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Compare Elementary Education Programs

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What Can I Expect from an Online Master’s in Elementary Education Program?

Distance learning programs for earning a master’s in elementary education offer the same level of academic quality that you would receive in traditional in-person classes but in a more convenient format. Also, by eliminating the need to commute to campus, online programs make finding time for work, family, and other commitments easier. When searching for an online master’s in elementary education program, carefully review your options to find the best match for your personal needs and professional goals.

Available concentrations

When comparing programs, concentration selection is one of the most important factors to consider. If you would like to work in a particular niche of the elementary education field, look for a program that allows you to focus your studies on this specialty. Some of the most common concentration options for a master’s in elementary education include:

  • Montessori Education Methods: This concentration is ideal for those who plan to become Montessori teachers. It focuses on the best practices for providing self-directed activities, collaborative play, and hands-on learning.
  • Early Education: Learn about topics such as early childhood psychology, strategies for behavioral management, and using technology with children.
  • Literacy: Explore real-world strategies for helping elementary school students improve their literacy and oral language skills.

Common degree curriculum

While the exact curriculum will depend on which school you attend and whether you pursue a concentration, some topics are covered in just about every master’s in elementary education program, including:

  • Foundations of Teaching: Review the historical, sociological, and philosophical texts influencing current educational practice and theory. 
  • Elementary Education Methods: This course covers strategies and techniques for effective instruction and classroom management. 
  • Instructional Planning and Presentation: Learn how to design lesson plans and develop classroom goals.

Certification and license preparation

You will likely need to become licensed in your state to work as an elementary school teacher. Each state has its own requirements for licensure, so you should check with the education department in your state to confirm you understand the policies and application procedures. Many master’s in elementary education programs have licensure requirements built into the curriculum, so upon graduation, you will earn both the master’s degree and an elementary school teaching license.

Additional credentials, such as the National Certificate for STEM Teaching, will help you bolster your resume and advance your career.

Program accreditation

You should only apply to institutions approved by a DOE-recognized accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Otherwise, you may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed. In addition to institutional accreditation, the best options for earning a master’s in elementary education are programmatic accreditation from an industry group such as the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

Program completion timeframe

The time it takes to complete your online master’s in elementary education program depends on your chosen concentration area, your desired license type, and the circumstances of your application — such as whether you have transfer credits or are already a practicing teacher.

These programs generally require 30 to 33 credits and take about two years to complete. Some programs are offered in a cohort-based format, which involves attending classes and completing courses simultaneously as other students. Those who want to earn their degree as quickly as possible should look for a program that offers asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace.

Employment Outlook for Master’s in Elementary Education Graduates

While entry-level elementary school teaching jobs typically only require a bachelor’s degree, earning a master’s should improve your earning potential. Workers with a master’s degree make $1,661 per week on average, while those with a bachelor’s make $1,432. Over a year, that’s a difference of nearly $12,000. 

You likely will need a master’s degree to find work as an instructional coordinator. This occupation offers the highest salaries for workers with a master’s in elementary education — the top 10% of instructional coordinators make more than $105,210 per year.

Of course, you should adjust your salary expectations according to where you plan to work. Areas with a higher cost of living tend to offer higher pay. For example, elementary school teachers earn an average salary of $90,470 in California but just $45,650 in Mississippi.

Job Title Job Description Median Yearly Salary Projected Growth Rate (2022 – 2032)

Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers deliver lessons on various subjects, including reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. While most middle and high schools have separate art and music teachers, elementary school teachers frequently integrate these elements into their lessons to improve student engagement.

$61,620

1%

Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers at the elementary school level help teach students with emotional, behavioral, physical, and cognitive disabilities. They frequently collaborate with other teachers to adapt lessons for smaller groups and individualized needs.

$62,950

0%

Instructional Coordinators

Instructional coordinators develop, implement, and assess educational materials and teaching standards. They often work at the school district level.

$66,490

2%

Professional organizations

In elementary school, teaching, making, and maintaining connections is crucial to your success. Professional organizations allow graduates and current students in master’s programs to learn more about their chosen career paths and take advantage of networking and educational opportunities.

  • National Council on Teacher Quality: NCTQ helps improve the quality of classroom education and professional educators’ work environments. Its website features a policy library and information on current NCTQ projects.
  • National Educational Association: As the largest professional employee organization in the country, the NEA is committed to advancing the cause of public education and provides advocacy resources, classroom management ideas, and lesson plan tools.
  • National Association for the Education of Young Children: NAEYC supports education professionals who teach children from infancy through age 8 (typically second grade). Member benefits include discounts on books and other resources, magazine and newsletter subscriptions, and information about industry conferences.

Financing Your Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degree

While online degrees cost less than on-campus degrees, you may still need help paying for college. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an excellent first step in this process, as it will determine your eligibility for federally funded loans and grants. Also, many schools offer their own scholarships based on merit or program interests, so be sure to check out what opportunities may be available in your program. Finally, numerous nonprofit organizations and private companies offer scholarships as well.

Student Finance Resources and Guides

With all of the different financing options available, it can be challenging to determine what you should do next after submitting your FAFSA. The resources listed below will help you make sense of your financial aid situation and save as much money as possible. 

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Interested in a degree?

Learn more about online degrees, their start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.