doctorate degree in elementary education

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Doctorate of education (edd) in elementary education.

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• EdD in Elementary Education
• Teachers College

The doctorate of education (EdD) in elementary education was designed for busy school professionals interested in advanced development, those who seek leadership roles, and who want to provide a greater service to their profession. Many of our graduates teach at the college or university level. Others have leadership positions such as administrators, policy makers, and education specialists.

In this flexible, fully online program, candidates can focus on a variety of areas within elementary education, such as diversity, literacy/reading, early childhood education, curriculum development and assessment, technology, and more. As one of the few fully online EdD programs in the Midwest, our program is customizable to meet each candidate's specific goals.

Students who have completed or will complete the online master's in elementary education (MAE in elementary education) can apply up to 27 credits from their master’s degree toward the EdD requirements as a head start in their course work.

If your career goal is to become a professor in the elementary education field, the 100% online PhD in Elementary Education  can help you achieve that goal.

Program Contacts

Becky Druetzler Lead Student Success Specialist Dr. Nicole Martin Associate Professor of Elementary Education

Program Benefits

Ball State has a long history and excellent reputation as a teacher's college. You'll develop an in-depth knowledge in your area of interest through program activities that include in-service training, research and publication, college teaching, curriculum development, clinical or laboratory work, and graduate courses in your major and related subjects.

We have an accomplished faculty who have received recognition for their work on the national and international levels. Our small class sizes mean you will consistently interact with your professors, allowing for mentoring and careful monitoring of your progress.

You'll develop an in-depth knowledge in your area of interest through program activities that include in-service training, research and publication, college teaching, curriculum development, clinical or laboratory work, and graduate courses in your major and related subjects.

All of our courses are offered 100 percent online. The flexibility of our online format gives you the convenience to complete weekly course work at a time and place that best fit into your work, family, and extracurricular schedules. Many of our students are busy school professionals who continue working full-time while pursuing their degree. Students can choose from three start dates – Fall, Spring, or Summer – to help accommodate their schedules.

“One year I was presenting at a conference in Indianapolis, and Dr. Taylor was waiting outside of the room to meet me face to face,” says Alissa. “That was probably the most meaningful thing that happened to me during my program.”

READ HER STORY

Course Requirements

This doctorate program consists of 91 graduate credits, of which at least 48 credits must be completed at Ball State University. The program includes a 40-credit (minimum) major (of which 10 credits are for the dissertation), and a 24-credit (minimum) cognate field. The 24-credit cognate must include a minimum of 12 Ball State University credits. Candidates must also complete a 10-credit dissertation project that addresses a problem of practice.

National Accreditation

The Teachers College is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Learn more.

Basic Required Courses

• EDPS 641 Statistical Methods in Educational and Psychological Research (3 credits)
• EDPS 642 Intermediate Statistics (3 credits)
• ID 705 Research Colloquium (2 credits)
• One course in Behavior Studies (3 credits)
• One course in Humanistic Studies (3 credits)

Prerequisite

EDPS 640 Methodology of Educational and Psychological Research, or its equivalent, is a prerequisite for the doctoral program. Graduate students who enter without this credit, must meet the requirement as a deficiency rather than as part of the program.

Area of Specialization

Doctorate of education candidates will complete 27 credits of course work in an area of specialization. Students determine courses for their specialization with their doctoral committees. Candidates will select one of the three following areas of specialization:

• Elementary Education (EDEL)
• Early Childhood Education (ECYF)
• Literacy/Reading Education (EDRD)

Cognate Area

EdD candidates will complete one 24-credit cognate. Students determine courses for their cognate with their doctoral committees.

*EdD candidates who pursue the research cognate must meet the following requirements:

• a minimum of two quantitative research courses
• a minimum of two qualitative research courses
• additional research courses approved by the committee 

Additional Requirements

• Doctoral Seminar in Elementary Education (10 credits)
• EDEL 694 Internship in Elementary Education (3 credits)
• EDHI 710 Advanced Research Seminar in Higher Education (3 credits)
• Dissertation (10 credits)

For a complete list of courses and their descriptions, see the course catalog.

View Catalog

Federal Employees Pay In-State Tuition

Ball State has joined the Federal Academic Alliance and is offering reduced tuition rates for all eligible, non-Indiana resident Federal Government Employees (civil servants), spouses, dependents, and retirees who enroll in online graduate-level programs and courses through Ball State’s Teachers College.  Learn more .

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Students from Other States

Ball State is authorized by the U.S. Department of Education to accept online students from all U.S. states. However, if you are considering a program that leads to professional licensure, some states may have additional regulations. Review our state authorization website if you live outside of Indiana and contact us if you have questions.

More Information

For additional information about the doctoral program, please fill out the online information form, or reach out by email or phone to program advisor Becky Druetzler.

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Our Teachers College

As a student in Ball State's Teachers College, you will join a community that prepares tomorrow's professionals and leaders in all areas of education. Learn More

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Curriculum studies and teacher education (cte).

Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education (CTE) offers doctoral degrees with the following specializations: Elementary Education; Literacy, Language, and English Education; History/Social Science Education; Mathematics Education; Science, Engineering and Technology Education; and Teacher Education. In addition, two cross-area specializations—Learning Sciences and Technology Design, and Race, Inequality, and Language in Education—enable doctoral students in those specializations to ground their studies in the CTE academic area.

CTE is designed to prepare scholars and practitioners to address a number of fundamental educational questions: What should be taught, to whom, for what ends? How can school programs be organized to optimize the educational development of students? What processes can be employed to enable teachers and policy makers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of schools?

CTE is based on the premise that schools are most likely to improve when those engaged in their improvement recognize the highly interactive nature of school processes. How science is taught, for example, is not independent of the time teachers spend planning their programs or how they believe their efforts will be evaluated. How school subjects are defined and the time allocated to them influence what students are able to learn. What options exist for the organization of the school curriculum? How do evaluation practices influence the priorities of both teachers and students and how can such practices be designed so that they support, rather than inhibit, the achievement of educational aims? CTE helps graduate students learn how to think about such questions and how to develop the specialized understanding and research skills needed to study and improve educational practice.

The Elementary Education specialization is designed for students interested in exploring and contributing to scholarship and teaching related to issues of pedagogy, curriculum design and implementation, school reform, equity, and equality as they relate to elementary schools, classrooms, and educators. This specialization aims to prepare scholars, practitioners, and leaders to address a range of important questions in the field of elementary education and elementary teacher education.

Stanford Graduate School of Education includes a number of faculty whose scholarship and teaching take place in elementary schools and who have an interest in, and enthusiasm for, cultivating scholars in the field of elementary education. CTE students collaborate closely with faculty on research, teaching, and the design of their graduate programs.

CTE students appreciate the myriad connections between elementary education and the full range of disciplinary specializations and research foci of GSE faculty. Students also make good use of the wider resources available at Stanford, routinely enrolling in courses across the university.

Admission depends on a combination of factors, including successful teaching or related experience, strong academic achievement, professional accomplishments, and the fit between student interests and background on the one hand and faculty availability and research areas on the other.

Affiliated faculty :

• Rebecca Silverman

The program in History/Social Science Education is concerned with how young people make sense of both the past and their present in school and out-of-school settings. The program explores core issues of teaching and learning and engages the very nature of historical consciousness: What does it mean to live in a present suffused by the past? How can the skills of historical reasoning be leveraged to help us understand digital information that confronts us in the present? The program also explores online civic reasoning and how to help students and teachers prepare for a world in which the very idea of truth is under assault.

Taught well, history fosters tolerance for complexity and intolerance for simple answers. How can schools teach young people to discern reasoned interpretations from stances that seek to extinguish—not promote—critical judgment? What can educators do to cultivate historical reasoning and teach young people that there's more to the past than just names and dates? Cutting-edge research shows that even elementary school children can learn to think historically, but such classrooms are rare. How can we design bold pedagogies and adventuresome curricula so that such classrooms become the rule, not the exception—for all students, not just the privileged?

New technologies offer a potential answer but one that has yet to be realized. Digital media allow 10-year-olds to enter online archives that a few years ago required flights across the country and layers of written consent. How can we mobilize such technologies so that students embrace the rich complexity of the documentary record? How can we prepare future teachers who can turn digital materials into programs for advancing students' understanding? How do we develop curriculum that allows students to see through the falsehoods and deceptions that pervade the internet?

There are no formal prerequisites for admission to the program in History/Social Science Education. Experience in teaching history/social science is definitely asset and provides a useful entry point to many of these questions. But more important than any set of prior experiences is a boundless curiosity to understand how the past shapes understanding in the present and how we can learn more about designing effective educational programs. Many backgrounds prepare one for successful graduate study in this PhD concentration: teaching, filmmaking, web design, programming, and archival work are some of the many possibilities. Successful candidates will likely possess an academic background in one or more of the following areas: history, anthropology, geography, cognitive science, computer science, cultural studies, American Studies, philosophy, political science, psychology, or sociology.

For more information and examples of our latest research projects, please visit  http://sheg.stanford.edu

Affiliated faculty: 

The program in Literacy, Language, and English Education is designed for students interested in exploring and contributing to the research and scholarship on literacy learning and instruction from preschool through secondary school. Students in this area study linguistic, psychological, social, historical, and cultural issues related to oral and written language, as well as focus on the preparation of prospective teachers of literacy, language, and English language arts.  The program seeks to produce scholars who provide intellectual leadership in the field and work at the intersection of theory and practice. Stanford GSE has multiple faculty who study facets of literacy.

Our students have often explored questions in one or more of  the following domains:

Early literacy development Adolescent literacy Curriculum development The teaching of reading and/or literature The teaching of writing Reading comprehension Classroom discourse Literacy theory Literacy and language development for English language learners Social, cultural, and critical dimensions of literacy learning Teacher education Teacher professional development

As part of their programs, students are encouraged to take courses in the English, linguistics, sociology, history, and psychology departments as well as in the Graduate School of Education. Each student's program is individually designed, with the assistance of a faculty advisor, in light of the student’s background and interests.

Although there are no degree prerequisites for admission to the program in Literacy, Language, and English Education, many applicants have undergraduate degrees in English, literacy education, linguistics, anthropology, psychology, or other related areas. Admission depends on a combination of factors, including successful teaching experience, strong academic achievement, and professional accomplishments, as well as the fit among student interests, program offerings, and faculty availability and research areas.

Affiliated faculty:

• Anne Harper Charity Hudley
• Antero Garcia
• Sarah Levine
• Ramón Antonio Martínez

The program in Mathematics Education  provides opportunities to work with faculty who study mathematics teaching and learning, both within and outside CTE and Stanford GSE. Current research projects are addressing issues of equity, interactions between teaching and student learning, the impact of different mathematics teaching and curricular approaches, and lesson study (teacher professional development). Students can choose to take courses and work with faculty and students in the Department of Mathematics, School of Engineering, and other academic units outside the GSE. For those interested in teacher education and teacher professional development, there are opportunities to develop materials for pre-service and in-service mathematics teachers, and to work in the Stanford Teacher Education Program (single-subject mathematics and multiple-subject).

Students applying to this specialization will be expected to have worked in mathematics education as a teacher or other education professional, and to have an undergraduate degree in mathematics or another subject that informs analyses of mathematics teaching and learning. Admission depends on a combination of factors, including evidence of academic achievement, professional accomplishments, and fit between students' interests and program offerings.

• Hilda Borko
• Jennifer Marie Langer-Osuna

The program in Science, Engineering and Technology Education prepares students for teaching and research in a number of research areas. Research conducted in the program in Science, Engineering and Technology Education includes teaching, teacher education, curriculum development, assessment, program evaluation, the informal learning of science, environmental literacy, and policy formulation. Classes offered include: Research in Science Education, Policy and Practice in Science Education, the Science Curriculum, Science Assessment and Evaluation, Science and Environmental Education in Informal Contexts, Learning in Science, and Theory and Practice of Environmental Education.

Recent science education research projects have focused on students’ attitudes towards science, argumentation in science education, the role of language and identity, exploring issues of access for STEM majors, formative and summative assessment with an emphasis on performance assessment of students, reading science for understanding, climate change and environmental behavior, and evaluation of programs that promote gender equity in science, mathematics, and engineering. For those interested in science teacher education and teacher professional development, there are opportunities to develop materials for pre-service and in-service teachers and to work in the Stanford Teacher Education Program (a master's level program for students working for a secondary-school California teaching credential). In addition, Stanford is a leading site for research in science itself with many outreach programs for those interested in communicating science or working with scientists.

