bachelor of education

Bachelor’s in Education Degrees: Types & Requirements

While there are many ways to become a teacher, the most straightforward path is through a bachelor’s degree in education. To teach in public K–12 schools, you generally need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. With your degree, you will have several job options in education, both inside and outside the classroom. Before taking this step toward your teaching career, you should understand your options. We can help! On this page you’ll learn about:

• The benefits of becoming a teacher
• What to expect from a bachelor’s in education program
• Top-ranked online bachelor’s degrees in education
• How to choose the right program
• Cost and financial aid
• Career pathways and specialties in teaching
• Salaries and growth for teachers
• Opportunities in the field with advanced degrees

If you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education and want to become a teacher, check out our  Alternative Teacher Certification  or Master’s in Education pages.

Benefits of Becoming a Teacher

“Being a teacher is a profoundly challenging and rewarding job. I wake up every day smiling, knowing I can grow, influence a life, love a child, and love what I do,” says teacher Colette Byrne . A study of over 2,500 U.S. teachers showed she is not alone—90% reported they were satisfied with their jobs, compared to less than 50% across all careers. Aside from job satisfaction, there are numerous other benefits of becoming a teacher , including job security, built-in salary increases, and paid holidays.

Types of Bachelor’s Degrees in Education

While there are differences in the types of bachelor’s in education degrees, all can lead to a career in the classroom. You should choose your degree type based on your personal goals, strengths, and preferred institution rather than the title of the degree.

Below are the most common degree names; some institutions may give them other titles.

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) These degrees include more liberal arts courses over science and math courses, though you should still expect to take some science and math. When you get to degree-specific classes, they won’t differ significantly from those for B.S. degrees, though you can often focus more on courses relating to your chosen field. A B.A. does not prevent you from teaching a STEM subject but is likely better suited for those who hope to teach liberal arts. Similar degree titles include Bachelor of Arts in Education (B.A.E) and Bachelor of Arts for Teaching (B.A.T.).

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) B.S. degrees focus more on math and science, though you will take some liberal arts courses as well. B.S. programs look like B.A. programs when you get to degree-specific classes, but they are an excellent place to start if you hope to teach a STEM subject. That said, they do not preclude you from teaching a liberal arts subject. Similar degree titles include Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.E.) and Bachelor of Science in Teaching (B.S.T.).

Bachelor’s in Specific Elective Subjects Though less common, you can get a bachelor’s in education degree in one particular elective field, like music , art , or theatre. These degrees may include B.A., B.S., and Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) options.

Dual Degrees Some schools allow you to simultaneously major in a non-education subject and education. Some offer degrees in a particular subject area with a focus on teaching. Dual degrees can give you an in-depth understanding of a topic you hope to teach, like science or English , as well as a solid foundation in education. These programs often do not take longer to complete than a typical degree. You usually have the option of double majoring as well, meaning you earn two separate bachelor’s degrees. However, this option could lead to spending more time in school.

Any of these degrees can allow you to teach at your preferred grade level. Some schools offer a focused B.A. or B.S. in elementary, secondary, or subject-specific education, while others provide a general background in these topics. If you choose to focus on a specific elective—or even core—subject, you can also generally teach at any grade level with relevant licensure.

What to Expect from a Bachelor’s in Education Program

Entrance requirements for education bachelor’s programs.

To be accepted into a bachelor’s program, you will typically need the following:

• A school application
• A high school diploma or equivalent
• A minimum GPA of 2.5 (sometimes 3.0)
• ACT or SAT scores meeting minimum requirements as set by the school

Some institutions require additional items related to your specific major—in this case, education. These may include a personal statement about your goals, letters of recommendation, and, occasionally, minimum scores in prerequisite courses.

How Long Does a Bachelor’s in Education Take?

Most traditional colleges and universities require at least 120 credit hours to complete a bachelor’s degree, meaning it may take you around four years to graduate while attending full-time. You can speed up the process by taking classes over summers or school breaks, either through your institution or at a local community college with credits that will transfer (verify this before enrolling!). If you attend part-time so you can balance school with life or work, it will take longer to graduate. When considering attending part-time, remember student teaching may still take up to 40 hours per week, depending on your institution.

Bachelor’s in Education Courses

Regardless of your area of focus, you will need to take core courses that prepare you to be an educator. These courses generally focus on learning theories, research, and assessment. Some examples of these include:

• Introduction to Education:  This course conveys the historical, sociological, and philosophical concepts forming the theories and objectives of effective learning.
• Human Development and Psychology:  This course examines how children and adolescents explore their world, learn concepts, and develop ideas.
• Curriculum Development:  This course focuses on how to design curricula and create effective assignments.
• Foundations and Assessment of Special Education:  In this class, you will learn to identify learning disabilities and adapt programs to the learning styles of children with special needs.
• Technology courses:  This includes a range of courses focusing on educational technology; they may emphasize multimedia learning in the classroom and distance learning via the Internet.

Your chosen concentration also will affect the courses you take. For example, if you’re pursuing a special education degree , you might take courses about autism, speech impairment, and special education assessment. If you hope to teach young learners, you may take coursework specific to that age group’s needs—the same goes if you want to teach secondary students.

Education programs often require practical experience before student teaching. This can include observing teachers and volunteering in classrooms. You will almost definitely have to complete student teaching as well, where you will work with a mentor teacher to create curricula, teach classes, grade papers, and solve problems with increasing levels of responsibility as you go through your time. Your relationship with your mentor teacher is essential, as they are often your best reference when applying for jobs.

