Best Online Bachelor’s in Elementary Education Programs of 2023

Students earning their bachelor’s in Elementary Education at Western Governors University benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that is designed to be completed quickly. Instead of charging by credit, WGU charges per six-month term — so those who finish faster pay less for their education. Upon graduation, all students complete teacher licensure in their respective states, which makes earning an education at WGU a one-stop shop for those looking to begin their careers right away.

The curriculum consists of general education courses, as well as courses in Professional Care and Elementary Education methods. Although most coursework can be completed online, some in-person modules are required to demonstrate teaching ability and participate in hands-on learning activities.

WGU recommends that prospective students meet with an enrollment counselor to review the application process and complete a general admissions checklist before they apply.

The University of the Cumberlands provides an online bachelor's degree in Elementary Education that is comprehensive. Students learn teaching concepts and instructional methodology, which equips them for their future careers as teachers, educational consultants, and tutors. With all faculty having practical teaching experience, students can be confident that they are learning from the best professionals in the field. To provide student support beyond the classroom, the University of the Cumberlands gives students access to an instructional media library with teaching materials and media resources.

To apply, students should submit an online application and all relevant transcripts. Both freshman and transfer students must hold a minimum 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.

The Chaminade University of Honolulu provides an online bachelor's in Elementary Education that is rooted in inspiration, creativity, and innovation. Their small class sizes allow for higher levels of collaboration between teacher and student and for more opportunities for peer-to-peer interaction - even in online classrooms. Although most coursework can be completed online, the university's emphasis on experiential learning allows students to spend hours in real classrooms. Graduates leave the program fully certified to teach kindergarten through sixth grade and ready to teach.

To be considered for admission, interested students must complete an online application and submit official transcripts.

The University of North Carolina Wilmington offers students an economical option to earn their online Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. At $210 per credit hour, UNC Wilmington is relatively affordable compared with similar programs. Students learn from dedicated faculty with experience in elementary education and have opportunities for field and international experiences throughout the program. Options for concentrations include Behavioral Studies, English as a Second Language, Early Childhood, Fine Arts, and International Studies, among others.

To apply, students must meet the minimum course requirements as specified by the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina system. Provided all qualifications are met, prospective students must submit an online application and all relevant transcripts to be considered for admission.

Individuals who can teach English to students who have a different primary language are in high demand in schools across the U.S.

Indian River State College's Bachelor of Science in Education: Elementary Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements degree program trains students to meet those needs with a comprehensive curriculum in delivering bilingual education. This program is designed for students with an associate's degree in education, and includes hands-on classroom experience in the form of practicums and student teaching. Students must satisfy foreign language requirements in order to successfully complete the program and receive their ESOL endorsement.

Liberty University offers an online bachelor's in Elementary Education with a nonlicensure track. Specifically designed for students looking to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching upon graduation, this program allows students to learn in a flexible online environment that can be completed at their own pace. The curriculum is based on real-world experiences and gives students plenty of opportunities to create their lesson plans and units while learning the necessary teaching methodology to effectively deliver their content.

Known for its affordable tuition, Liberty University gives current and past military members a tuition discount of $250 per credit hour for undergraduate degrees versus $390 for other students. Veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as first responders may be eligible for an additional tuition discount.

To apply, prospective students must submit the online application and all relevant transcripts. Applicants must have a 2.0 GPA or higher on all previous coursework.

Prescott College offers an online bachelor's in Elementary Education that is fully customizable. Students can pursue licensure in one of five different specializations: Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Special Education, K-12 Mild-Moderate Special Education, Elementary Education, and Secondary Education. To prepare students for future teaching careers in impact-driven roles, additional certifications are available in Environmental Education and Social Justice Education. Students also have the option to create their concentration with the assistance of their faculty advisor.

Prescott College encourages students to meet with their admissions counselor to review admission requirements and to go over any additional materials before they apply.

Students earning their bachelor’s in Elementary Education at Kansas State University benefit from a straightforward online curriculum grounded in practicality. All coursework is online, and students can complete their fieldwork requirement at an elementary school in their community. Using a tablet and video recording technology, K-State professors can evaluate teaching demonstrations completely online — so there’s never a need to come to campus. With the help of world-class faculty and additional student support services, K-State is a great program option for future teachers who want to earn their education.

Incoming freshmen must meet either a 3.25 GPA requirement or have satisfactory ACT/SAT scores to qualify for admission in good standing. Transfer students must have a 2.0 GPA or higher on all undergraduate coursework. K-State also provides plenty of information on its website regarding how past coursework can transfer.

South Carolina residents have the opportunity to earn an online bachelor's in Elementary Education with the University of South Carolina. Students participate in a hybrid program - and although most coursework can be completed online, students are required to complete extensive fieldwork in local schools. Many students appreciate this heightened focus on classroom learning as a natural bridge between earning their degree and engaging with a classroom of students. Upon graduation, students will receive a recommendation for teacher certification in Elementary Education.

To apply, students must have completed 30 credit hours from a regionally accredited institution and have a minimum 2.5 GPA. Students must have a 2.75 GPA or higher to enroll in upper-level courses.

Students earning their bachelor's in Elementary Education at Mississippi State University can pursue a concentration in Early Childhood or Middle School. The innovative curriculum teaches students skills with the future of education in mind while maintaining the flexibility and convenience of online education. Known for its high-quality instructors, courses at Mississippi State are taught by a diverse faculty who are experts in their field. Students complete fieldwork in their junior and senior years at all grade levels and complete a teaching internship in a grade level of their choice.

Upon graduation, students will be licensed to teach in the state of Mississippi. To teach in another state, students must apply for a reciprocal teaching license through that state's Department of Education.

To apply, prospective students must submit an online application, official transcripts, and ACT/SAT scores.