Science teaching experience in a classroom or an out-of-school setting is required for admission to the program. An undergraduate degree in a science field is also necessary, and graduate work in science is desirable.

• Bryan Brown
• Janet Carlson
• Victor R. Lee

The Teacher Education  specialization focuses on the study and improvement of teaching (across subject areas in elementary and secondary schools) and teacher education (throughout the career span). Students in this program are often interested in the relationship between the subject being taught and the particular pedagogical knowledge and skills needed to teach that subject effectively, and in effective ways of facilitating teacher learning of this body of knowledge and skills. They are concerned with the educational consequences of different approaches to teaching and the policies that shape teaching and teacher education. Many students build careers within institutions of higher education where teachers are prepared and where the practice of teaching can be studied and improved. The purpose of this specialization is to help students develop a framework for understanding teaching, research on teaching, and the implications of research for the improvement of teaching, teacher education, and policy. The program aims to prepare teacher educators and educators to understand and address the needs of students in culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms.

Students in the Learning Sciences and Technology Design (LSTD) program complete foundational research on learning and design innovative learning technologies. As a cross-area specialization, the LSTD program links its content to one of the three academic areas: Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education (CTE), Developmental and Psychological Sciences (DAPS), or Social Sciences, Humanities, and Interdisciplinary Policy Studies in Education (SHIPS). 

Learn more at  Learning Sciences and Technology Design (LSTD) .

The cross-area specialization in Race, Inequality, and Language in Education (RILE) brings an interdisciplinary scholarly focus to the major factors that influence educational attainment, especially for underserved children. Students ground their RILE studies within the context of one of the three academic areas: Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education (CTE), Developmental and Psychological Sciences (DAPS), Social Sciences, Humanities, and Interdisciplinary Policy Studies in Education (SHIPS). 

Learn more at  Race, Inequality, and Language in Education (RILE) .

Qualifying Papers

The CTE doctoral qualifying paper (or QP) has two purposes:  The first is to provide second year doctoral students with a direct experience in conceiving, designing, carrying out, and writing up an original piece of research before setting out on a dissertation.  The second is to demonstrate that students are capable of undertaking a doctoral dissertation that meets the academic standards of this university.  (See  "GUIDELINES FOR CTE QUALIFYING PAPER"  for more detailed information about the content and expectations for the QP.)

The qualifying paper (QP) should be a work of original research. The QP study addresses a research question by collecting and analyzing original data, primary materials, or by analyzing an existing data set. In structure, format, and length, the QP should be modeled on articles in a scholarly journal that the student, in consultation with the adviser, has identified as appropriate for the research undertaken.

Click here to login to the CTE Qualifying Paper Archive

Reading Lists

• Learning Theories Readings
• Curriculum Readings
• Readings on Teaching
• Teacher Education Learning to Teach

Updated March 2019

Doctoral Graduates

Assistant Professor, University of Michigan Assistant Professor, University of Washington Assistant Professor, SUNY, New Paltz Assistant Professor, Southeastern Louisiana University Assistant Professor, University of Colorado, Boulder Assistant Professor, University of the Andes, Bogota, Colombia Assistant Professor, Notre Dame University Assistant Professor, Sonoma State University Assistant Professor, Purdue University Assistant Professor, University of Maine Visiting Assistant Professor, Teachers College Columbia Associate Professor, Educational Policy and Planning, The University of Texas at Austin Associate Professor, University of Connecticut Associate Professor, University of Minnesota Associate Professor, University of Michigan Post-doc at Center for the Support of Excellence in Teaching, Stanford Research Scientist, SK Partners, LLC

Area Faculty & Affiliates

• Subini Annamma
• Fernando Carnaúba
• Elizabeth Kozleski
• Christopher J. Lemons
• Denise Pope
• Rebecca Tarlau

⟵ Go back to all doctoral programs

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College of Education and Human Development

Department of Curriculum and Instruction

Elementary education MA / PhD

The MA/PhD track in elementary education will allow you to contribute to the advancement of knowledge necessary to address the dynamic challenges of contemporary education at the elementary level. We train leaders in educational research and encourage students to dive deep into their own area of research.

This program emphasizes:

• A focus on interdisciplinary approaches to curriculum development
• The use of inquiry as a key pedagogical approach
• The importance of a strong understanding of diversity and its social and educational implications
• Child development and learning theories as the foundation for research and teaching in elementary settings

Quote from Younkyung Hong

I was drawn to this program when I learned that the faculty and graduate students in the program are not only doing academic work, but also engaging with the public to improve education. Younkyung Hong PhD 2021

As a full-time graduate student, you will have opportunities to:

• Supervise student teachers
• Teach courses in elementary teacher education
• Conduct research
• Engage with faculty and student colleagues in research/discussion groups related to the study of elementary education as a contextual space
• Present at conferences for researchers and practitioners

Your PhD coursework will center on your research interests. The program consists of 51 course credits and 24 doctoral thesis credits for a total of 78 credits.

To view the core curriculum and electives visit the course catalog and view Requirements > Program Sub-Plan Requirements > Elementary Education. 

Research opportunities

Students can engage in research that ties into their area of interest. Faculty work closely with each cohort to achieve research and educational goals. Learn more about the student research experience in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.

Masters of arts students

Students can choose either a thesis (Plan A) or final paper (Plan B) to complete their degree. See the requirements for both curriculum plans.

To view the core requirements for elementary education in the course catalog , find Requirements > Program Sub-Plan Requirements > Elementary Education.

Doctoral curriculum

To see the curriculum requirements in detail, visit the course catalog under sub-plans for elementary education.

Career outlook

Graduates of the program have assumed positions as university faculty, instructional leaders in the public schools, curriculum development specialists, and assessment specialists.

Graduates have found employment in the following positions:

• Associate professor, Wright State
• Professor, University of Minnesota
• Associate professor, Western Carolina University

Blanca Caldas Chumbes Blanca Caldas Chumbes

• Associate Professor
• [email protected]

Blanca Caldas is an assistant professor in Multilingual Education and Elementary Education—College of Education and Human Development at The University of Minnesota Twin Cities. She completed her Ph.D.

Colleen Clements Colleen Clements

• Senior Lecturer, Director of Undergraduate Studies
• she, her, hers
• [email protected]

Santa Barbara Independent Innovation in Theatre Award ICQI, International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry NWSA, National Women’s Studies Association AERA, American Educational Research Association, Division G – Social Context of Education SIG -…

Jeff Henning-Smith Jeff Henning-Smith

• Senior Lecturer
• he, him, his
• [email protected]

Jeff Henning-Smith is a Senior Lecturer in the Elementary Education and Social Studies program areas.

Jana LoBello Miller Jana LoBello Miller

• [email protected]

Jana LoBello Miller is the Elementary Teacher Education Licensure Program Lead in the department of Curriculum and Instruction.

Keitha-Gail Martin-Kerr Keitha-Gail Martin-Kerr

• Associate Professor, Teaching
• 612-625-4187
• [email protected]

Keitha-Gail received her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Minnesota in 2016. Her research interests live at the intersection of collective memory work, elementary education, teacher education, being Black, and living queerly.

Mark Vagle Mark Vagle

• [email protected]

My research, teaching, and service are intentionally linked as I study, teach, and lead efforts designed to critically examine some of the broad social and philosophical concerns that take concrete (lived) shape in the curriculum and pedagogies of…

Ramon Vasquez Ramon Vasquez

• Assistant Professor
• [email protected]

Dr. Vasquez is an Assistant Professor of Critical Elementary Education. Before working in higher education, he served as an elementary school teacher in California.

Cynthia Zwicky Cynthia Zwicky

• [email protected]

Cynthia Zwicky has been an educator for more than 25 years. In this time she has worked as a classroom teacher, a mentor to new teachers, and as a coordinator for various programs and initiatives, primarily with Minneapolis Public Schools.

How to apply

Application deadline and instructions.

Priority deadline : December 1 for admission to the fall of the following year Admissions decisions : January

Applications submitted after this date are considered on a case-by-case basis and may not be reviewed until the following year. Faculty review applications in mid-late December, and the Graduate School will notify applicants about admission decisions shortly thereafter. Final admission decisions are based on complete applications. All application materials must be included for the application to be released for review.

Before applying online , go through the application checklist to ensure you have all the required materials. We are here to help! If you have questions, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator . If you are a returning Graduate School student, follow the Readmission guidelines . If you are a current Graduate School student and need to change your program, follow the Change of Status guidelines.

Tuition and funding

We have several funding options to support students full-time through program completion. Support is available in the form of:

• Teaching Assistantships. The majority work as student teaching supervisors for MEd initial licensure students. Daytime availability, a teaching license, and teaching experience are required
• Research Assistantships
• Fellowships. Based on a departmental nomination process. You will be notified by the Director of Graduate Studies if you are being considered for a fellowship. Decisions are made by April 15.
• Graduate students are also eligible to apply for fellowships and graduate assistantships through other University departments. Visit the University's employment page or fellowships through the Graduate School's Graduate Fellowship Office .
• Find more detailed federal financial aid and graduate tuition information.

Application requirements

What we look for.

Admission to our master's of arts and doctoral programs are competitive and we look for candidates whose goals and interests align with the program’s research and scholarship. Program faculty make admissions decisions based on the candidate’s experience and research competencies, along with compatibility of research goals.

Please look at our current faculty members’ research interests.

Our masters and doctoral candidates display

• Evidence of strong interest in research and in the development of research competencies
• Evidence of substantial experience in the discipline
• Strong writing skills
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. institution or foreign equivalent

Required application documents

• Unofficial transcripts .Upload your transcripts into the application system. Please include all transcripts from any institution you have attended, even if you did not earn a degree or certificate. Please do not mail your transcripts. Official transcripts are required only after you are admitted. Tips for uploading your transcript(s) .
• CI Application Form . Upload in the graduate program additional materials section.
• Three letters of recommendation . Ask professors, employers, or supervisors to speak to your potential for successfully completing your degree; they will upload their letters directly into the online application.

The GRE is being waived for those applicants applying for Fall 2024.

Required written statements

• Why you want to study in our department
• What strengths, expertise, and research experience would contribute to your success in our program
• Your professional goals for pursuing a research-focused degree
• Diversity statement .Upload to the Applicant Statements section of the online application. Identify the distinctive qualities, characteristics, and life experiences you would contribute to our community. You may wish to include examples that address your contribution to the diversity of the student body and illustrate your motivation to succeed by setting high standards for accomplishing intellectual and other goals, overcoming obstacles to achievement, and/or helping others to gain access to the resources necessary for success. (please do not exceed one page in length)
• Short writing sample .(Optional except for Literacy Education applicants). For example, an excerpt from a term paper or research paper for publication. No longer than five pages in English.
• Common Ground Consortium Fellowship. (Optional) The primary purpose of the CGC is to assist graduate programs in the College of Education and Human Development to recruit exceptional students with the distinct experience provided by HBCUs or similarly distinguishing contexts, provide these students with financial assistance support during their graduate studies, and assistance with career development and job placement afterwards. It offers a pipeline to excellence and an opportunity to diversify perspectives in the academy. If you wish to apply, submit a statement that describes how your participation as a CGC scholar would a) enhance your graduate student experience, b) prepare you for your chosen career, and c) benefit the public. Upload to graduate program additional materials section.

Additional admissions information

Application checklist.

Before applying online , go through the application checklist to ensure you have all the required materials. We are here to help! If you have questions, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator .

If you are a returning Graduate School student, follow the Readmission guidelines. If you are a current Graduate School student and need to change your program, follow the Change of Status guidelines .

Transfer credits

MA students must complete at least 60 percent of their coursework (not including thesis credits) within our program. PhD students may transfer no more than 15 credits from an outside institution.

A maximum of 12 graduate course credits taken as non-degree seeking or non-admitted status at the University of Minnesota can be transferred; this is counted separately from the maximum 60 percent or 15 non-UMN credits. For example, a PhD student could transfer a maximum of 27 credits (15 non-UMN and 12 non-degree from UMN).

If you earned a MA at the UMN, please contact the Graduate Studies Coordinator to discuss transfer procedures. Thesis credits cannot be transferred.

After you are admitted, you will work with your adviser to determine which credits may transfer.