Online Bachelor’s in Education

Among online programs that offer a bachelor’s in education, be aware that some are geared for future classroom teachers and have a licensure path, while others offer a solid base in education study but do not lead to licensure. If you’re interested in obtaining your bachelor’s in education online and pursuing licensing, check with your program of choice about how they accomplish this remotely. For instance, you may be able to take all of your bachelor’s in education classes online, and student teaching will need to be completed in a physical classroom, with coordination between the student teaching location and your education program.

Online learning comes with benefits and drawbacks. But, nearly anyone can succeed in these courses.

Teacher Licensure

Earning a bachelor’s degree alone does not allow you to teach—you also need to pass licensure exams. While some states, such as Massachusetts , require state-specific tests, most use the Praxis exams. When it comes to the Praxis, states will generally require the Core Academic Skills for Educators test, plus any subject-specific tests. Check your state’s requirements to see what tests you need to take. Praxis exams do have specific scores, but generally, simply passing is enough for you to obtain a license and become a teacher.

Most states require you to renew your license periodically. To do this, you will generally need to complete a minimum number of professional development (PD) hours. Thankfully, most districts also require you to complete PD and will offer it through mandatory or optional training sessions, so gaining many of your hours shouldn’t be burdensome. Additional hours can be taken at local colleges, through organizations related to your field, or online courses. Some of these are free, while others can cost hundreds of dollars—for the latter, see if your school district will subsidize some of the costs.

Finding the Right Bachelor’s in Education Program

Choosing the right program is an important decision. The more research you do, the more likely you are to find a program fitting your needs. There are many factors you will want to consider when searching for the best bachelor’s in education program for you.

Your Goals Search for schools that will help you become the type of teacher you hope to be. If you want to work with elementary students, seek out a school with a quality elementary ed program. If you wish to work in an urban environment, look for those offering courses in that subject. Some schools will allow you to focus on whatever you’re passionate about.

Location Are you willing to make a move to attend the school of your dreams, or do you need to find something close to home? Look into online options as well—many schools offer hybrid programs that allow you to take the majority of your coursework online. Consider your daily responsibilities and find a program that allows you to meet them. Additionally, make sure to learn about the student teaching experience, including whether it’s full or part-time work. Most schools maintain websites containing this information, as well as descriptions of the features that make their programs unique.

School Quality You can get a sense of the quality of a program by researching graduation rates and the rate of job placement after graduation. Schools will often publish this information on their sites, but you can dig into a Google search or contact the school directly if you can’t find the information. In addition, you can talk to students or graduates of a program to learn more about what the program is like; the institutions’ department heads or alumni groups may help you find someone to talk to. You could also check college review sites, rankings, and even sites like Rate My Professors to see if specific teachers of required courses will be a good fit for you.

Accreditation Make sure your chosen program, whether online or traditional, is accredited—a distinction given to colleges and universities maintaining specific quality standards. Accreditation should be through credible organizations such as the  Higher Learning Commission , the  Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training , and the  Council on Occupational Education . The U.S. Department of Education provides a  searchable database of accredited schools.

Education Bachelor’s Costs and Financial Aid Opportunities

It’s an irrefutable fact that college costs are on the rise , with the average annual price of four-year institutions being $26,593 as of 2017. When choosing your school, it’s essential to thoroughly investigate what they charge versus what you can afford. Though schools publish tuition rates online, they may not give you a full picture of the costs—your best resource for information is the institution’s bursar or financial aid office.

There are many financial aid options available to you—some of which are specific to teachers.

Scholarships Scholarships are granted based on need, merit, background, or a combination of these. Your chosen institution frequently offers them. You can also find scholarships that are not affiliated with a particular school, such as ones through nonprofits and professional organizations. Barring violating any terms of the award, you won’t have to pay the money back.

Grants Like scholarships, grants don’t need to be repaid, as long as you meet all contractual obligations. Grants are offered by schools, private organizations, and federal and state governments. While they may be given for similar reasons as scholarships, they are frequently awarded solely based on academic merit or volunteerism success, as past work may indicate future success.

Loans You can obtain loans through the federal government or private institutions. Federal loans often have lower interest rates than private ones. These must be repaid, so make sure you fully understand the repayment terms before accepting a loan.

Loan Forgiveness Teachers have unique opportunities for loan forgiveness, particularly for federal loans. Some individual states offer forgiveness opportunities for teachers who fill areas of need, either in terms of subject or location. For example, rural areas often have a harder time finding teachers than suburban locations, so states may offer forgiveness to teachers who agree to work in those areas for a certain number of years. The federal government also has loan forgiveness programs for those who meet specific qualifications, such as minimum years of service, working in Title I schools or teaching high-need topics like STEM subjects and special education.

There are additional financial incentives for educators many don’t know about, such as assistance in purchasing a house through HUD , the Teacher Next Door program , or individual states or counties. Teachers are also eligible for Educator Expense Tax Deductions , even if they teach in private schools or have claimed the standard deduction. These deductions allow you to be reimbursed up to $250 for items you purchased for your classroom—so make sure to keep those receipts!

What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Education?

To teach in public K–12 schools, you generally need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. With your degree, you will have several job options in education.

Teach Elementary School

Elementary education degrees prepare you to teach students from kindergarten through sixth or eighth grade, depending on the state. To educate these grades, you will need an understanding of child development and how young students learn.

As a traditional elementary school teacher, you will teach multiple subjects, from math to reading, so your studies will include these subjects. You will also learn about topics such as child development and relevant curriculum building.

