Elementary Education Master’s Programs Online: Finding a Program

Pursuing a Master of Education in Elementary Education can be a pivotal step in your teaching career. Educators with a master’s degree often earn higher salaries and bring advanced skills that school districts value. If you’re passionate about shaping your learners’ futures, an online MEd in Elementary Education offers the flexibility and expertise to help you make a bigger impact in the classroom. This OMD student guide will walk you through top programs, common questions, career pathways, and more.

Author: Shannon Lee

Editor: Gwen Resulta

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Arizona State University — M.Ed. in Elementary Education (Teacher Certification)

Arizona State’s online M.Ed. in Elementary Education – Teacher Certification program is designed for career changers entering teaching. It combines online coursework with real-world internships to prepare you for K–8 teacher licensure. You’ll learn evidence-based teaching methods, classroom management, and curriculum design from ASU’s nationally ranked Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College.

A unique perk: If you commit to teaching in Arizona after graduation, you may qualify for the Arizona Teachers Academy scholarship, which can cover tuition. Graduates earn both a master’s and eligibility for Arizona teacher certification, making this program a fast track to a teaching career. Academic and career advisors support you throughout, and ASU’s strong reputation means you’ll enter the education field well-prepared and highly marketable.

Duration: 33 credits

Mode: Online courses + in-person internships/student teaching

Cost: $8,440; Arizona Teachers Academy covers 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 M.Ed. is geared toward experienced teachers who want to deepen their expertise and add new endorsements. This program is part of UCF’s nationally ranked education school. The curriculum emphasizes research-based teaching practices and offers elective tracks for Reading or ESOL endorsements, or specializations in gifted and exceptional education. Florida-certified teachers on temporary licenses can use this degree to qualify for a professional teaching certificate upon passing the state exams. Throughout the program, you’ll receive support from faculty mentors and UCF Online’s student success coaches. Financial aid and scholarships are available. 

Duration: 30 credit hours

Mode: Online, asynchronous coursework)

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
  • Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (last 60 credits, preferred)
  • 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 program for licensed teachers aiming to advance their careers. This program is accredited by CAEP. Coursework links theory to classroom practice, with classes on innovative teaching methods, curriculum design, and educational research. You’ll also complete periodic practicum experiences in your own school or community, allowing you to apply new strategies directly to your classroom. UA’s program meets Alabama’s requirements for Class A (master’s level) teacher certification, so graduates can upgrade their teaching license and potentially qualify for salary increases. Students benefit from resources like online library access and career services.

Duration: 30–36 credits

Mode: Online, asynchronous)

Cost: $440 per credit hour + a $10/credit hour 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 (undergrad or in a prior graduate program)
  • Official transcripts from all colleges attended
  • Statement of purpose outlining goals in the program
  • Three letters of recommendation (academic or supervisory)
  • 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 – as long as you choose an accredited university. Look for regional accreditation (which covers the institution) and programmatic accreditation from CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) for education programs. Employers (like school districts) recognize reputable online programs, especially those offered by established universities. In short, a properly accredited online MEd in Elementary Education is both credible and respected in the education 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 in Elementary Education programs are designed for licensed teachers because they build on their existing credentials but don’t grant initial licensure.

However, some programs – often called “teacher certification tracks” or MAT/MEd with certification (like ASU’s) – are specifically for career switchers and do lead to a teaching license. If you’re not yet a certified teacher, look for an MEd program that includes a student teaching component and licensure recommendation.

If you’re already a teacher, most MEd programs will expect you to hold a license, but they can help you earn additional endorsements or an advanced level of certification. Always check each program’s admission requirements and licensure outcomes before applying.

Q: How long does it take to complete an online MEd in Elementary Education?


