Educators in droves are looking for accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education programs that can fit into their lifestyle. While it is possible that the uptick in inquiries about the degree may come from educators who are interested in earning more for their labor, it is also possible that the demand is rising because private and corporate institutions are in need of educators with a particular set of skills. It will come as no surprise, then, that a selection of prospective students is offering their traditional online programs for interested graduate students.
Online education degrees, particularly those offered at the master’s level, are necessary for working professionals. Because these individuals often work during the day and do not have time to attend campus during normal school hours, schools have built online degrees that can be accessed anywhere at any time. Prospective Students also require that their online degrees are flexible and come with the option to be completed in two years, providing all professionals with a timeline that will see them continue in their upward trajectory in their career with little to no disruption to their current lifestyle.
Methodology
There are many schools that provide the chance for professionals to earn a master’s in elementary education; so many, in fact, that this ranking was required to make the decision process much easier. All research conducted for this ranking came from the National Center for Education Statistics, its College Navigator database, and the individual school program’s websites. An initial pool of 90 schools was identified and each program was reviewed for information such as accelerated track options, tuition rates, and average completion timelines. The final 25 schools were selected based on their in-state graduate tuition rate for the entire program.
25. The University of Maine
Tuition: $18,117
The University of Maine confers an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can be completed in two years. This degree is available 100 percent online and focuses on the curriculum, assessment and instruction aspects of education. The program is available online for certified teachers who have a license in good standing. This degree’s courses are delivered asynchronously and synchronously through the school’s virtual portal; sessions run in 16-week sessions. Prospective Students who take two or three courses every term will graduate in two years. Requirements for this degree include 33 credit hours of coursework, a practicum, and a teaching portfolio. Sample courses include Classroom Practice to Improve Learning, classroom management, Dynamics of the Curriculum, and Prevention and Intervention in School Settings.
24. West Virginia University
Tuition: $17,820
West Virginia University provides ambitious graduate students with the chance to graduate with an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree within two years of entering the program. This curriculum is open to all certified teachers who can provide evidence of a teaching license in good standing. The program holds accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education is found as a wholly online course of study. All courses required for graduation are conferred through the school’s virtual portal in either asynchronous or synchronous sessions. Terms follow the traditional academic year, meaning that students who successfully pass two courses every term will graduate within two years. Students will be expected to complete 30 credit hours of coursework, the Technology Integration Through Capstone Experience and a comprehensive written exit exam. Sample courses include History of American Education, classroom management, Science Research and Teaching Ethics, and School Curriculum for Classroom Teachers.
23. Troy University
Tuition: $17,784
Students at Troy University will be eligible to earn an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education if they study full-time for two years. This degree can be found entirely online and has no residency requirements. Instead, students will attend lectures and complete assignments via the school’s online learning management system. Courses are delivered asynchronously or synchronously and in 16-week sessions. Students in this program will be required to take on an internship; this is completed in their own community. Requirements for this degree require 45 credit hours of coursework, an internship, a teacher portfolio, and a comprehensive written an oral exit exam. Sample courses include Educational Technology in the Curriculum, classroom management, Collaboration for Inclusion, and Legal Issues in Special Education.
22. Alabama State University
Tuition: $17,430
Alabama State University is home to an exceptional accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can be completed in two years. This degree features state-of-the-art tools and curriculum, three start dates per year, and a completely online course of education. Students will never have to step foot on campus and will complete their degree requirements online. Through the school’s virtual portal, students will have access to lectures, labs, private tutoring and advising sessions, and asynchronous and synchronous sessions. This program adheres to the traditional academic term format and students who complete two or three courses every term will graduate within two years. This degree requires a minimum of 33 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Modern Issues in Education, classroom management, The Exceptional Students in Inclusive Schools, and Computers and Instructional Technology.