Elementary school teachers may hope to teach a particular grade level, but it’s important to remember you might not have total control over this. While you may be hired initially to teach, say, first grade, you could be moved to sixth grade if the district sees a need at that level. This is because most public schools contract teachers in general terms—e.g., “elementary teacher” rather than “first grade teacher.” Additionally, teachers are generally district employees, not school employees, so they could be moved to a different institution based on the educator’s qualifications and the district’s needs.

Teach Middle or High School

Because middle school and high school teachers typically only provide instruction in one or two subjects, you will usually need licensure specific to the subject(s) you hope to teach. This doesn’t mean you must have a bachelor’s particular to that topic; after obtaining your bachelor’s, you can often gain licensure in particular topics solely by taking exams.

Many bachelor’s degree programs for secondary teachers also include coursework in adolescent development and the psychological factors involved in teaching students at the middle and high school levels.

Like elementary teachers, secondary teachers are generally employed at the district level rather than the school level. The district can opt to move them to any grade or subject they are qualified to teach or to a different school in the district. If you’re licensed in English and social studies , you could teach 12 th grade English one year and sophomore history the next. Because of this, it’s essential to only gain licensure in subjects you actually would want to teach!

Specialize in Your Passion

If teaching general education or a core subject does not appeal to you, you can specialize in a field you love. At all levels, teachers for subjects like art , music , physical education , and foreign language are needed. In middle and high school, there are other elective options, like career and technical education , business , theatre, and family and consumer sciences.

Alternatively, you might have a passion for working with specific populations, such as those with special needs , gifted and talented students , or English language learners . These are often high-need areas, meaning there could be more job opportunities and, for special education teachers, additional loan forgiveness.

While many bachelor’s programs will cover education in general, with little to no focus on specific subjects, you can take courses in fields related to your goals. These may exist in your college’s school of education, but you could opt to take them as part of your general college education to improve your skills and prepare for licensure exams.

Work in a Related Career

Aside from working in classrooms, those who hold bachelor’s in education have many other career options available to them. Some of these will require additional training, while others may not. Related careers include, but aren’t limited to:

• Instructional Technology Specialist : A background in education and an understanding of technology allows these professionals to create, maintain, and train teachers in devices and software used by the district.
• Education Nonprofit Employee: Education-related nonprofits are all across the country, like The Education Trust , STAND for Children , and local organizations. These nonprofits need people with a solid understanding of education to help create and run programming. Programming could include work directly with young people or educators, as well as advocacy.
• Librarian: School librarians are educators, but their days look very different from those of classroom teachers. They do a lot more than monitor and shelve books—they teach classes about topics requested by their teachers, hold storytimes, and often run media services for the school, such as checking out laptops to classrooms or maintaining 3D printers. Public librarians , particularly in youth services, often have backgrounds in education, but they usually need a degree in library science.

Salary and Job Outlook for Teachers with a Bachelor’s in Education

It’s no secret there’s a nationwide teacher shortage —and the shortage is expected to worsen over the next several years. The silver lining is this means there may be a higher chance that you will obtain employment after earning your bachelor’s degree.

Below are the nationwide salary and growth expectations for teachers. Bear in mind, these numbers are inclusive of teachers with all degree levels and time spent in the field. The projected job growth does not include openings caused by retirement or attrition, and average salary and growth can vary by state .

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2020).

*Does not include Special Education or Career/Technical Education.

More specifically, the National Education Association (NEA) reports teachers with bachelor’s degrees typically earned salaries ranging from $39,249 to $57,827 per year as of 2018.

Top Ranked Bachelor’s Programs by Region

Beyond a bachelor’s in education.

If you have earned your bachelor’s and want to specialize further, move up the pay scale, or work in administration or leadership, a master’s degree program may be right for you. An education specialist certificate can also lead to career advancement opportunities. These programs are often less expensive and time-consuming than master’s programs, although they may not lead to as much of a pay raise unless you move into leadership.

A doctorate could be a good fit if you want to work at the highest levels of district administration, in educational policy , or as a professor . Both master’s and doctoral degrees can often be earned mostly or entirely online, so you don’t have to quit your day job. For further information, visit our master’s , doctorate , and education specialist pages.

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15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Degrees 2021

Earning an education degree online is the first step for teachers and other education professionals to begin their careers. Prospective teachers must acquire state-issued certification as well. Aside from teaching, students with a bachelor’s degree in education also qualify for entry-level jobs in child care, school counseling, or social work.

Online bachelor’s in education graduates can find work in non-teaching positions, such as child life counselor or admissions specialist, or they may pursue further education.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 5% job growth for education, training, and library professionals from 2019 to 2029, meaning education graduates can expect good employment prospects. Among teaching positions requiring bachelor’s degrees, high school and special education teachers earn the top salaries, with median annual earnings of $61,660 and $61,030, respectively.

The following section explores some of the nation’s best online bachelor’s degrees in education.

10 Best Online Education Degrees of 2021

Why get an online bachelor’s degree in education.

Teacher training programs started in the 19th century with “normal schools,” which made teaching into a standardized profession. Today, universities offer education degrees where students focus on specific grade levels and subjects. Enrollees may also pursue a specialization such as special education, gifted learning, or technical/career training.

These programs fulfill each state’s minimum education requirements and prepare students for certification. Online bachelor’s in education graduates can also find work in non-teaching positions, such as child life counselor or admissions specialist, or they may pursue further education.

Some benefits of pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in teaching include:

Teaching Skills

A bachelor’s in education focuses on best teaching practices. Learners can study teaching a specific age group or subject, or they can pursue specializations like English as a second language (ESL), reading and literacy, or special education. Graduates leave their programs prepared to work in the classroom.

