In this article, we profile 40 accelerated online master’s in elementary education programs for 2021.
As job opportunities in education continue to grow in line with the national average for all other occupations, now is a favorable time for earning an online master’s in elementary education. Thankfully, online programs abound. You can even earn your online master’s in elementary education fast by enrolling in an accredited and accelerated online elementary education degree program. To assist with your research, we found some of the top fast track elementary education degree programs out there.
40 Accelerated Online Master’s in Elementary Education Programs Methodology
We reviewed approximately 140 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources that offered online master’s in elementary education programs. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accelerated program offerings (online elementary education programs taking less than two years to complete or fast track courses that run less than 16 weeks in length), accreditation (regional and/or national), and institution and/or program rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News and World Report. We then listed the programs according to raw affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for our 40 accelerated online master’s in elementary education programs of 2021.
#40 – Boston University
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Boston, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $55,502
Boston University’s online master’s in elementary education program encourages full-time study and can be completed in just three semesters. The program may also be taken fully online and courses are taught by the same BU professors who instruct on campus. Two specialization options are available in grades 1-6: with initial licensure, and in special education. Students are taught to bring a high level of pedagogical knowledge to their classroom teaching. Boston University is synonymous with excellence. The school’s rankings with U.S. News and World Report include #42 in best national universities, #47 in best value schools, and #42 in most innovative schools. BU is also fully accredited.
#39 – George Washington University
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Washington, District of Columbia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $31,824
Looking for accelerated elementary education programs? George Washington University offers a master’s in elementary education with program plans of one- and two-year options. Courses cover topics like affective development and behavioral management, language and literacy, perspectives in American education, and reading foundations and diagnosis. The program is approved by the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification and accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Also, GWU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 66th best national university and 90th best value school in the country. The online master’s in education programs rank #31 out of more than 1,200 surveyed by U.S. News.
#38 – American University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
Washington, District of Columbia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $31,113
American University offers an accelerated elementary education degree that can be completed in less than two years. The master’s in teaching (MAT) with elementary education focus is CAEP-accredited and designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree and interest in seeking a teaching license in elementary education. Courses cover advanced education topics like effective teaching for diverse students, teaching literacy in the elementary school, and theories of educational psychology and human development. The school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 76th best national university and 25th best institution for undergraduate teaching. AU, and its programs, are fully accredited.
#37 – Seattle Pacific University
Online Master’s in Teaching
Seattle, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $30,636
Seattle Pacific University offers an online and accelerated master’s in teaching program that takes just 12 months to complete. This program, uniquely designed for those seeking a master’s in elementary education online, offers extensive coursework in elementary ed and the broader education levels. Courses for certification include curriculum design, elementary math methods, introduction to teaching, and moral and theological issues in education. Applying to SPU requires satisfactory GRE or MAT scores received within the last five years. SPU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 196th best national university and 154th top performer on social mobility.
#36 – Merrimack College
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
North Andover, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $30,160
Merrimack College offers accelerated elementary education programs designed to prepare students for initial licensure to work in grades 1-6. Through field-based experiences and coursework, students gain knowledge they can bring to the classroom to improve the educational environment. Courses cover topics like foundations of language and reading, math methods for the elementary school, reading strategies and interventions, and teaching and learning in the inclusive classroom. Courses run eight weeks in length and move at an accelerated pace. Merrimack ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 45th best regional university in the North and the 37th best value school. In addition to school rankings, the online master’s in education programs rank #152 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#35 – American InterContinental University
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Chandler, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $21,466
The American InterContinental University’s fast track elementary education degree program is designed to help teachers enhance their classroom experience and prepare for leadership roles. The 48-credit online M.Ed. program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). By taking online courses, students earn their accredited M.Ed. in less than two years. These courses cover topics like data applications for elementary educators, development of the elementary student, managing the elementary learning environment, and the diverse elementary classroom. In addition to offering accelerated online programs in elementary education, American InterContinental has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#34 – Pacific Oaks College
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Pasadena, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $21,057
At Pacific Oaks College, students may earn an accelerated elementary education degree at the graduate level. Full-time students may earn their master’s degree in 1.5 years, while part-time students may earn their degree in 2.5 years. The program requires the completion of 43 credits and is available entirely online. Courses cover a number of advanced education topics. In fact, some of the courses you will take will cover learning theories and social, political, and economic factors that have influenced education and the art of teaching science. Pacific Oaks is fully accredited and has received recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#33 – Lesley University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,690
Lesley University’s fast track elementary education degree is open to qualified students with a strong interest in advancing their career in elementary education. Offered part-time, the program takes approximately two years to complete. Classes move at an accelerated pace and cover content areas like creative arts, literacy, math, science, and technology. All classes are delivered online and students may start the program in fall, spring, or summer. Lesley University ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 249th best national university and 303rd top performer on social mobility. Also, the education programs at Lesley have earned recognition by U.S. News.