International applicants

International applicants may also need:

• An English translation of your transcripts, if the transcript is not in English. Please note: the Graduate School Admissions Office will not accept an evaluation of your international coursework by an outside agency such as ECE or WES; they only accept the original transcripts.
• TOEFL/IELTS or MELAB. You may qualify for an exception if you have completed 16 semester or 24 quarter credits within the past 24 months in residence as a full-time student at an accredited institution of higher learning in the United States or other country where English is the official language (i.e. U.K, Canada). Score requirements and submission guidelines

Request information

We’re here to help. Simply complete one of these forms and a member of our department will be in touch

Top 30 Doctorate in Elementary Education Online Degree Programs 2024

Find your perfect school.

Key Takeaways :

• Our top two schools for online Doctorate in Elementary Education programs are Capella University and William Carey University.
• Online Doctorate in Elementary Education programs offer flexibility for working educators pursuing advanced degrees and career advancement.
• Factors like accreditation, affordability, faculty credentials, and program outcomes play a significant role in ranking these programs.

A career in elementary education can be very rewarding. There are many areas of opportunity, and not all of them are subject to teaching in a classroom. For those educational professionals who love children, want to enhance teacher satisfaction, are good at taking leadership initiative, and who have a mind to better the education system, a Ph.D. in Elementary Education is something to consider. According to Payscale, the average salary for a Ph.D. graduate in Elementary Education is $72K with a rating of “extremely satisfied” in job satisfaction. Now is a good time to pursue this degree as the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8% increase in elementary, middle school, and high school principal jobs now through 2026. There are a variety of specializations in this type of doctorate. Some of these are teaching leadership, administration, and K-12 educational leadership. A Ph.D. graduate in Elementary Education is qualified for a broad spectrum of careers within the education system. Generally work will be done outside of the classroom in leadership roles. Ph.D. graduates become superintendents, principals, curriculum developers, school reformers, staff developers, and facilitators. We’ve compiled a list of the top 30 online doctorate in Elementary Education degree programs.

Methodology We looked at dozens of universities that offer an affordable online Doctorate in Elementary Education. The criteria to make it on our top 30 list are as follows. The program is offered as a flexible 100% online degree or is mainly online with a nominal on-campus component. The university offers a Ph.D./EdD in Elementary Education or one that is a very close match, such as Educational Leadership, Curriculum, and Teacher Leadership. Each school has to be accredited and cost less than $60,000. If the school was awarded an achievement or nomination from notable sites like Forbes, US News and World Report, Princeton Review, or Kiplinger’s, these will be talked about in its write-up. After meeting the criteria, schools are ranked based on their raw affordability found on the College Navigator website.

Featured Programs

#1 william carey university, online doctorate in educational leadership.

This well-established university had its first roots in Mississippi as an all-girl boarding school. Through time, it’s grown into a coeducational university serving in Biloxi and Hattiesburg and accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. William Carey is a Christian school, following its namesake. The Carey Creed is  “Expect Great Things From God; Attempt Great Things for God.” This university has many programs from undergraduate all the way through doctoral, and many are available 100% online.

William Carey offers an online doctorate in Educational Leadership for professional educators who want to create excellent educational environments through their leadership. This flexible program is comprised of 36 credit hours past a master’s degree. The courses are taken in cohorts that start in the summer. The work is vigorous to ensure a fast-paced track to graduation. Through courses like Developing the Culture of Learning and Using Conflict Resolution and Mediation, students will graduate with the ability to make a difference in education.

Tuition: $17,640

# 2 Capella University

Online doctor of education, minneapolis, mn.

Capella is a popular online university. It’s fairly new, earning its accreditation through The Higher Learning Commission in 1997. In 2016, Capella received the Excellence in Assessment Award from the National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment. The Alumni Employer Survey found that 97% of employers of Capella graduates surveyed rated the work performance as proficient or exceptional. Among its higher learning programs, Capella features an online Doctor of Education program.

This affordable Doctor of Education combines online coursework with a residency component to aid in the dissertation process. Unlike other schools, Capella has its students start their dissertation right away and throughout their studies to expedite the process. Its professors focus on supporting their students through the process. There are several specializations within this program. If students are pursuing a doctorate in elementary education online, the two specializations geared toward that are Curriculum and Instruction and Leadership in Educational Administration. To keep costs affordable, Capella offers a $10K scholarship to eligible students with a simple application process. This Ph.D. can be completed two ways–FlexPath and GuidedPath. Overall, Capella is an affordable way to earn a quality online Ph.D. with an interest in elementary education.

Tuition: $34,500

#3 Columbus State University

Online doctor of education curriculum and leadership, columbus, ga.

Columbus State University values affordable high-quality education. It ranks in the Top 100 Affordable Colleges by College Consensus. Located close to Georgia’s capital of Atlanta, Columbus State takes pride in its diversity and commitment to bringing its influence into the community and globally. CSU has an extensive continuing education program and it offers an affordable online Doctor of Education.

The Doctor of Education Curriculum and Leadership is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. This program will be completed in 63 credit hours. This is a hybrid program and will require some on-campus time. Students will cover courses in both leadership and curriculum. Some courses include Trends and Issues in Curriculum Studies, Leading for Change, and Applications of Neurological Research to Student Learning. At the end of the program, educational professionals will be well-prepared to work as administrators, develop curriculum, or take various leadership roles within the K-12 systems.

Tuition: $13,265

#4 Kennesaw State University

Online doctor of education in teacher leadership, kennesaw, ga.

Kennesaw State is situated just north of Atlanta, Georgia, and hosts over 35,000 students. U.S. News ranked it as a top choice for students, and it holds a spot in the top 6 percent of U.S. colleges and universities that are Carnegie-designated doctoral research institutions.  As far as their affordable Doctorate in Elementary Education Online offering, Kennesaw’s Doctor of Education in Teacher Leadership fits this criterion. This degree is suited for individuals who want to lead education to new heights by building school culture, mentoring other teachers, and improving learning through building excellent curriculums. The Ed.D. in Teacher Leadership program requires 45 hours of learning in four areas along with a six-month residency. When completed, graduates will be ready to make their mark on the world of elementary education.     

Tuition: $21,174

#5 Regent University

Online ph.d. in education , virginia beach, va.

Regent University was envisioned by Dr. M.G. “Pat” Robertson not only to graduate capable professionals into the world but also to train godly men and women who will make an impact on the world. Regent was started in 1978 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Its accreditation is through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission. Regent holds rankings with US News and World Report, American Council of Trustees and Alumni, Military Times, and Fulbright Scholars. In 2019 it ranked in Top National Universities as well as being a part of an elite group of 24 universities nationally rated “A” for comprehensive liberal arts curriculum.

Among these accomplishments, Regent was #4 among the Best Online Graduate Education Programs in Virginia. It offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Education. The program is offered completely online to allow flexibility for its professional students. The Ph.D. focuses on specific research in specialized areas in education. K-12 School Leadership and Curriculum & Instruction are two areas that are specific for elementary education professionals. Acknowledged for being a part of the Most Affordable Christian Colleges and Universities, students can earn a solid degree that won’t break their bank account.

Tuition: $17,190

#6 Texas Tech University

Online ph.d. in educational leadership policy, lubbock, tx.

Texas Tech University has been educating students for almost 100 years.  TTU has an eLearning feature and offers its Ph.D. in Educational Leadership Policy 100% online. This ties in with elementary education as the courses will equip students to pioneer change and maintain core principles within the elementary schools through strong policy-making and leadership skills. This program was created for educators, counselors, school leaders, district consultants, educational non-profits, regional service center leaders, and educational professionals. It should be completed in 4 years with a total of 60 credit hours, through convenient video conferencing in a virtual classroom.

Tuition: $25,556

#7 North Greenville University

Doctor of education online, tigerville, sc.

North Greenville University is a Christian university in South Carolina. It offers over 50 varying degrees, some in an online format as well. NGU has quite a lengthy list of achievements and rankings from AffordableCollegesOnline.org, Forbes, Great Value Colleges, BestColleges.com, and more. Its accreditation comes from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. NGU has 5 graduate schools including one for Education.

Elementary Education professionals with the desire to enhance their knowledge should pursue the EdD K-12 Leadership Concentration. Although there is an on-campus component, it’s a small one. Students will be required to complete a two-course seminar in a one-week onsite format. Some core courses in this program are Learning and Instruction: K-12, Organizational Development: K-12, and Today’s Student. After completing five 8-week terms totaling 60 credit hours, graduates will move on to leadership careers in education.

Tuition: $30,600

#8 UNC Charlotte

Charlotte, nc.

UNC offers a low-cost EdD program in Educational Leadership online. This doctorate can be completed online as well as some on-campus requirements. The program concentrates on three main areas: Higher Education, PK-12 Superintendency, and Learning, Design, and Technology. Graduates go on to have mid to senior-level leadership positions within public or private schools. This flexible online doctorate can be done at a pace that suits the student as long as it’s finished in 8 years. It’s comprised of 48 credit hours, and the student will pick between a Higher Education Concentration or a P-12 Superintendency Concentration. This program has accreditation through the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.

Tuition: $20,287

#9 University of Northern Colorado

Educational leadership – edd online, greeley, co.

Most of the Educational Studies Ed.D courses can be taken online. There is a minimal on-campus requirement of 3 one-week research seminars done in three summers on a campus located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. This is a 64-credit hour program with courses like Philosophical Foundations of Education and Perspectives on Curriculum. Graduates will have the knowledge and ability to drive changes to better their K-12 school systems through administration, research, and curriculum development.         

Tuition: $21,786

#10 Rowan University

Online edd in educational leadership: p-12 track, glassboro, nj.

Rowan University is a nationally recognized school with several rankings from US News and World Report and the Princeton Review. First known as Glassboro State University, Rowan started in 1923 as a normal school in New Jersey to prepare teachers to educate in New Jersey classrooms. It’s grown to become a university that graduates well-equipped students to be successful in the world. In 2018, Carnegie classified Rowan as a prestigious R2 institution for its research.

Rowan has online graduate programs through its Global Learning and Partnerships. It offers a 100% online coursework EdD in Educational Leadership: P-12 Track for students looking to receive a doctorate in elementary education. In addition to these online courses, there are three small residency requirements throughout the program. The first is a two day stay at the campus to go over the policies and procedures of the school. The second will be a one day stay to take the written part of the benchmark exam. The last is a weekend stay at the end of the second year to prepare for the dissertation. After completing the extensive 60 credit hours, graduates will be ready to make a difference through leadership within their elementary school systems.

Tuition: $22,339

#11 Boise State University

Online doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, boise, idaho.

Boise State’s campus runs along the beautiful Boise River in Idaho. The Graduate College consists of 12 doctoral programs, 69 master’s programs, and 27 certificates, with numerous available online.

Boise State offers 2 doctoral programs in Elementary Education: a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and a Doctor of Education in Educational Technology. Both are geared for leadership professions in K-12 schools. The doctorate with the Educational Technology specialization is offered entirely online, while the Curriculum and Instruction Program has a hybrid setup. To help alleviate costs, there is a significant drop in cost per credit hour if more than 16 credits are taken in a semester. A couple of the courses a student can expect to take in the Curriculum and Instruction Focus are The American Culture and the Context of Schooling, School Culture, and the Problems of Change.    

Tuition: $23,776

#12 Central Michigan University

Online doctor of education in educational leadership, mt pleasant, mi.

In 1994, CMU started its first online programs for national and international students.  For those pursuing a Ph.D. in Elementary Education online, CMU Global Campus has an EdD in Educational Leadership. This program is offered hybrid with four on-campus requirements that are given a year in advance for the sake of convenience. Students work in cohorts throughout this program. This online EdD in Educational Leadership will prepare each student for leadership in K-12 schools or higher education. Students decide between a K-12 Leadership or K-12 Curriculum concentration. Through courses like ethical leadership and organizational culture and change, graduates will be well-qualified to hold positions as principals, superintendents, or curricular leaders.   

Tuition: $24,120

#13 University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Online ph.d. in educational leadership, lincoln, ne.

NU’s online Ph.D. in Educational Leadership is an online program that requires a small 6-hour campus residency, while the EdD offered can be completed entirely online. The major difference between these two doctorates is the focus. The objective of completing the EdD is to further the level of competence in the student’s leadership within the school districts. The focus during the Ph.D. is on an overall ability to research a more narrow area of study within the educational system. These programs focus on P-12 education and can be completed in about 96 credit hours. Completing the extensive 108-credit hour doctoral program will assure the graduate with readiness to make a difference in their school district.   

Tuition: $25,038

#14 University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, ar.