Foundational Career Coursework

While many students pursue an education degree to teach, this is not the only career option. The skills acquired in these programs lay the groundwork for a number of other education-related jobs, including school counseling and consulting. A bachelor’s degree in education also lays the foundation for further study. Graduate degrees in the field can prepare learners to work in more advanced positions like instructional coordinator.

Flexible Scheduling

If a student pursues their degree online, an asynchronous program can offer flexible scheduling. This is particularly important for learners balancing academic, work, and family obligations.

2021’s Top Online Bachelor’s in Education Schools

A degree in education is the first step toward a career in a field with high demand. This guide ranks the best 15 bachelor’s in education schools in 2021. Click on the link below for more information about our ranking.

What the Best Education Programs Have in Common

Though each college offers a unique experience, the best schools usually share the following characteristics:

They are accredited . Accredited institutions and programs must meet rigorous standards set by recognized regional, national, or global agencies. These agencies regularly review accredited colleges and programs to ensure accreditation compliance. For example, a program accredited through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation undergoes programmatic assessments every 7-10 years.

All of the schools in our ranking hold accreditation from one of the following agencies:

• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Programs or departments within these schools may also hold accreditation from a programmatic accreditor such as:

• California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)
• Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
• Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC)
• Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
• Their programs are reputable . Programs with a good reputation can provide career leverage. For example, one in three students at Regis University finds employment before graduating. Within six months of graduation, 95% of Regis graduates hold a job or are in graduate school, and 90% of Regis alumni work in a job tied to their field of study.
• They foster academic excellence . Schools that foster academic excellence promote an environment of continual learning and provide opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research. Drexel University, for example, achieved 84 inventions and 36 new U.S. patents in 2020, and In 2019, the Carnegie Classification of Institutions awarded the school a prestigious R1 designation.
• They are affordable . The best schools minimize attendance costs and maximize accessibility by offering a variety of program delivery methods and financial aid packages. At Gardner-Webb University, for example, about 96% of students receive financial aid.

The Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Collapse All Expand All

1. university of washington.

Public university in Seattle, WA, accredited by NWCCU

The University of Washington first opened its doors in 1861. Now welcoming more than 54,000 learners every year, UW annually awards 12,000 bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees.

Bachelor of Arts in Early Care and Education

The UW College of Education boasts nine alumni chosen as Washington state principal of the year, and seven faculty members selected as fellows by the prestigious American Educational Research Association.

Early education students at UW benefit from a versatile program formatted to support the busy lives of working professionals. With an asynchronous delivery format, learners can access lectures and assignments at their convenience while meeting program requirements and deadlines.

Coursework covers theory, current research in the field of early childhood education, and practical training. Students observe classroom settings, interact with children, and learn directly from professionals working in the field.

Applying to UW

In addition to an online application, interested students must submit a personal statement, resume, and transcripts. Prospective learners must hold at least 45 transferable quarter credits with a minimum GPA of 2.0. New cohorts begin each fall and spring.

Program at a Glance

• Tuition: $231/credit
• Required Credits: 180 credits minimum
• Program Length: 2 years full time
• Delivery Format: 100% online

Other Education Programs

Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and Family Studies | Bachelor of Arts in Education, Communities, and Organizations

2. Biola University

Private university in La Mirada, CA, accredited by WSCUC, ACSI, and CTC

Founded in 1949 as a Bible school offering Christian education in downtown Los Angeles, Biola now offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate programs.

BS in Early Childhood

The fully online BS in early childhood program at the Biola School of Education serves teachers at a variety of career stages. Learners participate in asynchronous coursework, gaining knowledge in childhood development and classroom preparation from a biblical perspective.

With the support of faculty guides and individualized success coaches, students can benefit from a holistic education that focuses on furthering spiritual life along with academics.

Enrollees in the early childhood program may optimize their elective units by pursuing a multiple subject credential. Students may work toward early childhood permits through preparatory coursework and a field practicum.

Applying to Biola

Applicants must submit an online application, essay, official transcripts, and file their FAFSA. Biola offers start dates in the spring, summer, and fall.

• Tuition: $604/credit
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 2-3 years

BA in Early Childhood | BA in Liberal Studies, Elementary Education | BA in Liberal Studies, Multidisciplinary

3. Drexel University

Private university in Philadelphia, PA, accredited by MSCHE

Established in 1891 during the rise of industrialization to support the demands of a burgeoning society, Drexel awarded its first bachelor’s degree in 1914. As an internationally renowned research school, Drexel hosts a prominent cooperative education program.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education

The part-time online bachelor’s in elementary education at Drexel readies students for teacher certification in Pennsylvania. Interested learners may choose a specialization in preK-4 or special education, and can pursue certification in their area of specialization.

Each track supports students with coursework that prepares them to effectively lead, teach, and solve problems in the classroom. Courses focus on childhood development, subject foundations, early intervention, and developing curricula based on the needs of learners with disabilities.

To attain teaching certification, learners must complete 12 successive weeks of full-time student teaching and 190 hours of teaching activities. A non-certification pedagogical approach is also available for students interested in pursuing non-teaching education careers.

Applying to Drexel

Prospective students submit an application, official transcripts, and a personal essay. Transfer students must hold a minimum GPA of 2.50 and at least 36 quarter credits (24 semester credits) from an accredited institution.