#32 – Samford University
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Birmingham, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,364
Samford University’s online master’s in elementary education is a fully online program designed for educators working full-time. The program is cohort based but can be completed online. Courses are delivered by award-winning faculty who also instruct on campus. By taking classes at an accelerated pace, students may earn their master’s in elementary education online degree at Samford in just 16 months. A total of 30 credits are required and students must maintain a 3.25 GPA or higher to graduate. In addition to offering affordable education programs, Samford has earned a 143rd ranking in best national universities from U.S. News and World Report.
#31 – Mercer University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Macon, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,722
Mercer University’s master’s in elementary education online program consists of 30 credits and may be completed in 12 to 16 months. Each class is delivered in eight-week sessions, allowing students to move through their studies at an accelerated pace. The program enrolls students twice per year in May and August. Courses cover topics like contemporary curriculum practices, introduction to educational research, and school philosophy and teacher leadership. Successful candidates for admission hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or better. Mercer ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 160th best national university.
#30 – Regis University
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Denver, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,441
Regis University’s accelerated elementary education degree is designed for students seeking initial licensure in Colorado. Graduates of the online master’s in elementary education program are prepared to teach students of all grade types, from K through 6. Eight-week terms and fast-paced courses make the program accelerated and rigorous. A total of 43 credits are required for completion of the degree. Courses cover topics like classroom management; and diversity, equity, and social justice. Regis University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 217th best national university and 76th top performers on social mobility. Regis is fully accredited and affordable.
#29 – MidAmerica Nazarene University
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Olathe, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,409
The fast track elementary education degree program at MidAmerica Nazarene University allows students to complete their degree or licensure in both elementary education and special education while earning a master’s degree. In just 18 months, students may earn their graduate degree by taking asynchronous and synchronous classes. Courses cover topics like children’s literature, ethical worldviews, introduction to SPED, and serving through servant leadership. MidAmerican Nazarene ranks with several major publications, including U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #91 in regional universities in the Midwest and #7 in top performers on social mobility.
#28 – Southeastern University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Lakeland, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,430
Southeastern University’s accelerated elementary education programs consist of 36 credits and takes 18-24 months to complete. A total of 12 courses are required to complete the program. Courses cover a variety of advanced education topics like curriculum and diverse learners, educational research, human development, foundations of ESE, and measurement and assessment. Applicants who wish to enroll in the elementary education program must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Also, applicants must have earned a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, hold official GRE scores, or have three years of teaching experience. Southeastern also ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the South.