There are many online programs at the University of Arkansas. Coursework for the doctor of education is 100% online. It should take about three years to complete with a total of 43 credit hours. Each semester, students are required to meet with their online cohorts in a one-time face-to-face meeting to assure good peer relationships for support through the program. In an effort to help students with cost, there are scholarships available each year that potential grad students can apply for. Educational professionals who complete this program will be fully-equipped to take on leadership roles within their school districts.

Tuition: $25,168

#15 University of Colorado Denver

Online doctor of education, leadership for educational equity, denver, colorado.

  CU Denver features a Doctor of Education, Leadership for Educational Equity as a 100% online Ph.D. degree. It is offered in two ways. There is a three-year track or a five-year track to accommodate the flexibility needs of each student. In this degree, there is an Early Childhood Special Education/Early Childhood Education concentration.  Core courses include equality in diverse urban areas, leadership, research, and problem-solving. After completing 54 credit hours and a dissertation, Ph.D. grads will be ready to make a difference in their community and throughout the education system.

Tuition: $25,771

#16 East Tennessee State University

Online doctorate in education, johnson city, tennessee.

ETSU Online has a Doctorate in Education available, and the student can choose between the Administrative Endorsement Concentration or the School Leadership Concentration. The Admin Endorsement Concentration features preparation for beginning administrative positions at K-12 schools or district levels. A couple of the courses in this program are Shaping the Quality and Character of the Institution and Developing Learners Through Instructional Leadership. The School Leadership Concentration is geared towards those who already have administrative licenses and want to work in central office positions in public schools. This is a 66-credit program with courses like Law for Organizational Leaders and Policy, Power, and Politics in Education. Either of these affordable online doctorates will graduate professionally qualified leaders within the elementary education system.

Tuition: $27,119

#17 Arizona State University

Online doctor of education (edd) in leadership and innovation, tempe, arizona.

Among the online programs offered at ASU is the Online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership and Innovation. It is an affordable degree that can be attained in 36 credit hours. This program concentrates on elementary educational leadership. Graduates will be ready to lead their education system in excellence. They will be equipped to map out curriculums and strategize ways to encourage the best student outcomes. Students will need to participate in a two-semester, school-based internship in a K-12 setting. This program is available in an online format and has a couple of start times per year.

Tuition: $28,336

#18 University of Kentucky

Doctorate in educational leadership online, lexington, kentucky.

Among their excellent doctoral programs, the University of Kentucky has a Doctorate in Educational Leadership for those who are pursuing a career in elementary leadership.

Program graduates go on to be principals, assistant principals, administrative deans, and district administrators. UK aims to graduate “change agents” in the elementary education system. This online program is comprised of 42 credit hours and a dissertation. Some courses include Design Thinking in Education and Leadership for Creative Problem Solving. At $674 per credit hour, pursuing this 100% online doctorate in education is one of the top affordable choices.   

Tuition: $29,099

#19 University of Alabama

Online doctorate in elementary education, tuscaloosa, alabama.

The UA College of Education offers a low-cost online EdD in Elementary Education.  This program features the application of theory and research, the practice of administration in K-12 schools, and other educational policy focuses. Graduates will be qualified for leadership positions like principals, superintendents, and supervisors. They will also be qualified to work at the state level. This convenient EdD online program is 72 credit hours. It has a residency requirement of 24 graduate hours while continuously enrolled for a period of 24 months. Graduates will be able to theorize and develop strategies that will enhance the classroom experience.  

Tuition: $29,230

#20 Andrews University

Curriculum and instruction—edd, ph.d. online, berrien springs, michigan.

Andrews University offers affordable online degrees through its School of Distance Education & International Partnerships.  Andrews has a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership available for professional elementary educators to move into leadership positions like K-12 superintendents, principals, and supervisors of instruction. This program requires completing 90 credit hours, but students can transfer up to 42 credits from previous graduate work. Some of the classes are K-12 Educational Finance, K-12 Law, and Elementary School Leadership. This program is offered 100% online for the convenience of its graduate professionals.

Tuition: $29,288

#21 Northwest Nazarene University

Nampa, idaho.

NNU has a flexible online Doctor of Education available to its students. This 36 credit hour degree program is comprised of coursework and dissertation prep and defense. Other than a two-week summer meeting on campus, the rest of this program is all online. Students will be learning from skilled faculty with expertise in K-12. NNU strives to graduate leaders who have servant attitudes into the education system. They prepare their graduates to tackle challenges within the education system with integrity and be equipped with sound knowledge to make changes that will improve schools.  

Tuition: $29,800

#22  Concordia University Texas

Online doctorate of education in curriculum & instruction/educational administration.

For professionals in education wanting to pursue an affordable Doctorate of Education, Concordia offers one that is flexible and 100% administrated through its online school.  This Ph.D. in Education online consists of 24 credit hours of core classes developing leadership and research skills followed by a choice between two specializations. Once students choose between Educational Administration and Curriculum and Instruction, they will complete 37 more credits in that specialization. The Educational Administration focuses on leadership at the district/central office level, and students have an opportunity to take the Texas Superintendent Exam. The Curriculum and Instruction focus is designed to enhance leadership in curriculum and strategies for teaching mastery. To help with the cost, there is a textbook rental program that saves students an average of 35% on books.

Tuition: $32,078

#23 University of South Carolina

Online doctor of education in curriculum and instruction-curriculum studies concentration, columbia, south carolina.

Within its college of education, USC offers two affordable online doctorates in education: the Teaching and Learning PhD and the Doctor of Education in Curriculum & EdD Instruction-Curriculum Studies Concentration Online.

The first of these affordable online elementary education programs is the Teaching and Learning Ph.D. This program is flexible and allows students to pursue their own desired focus. It has many areas of focus including elementary education. Electives and cognates are set up in a way that students can use them to concentrate on their area of interest. For instance, if a student wants to specialize in social studies, this can be done by choosing electives in social studies. A graduate from this program can work in leadership within the education system. They will be able to work as school leaders, district leaders, and leaders in the State Department of Education. After this 66-credit hour program, graduates will have a high level of understanding in culture, ethics, communication, advocacy, collaboration, and leadership. They will be skilled in research and using professional resources to grow with the changing philosophies of educating.

The Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction-Curriculum Studies Concentration Online is available as well. This 100% online EdD program is a member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate Consortium. Students will take 36 months to complete this 60-credit doctorate. The program has a heavy emphasis on curriculum design and implementation. It highlights critical, past and current curriculum issues. It also prepares graduates for the moral, cultural, and ethical challenges faced while establishing curriculums. Graduates will also leave with top-notch leadership skills that will qualify them for careers in district-level curriculum administration and school-level instructional positions.

Tuition: $33,298

#24 University of Massachusetts

Online edd in leadership in schooling, amherst, massachusetts.

UMass offers an affordable online Doctor of Education in Leadership in Schooling, EdD. The department is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Students will graduate with the qualifications to lead in K-12 schools. This program is set up as a cohort that starts in the summer. It is completed in three years and requires a one-week summer residency each year. Graduates will leave as thoughtful and reflective scholar-practitioners.

Tuition: $34,570

#25 Texas A&M

College station, tx.

Texas A&M has an online school and offers an EdD in Curriculum and Instruction for those professionals who want to pursue their doctorate in elementary education.  In an estimated four years, students will complete Texas A&M’s 64-credit hour 100% web-based curriculum. There are three face-to-face meetings that students will be required to attend. The first will be at the beginning of the spring semester, followed by two more meetings in the summer months. As far as affordability, there are online financial planning resources available to aid with finding the most affordable way to complete the program. Courses in this program are designed to prepare well-equipped teacher leaders in the preK-12 school districts. Texas A&M recommends only the most distinguished students to take this program because of its level of required professionalism, so it is assured that graduates leave with the capability to make a great impact on education.

Tuition: $37,495

#26 Liberty University

Online doctor of education curriculum and instruction, lynchburg, va.

Liberty has a Doctor of Education Curriculum and Instruction online degree in Elementary Education. It’s affordable and entirely online. This is a 60-credit program that can be completed in as little as three years. Graduates will leave equipped to manage student behaviors effectively through behavioral support. They will work in general and special education, imparting new wisdom in strategies for better learning. Liberty has many recognitions including Most Affordable Online college, top military-friendly, and top yellow ribbon college. This institution accommodates eager learners to lead the way in education.

Tuition: $38,932

#27 Hampton University

Hampton, virginia.

Hampton features an online Ph.D. in Education Management that falls in line with a Doctorate in Elementary Education. In this doctoral program, students are taught to navigate the nuances of the ever-changing needs in education. This accelerated 66-credit program will ensure strong leadership capabilities in each of its students’ careers. There are four specializations within this doctoral course of study: Higher Education, Pre-K-12 Education, STEM Leadership, and Special Education. With its $695 per credit tuition, 100% online flexibility, and a completion time of 2.5 years, Hampton is a noteworthy option to prepare educators to make great strides in elementary education around the nation.

Tuition: $44,587

#28 Fordham University

Online ph.d. in administration and supervision, new york, new york.

Fordham offers an affordable online Ph.D. in Education. This degree program serves those who want to branch out into leadership/curriculum positions in the elementary school system. Throughout this flexible online program, students will have support through weekly face-to-face online lectures and coursework that is self-paced through video-lectures and assignments. To keep in step with working professionals’ schedules, Fordham condenses in-person requirements to two times total to complete this degree.  

Tuition: $52,687

#29 Drexel University

Online doctorate in educational leadership and management, philadelphia, pa.

Drexel’s affordable online Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Management is offered as a 100% distance-learning program. This program challenges students to think critically and make changes in these changing times in education. Through research, theorizing, and peer-collaboration, graduates will be well-equipped to initiate change within their school districts. There are nine different concentrations which the student will choose from. A few are Creativity and Innovation, Educational Administration, and Educational Policy. Any of these would be suitable for a student who desires a Ph.D. in elementary education. This degree is geared to train K-12 leadership such as superintendents, principals, administrators, and teachers. It can be attained in as little as three years or as many as five years depending on the student’s flexibility.

Tuition: $53,244

#30 Pepperdine University

Online edd in educational leadership, administration and policy.

Pepperdine has a hybrid EdD program in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy. It prepares its students to lead K-12 schools in administration, leadership, and research. There is a required trip to Washington, DC or a similar place to experience policy-making at the federal, state, or local levels. This online EdD can be finished in just 3.5 years.   

Tuition: $53,932

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is finishing a ph.d. in elementary education feasible for a working professional.

The short answer is: “absolutely!” Doctoral programs are geared towards working students because it is assumed that they have established careers and are looking to further their education. There is ample room for students to go at their own pace depending on their schedules and circumstances. The average window for finishing a Ph.D. in Education is between 3-5 years and usually no longer than 10 years. Each student will manage their own finish-time. While the coursework and the thesis are rigorous, support from the faculty and the online availability make progression feasible.

What is the difference between a Ph.D. and an EdD?

Those who have researched PhDs in education will notice another degree title, the EdD. Now, when a doctorate in education is pursued, it’s usually offered as a Ph.D. or an EdD. Though the work is similar in its intensiveness, the outcomes are somewhat different.

Ph.D. in Education:

The Ph.D. in Education is more philosophical in nature. This is a research-intensive degree. Often times, it will be fully-funded along with a stipend and provided living quarters. This is a huge advantage to this particular degree because price matters to most everyone. After graduating with a Ph.D., the graduate usually goes on to teach as a professor, research and analyze educational theories, and create new ways to better education. This degree is perfect for individuals who want to move and shake the educational system from a behind-the-scenes role.  

EdD in Education:

Pursuing an EdD will generally have the outcome of a more hands-on approach to education. These graduates are administrators, superintendents, and principals. As professional students progress through an EdD program, they work and connect with like-minded peers. This connection can be of great value both through exposure and collaboration. Although this degree isn’t funded like the Ph.D., career outcomes have salaries that are quite significant and can easily pay for the schooling. This is a great option for individuals who like working with people and enjoy more of a connection with colleagues in an educational environment.

How long will it take to complete an online Ph.D./EdD Education?

Based on research examining a slew of universities that offer the Ph.D./EdD in Education, the average time it will take to complete the degree is 3-5 years. Time to completion varies slightly based on the focus of study and whether the program is taken in an online format or on campus.

What is the average salary of a Doctor of Education graduate?