• Tuition: $435/credit
• Required Credits: 180 credits
• Program Length: 2.5-5 years

Online BS in Education: Non-Certification | BS in Elementary Education | BS in Secondary Education | BS in Education: Non-Certification | 5-Year BS/MS Dual Degree Program in Education

4. Gardner-Webb University

Private university in Boiling Springs, NC, accredited by SACSCOC and CAEP

With a global mission emphasizing community service, Gardner-Webb hosts over 3,500 students from 37 states and 21 different countries. Founded in 1905 as a high school, Gardner-Webb transitioned to college education in 1942.

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

The Gardner-Webb Teacher Education Program offers a BS in elementary education along with a degree completion program for online transfer students.

Along with general education requirements, elementary education degree students pursuing K-12 teaching licensure must complete 34 additional credits and a professional education minor. Learners interested in supporting diverse students may pursue a specialization in exceptional children.

The state-approved Gardner-Webb elementary education program presents opportunities for classroom observation and teaching in elementary settings.

Applying to Gardner-Webb

Interested students must submit an online application and official high school transcripts with completed work in core subjects. SAT/ACT test scores are not required for fall 2021 admissions. Gardner-Webb offers four start dates throughout the year.

• Tuition: $15,610/semester
• Required Credits: 128 credits
• Program Length: 4 years

BS in Birth-Kindergarten Education | BS in Middle Grades Education | BS in Elementary Education for Teacher Assistants to Teachers

5. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Private university in West Terre Haute, IN, accredited by HLC

Founded in 1840 by six Catholic Sisters from France, SMWC began as a school for women and Catholic immigrants. Since 2015, SMWC has welcomed men in all of its programs.

Bachelor of Science in Education, Kindergarten – Grade 6 / Mild Intervention

Approved by the Indiana Department of Education, the SMWC bachelor’s in education prepares learners to teach grades K-6 with dual licensure. Education students develop the skills and knowledge to work in K-6 classrooms, including special education classrooms.

Students learn directly from educators in the field and from expert SMWC faculty. Field experiences are integrated throughout the program and conclude with a student teaching practicum.

For added flexibility, learners may choose a traditional term of 16 weeks or an eight-week accelerated term, and an on-campus or online delivery format.

Applying to SMWC

Interested students must submit an online application and high school transcripts or a GED certificate. SAT/ACT test scores are optional. The school seeks applicants with a rigorous high school record, including participation in extracurricular activities. Prospective transfer students must submit an official college transcript.

• Tuition: $496/credit (part time); $29,950/year (full time)
• Delivery Format: 100% online or hybrid

BS in Education, Preschool – Grade 3 / Mild Intervention

6. University of Louisiana at Monroe

Public university in Monroe, LA, accredited by SACSCOC and CAEP

Established in 1931 in eastern Monroe, ULM’s 238-acre campus is sprinkled with lush trees and borders the shores of the Bayou DeSiard.

The BS in elementary education at ULM supports educators’ career development goals. The program offers opportunities to investigate teaching methodology, strengthen curriculum, and refine classroom management skills through field experiences.

Transfer students interested in completing their elementary education degree through ULM may apply some credits toward the degree requirements in courses where they have maintained a minimum 2.00 GPA.

Coursework in the online elementary education program covers topics such as assessment, educational psychology, and behavioral support for disabled students. The program concludes with a classroom teaching residency supervised by experienced professionals.

Applying to ULM

Interested students must submit an online application and official transcripts. Some students may need to submit additional documents, such as SAT/ACT test scores. ULM offers sessions starting in the spring, summer, and fall.

• Tuition: $400/credit

BS in Elementary Education (Grades 1-5) | BS in Secondary Education and Teaching: Biology Education (Grades 6-12) | BS in Secondary Education and Teaching: Chemistry Education (Grades 6-12) | BS in Secondary Education and Teaching: English Education (Grades 6-12) | BS in Secondary Education and Teaching: French Education (Grades 6-12) | BS in Secondary Education and Teaching: Social Studies Education (Grades 6-12) | BS in Secondary Education and Teaching: Spanish Education (Grades K-12)

7. Regis University

Private university in Denver, CO, accredited by HLC

As the only Jesuit Catholic university in the Rocky Mountains, Regis University prioritizes its role in the local community. The school offers opportunities for students and neighbors to work together on collaborative projects.

Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education

The elementary education program at Regis challenges its students to confront the complex issues of illiteracy, underserved community needs, and the effect of education on job security. With a goal of supporting educators in making a positive impact, the elementary education program fulfills bachelor’s degree and initial teacher licensure requirements at an accelerated pace.

Enrollees may pursue a dual endorsement in elementary and special education. To accommodate working professionals, the school offers classes online or on campus in evening, weekend, and summer sessions until the final teaching practicum begins.

Applying to Regis

Prospective students must submit an online application, official transcripts, a resume, and a teacher candidate interview. Interested students can contact an admissions counselor to begin the process. Regis offers rolling admissions with start dates throughout the year.

• Tuition: $475/credit
• Delivery Format: 100% online or on campus

BA in Elementary Education | BA in Secondary Education

8. University of Nebraska Kearney

Public university in Kearney, NE, accredited by HLC and CAEP

The University of Nebraska Kearney is home to Louie the Loper, a mythic American antelope representing the adaptability and might of its students. UNK has been training students to become educators since its foundation in the early 1900s.

Online Early Childhood Inclusive Bachelor of Arts in Education

The UNK online early childhood bachelor’s offers students a wealth of field experience opportunities in classroom settings. Through courses on assessment and intervention, education students practice screening and monitoring methods with the support of experienced educators.

Working in various classroom settings, learners gain valuable experience with students of a variety of ages and developmental stages. This degree prepares students to teach in special education classrooms with children up to five years old, or teach nondisabled children up to eight years old.