#27 – University of Northern Colorado
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Loveland, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,894
University of Northern Colorado’s master’s in elementary education online program is an accelerated degree that features a blend of online and in-person requirements. In just one year, students may receive their teacher licensure, and in 15 months, their MAT degree. Required courses cover topics like conceptions of schooling, elementary school curriculum, integrated methods – visual arts and music, and teaching science in elementary school. University of Northern Colorado ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 298th to 389th best national university and 154th to 209th top public school. Also, the online master’s in education programs rank #35 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#26 – Mississippi College
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Clinton, Mississippi
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,130
Mississippi College offers a fast track elementary education degree that takes 10 months to complete. Courses are delivered 100 percent online, and after students complete the program, they become eligible to apply for licensure. Online courses cover core and advanced topic curriculum. These courses include current methodology in elementary education, curriculum development, project-based science curriculum, and teaching skills of reading and comprehension. Mississippi College has been NCATE accredited for over fifty years, which is the longest-accredited school in the state. Also, the institution ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.
#25 – University of North Dakota
Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,058
For those seeking online master’s in elementary education and early childhood education programs, University of North Dakota is a qualified choice. Not only does the school offer affordable graduate tuition, but UND provides a speedy pathway to an online master’s in early childhood education. The program offers online courses taught by the same UND professors who instruct on campus. These courses cover topics like language development and cognition in children, introduction to early childhood special education, and language development and emerging literacy. UND is fully accredited and ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Current rankings include #258 in best national universities, #126 in top public schools, and #78 in best online master’s in education programs.
#24 – University of Missouri
Online Master’s in Elementary Education
Saint Louis, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,007
The University of Missouri’s College of Education offers an accelerated elementary education degree for those seeking advanced programs. The online master’s in elementary education offers unique capstone experiences known as “Studio Schools.” These are schools and districts using a differentiated staffing plan that focuses on design and provides student teachers access to unique models in education. Courses cover topics like advanced studies in classroom and behavior management, psychology of exceptional children, and technology for preparing inquiry-based teaching. University of Missouri ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #124 in best national universities and #85 in best value schools.
#23 – North Carolina State University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
Raleigh, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,673
Looking for a fast track elementary education degree? North Carolina State University offers a uniquely designed master’s in teaching with 10 content areas, all of which can be completed entirely online. The elementary education specialization, or content area, leads to both an initial teaching license and a master’s degree. The completion time for this accelerated program is 1.5 years when enrolled full-time. Courses cover topics like behavioral management of inclusive classrooms, diversity in classroom and community, methods for teaching reading in the elementary classroom, and school experiences. NC State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 80th top national university and the school’s online master’s in education programs rank #31 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#22 – Carroll University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
Waukesha, Wisconsin
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,608
Carroll University’s accelerated elementary education programs include the online master’s in teaching (MAT) with elementary education pathway. With the accelerated cohort model, students obtain dual licensure in just 17 months. Classes are delivered online, though students are required to meet one weekend a month. Also, a 30-hour practicum during semesters 1-3 is required. Applicants must hold an earned bachelor’s degree in any academic area to be eligible for admission. Carroll University is accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school ranks #39 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #28 in best value schools.
#21 – Kansas State University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
Manhattan, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,277
Kansas State University’s master’s in elementary education online program is designed for those with a bachelor’s degree outside the field of education who want to earn an accelerated teaching degree. The 12-month accelerated program prepares students for K-6 teacher certification through online coursework. Courses cover topics like action research in education, social foundations of K-12 education, teaching diverse learners, and teaching science and math in the elementary school. To complete the degree, students must earn a total of 31 credits. KSU ranks with all major publications, including U.S. News and World Report. In fact, current rankings include #170 in best national universities, #83 in top public schools, and #42 in best online master’s in education programs.
#20 – Florida International University
Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education
Miami, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,106
Florida International University’s fast track elementary education degree program offers a diverse curriculum that benefits teachers in a variety of elementary education settings. Upon completion of the required 36 credits, graduates earn a master’s in curriculum and instruction. The elementary education track broadens teacher perspectives off education challenges, issues, and needs. Online courses cover topics like curriculum development, education of the child in urban society, foundations of educational research, and theory and instruction in literacy. FIU and its education programs are accredited. Also, the school ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 187th best national university. In addition to school rankings, FIU’s online master’s in education programs rank #48 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#19 – Grand Canyon University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Phoenix, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,074
The accredited online master’s in elementary education program at Grand Canyon University prepares students to work as elementary and middle school teachers. Up to 12 credits, or 1/3 of the program requirements, may be transferred from an accredited institution to GCU. But even without transfer credits, students may complete their degree at an accelerated pace. In less than two years, students earn their online M.Ed. in elementary education. Courses cover topics like foundational literacy skills, instructional planning and assessment for elementary teacher candidates, and methods and strategies of teaching and integrating science. GCU is fully accredited and ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.