This is varied depending on the career path chosen. Here is a list of the careers and their annual salaries:

• Principals: $95,310 (Bureau of Labor and Statistics)
• Superintendents: $117,646 (Payscale)
• Elementary Educational Administrator: $98,750 (Bureau of Labor and Statistics)
• Curriculum Developer:  $62,460 (Bureau of Labor and Statistics)
• Chief Learning Officer: $111,680 (Bureau of Labor and Statistics)
• Training and Development Manager in Education: $99,040 (CollegeGrad Blog)
• Chief Academic Officer: $132,585 (Payscale)
• Curriculum Coordinator: $41,003 (Payscale)
• Educational Psychology: $84,060 (Gradscale Hub)
• Executive Director in Education: $63,694 (Payscale)

Is a Ph.D./EdD worth it?

Even though it takes grit and time to complete a Ph.D. in Elementary Education, many affordable online options aid in timely and achievable completion. The return on investment can be significant as one can expect a salary increase with this degree. Education professionals will also gain a greater understanding of their work ahead of them. This is a valuable asset as working in educational environments can have many layers that need to be navigated with great wisdom and skill. Finally, a Doctor of Education will stand out on a resume. Whether a graduate plans on staying in Elementary Education or moving on to another career path, having this PhD will stand out to any employer.

How do you get started on an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education?

• Transfer credits: Applicants will need to transfer over their previous credits. There are usually credits from previous education that can carry over into a Ph.D. Prospective students will want to contact the admissions office to talk through this process.
• Future students will choose a course load and schedule. It’s important to decide on and prepare a flexible course schedule. This will depend on a student’s day job and demands in their life. This can also be discussed with admissions officers.
• Prospective students will want to make sure the dissertation lines up with their current working environments. This will assure the completion of the dissertation in a flexible and timely fashion.

 What are the requirements before applying to a school for an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education?

• A master’s degree: An applicant is required to have a master’s degree from an accredited school. It doesn’t have to be in the same field of study but should be accompanied by 30 credit hours of advanced coursework.
• Experience: Most universities will require at least 3-5 years of professional experience in education. This usually isn’t difficult because most applicants are already established as teachers or administrators.
• Good-standing GPA: Most if the universities will require their prospective students to carry a minimum of a 3.0 GPA. Some schools require a 3.5 GPA or higher. There are also times when a university will substitute high standardized test scores in place of a GPA.

What is the application process for enrolling in a university for an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education?

Prospective students will be asked to fill out basic information about themselves and their background along with sending in their resume. This can be done on the university’s website by making an online account. They will be asked to send in their official transcripts from their previously attended schools. Generally, students will send in a few letters of recommendation. Some of the universities will ask for standardized test scores such as GRE scores, while some don’t require any. Lastly, sometimes there are nominal application fees ranging from $40-$70, but in many cases, these fees are waived due to being alumni, employees, service members, veterans, or military spouses.

• EdD Online Programs
• Online Doctorates in Early Childhood Education
• Doctorate Educational Leadership Online
• Online Doctorate Training and Development
• Online Doctorate Special Education
• Best Online Doctor of Education Programs
• Online Doctorates in Special Education
• Online PhD in Educational Leadership
• All Education Degree Rankings

This concludes our ranking of the top 30 online doctorates in elementary education degree programs.

About the Elementary Education Doctoral Programs

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The  Elementary Education Program  faculty offer doctoral degree programs in Curriculum and Instruction. These Ph.D. or Ed.D. programs can include emphasis/specialization in: (a) Elementary Education PK-6, (b) Reading/Literacy, and/or (c) Teacher Education. Students are prepared for teaching and research positions in academic environments such as colleges, universities, and school districts. The Elementary Education Doctoral Programs provide a context for graduate education that is focused on theory, research, practice, innovation, inquiry, and equity.

Our  Nationally Recognized Program Faculty  include widely published, well-respected authors and researchers.

LOCATION AND COHORTS

Virginia Tech offers the  Elementary Education Ph.D. and Ed.D. Programs at the Blacksburg campus. The Ph.D. program has a two year residency requirement.

THE COHORT MODEL

The Elementary Education doctoral programs operate on a cohort model. Members of a given cohort attend many of the same classes in the same sequence and pursue common plans of study.

There are many benefits to the cohort model. It is designed to facilitate social interaction, collaboration, and the formation of a supportive learning community.

Students in cohorts learn from and help each other with the successful completion of coursework and professional networking. They report a strong sense of community and are more likely to complete their programs of study in a timely manner.

DISSERTATION

The Ed.D. and Ph.D. degrees in Curriculum & Instruction with a specialization in Elementary Education are not awarded solely on the basis of coursework completion. To graduate, each student must also conduct an original research study culminating in the presentation and defense of a dissertation. The dissertation demonstrates the student’s ability to investigate a practical issue in elementary education agreed upon by one’s dissertation chair and advisory committee. 

Students may choose to write their dissertations in the traditional five-chapter format (i.e., as a research paper with an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion). They may also choose the manuscript option (usually two to three articles ready for publication). Students work with the dissertation chairs and committees to determine the best format for their  dissertation depending on their research interest. 

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Graduate certificate in educational technology.

Add on certificate to give practitioners coursework that will increase their knowledge in leading learning innovation through educational technology. Potentially earn credit hours for Quality Matters' "Teaching Online Certificate (TOC)" or "Master Reviewer Certificate (MRC)" toward a graduate certificate or degree in Educational Technology.

Curriculum Code: CEDT

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Add on certificate will afford participants with a deep understanding of urban residents’ experiences of education and community outreach.

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Master of arts (ma).

I am interested in education, research, educational technology, or higher education administration.

Curriculum Code: AELRC Major: Education Specializations: listed to the right

Curriculum Studies

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Higher Education Administration (Online)

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) - Holmes Program

I am an undergraduate student in LSU Elementary Education and want to further enhance my expertise: Holmes MAT Elementary

Curriculum Code: MATE Major: Elementary Education Grades 1-5

I want to teach PK-12 but am not yet certified: Holmes MAT Secondary

Curriculum Code: MATS Major: Secondary Education Grades 6-12

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36 graduate hours

I am a certified teacher and want to extend my knowledge and skills.

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Literacy Education

Special Education

Master of Education (MEd) in Counseling

60 graduate hours

I want to serve in a variety of human service settings such as schools, college counseling centers, mental health treatment facilities, and private practice.

Certificate of Education Specialist (EdS)

60 graduate hours (may include master's degree)

I have a master’s degree in education and want to further extend my knowledge.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

EDUCATIONAL  LEADERSHIP

ENGLISH EDUCATION

GIFTED EDUCATION

MATH  EDUCATION

LITERACY EDUCATION

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

90 graduate hours (may include master's degree)

I want to earn a doctorate in education. 

CURRICULUM STUDIES

EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

HIGHER EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION

MATH EDUCATION

P-12 Educational Leadership

Louisiana Funding Available

BESE Tuition Program for Teachers

Classroom Teacher Enrollment Program (CTEP)

LSU Information on CTEP

SOE CTEP STEPS

6 Best Online PhD in Elementary Education [2024 Doctorate Guide]

A PhD in Elementary Education is a terminal degree for professionals who want to contribute to the development of elementary education.

Elementary education PhD programs cover the most advanced pedagogies for elementary-aged learners and give you the opportunity to contribute original research to the field. Many graduates go on to work as researchers, professors, and education administrators and leaders.

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So, if you’re looking to make a difference in your field, you might consider advancing your knowledge and qualifications through a PhD program in elementary education.

PhD in Elementary Education Programs Online

Much like with an online masters in elementary education , pursuing a Ph.D. in Elementary Education online can help you develop theoretical perspectives on elementary education as well as practical ways of affecting the classroom. As a student in one of these doctoral programs, you will take many classes dealing with the facets of elementary education, and you’ll also look at research in the field.

Some of the courses that you may take when earning degrees in education online or on campus include:

• Education research
• Educational psychology
• Human and child development

You may have the opportunity to specialize within certain areas of elementary education, like literacy and reading, early childhood education, or child psychology. In addition, since the degree you are completing is a PhD, you will likely be required to complete a dissertation.

A dissertation is a work of original research that you will develop throughout your education and ultimately defend in front of your professors. After graduating with your doctoral degree, there are many careers and opportunities that you may consider. Common career paths include:

• Postsecondary teacher
• Educational researcher
• Postsecondary education administrator
• Elementary school principal
• Instructional coordinator

Those who complete a PhD are often eligible to teach at the college and university level. Some graduates also become education researchers. If that does not appeal to you, you might choose to return to the classroom as an elementary school teacher. Those with a PhD may also pursue education administration positions, such as an elementary school principal.

Some graduates may become district superintendents and manage the operations of multiple schools. You might also consider working as an instructional coordinator, developing educational curriculums for elementary students.

Others work as educational consultants or training managers to help teachers develop professionally. They may create training programs in specific areas of teaching.

Elementary Education Careers & Salaries

Earning a PhD in Elementary Education could help you grow your expertise and expand your career opportunities. Many PhD graduates pursue positions in research and higher education, either as teachers or administrators.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , overall employment for education, training, and library occupations is expected to increase by 7% over the next ten years.

Some graduates want to continue teaching at the elementary school level. Others work in leadership positions, such as school superintendents or elementary school principals.

You might even consider developing and overseeing training for teachers as either a training manager or a training specialist. Another career possibility is to develop and evaluate curriculums as an instructional coordinator.

Elementary Education PhD Curriculum & Courses

PhD programs in elementary education will have unique curriculums, but they’ll typically cover the same core topics. Course offerings could be affected by faculty specialty and availability as well as curriculum and university policies.

Some course examples include:

• Statistics: This class teaches basic statistical methods, which you’ll utilize in research.
• Education Research: This class looks at how to conduct educational research, including its procedures and methodology.
• Case Studies in Education: This class instructs students on designing case studies for their educational research projects.
• Data Analysis: This class focuses on how to interpret collected data from experiments and observations.
• Educational Psychology: This class instructs students in advanced concepts of educational psychology.
• Human Development Psychology: This class specifically looks at the development of the human brain throughout a lifetime.
• Child Development: This class looks at how elementary-aged children develop.
• Educational Philosophy: This class teaches students many of the current philosophical schools of elementary education.
• History of Elementary Education: This class looks at the development of elementary education from its origins to the present.
• Educational Sociology: This class focuses on the subfield of educational sociology, which is the study of how both institutions and individuals shape education.

In addition to core coursework, you may also take courses dedicated to the dissertation process.

Admissions Requirements

Each university and program will set its own admissions requirements, but here are some common criteria for applying to PhD programs in elementary education:

• Letters of recommendation. These can be from professors or supervisors that know you well.
• Statement of purpose. You can explain your interests in the program and your career goals.
• GRE scores. These are not required by all schools.
• Resume. You can show relevant work experience and any volunteering experience you have.
• Masters degree. Most PhD programs prefer your masters to be in a related field.

It’s helpful to verify the specific admissions requirements of your prospective schools.

Accreditation

Regional accrediting agencies evaluate the quality of institutions based on established educational measures. Regional accreditation helps ensure that the degree you earn is valued by potential employers and other universities, as it shows you’ve received a rigorous education.

Attending an accredited school can also be a precondition for certain forms of financial aid. To see whether the schools you are applying to are accredited by credible organizations, you can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation ’s website.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Most doctoral students apply for financial aid and scholarships to help cover the costs of their advanced degree. Federal aid in the form of student loans is one of the most common types of aid.

To determine your eligibility, you can visit the Federal Student Aid’s website to make an account and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . Individual states may have their own government aid programs for residents. In addition to government aid, you can also see if you’re eligible for various scholarships awarded by your prospective school and private organizations.

If you’re currently working, you can also see if your employer offers tuition benefits for workers who are furthering their professional development.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Elementary Education Degree?

A PhD in Elementary Education can help you qualify for careers in research and academia. As such, many graduates go on to work as postsecondary teachers or educational researchers. A doctoral degree can also help prepare you for leadership positions.

If you like working in primary education, you may pursue work as an elementary teacher, an elementary school principal, or a district superintendent. Within these positions, you may be able to apply the skills and concepts you gained from your education to improve student learning. Another possibility is to work as an instructional coordinator who develops elementary curriculums.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Elementary Education Online?

The amount of time it takes to complete your degree will depend on a variety of factors, including your program’s curriculum and your own circumstances.

A PhD generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the number of required credit hours. The length of time can also depend on how long it takes to complete the dissertation component of the program. If no dissertation is required, then you may be able to complete the doctoral program within 3 years if you study at a full-time pace.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD in Early Childhood Education vs. Elementary Education?