21. The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Tuition: $15,500
The affordable accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education that is delivered by an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education can be completed in two years. Students who are interested in Class A Certification in Elementary Education can prepare for the licensure exam if they have an Alabama teaching license that is in good standing. This degree is available 100 percent online; students will never have to attend campus for any reason. Courses are available as live or on-demand offerings through the school’s learning management system; sessions run for 16 weeks. Students who take two courses every term, including at least one summer term, will graduate within two years. Students can expect to complete 30 credit hours of coursework, a practicum that takes place in their area of residence, and a proctored exit exam. Sample courses include Positive Behavioral Supports, Curriculum Development in Elementary and Early Childhood Education, and Introduction to Exceptional Learners.
20. Eastern Kentucky University
Tuition: $15,300
Eastern Kentucky University offers students an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can be completed in just two years. The degree is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education as well as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. This is a program that was built for certified teachers and is nationally ranked as one of the best online graduate programs for teachers by U.S. News and World Report. The program is offered 100 percent online with no residency requirements, making it a great choice for working professionals. All courses are delivered asynchronously or synchronously and in eight-week terms. As a part-time plan of study, students will take one course every term and graduate well within two years. Students who are interested in learning more about this program’s requirements and want to view a list of course offerings are encouraged to speak with a graduate admissions advisor.
19. North Carolina State University
Tuition: $14,945
Ambitious students enrolled at North Carolina State University are provided with an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that is built as a two-year plan of study. This is a hybrid course of study; students will be required to take some courses on the school’s Raleigh campus. Internships are also required and must be completed in the state of North Carolina. All other courses are delivered asynchronously or synchronously through the school’s online learning management system. The program adheres to the traditional academic term format and enables students who take two or three courses every term will graduate within two years. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 33 credit hours of coursework, an internship, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Inquiry and Professional Development, and Organization and Behavioral Management of Inclusive Classrooms, classroom management, and Principles of Developing and Interpreting Assessment.
18. Liberty University
Tuition: $14,940
Liberty University is home to an incredible affordable accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can be completed in 18 months. The degree is accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education and will not lead to licensure. This program was designed for certified teachers who are interested in completing a 100 percent online degree. Students will complete their courses through the school’s virtual portal and will engage in live and on-demand sessions that run in eight-week sessions. Students who take two courses every term will graduate in 18 months; part-time students generally graduate within two years. Requirements for this degree include 36 credit hours of coursework and the Current Issues in Education Capstone experience. Sample courses include Understanding Educational Research and Assessment, classroom management, Behavior Management, and Foundations of Educational Technology and Online Learning.
17. The University of Mississippi
Tuition: $14,250
The accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree available from The University of Mississippi provides students with a flexible pathway towards earning a Pre-K license endorsement in the state; prerequisites for the endorsement include holding a valid Mississippi teaching license as well as a minimum of two years of experience as a teacher. This degree is available wholly online and can be completed in two years; ambitious students who take a full course load every term will graduate with a one-year Master’s in Elementary Education online. This degree is available 100 percent online and is delivered through the school’s learning management system. Students complete their courses through asynchronous and synchronous sessions that last 16 weeks in length. An internship is also required for this degree; this can be completed within a student’s own community. Students who are interested in learning more about this program’s requirements and course offerings are encouraged to speak with the graduate admissions office.
16. Indiana State University
Tuition: $12,928
Students interested in an 18-month accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree will find what they’re looking for at Indiana State University. The program is accredited by both the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Indiana Department of Education. There are three concentrations: Literacy, Early Childhood, or Primary and Intermediate. This degree is offered entirely online and is available as a sequenced course of study. This program may lead to licensure; students will need to speak with an admissions advisor to see if they can earn initial or additional licensure with the program. This degree is delivered through the school’s virtual portal and features asynchronous and synchronous sessions, small class sizes, and a full suite of student services. Students who complete this degree will have successfully finished a minimum of 32 credit hours of coursework, a video analysis course, and a comprehensive written exit exam. Sample courses include Advanced Child Psychology, classroom management, classroom learning, Development Through the Lifespan, and The Elementary Curriculum.