Applying to UNK

Prospective first-year students must submit an online application, SAT/ACT test scores, and a high school transcript. Transfer students must have graduated from an accredited high school and hold a minimum 2.00 GPA in all previous coursework.

• Tuition: $259/credit (in state); $396/credit (out of state)

BA in Education, Elementary Education Teaching Field Endorsement | BA in Education, Middle Level 5-9 Teaching Subject Endorsement | BS in Education, Middle Level 5-9 Teaching Subject Endorsement | BA in Education, Special Education K-12 Teaching Field Endorsement | BA in Education, Special Education K-6 Teaching Subject Endorsement | BA in Education, Special Education 7-12 Teaching Subject Endorsement, BA

9. North Carolina Central University

Public university in Durham, NC, accredited by SACSCOC and CAEP

Founded by businessman Dr. James E. Shepard in 1910, NCCU began at the peak of Black Wall Street’s success. In 1923 NCCU became the country’s first public liberal arts college for Black students.

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, Birth-Kindergarten

Enrollees pursuing the early childhood education birth-kindergarten bachelor’s degree at NCCU complete preparatory work in curriculum development, adapting classroom environments, and family engagement. This degree equips students with the skills to support nondisabled children and at-risk or disabled children.

The program concludes with a senior seminar incorporating foundational theories into work with children and families in a classroom setting under the direction of experienced teachers.

Delivered by the same expert faculty members as on-campus courses, the online early childhood education program offers a variety of career-driven services, including internships and networking opportunities.

Applying to NCCU

Interested students must submit admissions packets by May 1 for summer term, July 15 to begin in the fall, or November 15 for spring admission. In addition to submitting an online application and high school transcripts, prospective students must hold a satisfactory GPA and meet UNC admission requirements. SAT/ACT test scores are currently optional.

• Tuition: $184/credit (in state); $584/credit (out of state)

BA in Elementary Education | BA in Middle Grades Education | BS in Early Childhood Education | BS in Early Childhood Education (2nd Degree)

10. University of North Carolina Wilmington

Public university in Wilmington, NC, accredited by SACSCOC and CAEP

The University of North Carolina Wilmington welcomed its first class of students in 1947. UNCW was founded by a group of community leaders to bring more academic opportunities to southeast North Carolina.

Elementary Education Distance Learning Program

UNCW partners with Watson College of Education, Coastal Carolina Community College (CCCC), the local public school system, and nearby military installations to offer opportunities for networking and field practice. Education majors at UNCW gain experience by tutoring students at the CCCC education laboratory, building relationships with public school teachers through classroom practica.

Students in the elementary education distance learning program can specialize in tracks such as behavioral studies, language arts, science and health, math and technology, and social studies.

Applying to UNCW

Prospective first-year students must submit an online application, high school transcripts, and a personal essay. The admissions committee considers applicants’ class standing, GPA, coursework, and extracurricular activities. SAT/ACT test scores are optional.

For entry into the Watson College of Education, students must apply in their sophomore or junior year and complete prerequisite classes.

• Tuition: $4,400/year (in state); $18,508/year (out of state)

Education of Young Children | Elementary Education | Middle Grades Education | Secondary Education | Special Education | Physical Education and Health | Music Education | World Language Teacher Education

11. University of Missouri

Public university in Columbia, MO, accredited by HLC

As one of four schools in the UM system, Mizzou is part of a collaborative alliance offering over 260 programs. With traditions like the “tiger walk” and “tiger prowl,” where Mizzou students ceremonially walk through the columns on campus at the beginning and end of their college careers, the school promotes an environment of community and connectivity.

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education in a Mobile Society

Ideal for long-distance students with a mobile lifestyle, the fully online BS in human development and family science provides training applicable to classrooms in civilian and military environments.

As a member of the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance, Mizzou offers opportunities to learn with expert instructors from partner universities.

Mizzou education students complete rigorous coursework covering topics such as child development, curriculum development, and assessment of young children. The program includes three in-classroom practicum assignments.

Applying to Mizzou

Prospective students complete prerequisite high school courses and achieve minimum SAT/ACT scores. For Fall 2021, students can submit a personal statement and resume in lieu of test scores.

• Tuition: $306/credit (in state); $920/credit (out of state)

Bachelor of Educational Studies

12. Eastern New Mexico University

Public university in Portales, NM, accredited by HLC

Known for its affordability and personal touch, ENMU is a premier regional college in New Mexico with over 3,900 undergraduate and 1,300 graduate students. ENMU encourages its students to “explore, experience, and excel” as learners and beyond.

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education with Emphasis in Birth through Pre-K (Non-Licensure)

The BS program in early childhood education prepares students to pursue careers in home daycare, private preschools, and early intervention. Students who hold an associate degree or transfer coursework covering all 100- and 200-level requirements may complete the program entirely online in an asynchronous format.

Students complete nine credits of practicum work featuring active observation of childhood development and successful family support systems. On-campus students may also visit the Child Development Center Laboratory School to observe children in an educational environment.

Enrollees interested in pursuing the early childhood education non-licensure degree must complete all lower level coursework or hold an associate degree in early childhood education.

Applying to ENMU

Prospective students must submit an online application, high school transcripts or a GED certificate, a completed FAFSA, the ENMU scholarship application, and ACT/SAT test scores.