Though they both deal with education, early childhood education is different than elementary education in some key ways.

The type of degree that’s right for you will likely depend on the level of education you want to focus your studies and research on.

What’s the Difference Between an Elementary Education PhD vs. EdD Degree?

Though they may look alike, here are some key differences between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Elementary Education and a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Elementary Education.

If you want to conduct original research in elementary education or teach at the postsecondary level, then earning a PhD may be more suitable.

Is a Doctorate in Elementary Education Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate in elementary education is worth it for many students. There will continue being a need for qualified educators who are willing to take on new challenges to ensure that young minds are nurtured and developed for the future.

For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 8% job growth for postsecondary education teachers over the next ten years, which is faster than average. Steady growth is also projected for elementary school principals, elementary teachers, instructional coordinators, and postsecondary education administrators.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Elementary Education Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Ball State University offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Education. Concentrations include Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, and Literacy and Reading Education. The program requires the completion of 91 to 97 credit hours. Common courses include Advanced Educational Psychology, Statistical Methods in Educational Research, and Child Development.

Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Brenau University offers an EdD program online. Concentrations include Elementary Education, Middle Education, Higher Education Leadership, Higher Education Teaching, and Special Education. The program may be completed entirely online in 3 years of full-time study. The writing of a dissertation is typically optional.

Brenau University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Education in Elementary Education program online. The program is designed to help prepare for pursuing advanced administrative, teaching, research, or curriculum development roles. Classes are typically 8 weeks long each, and on average, the 54 required credits are completed in 2.5 years when attending full-time.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Pepperdine University offers an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership in a hybrid format. The PreK to grade 12 concentration is designed to prepare educators to serve as leaders in early and elementary-level educational settings. This program utilizes a blend of online and in-person learning methods, and the program’s 51 required credit hours may be completed in 3 years.

Pepperdine University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

The University at Buffalo offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum, Instruction, and the Science of Learning. Concentrations include Elementary, English, Literacy, Math, Science, and Social Studies Education. The program is designed to help prepare for entry into roles such as curriculum specialist, educational consultant, university professor, research specialist, or instructional coordinator.

The University at Buffalo is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Valdosta State University offers an Ed.D in Curriculum and Instruction program online with a specialization in preschool to grade 12. Several sub-concentrations are available, designed for the tailoring of the degree to professional goals. Classes meet primarily online, though in-person learning experiences may be available. The curriculum consists of 55 total credit hours.

Valdosta State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Getting Your PhD in Elementary Education Online

If you are passionate about elementary education, a PhD in Elementary Education could help you develop your expertise, conduct original research, and grow your professional qualifications in the field.

Some doctoral degree programs also let you choose a specialization. This allows you to tailor your studies and research to a particular part of the field that’s of interest to you. Many organizations—including elementary schools, government agencies, universities, and educational services companies—look to hire elementary education professionals with advanced credentials.

If you’re ready to take this next step in your professional journey, you could start by comparing online PhD programs in elementary education from accredited schools.

PhD in Educational Theory and Practice (Elementary Education)

This emphasis of our educational theory and practice degree allows you to focus on the study of childhood, children, and formal and informal educational settings where children spend their time during the elementary grades.

Your scholarship will focus on diversity and equity, social justice education, critical literacies, social studies, science, family-school relationships, community-based teaching and learning, curriculum theory and practice, sociocultural and critical theories of schooling, local and international experiences of schooling, and becoming a responsive educator who meets the needs of traditionally marginalized students and families.

• Regularly ranked as a top 5 program by U.S. News & World Report
• Home to nationally recognized and award-winning faculty
• Work with faculty on cutting-edge education research
• Prepare to become a leader in education research and practice

Overview of Academic Demands

The program of study includes 43 hours of coursework, preliminary and comprehensive examinations, a dissertation prospectus, and a dissertation. Required coursework includes theory and research on teaching or research on teacher education, and seminars. You will also take at least four research methods courses, determined in consultation with your advisory committee. You are encouraged to take as many research methods courses as needed to accomplish your research.

Your dissertation research should be linked to the study of childhood, children, and/or formal and informal education settings where children spend their time during the elementary grades.

Of your coursework, 22 hours focus on your specific interests within the field of early childhood education and include a teaching internship, coursework related to your area of emphasis, and 12 credits of electives. Electives may be from within or outside the College, and might include courses in mathematics education, science education, language and literacy education, special education, women’s studies, gifted and creative education, educational administration and policy, geography, anthropology, and philosophy.

• Download the Ph.D. Handbook

Additional information and disclosures regarding state licensure for professional practice in this field can be found at the UGA Licensure Disclosure Portal .

How to Apply

Part 1: apply to the university of georgia.

The Graduate School handles admission for all graduate programs at the University of Georgia, including those in the College of Education. The Graduate School website contains important details about the application process, orientation, and many other useful links to guide you through the process of attending UGA at the graduate level.

Start A Graduate School Application

Part 2: Apply to the PhD in Educational Theory and Practice (Elementary Education)

After filling out your application to the graduate school, please submit the following directly to the graduate programs office:

• A personal statement telling the doctoral admissions committee why doctoral education is being pursued; the questions and/or commitments about teaching, learning and schooling pushing the applicant to further her or his education; what readings, theories, and/or research inform these questions; why the Doctoral Program of Educational Theory and Practice is an appropriate place to pursue such questions; the emphasis area (or areas) in which the applicant sees his or her interests fitting; and the personal and professional goals for obtaining a PhD degree in Educational Theory and Practice;
• A writing sample that demonstrates the applicant’s ability for scholarly writing and engagement with intellectual ideas;
• A resume or curriculum vitae.
• Please note that at least one of the three references you provide to the graduate school should be a university faculty member who can attest to your academic potential, preferably from the master’s level.

Deadline To Apply

January 1 (Summer/Fall Admission), October 1 (Spring Admission)

Log Into Existing Application

Additional Resources

Please use our online form if you have any questions for the department. Please be as specific as possible so that we may quickly assist you.

• Doctoral Assistantship Application (Due by January 15th)

The College’s programs are taught by dedicated faculty who are experts in a range of areas and are passionate about helping students succeed both in their programs and professionally.

Meet the Faculty

Most graduate students at UGA are not assigned to a faculty advisor until after admittance. A close working relationship with your advisor is paramount to progressing through your program of study.

Almost all in-state students begin their studies at UGA paying limited tuition or fees. Please note that these amounts are subject to change and are meant to give prospective students an idea of the costs associated with a degree at the University of Georgia College of Education.

Students may qualify for a variety of assistantships, scholarships, and other financial awards to help offset the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses.

Tuition Rates   Browse Financial Aid

Your experience begins with a doctoral orientation seminar that introduces foundational ideas, readings, and scholars in the field. We invite you to explore, read, think, collaborate, research, and share your ideas about educational theory and practice with researchers, teachers, and leaders in your area of emphasis.

The program is home to a mixture of full-time and part-time students. Most full-time students are supported through teaching and research assistantships. Most part-time students work on the PhD while continuing to work as teachers and administrators.

See for yourself how much UGA College of Education has to offer! Schedule a tour of campus to learn more about the UGA student experience.

Schedule A Visit

Useful Links

• ETAP Ph.D. Handbook

2024 Best Online PhD in Elementary Education [Doctorate Guide]

Searching for an Online PhD in Elementary Education? If you are among those who desire to lead the way to a better future for today’s children, this degree may be a good choice for you.

A doctorate in elementary education may be ideal for teachers already working in K-6 grades who wish to advance their careers or specialize in areas that match your personal interests.

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Many find jobs with a doctorate to be personally and financially rewarding, and with one, you can help kids meet tomorrow’s challenges.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Elementary Education Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s online Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation helps current educators develop their leadership and professional skills.

This 90 credit hour degree’s coursework includes research, practice, and a critical understanding of K-12, higher education, and SPARC leadership. Students complete a dissertation to round out their education.

Arizona State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University’s PhD in Educational Leadership trains the next generation of education leaders and professionals.

This online program readies K-12 educators to create and produce pedagogical outcomes at the classroom, school, and district level. This program is taught by a skilled faculty primarily face-to-face, with other online components.

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Boise State University

At Boise State University, the PhD in Education degree is a program focused on curriculum and pedagogical tools, tailored to individual student needs and objectives. This program’s flexible schedule is made for currently working teachers to continue their education at the doctorate level. The program is designed to help graduates gain the specialized skills to become leaders in education.

Boise State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Brenau University

Brenau University’s online Doctorate in Education in Elementary Education trains educators in advanced theory, practice, and pedagogy; a dissertation rounds out the degree. This online degree program lets teachers customize their schedule, and the 54 credit hour degree can be completed in 3 years.

Brenau University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Capella University

At Capella University, the online Doctor of Education program provides an exceptional education accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Applied research, pedagogical tools, and leadership skills give educators the skills they need to succeed in the classroom and as industry thinkers. The final dissertation includes a capstone project.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership is a 63 credit hour program for teachers to succeed in higher administration. Students join a cohort to learn and develop their expertise alongside their peers. This balanced program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Central Michigan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Columbus State University

Columbus State University’s PhD in Curriculum and Leadership offers an Educational Leadership track whose graduates become experts in policy, pedagogy, and ethical education practices. Three specialization tracks are available to help students gain the knowledge and competence necessary to develop their careers in higher education.

Columbus State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Kennesaw State University

At Kennesaw State University, the online Doctor of Education in Teacher Leadership provides classroom teachers the instruction and opportunity to develop their leadership and professional skills. Nine credit hours of coursework are dedicated to leadership training while an additional nine locate those skills within an educational environment.

Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Liberty University

Liberty University’s PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Elementary Education is an online, 54 credit hour, 3 year program.

This CAEP accredited program is designed to give teachers the pedagogical tools and application necessary to excel in the elementary school classroom setting. Students can learn how to take care of students’ individual needs while designing coursework and learning outcomes.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

At National University, the Doctor of Philosophy in Education focuses on the ideology and application of leadership and knowledge in modern educational settings. An understanding of theoretical pedagogical approaches and frameworks is balanced with specialization, research, and scholarship at an individualized pace and flexible schedule.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

North Greenville University

The Doctor of Education program at North Greenville University trains the next generation of education professionals and leaders. This 60 credit hour program is online, designed to help students balance their schedule with their current occupations. Concentrations are available in K-12 and Higher Education Leadership.

North Greenville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Northeastern University

Northeastern University’s Doctor of Education is designed to provide education professionals the leadership tools and knowledge necessary to take the next step forward in their careers. Whether as aspiring higher education leaders or career teachers, students can learn online at their own pace and get the NECHE accredited education they need.

Northeastern University  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Regent University

At Regent University, students of the online PhD in Education are expected to take over 75 credit hours in coursework, working towards becoming experts at education analysis, scholarship, and leadership. This degree can help open the path to a career in higher education. Regent is a top national university as ranked by the US News and World Report.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Rowan University

Rowan University’s PhD in Educational Leadership is designed to strengthen the curricular knowledge of a K-12 educator or administrator.

This program aims to help students develop policy and organizational mastery alongside pedagogical scholarship and its hands-on application to develop course objectives, lesson plans, and more. This 60 semester hour program has a dissertation and final thesis requirement.

Rowan University  is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education.

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University’s online PhD in Curriculum and Instruction provides advanced degree knowledge for any K-12 or higher learning educator. Students learn in a cohort to gain knowledge and assist each other as peers. This 64 credit hour program is completely online and takes an estimated 4 years to complete.

Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership is a 96 credit hour program meant to prepare education leaders for the research and pedagogical work necessary to develop K-12 instruction, curriculum, and management. This program balances knowledge with its application in a flexible online format.

Texas Tech University  is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of North Carolina – Charlotte

University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s PhD in Educational Leadership offers a higher education concentration that includes 48 credit hours of detailed, challenging study.

Students develop an applied dissertation in their area of study related to education, pedagogy, and leadership. Three concentrations are available for educators’ specific career development goals.

UNC Charlotte  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Northern Colorado

At the University of Northern Colorado, the PhD in Educational Leadership presents a flexible online course curriculum aimed at professional development, knowledge, and application. Aspiring K-12 educators can take advantage of online courses to work towards gaining the tools they need to succeed at their own pace. The GRE is required to apply to this program.