15. Georgia Southern University
Tuition: $12,888
Georgia Southern University confers a one year-online Master’s in Elementary Education program that is offered entirely online. It has been designed for educators who hold a Professional Level Four Certificate in good standing and are interested in upgrading their degree. This degree’s courses are found online through the school’s learning management system and include endorsements or certificates that include Online Teaching and Learning, English for Speakers of Other Languages, Reading, and Curriculum and Pedagogy for Social Justice. Students will complete their courses as asynchronous or synchronous offerings that follow an eight-week academic term format. Individuals who take two or more courses every term will graduate within one year. Students can expect to complete 36 credit hours of coursework, an action research project, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Teaching Communication Across Cultures, differentiated instruction, Transforming Learning with Technology, and Teaching Writing in the Elementary School.
14. The University of Nebraska at Kearney
Tuition: $12,888
Students at the University of Nebraska at Kearney are offered the chance to earn an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can be completed in two years. This degree is open to all educators with a bachelor’s degree in the field and a teaching license that is in good standing. The program offers a variety of concentrations, including Montessori — Elementary 1, School Librarian, and Elementary Education. This degree is provided 100 percent online with no residency requirements. Students will instead complete all of their courses online through the use of the school’s virtual portal. Courses are offered in either live or on-demand sessions and follow the traditional 16-week academic term format. Students who take three courses every term, including one summer term, will graduate within two years. Requirements for this degree include 36 credit hours of coursework and an exit survey upon completion of the program. Sample courses include Curriculum Development in Multicultural Education, differentiated instruction, diverse learners, Overview of Assistive Technology, and Philosophy of Education.
13. Ball State University
Tuition: $12,300
Ball State University is home to an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that is currently ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best online graduate education programs in the country. This degree was built to be flexible for working students and can be found entirely online with no residency requirements. This degree is instead delivered through the school’s online learning management system and features live and on-demand lectures, proctored exams, small class sizes, and office hours with faculty. This degree also comes with the option to specialize in seven different areas; some options include Response to Intervention, English as a New Language, and Computer Education for Teachers. Students will complete a variety of internships in the field as well; all of these take place in a student’s community. This degree can be earned in two years and requires 30 credit hours of coursework, internships, and a comprehensive exit survey for graduation. Sample courses include Early Literacy Development, diverse learners, develop individualized education programs, teaching science, Play and Creativity in Early Childhood, and Education in a Diverse Society.
12. The University of New Mexico
Tuition: $11,904
Students who are interested in an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can be completed in two years will be happy with the offering from the University of New Mexico. This degree is available 100 percent online in a cohort model and is open to students with a teaching license. Please note that this degree does not lead to initial or advanced licensure for students. Built as a two-year degree plan, students will progress through the sequential curriculum by utilizing the school’s virtual portal, where courses are generally delivered as live offerings that are scheduled in the evenings. Students will be expected to complete 32 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written exit exam for graduation. Sample courses include Effective Teaching and Student Learning, Mentoring Educators for Professional Growth, and Principles of Curriculum Development.
11. Jacksonville State University
Tuition: $11,842
Jacksonville State University is home to an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree program that can lead to licensure for students who hold a teaching license in the state of Alabama. This degree was built as a 100 percent online course of study that can be completed in two years or less. Students will be required to complete all of their coursework online through the school’s learning management system; courses are delivered in asynchronous or synchronous sessions that run in 16-week terms. Students who take two courses every term will graduate within two years. This degree requires a minimum of 34 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written exit exam. Sample courses include Assessment in Early Childhood Education, Enhancing Learning Through Children’s Literature, and Issues and Trends in Early Childhood Education.