#18 – Lasell University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Newton, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,960
Lasell University’s accelerated elementary education degree consists of an M.Ed. with elementary education track. The program may be completed online or on-campus. For those interested in online classes, an accelerated schedule allows students to earn their graduate degree in 24 months or less. Coursework covers topics like assessment for a diverse range of learners, curriculum development, and teaching techniques for different areas of instruction. Admission requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university but does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Lasell ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 125th best regional university in the North and 110th top performer on social mobility.
#17 – Eastern Kentucky University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
Richmond, Kentucky
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,450
Searching for a fast track elementary education degree? Eastern Kentucky University offers an online MAT (master’s in teaching) with elementary education degree concentration. The elementary education concentration is designed for individuals who already hold a non-teaching bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Accelerated eight-week terms and no campus visits allow students to earn their degree with ease and flexibility. All courses are delivered 100 percent online and the program consists of 44 credits. The core curriculum is focused on training teachers as leaders in the classroom and community while gaining expertise in a selected area like elementary education. EKU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 51st best regional university in the South.
#16 – University of Louisiana
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction – K-8 Mathematics Education
Lafayette, Louisiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,148
University of Louisiana offers accelerated elementary education programs, including the M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction with K-8 mathematics education track. The UL Lafayette M.Ed. is designed to enhance pedagogical skills and knowledge for certified teachers. Housed in the nationally-accredited College of Education at UL, the program is highly affordable for in-state students and recognized as a top-ranked programs. In fact, the online master’s in education programs at University of Louisiana rank 89th in best online education programs out of more than 1,200 surveyed. Also, the institution ranks #298-#389 in best national universities and #154-#209 in top public schools.
#15 – Reinhardt University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Waleska, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,106
The master’s in elementary education online program at Reinhardt University takes 18 months to complete and costs less than $10,000 per year. The accelerated online program is designed to transform professional teachers into instructional leaders in the field. While most courses are delivered online, the hybrid platform combines online learning with weekly in-person coursework. The online M.Ed. is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC). Also, Reinhardt ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 89th best regional university in the South and 26th top performer on social mobility.
#14 – San Diego State University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
San Diego, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,944
San Diego State University’s fast track elementary education degree is flexible and fully accredited. The MAT degree with elementary education concentration takes about a year to complete and offers online courses that are structured to accommodate the busiest of schedules. Not only is the program accelerated and highly flexible, but students may earn their degree for less than $10,000. In fact, the cost for California residents is less than 10k for the entire program. San Diego State also ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 143rd best national university in the country. And, the online master’s in education programs rank #8 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#13 – Drury University
Online Master’s in Education – Elementary Education
Springfield, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,586
Drury University’s online master’s in elementary education requires 30-33 credits with courses available in 16-week or eight-week formats. Applicants from any undergraduate discipline are welcome for entry to the program, as a bachelor’s in education is not required. Also, no GRE is required for admission. The accelerated program delivers online courses that cover various advanced education topics. These courses include advanced educational psychology and assessment, introduction to educational research, and social justice and diversity in education. Drury is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Drury ranks #26 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #9 in best value schools. Also, the online master’s in education programs at Drury rank #161 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#12 – Liberty University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
Lynchburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,400
One of the most affordable accelerated elementary education programs on our list is the MAT in elementary education at Liberty University. This fully online degree program consists of 36 credit hours and takes 1.5 years, on average, to complete. Courses run eight weeks in length, making the program accelerated and rigorous. These courses cover various topics in education like literacy and language instruction, reading and language acquisition, teaching mathematics, and teaching the natural and social sciences. To qualify for admission to the Liberty accelerated education program, applicants must hold a regionally or nationally accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA. Liberty ranks with U.S. News and World Report among the top 300 national universities.
