To embark on a career working with children, consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Below, we present a comprehensive overview of top elementary education programs available online.
Online Colleges For Elementary Education Degree
Utilizing reputable sources such as Peterson’s Data and the National Center for Education Statistics, we provide insights into each program’s specifics.
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
Total Credits Required: 120
The University of Northern Iowa offers an online bachelor’s degree in elementary education tailored for working professionals holding an associate degree. This program allows for personalization, enabling students to pursue a double major in elementary and middle school education with minors in areas such as reading, early childhood education, or social and emotional learning.
Over a span of two years, a combination of live streaming and asynchronous coursework equips students with essential teaching skills, including early literacy teaching strategies, classroom assessment techniques, and immersive field experiences. Admission necessitates an associate’s degree.
2. University of South Carolina-Columbia
Location: Columbia, SC
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Program Accreditation: CAEP
Cost per Credit (part-time):
– In-State: $433
– Out-of-State: $869
Total Credits Required: 120
The University of South Carolina’s bachelor’s degree in elementary teaching focuses on preparing educators for grades 2–6 through practical field activities geared toward South Carolina certification. This degree completion program spans two to three years, inclusive of a 12-month internship.
Students delve into topics such as classroom management, literacy instruction, child development, and institutional approaches. Classroom placements are managed by the Office of Clinical Experiences. Applicants need a minimum of 25 credits from an accredited institution and a GPA of 2.5 or higher for admission.
3. Campbell University
Location: Buies Creek, NC
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
– In-State: $450
– Out-of-State: $450
Total Credits Required: 124
Campbell University’s online B.S. in primary education follows an accelerated eight-week model, offering a comprehensive curriculum encompassing evaluation techniques, educational technology foundations, and special education. Emphasizing a passion for children, the program equips future educators with skills in curriculum development, assessment strategies, and meeting diverse student needs from kindergarten to sixth grade.
4. Buena Vista University
Location: Storm Lake, IA
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
– In-State: $465
– Out-of-State: $465
Total Credits Required: 120
Buena Vista University’s online elementary education degree program provides a robust foundation in instructional technology, elementary literacy, teaching methodologies, and educational psychology. Designed for prospective K-6 teachers, the program offers access to tutors and a student lounge, along with the Plus One Program enabling expedited completion of a master’s degree in organizational leadership or English as a second language.
5. University of North Dakota
Location: Grand Forks, ND
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Program Accreditation: CAEP, North Dakota Educational Standards and Practices Board
Cost per Credit:
– In-State: $384
– Out-of-State: $577
Total Credits Required: 125
The University of North Dakota’s bachelor’s degree in elementary education prepares educators for grades 1-8 and offers various minors, including early childhood education and special education.
Through diverse field experiences, students learn effective teaching strategies for subjects such as reading, math, social studies, and science. A dual program option allows for accelerated completion of a master’s degree in elementary education.
6. Kansas State University
Location: Manhattan, KS
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Program Accreditation: CAEP
Cost per Credit:
– In-State: $394
– Out-of-State: $394
Total Credits Required: 120
Kansas State University’s bachelor’s degree in elementary education integrates classroom theory with hands-on experience. Divided into three blocks, the 120-credit program includes coursework in educational technology, psychology, and teaching skills, supplemented by field practicums and a teaching internship. Graduates are eligible to apply for a teaching license in Kansas.
7. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Location: Charlotte, NC
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Program Accreditation: CAEP
Cost per Credit:
– In-State: $189
– Out-of-State: $800
Total Credits Required: 60
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a bachelor’s degree completion program in elementary education tailored for teacher assistants seeking licensure. This program requires completion of 60 core credits through a combination of live lectures and projects focusing on instruction design, urban education strategies, and diversity-informed teaching.
Admission prerequisites include an associate’s degree, a minimum GPA of 2.7, a recommendation letter from a school administrator, teacher assistant experience in North Carolina, and passing scores on the Praxis exams.