A: Most online MEd programs in Elementary Education require about 30 to 36 credits, so for a working teacher taking courses part-time, this usually means roughly 2 years to finish. Many students take two courses per semester (including summers) and complete the degree in about 24 months. Some programs offer accelerated schedules or year-round eight-week classes that could shorten the timeline to around 18 months. Conversely, if you need to go slower (say one course at a time), it might take 3+ years. The pacing is often flexible in online programs, but a good rule of thumb is 1½ to 2 years for completion when balancing work and study.

Q: What are the typical admission requirements for an online MEd in Elementary Ed?


A: Admissions for online grad school will vary depending on the program you choose, but you’ll typically need at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. A minimum GPA (often 3.0 in your last 60 credits) is commonly required. Expect to submit official transcripts from all schools attended, a resume and/or statement of purpose explaining your teaching goals, and a few letters of recommendation (often from supervisors or former professors). If you’re already a teacher, you’ll likely need to provide a copy of your teaching certificate. The GRE is usually not required for online MEd programs. Finally, non-native English speakers or international applicants may need to submit TOEFL/IELTS scores.

Q: Will I need to complete student teaching or in-person practicums in an online MEd program?


A: Possibly, yes. If your online MEd is an initial licensure program for those new to teaching, it will include a student teaching internship (which you arrange in a local school). Even some programs for licensed teachers incorporate practicums or action research projects that you carry out in your classroom. However, many purely academic or specialization MEd programs (for already licensed teachers) do not require traditional student teaching. Instead, they might use your current teaching job for practical assignments or have a capstone project. Always clarify with your program: fully online coursework is common, but certain outcomes – like licensure or endorsements – may still require short in-person components (e.g. practicums, weekend workshops, or proctored exams).


Understanding Cost: Pricing the Online Elementary Education MEd

Understanding the costs of an online MEd in Elementary Education can help you in your academic journey. Public universities often offer lower rates for in-state residents, though many online programs charge a flat rate regardless of residency. Beyond tuition, expect additional fees: online programs may have technology fees, and some schools charge a one-time graduation or program fee (e.g. $125/year in online program fees. Financial aid can offset costs – you can use federal loans, and you should definitely explore scholarships or grants for teachers. Also, some districts provide tuition reimbursement for teachers pursuing a master’s. Always request a detailed tuition breakdown from programs, and ask about any cohort discounts or payment plans that can make your graduate education more affordable.

SchoolCreditsCost per CreditEst. Total Tuition
University of Central Florida30$327.32$9,820
University of Alabama30$440​$13,200
University of North Dakota30$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?

Earning an MEd in Elementary Education doesn’t just deepen your teaching skills – it can open doors to new career opportunities and advancement. Whether you want to stay in the classroom or move into leadership, this degree provides knowledge and credentials that broaden your options. Below, we spotlight three promising careers for MEd in Elementary Education grads, each enjoying above-average salaries or growth potential according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These roles show how a master’s can translate into greater impact – and reward – in the education field.

Elementary School Teacher (K–5/6)

What They Do: Master’s-level teachers often serve as grade-level or content team leaders, mentor new teachers, or take on additional responsibilities in curriculum planning. 

Why It’s a Great Path: You’ll be able to improve student learning outcomes and may qualify for a pay bump in many districts. Teachers with advanced degrees can stand out with enhanced skills in curriculum and instruction.

Salary and Outlook: The median annual wage as of May 2024 is reported to be $62,310, with a projected -1% decline for 2023-2033 but 106,500 predicted job openings each year due to retirements and turnover.

Instructional Coordinator (Curriculum Specialist)

What They Do: Instructional coordinators (sometimes known as curriculum specialists or instructional coaches) develop curricula, train teachers in new content or standards, and analyze the effectiveness of educational programs.

Why It’s a Great Path: If you’re interested in designing what gets taught in schools, a role as an Instructional Coordinator could be a great fit. With an MEd, you meet the education requirement for this role and can leverage your classroom experience to move into curriculum leadership, influencing teaching practices on a broader scale.