#11 – Pittsburg State University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
Pittsburg, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,322
Pittsburg State University’s accelerated elementary education degree program is designed for candidates who hold a baccalaureate degree and want to earn an elementary (K-6) teaching license. The program consists of 33 credits and is offered entirely online. In addition to coursework, degree candidates must complete one 40-hour field experience in the K, 1, or 2 classroom and another 40-hour field experience in an intermediate classroom. Courses cover topics like advanced educational psychology, assessment for effective teaching, curriculum development, integrating creative experiences, and literacy and social studies for the intermediate grades. Pittsburg State ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 86th best regional university in the Midwest and 22nd top public school. Also, the online master’s in education programs rank #60 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#10 – Western Governors University
Online Master’s in Teaching – Elementary Education
Raleigh, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,790
The affordable online master’s in elementary education program at Western Governors University prepares degree candidates to lead a classroom and make a difference in the lives of students. Close to 70 percent of WGU elementary education grad students earn their master’s degree in 18 months. Accelerated online classes cover a wide range of topics, including elementary reading methods and interventions, language arts instruction and intervention, schools as communities of care, and using educational technology for teaching and learning. A total of 26 courses are required to complete program stipulations. In addition to offering affordable graduate programs, WGU has earned recognition by U.S. News and World Report among the top institutions. WGU is also fully accredited.
#9 – Indiana State University
Online M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning – Elementary Education
Terre Haute, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,742
Indiana State University’s master’s in elementary education online degree program is designed for individuals seeking to develop leadership skills in areas like elementary education. The 33-credit hour program takes 18-24 months to complete when enrolled full-time. Required courses, delivered entirely online, cover topics like building innovative curriculum, leadership of reading programs, literacy intervention strategies, measurement and evaluation in education, and reading strategies for content area teachers. ISU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 298th-389th best national university and 154th-209th top public school. ISU is also accredited and offers graduate degrees for less than $8,000 per year.
#8 – Delta State University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Cleveland, Mississippi
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,671
Delta State University’s fast track elementary education degree program is designed to prepare teachers with advanced skills at all levels of elementary school. The convenient online delivery affords students the flexibility needed for advancing their career without disrupting current work obligations. Courses cover topics like classroom management, effective instruction, fundamentals of early childhood education, literacy instruction, and methods of educational research and statistics. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a fully accredited institution to be eligible for admission. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Delta State #77 in best regional universities in the South and #34 in top public schools.
#7 – The University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Math and Science
Edinburg, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,128
The University of Texas offers an online master’s in elementary education that emphasizes elementary math and science in curriculum and instruction. The online M.Ed. is designed to prepare leaders in education to serve in opportunities beyond the classroom. Courses are delivered 100% online and cover advanced topics in elementary education, elementary math, and elementary science. Courses cover topics like assessment of learning, mathematics and science education project, and teaching and learning algebraic concepts. UT Rio Grande Valley ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 284th best national university and 144th top public school.
#6 – Georgia Southern University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Statesboro, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,069
Georgia Southern University offers an affordable and accelerated elementary education program that cost just over $7,000 per year. The online M.Ed. is a fully online program designed for current teachers or professionals looking to advance their career. In just one year, students may earn their degree by taking online courses approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. These courses include advanced language arts methods, advanced math methods, learning theories and assessment, and teaching communication across cultures. Georgia Southern ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 298th-389th best national university and 154th-209th top public school. In addition to school rankings, the online master’s in education programs rank #89 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#5 – American Public University
Online M.Ed. in Teaching – Elementary Education
Charles Town, West Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,005
American Public University offers accelerated elementary education degree programs, including the online M.Ed. in teaching with elementary education emphasis. This non-licensure program is aligned with the West Virginia Professional Teaching Standards. Courses run in an accelerated eight-week format and move at a rigorous academic pace. These courses cover topics like diversity and communication in education, elementary school social studies, inclusive elementary reading and writing, and literature for elementary school children. To qualify for admission to the APU elementary education program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5. APU is recognized by U.S. News and World Report and fully accredited.