The University of Northern Colorado is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University

Walden University’s Doctor of Education is a 39 credit hour program that revolves around education leadership in the classroom, school, and community setting. The program is designed to help graduates become advanced educators ready to develop the programs that change student lives for the better. This online program includes an applied research capstone.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

William Carey University

At William Carey University, the PhD in Education Leadership is designed to develop educators that will change the world at the K-12 level.

This completely online program balances pedagogical knowledge and its practical applications in the classroom and administrative settings. Students can learn together and develop each other’s knowledge in a cohort during their degree program.

William Carey University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Online PhD in Elementary Education Programs

Doctoral degrees in elementary education can lead to leadership positions in administration, teaching, research, and policy making at local, state or national levels. You might become a principal, develop curriculum, or create new ways to approach issues that face students and communities today.

There are many job opportunities for those with doctorates and this degree can help give you a foundation for performing required tasks. These include hiring, observing classrooms, establishing policies for safe and effective schools, handling budgets, and communicating with teachers and parents.

This degree in education online may also allow you to work at the university level as a professor or high-level administrator such as a dean. Universities often require research and publication in specific areas of interest and give you freedom and opportunity to explore subjects that interest you.

Another career path may be working in educational policy at your district level or even at state or national levels. You may be able to work with others to write or test laws or policies designed to meet the changing needs of students, communities, or our country.

An online degree may be the perfect match for the busy classroom teacher who must write lesson plans, grade assignments and find time to pursue an advanced degree. Most online universities recognize the demands on students’ time and create curriculum that can challenge students while understanding how busy they are.

Doctoral courses and delivery methods will vary. Some offer a mix of traditional coursework and real-world experience. Others require minimal hours on campus. Many create digital classrooms or require students to attend seminars during weekends or summer vacations.

Typically, admission to a doctoral program will require you to have a master’s degree, although some require only a bachelors. With a master’s you will likely need about 60 or more hours of credit. Check these numbers carefully when applying.

Your curriculum might include subjects such as Creating a Culture of Learning, Conflict Resolution, Leadership, Student Learning, Mentoring, Curriculum Development, Philosophical Foundations, and Educational Technology. Additionally, you will normally be required to research, write, and defend a dissertation.

Elementary Education Careers and Salaries

There are many potential career paths available to those who hold a PhD in Elementary Education. They range from becoming assistant principals or principals to teaching or serving as administrators at colleges to moving on to leadership positions in government as policymakers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the average salaries for a PhD in Elementary Education are significantly higher than those of teachers and the job opportunities for those with a doctorate degree are expected to grow 6% for the next ten years.

In addition to teaching or becoming an administrator in elementary schools, a doctoral degree should open a number of additional career doors. A doctorate is usually essential for teaching at the university level, and a few years of teaching are normally required for advancement to university administration.

What makes a doctorate degree better than a masters degree in elementary education is that outside educational institutions, people with a doctorate in elementary education may move into research or policy positions in government agencies charged with creating standards and practices for teachers and students. This exciting area can let you use your education to change things for the better.

You will find average salaries for people holding PhDs in elementary education in this chart that has information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics .

When reviewing this information, please remember that the data is for national averages and will vary according to location, discipline, and level of responsibility. There will also be differences in public or private schools or universities.

Choosing an Online PhD in Elementary Education

As you begin your search for an Online Doctorate in Elementary Education, there are many things to consider. Along with the careers listed above, you may wish to pursue a specialty such as policy analyst, curriculum designer, learning resource specialist, or technology designer or evaluator.

Make your own chart and fill it in regarding each of these important items for consideration.

Accreditation

• Admission requirements
• Tuition costs and financial aid
• Specializations available
• Dissertation requirements

As you create the chart that will help you compare your options, it is also useful to arrange the criteria listed above in order of its importance to you. This applies to all PhD degree programs such as an online PhD in early childhood education .

Elementary Education Doctorate Curriculum and Courses

Curriculum will vary depending on your university and the specialty you choose. Online degrees normally include both foundational courses and specialty courses in your main field of interest.

Here are some common courses and a brief description of what you can expect to learn in each of them:

• Curriculum Design : This course teaches how to create curriculum standards to assure maximum student learning.
• Early Childhood Learning : Can today’s educators reach each child, regardless of cultural, societal, family and related factors that might affect learning and growth?
• Educational Leadership : Leaders need strategies and skills to evaluate options and criteria that lead to solid decisions on the many issues and options you may face.
• Educational Technology : Major technological developments have changed student learning, and you need to understand them in order to create, compare, and assess different technological advances.
• Learning Assessment : How do you translate and evaluate creativity and, when it is utilized, how do you evaluate how much each teaching tool actually contributes to student learning?
• Educational Administration : Principals need to learn how to hire and evaluate teachers, administer and assess testing, review curriculum, develop staff, use technology, and perform other tasks.
• American Education : This area of specialization explores how uniquely American learning was developed throughout history.
• Evaluating Learning in Students Without English as a First Language : America is a melting pot of students who face unique challenges without English. How can we better teach and reach them?
• Educational Ethics . Doctoral students use case studies to determine whether educational policy implementation, governance and curriculum have achieved an ethical school’s mission.

Remember that this list of core and specialty courses will vary widely at different universities, so be sure to review the course offerings of each school you are considering.

Admissions Requirements

Like most doctoral programs, admission requirements will differ with each university you consider.

Here are a few of the typical ones:

• A master’s degree in education or another discipline from an accredited institution, unless your university allows simultaneous completion of a master’s and a doctorate.
• A completed online application that incudes email addresses for a required number of references and a personal statement describing your personal goals and interests.
• A valid teaching certificate or an administrative credential from the state where you are employed and a minimum of two years teaching or administrative experience. This requirement varies by university.
• Official transcripts from all schools you have attended.
• Some schools require the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), while others do not.

Although most universities have these requirements, some institutions have additional criteria, so be sure to compare the colleges that most interest you.

As you research which university will be the best fit for your doctoral studies, it is very important to choose one that is accredited . The Council for Higher Education (CHEA) assures that the universities it has approved for accreditation meet the highest standards of academic quality.

CHEA goes through a lengthy review of universities who seek accreditation. It evaluates such factors as faculty and administrative qualifications, facilities, and student support services. It requires lengthy written reports and makes personal visits that include interviews with students and staff.

Only those degree-granting institutions that meet its thoughtfully designed criteria will receive accreditation.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The high cost of graduate education should not be a stumbling block to your quest for a PhD. Fortunately, the Federal government as well as other public and private entities have created programs to help defer some or all of the tuition and other fees.

A good place to start your search for financial aid is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid program (FAFSA). You may also want to make an appointment with the Financial Aid office at the university you wish to attend as they can help guide you through the process.

In addition to FAFSA, there are many other financial aid sources that should be explored. Check out programs such as work-study, as well as the numerous public and private organizations that offer scholarships or fellowships.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Elementary Education?

A PhD in Elementary Education can help you gain credibility for a large number of careers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists possibilities within the school system where teachers work, such as assistant principal or principal, and includes leadership positions at the district level such as superintendent.

You may also move to university teaching, administration, or teacher training. You may conduct research into a specific area of interest. Many students also begin careers in local, state or national government where they can use their education to solve the problems that face elementary education today.

How Much Does an Online PhD in Elementary Education Cost?

The cost of a PhD in Elementary Education will depend on many factors, including the number of units required and whether you are attending a public or private university.

Most PhD programs in elementary education will require between 60 and 66 units of credit, with each credit ranging from $350 to $775. Although you will be taking your elementary education degree online , there still may be differentials between the amount per credit paid by in-state and out-of-state students.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online PhD in Elementary Education?

The length of time it takes to graduate with a doctorate in elementary education will depend on a number of factors. Online programs typically accommodate the schedules of busy, working students, so the number of units each person takes each semester will vary between full-time and part-time students.

If 60 credit hours are required for graduation, coursework may take about three years. But you must also conduct original research on your dissertation topic of choice. Also, you must write, present, and defend your thesis.

Are There Any Affordable Online PhD in Elementary Education Programs?

Costs per credit hour will depend on whether the university you choose is public or private, and whether it is in-state or out-of-state. Because you are choosing an online degree, you will likely save money over students who must pay for room and board.

You have more flexibility to choose a university that meets your criteria because you do not regularly have to attend in person. Research accredited programs that maintain excellence, but also offer low per credit costs. And remember that financial aid and scholarships may be able to help.

Is a PhD Better Than an EdD?

The answer depends on your personal interests. Typically, students who pursue a PhD are interested in research in areas in which they want to gain expertise in order to accomplish personal goals. On the other hand, EdD programs focus more on practice.

In many cases, EdD graduates go into administration while those with PhDs pursue university teaching where they can train teachers and continue to pursue research. The lines between these two disciplines often blur, so read course descriptions and catalogues to locate what is best for your goals.

What is the Difference Between an EdD vs. PhD?

Both and EdD and a PhD are highly esteemed graduate degrees. In most cases, PhD students seek to conduct and apply research that will help them solve classroom, community, and student learning problems. They perform original research, analyze their data, develop theories and assess their findings.

A Doctor of Education most often leads to leadership roles in educational systems. Many students become administrators and address problems they have identified within the educational environment under their responsibility. Fortunately, the positive outcomes of both degrees can overlap.

Is a PhD in Elementary Education Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Elementary Education is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education, training, and library jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common careers in this field include elementary school administrators, university teachers, educational researchers, as well as policy-makers and implementers at local, state, and federal government levels. There are significant potential rewards with each possibility.

In addition to job security, a doctorate in elementary education can help put you in the driver’s seat for achieving meaningful change. Your passion, knowledge, research, and practical experience may be used to create and assure better futures for the children living in tomorrow’s world.

Getting Your Doctorate in Elementary Education Online

Maybe you have already made a career choice and you love it. You are an educator and you want to do more. You see problems. You want solutions. But you realize that you need additional education in order to make a real difference.

An Online Doctorate in Elementary Education can help you move you from one classroom into a new world where the rewards are even greater. Take the first step. Research admissions requirements, course offerings, costs, and career opportunities. The children and your community are waiting.

Degrees and Programs

Residential Master's in Education

Immersive campus experience for aspiring and established educators, leaders, and innovators, with five distinct programs to choose from.

Online Master's in Education

Part-time, career-embedded program, delivered online, for experienced educators looking to advance their leadership in higher education or pre-K–12.

Doctor of Education Leadership

Preparing transformative leaders to have the capacity to guide complex organizations, navigate political environments, and create systemic change in the field of education.

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Training cutting-edge researchers who work across disciplines, generate knowledge, and translate discoveries into transformative policy and practice.

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Ed.

Learn More About The Program

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Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education

Create effective learning environments with our online ed.d. in curriculum and instruction – elementary education degree.

Are you seeking to further your career and enhance your abilities in the field of education? Liberty University’s Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education can provide you with the higher learning you need to achieve your goals.

Liberty University’s 100% online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education can equip you for a variety of teaching roles within special education, general education, and community classroom settings. You will learn to use various theories, models, and strategies as a practical guide to solve problems as well as explore research and instructional approaches for managing student behaviors effectively with an emphasis on individual, classroom, and school-wide behavior support.

At Liberty, it is essential for us to provide you with spiritual enhancement and guidance for optimizing your educational journey. Each of your professors has years of work experience in the field of education, and each wishes to provide Christ-focused mentorship and practical application for excelled learning outcomes.

What Will You Learn in Our Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education Degree Program?

Our Doctor of Education program equips you for a variety of teaching roles within special education, general education, and community classroom settings. You will also study important aspects of curriculum theory and development so you are prepared to create, assess, and improve effective lesson plans.

Additionally, your Doctor of Education courses and elementary education training will explore:

• Issues and trends in technology and learning
• Tests and measurements
• Advanced learning theory and research

Taking your Doctor of Education in elementary education online offers a tight-knit online community where you can connect with classmates and build an academic and professional network, establishing connections that will help you throughout your degree program and beyond.

Potential Careers with an Ed.D. Degree in Elementary Education 

• Elementary educator
• Gifted-student instructor
• School administrator
• University professor

Our Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education Degree Program Benefits

As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe Liberty stands out.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online Ed.D. in elementary education degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• The majority of tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs has not increased in 9 years. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university.
• You’ll be able to complete your online Doctor of Education program in just 2.5 years!

Military Benefits

Service is important to us, so whether you’re currently serving in the Armed Forces, have served, or are married to someone who serves, we’re here to serve you. Liberty’s military benefits are available to:

• Active duty service members of the U.S. Armed Forces
• Reserve/National Guard
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• Current Department of Defense employees

We are proud to support you in your pursuit of a flexible and affordable online education by offering you the following benefits: 

• Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for graduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course)
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

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Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Next Start Date

Jun 24, 2024

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As an accredited Christian college with a 7,000-acre campus in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers you an education that is both academically challenging and rooted in a biblical worldview.