Salary and Outlook: The median annual salary is $74,720 with a projected growth rate of 2% from 2023-2033.

Elementary School Principal (or Assistant Principal)

What They Do: School principals manage all aspects of a school – from academics and teacher evaluations to budgets and community relations. With your teaching experience and advanced degree, you could eventually oversee your own elementary school – leading teachers and shaping school policy to create a thriving learning environment.

Why It’s a Great Path: For those drawn to leadership, an MEd can be a stepping stone toward becoming an elementary school principal or assistant principal. While an MEd in Elementary Ed is primarily teaching-focused, it still proves you have graduate-level expertise in education.

Salary and Outlook: The median annual wage was reported at $104,030 with a projected job growth rate of 4%.


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.

About the ranking
1
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

Southern Arkansas University offers an MAT degree program for students who want to focus their teaching expertise on educating young learners. The program starts with 24 hours of online coursework, which includes classroom assessment techniques, elementary education learning theory, and reading diagnostics. The program ends with six credits of internship experiences, which allow students to act as a full-time teacher of record at a K-6 school. Students hone vital skills, including the ability to create and modify a curriculum in an elementary school environment, as well as being able to effectively teach students from diverse backgrounds.

Program Highlights:

Master of Arts in Teaching

  • Credits: 30
  • Length: One to two years
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: HLC

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
2
Type:
Public
Cost:
$$

When prospective students apply to the master's in teaching degree program at the University of Alaska Southeast, they are expected to have a bachelor's degree in education and demonstrate proficiency in content related to social science, mathematics, writing, and child development. Additionally, the program requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 and passing the Praxis CASE/Core exam. Once admitted, those in the elementary education concentration take core classes covering the learning process, inclusive education for students living with disabilities, and educational technology. Also, students are able to take classes focusing on how specific subject areas, such as music, art, social studies, and math, are taught in a K-8 curriculum.

Program Highlights:

Master of Arts in Teaching

  • Credits: 48-51
  • Length: Two years
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: NWCCU

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation NWCCU
3
Carrollton, Georgia
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

The University of West Georgia's M.Ed. program in elementary education is designed to provide students with an understanding of best practices related to curriculum development, specific content area instruction, and elementary education research. Also, students explore how different types of learners process information and the philosophical foundations that built the education profession. To gain a holistic view of how to relate to students, educators also take coursework that focuses on communicating with parents and how different family structures may contribute to student outcomes. After completing online coursework, students go on to gain practical experience in a PK-5 classroom under the supervision of a faculty member.

Program Highlights:

Master of Education in Elementary Education

  • Credits: 36
  • Length: Two years
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: SACSCOC

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
4
Livingston, Alabama
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
5
Greenville, Illinois
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
6
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
7
Muncie, Indiana
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
8
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
9
Pembroke, North Carolina
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
10
Elizabeth City, North Carolina
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
11
Misenheimer, North Carolina
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
12
Lake Charles, Louisiana
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
13
Florence, Alabama
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
14
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
15
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
16
River Forest, Illinois
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
17
Cleveland, Mississippi
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
18
Mobile, Alabama
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
19
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
20
Lynchburg, Virginia
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
21
Kennesaw, Georgia
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
22
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
23
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
24
Montgomery, Alabama
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
25
Clinton, Mississippi
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
26
Charlotte, North Carolina
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
27
Montgomery, Alabama
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
28
Pittsburg, Kansas
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
29
Niagara University, New York
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation MSCHE
30
Greenville, North Carolina
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
31
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
32
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
33
Worcester, Massachusetts
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation NECHE
34
Troy, Alabama
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
35
Statesboro, Georgia
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
36
Richmond, Kentucky
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation SACSCOC
37
Denver, Colorado
Type:
Private not-for-profit
Cost:
$$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
38
Type:
Public
Cost:
$

School Services & Accreditation

Career Services Yes
Academic Counseling Yes
Accreditation HLC
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