#4 – University of West Alabama
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Livingston, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,868
The master’s in elementary education online program at University of West Alabama offers K-6 certification and is available entirely online. The program is open to educators seeking career advancement in classroom and specialty roles, as well as educators seeking a graduate level education and master’s level certificate. Courses cover topics like advanced educational psychology, foundations of education, teaching reading, techniques of educational research, and technology and education. To qualify for admission, applicants must hold a valid bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. University of West Alabama ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 103rd-133rd best regional university in the South.
#3 – Worcester State University
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Worcester, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,786
The affordable and accelerated elementary education programs at Worcester State University include the M.Ed. in elementary education. This 34-credit hour program takes as few as 14 months to complete. The program consists of 100% online courses. There are 12 courses to take to finish the degree. These courses cover topics like advanced foundations of education, research in education, mathematics assessment and instruction for diverse learners, and technology and literacy in the classroom. Worcester State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 96th best regional university in the North and 29th top public school. WSU is also fully accredited.
#2 – American College of Education
Online M.Ed. in Elementary Education
Indianapolis, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,321
American College of Education is a top pick for accelerated elementary education degree programs. The online M.Ed. in elementary education takes approximately 17 months to complete and is completely customizable, allowing students to specialize in a focus area like elementary ed. The online format, also flexible, allows students to plan their coursework around life obligations. A few classes you will likely take while enrolled in the online M.Ed. program include foundation of education, standards-driven learning, teacher leadership, and the digital learner. A unique aspect of the American College program is that after completing the M.Ed. in elementary education, you can earn a second M.Ed. degree in less time thanks to the overlap in required courses. The school is fully accredited and its online master’s in education programs rank #226-#298 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#1 – Fort Hays State University
Online Master’s in Education – Elementary Education
Hays, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,356
Fort Hays State University is our #1 most affordable pick for accelerated online master’s in elementary education programs. Completion of the online MSE with emphasis in elementary education qualifies degree candidates to seek licensure in elementary education (K-6). But to qualify for admission, applicants must hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 undergraduate hours. Once admitted to the online program, students take classes that cover topics like advanced literacy for primary grades, advanced mathematics and science, advanced mathematics for primary grades, and problems in education – action research. In addition to offering affordable tuition, Fort Hays ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, rankings include #112 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #78 in best online master’s in education programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with an accelerated online master’s in elementary education degree?
According to the National Education Association (NEA), the majority of teachers working today hold master’s degrees. But what can you do with an accelerated online master’s in elementary education? Graduates of accelerated programs can work as educational administrators, elementary school teachers, instructional coaches and counselors, and principals. Below are the most common careers in elementary education.
Elementary school principal or administrator
School principals and administrators oversee a school’s daily schedule and operations. Principals also supervise teachers and staff, and support students by providing a favorable and productive learning environment. Principals and administrators also maintain a safe space for students to learn and thrive. This position requires a master’s degree in education, as well as licensure and certification.
Elementary school teacher
Elementary school teachers (K-6) work with students ages five to twelve in the classroom. These specialized teachers provide instruction in all basic subjects, such as language arts, math, and reading. Daily tasks include classroom management, grading, lesson planning, and teaching.
Instructional coordinator
Instructional coordinators oversee both curricula and teaching standards by supporting both teachers and students. They design instructional materials and work with teachers and staff to implement new materials. Most instructional coordinators hold a graduate degree in education.
How fast can I earn an accelerated online master’s in elementary education degree?
Accelerated online master’s in elementary education programs shorten the time it takes to earn a graduate degree. Program length varies by institution, but the average time to complete an accelerated degree is 15-18 months. Traditional graduate degrees, such as the master’s in elementary education or M.Ed. in elementary education, take two years when enrolled full-time. Part-time traditional programs take even longer.