At Liberty, you’ll benefit from 35+ years of learning, growing, adapting, and innovating for the distance learner — and more than a decade of researching the needs of the online student. You can be confident that we’ve taken the time to learn what’s important to you.

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These important factors challenged us to find new financial solutions, get ahead of industry trends, and blaze trails into cutting-edge career fields — and it’s paid off. That’s the difference experience makes.

Ranked in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America   and recognized by multiple institutions for   academic quality, affordability, and accessibility.

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Enjoy flexible courses.

Choose from a wide variety of programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level, most of which are 100% online*. With an 8-week format and 8 start dates per year, it’s easy to fit your courses around your schedule!

* Some exclusions apply. Please refer to our exclusions page for more information.

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Start and finish your degree faster! Liberty requires no standardized testing for admission, and you can transfer previous course credit — transfer in up to 75% of a bachelor’s degree and up to 50% of a master’s, postgraduate, or doctoral degree — or discover how your life, career, or military experience may count toward your college degree.

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All of our courses are taught from a Christian perspective, and our faculty see themselves as mentors. Our mission is to Train Champions for Christ — we’re committed to championing you as you study to go further in your field, become a leader in your industry, or start a new career.

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Throughout your educational journey, you will have access to academic resources that will aid in the completion of your degree. Services include our Jerry Falwell Library, writing center, tutoring, study aids, IT assistance, 30+ tutorial videos, live webinars, and personalized help from our academic advising team.

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As a nonprofit (not-for-profit) university, Liberty is in the business of training skilled professionals to make a difference in the world – not gaining profit, revenue, or producing dividends for shareholders. In keeping with our commitment to your education, we invest our resources back into degree programs and into your student experience.

While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university and has not increased tuition for 9 straight years. Lower tuition means less student loan debt for students.

For Liberty University, nonprofit is more than a status; it is a valuable opportunity to invest in the lives of students who will go out and impact the world.

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Nearly 80% of all Liberty students in an online program are awarded financial aid. Virginia residents may qualify for additional aid — learn more !

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Concentration: Elementary Education in Mathematics and Science

Degree: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Program: Teacher Education and Learning Sciences Delivery Method: On Campus

Earn your Ph.D. and prepare to be a scholar leader in Elementary Education in Mathematics and Science (EEMS).

Brief Description

The doctoral concentration focused on Elementary Education in Mathematics and Science (EEMS) aims to prepare scholars with expertise in elementary mathematics education OR elementary science education who are committed to improving opportunities to learn for elementary aged children.  Students in the EEMS program engage in coursework, research studies, and practical experiences that deepen their knowledge and understanding of teaching and learning, specifically focusing on children’s and teachers’ learning in mathematics or science. Students benefit from collaborating with program faculty who are nationally recognized scholars actively engaged in research on children’s and/or teachers’ learning.

Concentration Details

Concentration description.

While students in the EEMS concentration primarily focus on one discipline (mathematics or science) throughout their doctoral studies, coursework and other opportunities are structured such that students explore and analyze the cross-disciplinary connections among all the core content areas.  By nature, elementary schools are interdisciplinary, and teachers typically are responsible for teaching all subjects.  The cross-disciplinary nature of the EEMS concentration allows faculty and students to leverage the natural setting of elementary schools.  Additionally, research and experiences in the EEMS concentration are not limited to formal “brick-and-mortar” learning environments but also include informal learning environments (e.g., home, museums, outdoor education).     

The concentration in EEMS builds on the successful work of NC State’s undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program and the elementary education master’s program. Together, the programs form a cohesive line of research, development, and instruction across all university-level degrees. The concentration in EEMS provides opportunities for highly qualified individuals interested in researching, designing, and improving elementary-level learning environments. Simultaneously, the Elementary Education in Mathematics and Science concentration strengthens faculty research in elementary mathematics education and elementary science education, feeding directly into the quality of the undergraduate and MEd programs.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

• Completed application to the NC State Graduate School
• Unofficial transcripts from undergraduate and any graduate programs
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Your interest in obtaining a Ph.D. at NC State
• How you plan to leverage your prior experiences to inform your research/educational interests.
• Particular faculty in the EEMS concentration with whom you want to work and why.
• How this degree will help you pursue your career goals now and in the future.
• The unique contributions or special interests you bring that will enhance your doctoral studies.
• At least one should be from a professor or someone who can comment on research experience/preparation for a PhD
• An academic writing sample (e.g., master’s thesis, paper from previous coursework, manuscript, research report, or white paper)

COURSE OF STUDY

Concentration Handbook

TELS core (6 hours)

• ECI 735 Seminar on Teaching and Teaching Education 
• ECI 736 Learning Sciences 

Core Courses (12 hours)

• ECI 723 Elementary STEM Learning in Informal Settings  
• ECI 724 Professional Learning in Elementary STEM Education  
• ECI 725 Examining Researchers and Teacher Educators as Learners  
• ECI 726 Action and Cognition in Elementary STEM Teaching & Learning

Electives (12 hours)

• Chosen in consultation with advisor 

EEMS Graduate Student and Faculty Handbook

• Chosen in consultation with an advisor 

TUITION AND FEES

Review the Estimated Cost of Attendance for information on tuition and fees set by the university. Students are funded through a variety of opportunities, some of which cover tuition and fees. Stipend and length of appointment varies based on funding source. 

• Graduate Research Assistantships : Research assistantships are awarded to students working with a faculty member on an externally-funded research grant. Individual faculty select students for these awards.
• Teaching Assistantships : Teaching assistantships are rewarded to students with applicable experience to teach undergraduate courses or supervise teacher interns. Students are selected based on department needs.
• College Fellowships : Offices in the College of Education regularly offer assistantships for research and teaching positions. These are announced each spring.
• University Fellowships : The Graduate School offers several fellowships for new students, including the University Graduate Fellowship and the Provost’s Fellowship. The Director of Graduate Programs nominates applicants for these awards.
• External Fellowships : Applicants are encouraged to apply for fellowships from the National Science Foundation and other national programs .

Eligible students may receive coverage of their tuition and health insurance through the Graduate Student Support Plan (GSSP). Opportunities are available on a limited basis, and vary in: stipend amount; length of appointment; research/teaching area that is your focus; technical, research and teaching skill required; and where you are in your program timeline to completion. Therefore, funding is not guaranteed.

All applicants are automatically considered for funding opportunities that require department nomination. To express interest in being considered for other departmental funding, please complete the TELS Funding Interest Form .

Sarah J. Carrie r Jessica Hunt James Minogue Temple Walkowiak

Why Study Elementary Education at NC State

Experience high-quality instruction that incorporates research and best practices

Study with leading researchers and scholars in elementary mathematics and science education

Earn an affordable degree from one of the nation’s top-ranked colleges of education by U.S. News and a university named one of the best values by Money

Hear From Our Concentration Faculty

How can we help children learn more about their natural world and why are these natural settings conducive for learning? Sarah Carrier, Ph.D., talks about her research.

Meet Professor Sarah Carrier 

James Minogue, Ph.D., talks about his research and explains how he uses haptic technology to make ‘invisible’ science theories accessible for elementary-aged students.

Meet Professor James Minogue 

Temple Walkowiak, Ph.D., describes how the research study Project ATOMS is examining the impact and outcomes of a STEM-focused elementary teacher preparation program.

Meet Associate Professor Temple Walkowiak 

“I’ve already had experience learning how to write grant proposals….I’ve worked with students that are going into teaching…This program is preparing me for my future in academia.”

— Teresa Leavens, Ph.D. Candidate in Elementary Education in Mathematics and Science

Temple Walkowiak

Program Coordinator and Associate Professor 919.513.2808

Email her 

Irene Armstrong

Graduate Student Services Specialist 919.515.3221

Related Programs

Bachelor of science in elementary science, master of education or science in elementary education, teacher education and learning sciences graduate programs.

College of Education

Portland State launches Elementary Education Bachelor’s degree program

by Elayna Yussen May 15th 2024 Share

Portland State University (PSU) is proud to announce the launch of its innovative Elementary Education Bachelor’s degree program, offering undergraduates a direct pathway to becoming licensed teachers in the state of Oregon. The program, now accepting students for the fall term, marks a significant milestone in PSU’s commitment to equity, access and diversity in teacher education.

Traditionally, students have pursued their teaching license after completing a graduate-level program at PSU. But for many, a master’s degree is out of reach. Recognizing the need for a more inclusive, accessible pathway, PSU developed an undergraduate track. The elementary education degree is tailored to meet the demands of a diverse student body and different learning needs.

The undergraduate option removes some of the barriers that a master’s degree imposes by offering flexible and accessible hybrid classes, reducing the number of years in school and lowering the cost of getting a teaching license. The program is designed to support recent high school graduates, transfer students and returning students with a bachelor’s degree in something other than education.

"We’re excited to introduce this program that not only addresses the critical need for licensed teachers in Oregon but also emphasizes equity and access for all aspiring educators," said Tina Peterman, interim dean of the College of Education. "By fostering partnerships with local school districts and community colleges, we’ve created a direct route to teacher licensure that prioritizes diversity and inclusion."

At the heart of PSU’s elementary education program is a commitment to anti-racist and culturally responsive teaching practices. Faculty intentionally redesigned the curriculum to center on anti-bias principles, ensuring that graduates are equipped to navigate diverse classroom environments with empathy and cultural sensitivity.

"We’ve rebuilt every course from the ground up, integrating readings and discussions that reflect our commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and promoting social justice," said Shanté Stuart McQueen, assistant professor in the College of Education.

“We want to ensure that every graduate leaves PSU prepared to meet the needs of all of their students,” Stuart McQueen said. “Another critical part of our mission — while we welcome all students — is to make sure that every child in the Portland area has at least one well-prepared, well-supported teacher of color in their elementary school years,” she added.

The program includes specialized coursework for teaching multilingual learners. All graduates earn an English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) endorsement. This helps broaden their skill set and career prospects while preparing them to support students from diverse linguistic backgrounds and address the unique needs of every student.

Through dynamic coursework, collaborative learning opportunities and hands-on experience in local schools, PSU aims to cultivate a new generation of impact-driven educators.

"We’re equipping teachers with effective methods to support all children’s learning, while fostering a deep commitment to equity, inclusion and belonging," said Dot McElhone, associate professor of elementary education. "Our graduates will step into classrooms with a powerful toolbox of teaching techniques and an important understanding about how social and cultural contexts shape their students' lives."

The bachelor’s pathway is also aligned with a community college associate’s transfer degree, which translates to a more cost-effective approach to higher education.

Para educators — also known as instructional assistants or teacher’s aides — are one group that benefits greatly from PSU’s new elementary education program, said Andreina Velasco, Grow Your Own Pathway Navigator for the David Douglas School District.

“Our para educators are passionate, talented and diverse educators who are committed to our community, as many grew up, live, or have children and family in our schools,” Velasco said. “But for the majority of para educators, pursuing a master’s degree in education is not a feasible option. The cost, time, and prospect of having to leave their classroom jobs while going to school present insurmountable obstacles.”

Now, with the new undergraduate offering, she said, a degree in education is within reach.

PSU’s reputation for excellence in teacher preparation is underscored by its extensive network of partnerships with local schools and districts. Principals actively seek out PSU graduates for student teaching placements and teacher positions, recognizing their exceptional training and dedication to educational equity.

For more information about the Elementary Education Bachelor’s program at Portland State University, please visit  pdx.edu/academics/programs/undergraduate/elementary-education .

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Professional Studies

Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary (K-6) and Special Education (K-12) with Dual Licensure (BA)

You’ll gain specialized skills to teach students with high-incidence disabilities, such as learning disabilities, ADHD, and mild autism. You will be prepared to teach students as a special education teacher and/or as a general education teacher with the skills to support students who are struggling learners.

WPU’s accelerated, hybrid elementary and special education program is designed to provide you with the strategies and behavioral management tools necessary to excel in K-12 classrooms. Our highly flexible program is designed for working adults and includes:

• Accelerated programs, earn your license in as little as four semesters
• Flexible, hybrid class schedules + learning options (online, and on-site)
• Faculty that are experienced K-12 teachers
• Extensive network of district relationships to facilitate career opportunities

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