10. Delta State University
Tuition: $11,793
Students at Delta State University offers a 12-month online Master’s in Elementary Education that can be completed 100 percent online. This program is open to all teachers who hold a valid teaching license in their state. Courses for this degree are offered asynchronously or synchronously through the school’s online learning management system. This degree was built to focus students on one class during the spring and fall terms and two courses during the summer session, making it a great choice for students who are working full-time and still want to advance in their careers. This degree requires that students complete 30 credit hours of coursework, a practicum, and an exit survey. Sample courses include Literacy Instruction in Elementary Education, Curriculum Theory Development and Revision in Elementary Education, and Effective Instruction in the Elementary School.
9. The University of Missouri at St. Louis
Tuition: $11,540
The University of Missouri at St. Louis offers students of all backgrounds an exceptional accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can be earned in just two years. This degree was built to be completed entirely online and is perfect for teachers, directors, researchers, and more. The course of study is built to help adults understand the needs and complexities that come with elementary education and child development. All courses for this degree are available 100 percent online through the school’s virtual portal, where sessions run in 16-week blocks and are offered asynchronously or synchronously. Students will need to contact the school’s graduate admissions office to learn more about this school’s program requirements and to view a list of online course offerings.
8. The University of Central Missouri
Tuition: $11,340
Students at the University of Central Missouri are treated to a newly updated accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree. This program is built for licensed teachers who need to have an advanced understanding of their field in order to move forward with their career goals. The degree is available wholly online and has no residency requirements. Students will find all of their courses online through the school’s learning management system. The platform hosts a variety of features; some of these include small class sizes, asynchronous and synchronous courses, 16-week sessions, and private tutoring. Students who complete two courses every term will graduate within two years. Requirements for this degree include 30 credit hours of coursework, an internship that takes place in a student’s community, and the Capstone for Childhood Educators. Sample courses include Advanced Foundations of Childhood Education, Exemplary Instructional Practices, and Leadership and Analysis of Teaching Children.
7. Eastern New Mexico University
Tuition: $10,779
Eastern New Mexico University confers an affordable accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that was built to be completed in two years or less. This degree is designed for practicing educators and is offered 100 percent online so as to be convenient for students. Students will find all of their courses through the school’s virtual portal; sessions are either held live or on-demand and run in 16-week sessions, providing students with flexibility during their course of study. Students who take three courses every term, including summer terms, will graduate in two years. This degree requires that all students complete 36 credit hours of coursework and the Graduate Seminar in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. Sample courses include Creativity Across the Curriculum, Content Area Literacy, and Trends in Mathematics and Science.
6. Southeast Missouri State University
Tuition: $10,418
The accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree available at Southeast Missouri State University is designed to be completed by classroom teachers who require a program that can be completed in two years. This is a 100 percent online course of study that comes with three emphasis areas: Reading, Math, and Science, or Early Childhood Education. Students who successfully complete this degree may be eligible to earn certifications to add on to their teaching license. This program of study is available through the school’s online learning management system and features live and on-demand courses, small student-to-teacher ratios, and an online suite of student services. Interested students are advised that information on program requirements, internship opportunities, and sample course offerings can be accessed by calling the school’s Department of Education.
5. Appalachian State University
Tuition: $10,374
Appalachian State University confers one of the most flexible accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degrees on this list. This degree can be earned in just two years when students choose to study full-time. This degree was built to adhere to the advanced competencies as outlined by the North Carolina Excellent Schools Act for graduate teacher educator programs. Students will be able to earn an “M” level licensure with the successful completion of this degree provided that they hold a license in good standing. Courses for this degree are available asynchronously or synchronously and in eight-week sessions, meaning that students who take two courses every term will graduate within two years. Students can expect to complete 39 credit hours of coursework, a portfolio, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Advanced Educational Psychology, Assessment to Improve Learning and Inform Teaching, and Research Methods.