However, you can earn an accelerated online master’s in elementary education in less time than a traditional degree. Many online programs on our list offer accelerated classes than move at a rigorous pace. Courses typically run eight weeks in length. By taking accelerated classes, students enrolled full-time may earn their graduate degree in 12-18 months.
Enrollment status impacts completion time the most. As a full-time student, you likely take more than one class at a time. Classes move at an accelerated pace and allow students to earn their degree faster than their part-time colleagues. However, enrolling part-time offers greater flexibility. Many part-time students find more time to balance outside obligations, such as work and family. But if you are willing to put in the extra time required to enroll full-time, you can earn your advanced degree quicker than most part-time students.
What is the job outlook for individuals with an accelerated online master’s in elementary education?
The overall employment outlook for kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to grow by four percent between last year and 2029. While this is not a significant growth rate, it is steady and about as fast as the average for all occupations. With a rising student enrollment, employment growth should continue to increase, but overall growth will vary by geographic location.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment growth for elementary school teachers will be impacted by retirements. As some teachers are expected to reach retirement age over the next ten years, their positions will need to be replaced.
But despite the anticipated increase in enrollment and need for teachers, employment growth will depend on state and local budgets. Education cuts and budget deficits greatly impact the hiring of new teachers.
Job opportunities will also vary by region and school setting. Over the next decade, there should be better job prospects in urban and rural school districts than in suburban districts, according to BLS. Also, graduates of advanced degree programs should see increased prospects if they are flexible in job location and placement.
Currently, educators face incredible challenges in light of a global pandemic. Online learning has become the norm. As a result, educators who are technologically savvy and adaptive to change should see favorable job prospects in upcoming years.
What is the earnings potential for individuals with an accelerated online master’s in elementary education?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the median annual wage for elementary school teachers was $59,670 as of May 2019. The lowest ten percent of earners in this occupation made $39,020 per year and the highest ten percent earned more than $97,000.
This number varies by industry or the type of school where the teacher is employed. According to BLS, local and public elementary and secondary schools paid their teachers an average of $60,870. Private schools paid their elementary school teachers an average of $48,000 per year.
Annual wages also vary by geographic location. Larger urban schools offer higher-paying compensation packages than small, private schools. However, rural areas with teacher shortages may offer higher wages and favorable benefits to incentivize recruitment.
Most elementary school teachers work the traditional ten-month school year and have two months off as a break in the summer. However, some teachers work during the summer, especially those who teach year-round. Teachers in districts with year-round schedules typically work nine weeks and then have a break for three weeks before beginning a new school session.
Elementary school teachers also work during school hours but may meet with students, parents, and colleagues before and after school. Evenings and weekends are often spent grading and preparing lessons for the upcoming days and weeks.
Are there professional associations students may join while enrolled in accelerated online master’s in elementary education programs?
You don’t have to wait until graduation to join a professional association in elementary education. Several organizations offer graduate students enrolled in online master’s in elementary education programs access to a number of resources. These associations offer many benefits to graduate students, including networking resources, career assistance, and ongoing education or certification opportunities. Below are some of the professional associations in elementary education open to graduate students.
Association of American Educators (AAE)
The AAE is the largest national, non-union, professional educator’s organization offering teacher representation. Member resources include legal protection, liability insurance, and access to scholarships and grants of up to $500. The association provides education news, updates, and a published newsletter with a back-to-school resource guide.
ASCD
Formerly the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, the ASCD is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization representing more than 113,500 educators from around the globe. The association hosts conferences and events, provides consulting services, and advocates to support students and improve education.
National Education Association (NEA)
The National Education Association or NEA offers member benefits that include discounted legal services, discussion forum access, lesson plans, and other educational resources and classroom activities. The NEA works to advance public education through its resources and literature.
BCO Staff
October 2020
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