• Tuition: $2,037/semester (in state); $3,057/semester (out of state)
• Delivery Format: Hybrid

BS in Early Childhood Education with an Emphasis in Birth-Pre-K (Licensure) | BS in Early Childhood Education with PreK-Grade 3 (Licensure) | BS in Early Childhood Education with an Emphasis in Family, Infant, and Toddler Studies (Non-Licensure)

13. University of Illinois Springfield

Public university in Springfield, IL, accredited by HLC

Founded in 1969 as Sangamon State University in southeast Springfield, UIS now serves over 4200 students. Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as among the best Midwest public regional universities for over 13 years, UIS celebrates diversity and excellence in online education.

Online Teacher Education

UIS students pursuing an education degree through the Department of Teacher Education may study on campus or online in a cohort. Online learners interact with their cohort several times each semester during weekend conferences. The school offers many virtual student life opportunities, including virtual meetings, gaming events, and films.

Learners pursuing a degree in middle grades education or secondary teacher licensure specialize in a content area such as math, science, social science, or English. Through an internship and a corresponding seminar course, students explore child development and literacy methods for content delivery.

Applying to UIS

Prospective students must submit high school transcripts, an online application, and ACT/SAT scores. The admissions committee may also request a personal statement on a case-by-case basis.

For admission into the Teacher Education Program, students must submit an application and evidence of a minimum 2.50 GPA in all college coursework.

• Tuition: $289/credit (in state, on campus), $604/credit (out of state, on campus); $362/credit (online)
• Delivery Format: On campus or online with some in-person requirements

Elementary Education | Elementary Teacher Licensure

14. Liberty University

Private university in Lynchburg, VA, accredited by SACSCOC and CAEP

Founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell, Liberty serves over 100,000 enrolled students, including 30,000 members of the military. The school offers over 700 academic programs and emphasizes holistic evangelical Christian education.

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education

Ideal for working professionals, the online BS in early childhood education offers an asynchronous format and eight-week terms. Students can complete the program in 3.5 years.

Coursework covers topics such as childhood development, curriculum adaptation, learning styles, and classroom leadership methods. Learners may also gain hands-on teaching experience with an optional in-person classroom practicum near their home.

Upon graduation, students may work in a non-licensed capacity and continue their studies with a licensure program.

Applying to Liberty

Interested students must submit an online application, a high school certification form and official transcript, and a completed FAFSA.

• Tuition: $390/credit
• Program Length: 3.5 years

Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education | Bachelor of Education in Middle Education | Bachelor of Education in Special Education | BS in Elementary Education Interdisciplinary Studies | BS in Special Education Interdisciplinary Studies

15. Kansas State University

Public university in Manhattan, KS, accredited by HLC and CAEP

Founded in 1863, Kansas State University continues to uphold its mission of supporting high-quality instruction and research to advance society on local and global levels.

Elementary Education Bachelor’s Degree

Recognized for its cutting-edge collaborative elementary education program, the K-State College of Education received a national award from the Association of Teacher Educators.

Learners pursuing the online degree in elementary education may specialize in areas such as communications, humanities, and quantitative studies. At K-State, students participate in new classroom management techniques and use technology to broaden the scope of elementary education.

Students can implement their knowledge through field experience in the classroom, where their work is monitored and assessed by instructors through video recordings. K-State elementary education graduates are eligible to apply for initial K-6 teaching licensure upon completion of the program.

Applying to K-State

Competitive applicants must hold a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.25, or a 21 ACT score/1060 SAT score and a minimum high school GPA of 2.0. K-State offers three start dates throughout the year.

• Tuition: $383/credit

Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Degree | Educational Studies Bachelor’s Degree

What To Expect From Bachelor’s Degrees in Teaching

Most bachelor’s degrees require four years of full-time study, though many online bachelor’s degrees in education offer accelerated paths to graduation. Online education programs may deliver courses synchronously (live), asynchronously (pre-recorded), or through a combination of both methods.

The typical online bachelor’s degree in education requires 120 semester credits. Programs leading to teaching certification usually require a practicum and student teaching experience, which requires students to earn field hours in the classroom of a local school.

Admission Requirements

Many schools include common requirements for admission into a bachelor’s degree in education. A bachelor’s degree in teaching generally requires applicants to be at least 18 years old and pass a criminal background check for the student teaching requirements in their state.

Most schools evaluate applicants for the online bachelor’s in education based on their academic transcripts. Schools routinely require SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate admission. Some programs require a resume, personal statement, or letters of recommendation.

Many colleges and universities use the Common App , which allows students to use a single application platform for multiple schools.

Degree and Concentration Options

Schools commonly offer BA or BS degrees in education with specializations geared toward various subjects and grade levels. Some schools also offer bachelor of education (B.Ed.) degrees.

An online bachelor’s in education enables learners to complete core courses online and still satisfy in-person student teaching credits locally.

While the BA and BS typically offer some of the same concentrations, BAs emphasize liberal arts coursework, while BS degrees require more rigorous math- and science-related classes. B.Ed. programs may focus more on the technical aspects of teaching, offering courses in instructional design and pedagogy.

Most students choose an education degree based on their preferred teaching subject or grade level, with states awarding corresponding certification in these areas. Students can earn a general education degree to teach multiple subjects in a particular grade level, or pursue a specialized subject. For example, programs may offer specializations in music, ESL, or gifted and talented learning.

Some states offer alternative paths to licensure. Students who did not pursue a bachelor’s in education can often complete a standalone teacher preparation program to meet state certification requirements.

Popular Education Courses

An online bachelor’s degree in education typically requires general education, pedagogy, and core content coursework. Additionally, online education degrees require student teaching experience. Many programs culminate in a student teaching seminar, though some require a separate capstone project. Some education degrees incorporate additional practica or clinical requirements. The following list includes common general education and pedagogy courses:

Popular Courses Collapse All Expand All

Integrated language arts, learning theory and development, classroom environment and management, field experience, how much will a bachelor’s in education cost.