4. San Diego State University
Tuition: $10,000
Students who are interested in enrolling in an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree will find the perfect fit at San Diego State University. This degree was built to be earned by certified teachers in just two years. The program’s curriculum has a stated focus on social justice and equity in education and is evident in the course offerings. All courses for this degree can be found online through the use of the school’s online learning management system; courses are offered asynchronously and synchronously to provide options to students. This degree may be earned as a 12-month master’s online in elementary education; however, most students study part-time and will graduate within two years. The program requires that students complete 24 credit hours of coursework, a research project, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. A list of sample course offerings can be found by emailing the school’s graduate admissions office.
3. Missouri State University
Tuition: $9,905
Missouri University offers students the chance to earn an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can be completed in two years. Students must hold an initial teaching licensure; please be advised that this degree does not lead to teacher certification. This program is designed to be completed online through the school’s virtual portal and was built for part-time study. Courses are available asynchronously and synchronously in 16-week sessions. Part-time students will graduate within two years. This degree requires that students complete 36 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Problems in Education, Educational Research Methodology, and Research Seminar in Elementary Education.
2. East Carolina University
Tuition: $8,973
Students at East Carolina offer students the chance to complete an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree in two years that will help them advance their ability to be ethical leaders in the classroom. This program is open to all students who currently hold an initial elementary teaching license in their state. Content area strands available for this degree include Gifted Education, Advanced Methods, and Digital Literacy and Technology Integration. Students will complete this as a 100 percent online course of study; the program utilizes asynchronous and synchronous sessions that are available through the school’s online learning management system. Students are encouraged to speak to an admissions advisor about this program’s requirements and to view a list of sample course offerings.
1. Western Carolina University
Tuition: $8,877
Western Carolina University offers teaching professionals an accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education degree that can only be earned through online study. This program can be completed in two years by certified teachers and provides the flexibility they need in order to keep pace with curriculum. All courses for this degree are available online through the school’s learning management system and are delivered as asynchronous or synchronous sessions that run in 16-week terms. Students will be able to graduate in two years provided they study full-time. This degree requires 30 credit hours of coursework, two capstone courses, and a teaching portfolio. A list of course offerings is available by contacting the school’s admissions office.
What are the Career Options for an Accelerated Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degree?
- Elementary School Teacher
- Private School Curriculum Developer
- Media and Technology Specialist
- Elementary School Administrator
- Educational Consultant
- Online Instructor
- Instructional Coordinator
- Corporate Trainer
- Elementary School Counselor
- Child Care Director
- College or University Professor
- Elementary School Principal
- Educational Policy Developer
- Private Tutor
- Au Pair
How Much Can You Earn in This Field?
The salary range for elementary education ranges from $39,932 to over $100,000. This range accounts for positions in private and public schools, corporate and nonprofit careers, and jobs that can be found in postsecondary institutions. It also accounts for positions that may require an additional degree, licensure, or endorsement, such as the role of counselor or for a position that focuses on educational technology.
Students will note that the current median salary for elementary school teachers with a master’s degree is $54,550, about $15,000 to $20,000 more than professionals with just a bachelor’s degree in the field. Elementary school principals earn an average of about $93,000 for their efforts. Administrators and corporate instructors may earn well over $100,000.
What are the Various Disciplines of Elementary Education?
Elementary education is a field that is concerned with the education of young children. This field is informed by the psychology, sociology, instruction, curriculum, development, and social disciplines. Professionals in the field will focus on the learning, assessment, and development of their students. While they work with different subjects during the course of their instructional duties, they are also responsible for other disciplines, such as communication, interpersonal, critical thinking, and reasoning skills.
Professionals who work in the field understand the importance of having qualified candidates available to young students. As technology and education evolve, the need for a more current outlook on how students learn is growing and, more often than not, it is an educator with a master’s degree that takes supervisory roles. An accelerated online Master’s in Elementary Education will help any professional who is interested in becoming a strong advocate for education policy and application in the country, enabling them to continue in their career as they work on their education.
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