecticut | $80,600 | $100,840 | $105,890 |
| Delaware | $75,920 | $86,260 | $94,100 |
| District of Columbia | $96,580 | $102,650 | $128,370 |
| Florida | $58,930 | $62,510 | $75,780 |
| Georgia | $72,290 | $77,870 | $98,030 |
| Hawaii | $71,410 | $76,740 | $95,120 |
| Idaho | $61,600 | $65,960 | $80,710 |
| Illinois | $75,320 | $97,830 | $105,250 |
| Indiana | $59,700 | $69,830 | $77,730 |
| Iowa | $60,580 | $64,210 | $77,400 |
| Kansas | $56,450 | $61,330 | $71,730 |
| Kentucky | $60,610 | $64,570 | $79,740 |
| Louisiana | $58,770 | $61,850 | $76,380 |
| Maine | $62,390 | $78,290 | $92,100 |
| Maryland | $77,680 | $100,560 | $107,040 |
| Massachusetts | $94,000 | $102,180 | $118,190 |
| Michigan | $65,110 | $79,150 | $94,680 |
| Minnesota | $76,350 | $91,290 | $100,880 |
| Mississippi | $49,790 | $59,490 | $62,990 |
| Missouri | $50,910 | $61,620 | $78,820 |
| Montana | $57,530 | $65,190 | $78,450 |
| Nebraska | $62,380 | $75,750 | $78,130 |
| Nevada | $65,040 | $78,130 | $82,670 |
| New Hampshire | $72,410 | $80,880 | $92,920 |
| New Jersey | $78,200 | $98,670 | $105,480 |
| New Mexico | $74,550 | $78,060 | $86,560 |
| New York | $85,760 | $126,930 | $136,260 |
| North Carolina | $54,930 | $59,730 | $62,590 |
| North Dakota | $60,030 | $61,970 | $75,990 |
| Ohio | $77,370 | $82,720 | $99,210 |
| Oklahoma | $48,200 | $58,260 | $61,930 |
| Oregon | $77,130 | $92,190 | $103,540 |
| Pennsylvania | $77,060 | $88,660 | $99,630 |
| Rhode Island | $90,930 | $96,020 | $99,610 |
| South Carolina | $60,820 | $74,120 | $77,570 |
| South Dakota | $50,130 | $58,030 | $60,180 |
| Tennessee | $59,980 | $64,590 | $76,840 |
| Texas | $62,760 | $65,410 | $73,570 |
| Utah | $74,810 | $82,600 | $100,340 |
| Vermont | $63,070 | $78,800 | $97,230 |
| Virginia | $65,550 | $82,350 | $100,290 |
| Washington | $102,350 | $115,880 | $127,570 |
| West Virginia | $55,630 | $58,340 | $60,790 |
| Wisconsin | $61,210 | $76,820 | $84,470 |
| Wyoming | $61,150 | $73,860 | $76,860 |
Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes252021.htm
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Best Online MEd Programs in Elementary Education
State University of New York at Cortland
Best for: working students
Winthrop University
Best for: advancement-focused students
State University of New York at Plattsburgh
Best for: working students
Dickinson State University
Best for: advancement-focused students
Delta State University
Best for: working students
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
Best for: advancement-focused students
Georgia Southwestern State University
Best for: advancement-focused students
State University of New York at New Paltz
Best for: working students
CUNY Brooklyn College
Best for: working students
College of Staten Island CUNY
Best for: working students