Several critical factors affect the cost of an online education degree. Tuition varies based on whether a school is private or public, in state or out of state, and in person or online. Typically, in-state public schools offer the lowest tuition, and online learners may qualify for these prices regardless of their home state.

Most students complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for financial aid. This application can reduce how much a bachelor of education online costs by connecting learners to grants and scholarships, which do not need to be repaid. The FAFSA can also qualify applicants for federal student loans, which come with lower interest rates than private loans. Future teachers should also investigate loan forgiveness options, as some school districts partner with local governments to eliminate student debt in exchange for several years of teaching.

Follow the links below to learn more:

Jobs for Bachelor’s in Education Graduates

The projected job growth for educators correlates with a projected rise in school enrollment over the next decade, especially among kindergarten and elementary school students. Students with only an associate degree may qualify for preschool teaching positions. Master’s graduates can pursue specialized jobs, like instructional coordinator.

Teachers generally require a bachelor’s degree and certification to teach in public schools. Among kindergarten through secondary teaching occupations, high school teachers and special educators rank as top earners, as shown below.

Jobs for Bachelor’s in Education Graduates Collapse All Expand All

Kindergarten or elementary school teacher.

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers provide an education in basic subjects like math, reading, and science to children ages 5-12. Some states require elementary school teachers to earn certification in a specific content area, though most states award general certification for this age group. All 50 states require public school teachers to hold licensure.

• Required Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Job Outlook (2019-29): +4%
• Median Annual Salary: $59,420

Special Education Teacher

Special educators teach students with mental, physical, emotional, and learning disabilities. All states require special educators to hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and public schools require licensure. Some states require teachers to hold a special education degree, while others allow degrees in a specific age group, such as elementary or high school education, with a minor in special education.

• Job Outlook (2019-29): +3%
• Median Annual Salary: $61,030

Middle School Teacher

Middle school teachers educate students in grades 6-8, building on an elementary school education and preparing students for high school. Most states require middle school teachers to specialize in a teaching subject such as science or math, while others allow a more general focus in elementary education. Middle school teachers must hold state licensure to work in public schools.

• Median Annual Salary: $59,660

High School Teacher

High school teachers educate students in grades 9-12. These teachers help prepare students academically and developmentally for college or the job market. Most high school teachers specialize in a particular content area such as science, history, or math. Public high school teachers must hold teaching certification in their state.

• Median Annual Salary: $61,660

Choosing the Right General Education Degree

Rankings offer a good starting point for finding the best bachelor’s degree in education , but many other factors — including accreditation — should affect the school selection process. Schools may earn national or regional accreditation, which demonstrates that a school meets standards of academic excellence. Regional accreditation is more rigorous, carries more prestige, and is required for students to qualify for federal aid.

Some online bachelor’s in education also earn programmatic accreditation from an agency such as the Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Preparation . Programmatic accreditation ensures that a degree prepares students for careers in their field.

Aside from accreditation, the following factors are some of the most common considerations for education degrees:

Concentrations/Specializations

Education majors must consider programs with coursework that aligns with the content area or teaching age they want to focus on.

Future Education Opportunities

Some schools offer accelerated or dual degrees for students looking to pursue a master’s or a specialized education program.

Cost/Financial Aid

Pursuing online or in-state programs can help lower the total cost of completing a bachelor’s degree in education.

If you attend a school in one state but intend to find work in another, ensure the degree would help you meet requirements for teaching licensure in other states.

Career Services

Many schools offer placement services for students completing a practicum or student teaching experience. Others may offer resume workshops and mock interviews.

Why You Should Get Your Bachelor’s Degree in Education Online

Many education degrees are offered in person and online. Distance programs continue their trend of upward growth , even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. An online bachelor’s in education enables learners to complete core courses online and still satisfy in-person student teaching credits locally. Distance learners also eliminate the unnecessary costs of commuting, housing, and campus amenities.

Online programs may also familiarize students with the latest learning and assistive technologies. Though especially suited to majors in curriculum and instruction, education technology, and adaptive learning, online programs can benefit all students, regardless of specialization.

Many online education students enjoy accelerated schedules, in-state tuition rates, and flexible enrollment formats. These distance learning programs are ideal for students with career and family obligations; moreover, time management and self-sufficiency are key to successfully completing an online education degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i get an education degree online, what can i do with a degree in education, what degree do you need to be a teacher, what types of teaching degrees are there, recommended reading, directory of accredited online bachelor’s degrees in education programs.

Transform your dreams of becoming a teacher into reality with the right online program.

Explore schools offering specialized courses that match your interests, and start your journey today.

Best Online Education Degrees

TBS Staff Writers

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated April 25, 2024

Reviewed by

TBS Rankings Team

Contributing Reviewer

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Online Bachelors Degree in Education

An online bachelor's degree in education prepares students for teaching roles in public and private K-12 settings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for high school teachers to grow 1% between 2022 and 2032, amounting to approximately 67,000 new jobs. High school teachers made a median annual salary of $62,360, and the top 10% of earners made more than $101,710 during the same timeframe.

This guide ranks the best online bachelor's in education programs to help students find the right programs for their needs. We also cover important information for prospective students, including common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.

Featured Online Bachelor's Teaching Degrees

The Best Online Education Degree Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

#1 Best Online Education Degrees

University of Missouri

• Columbia, MO
• Online + Campus

The University of Missouri enrolls distance learners in 58 programs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can choose from 14 online bachelor's degree programs. From its campus in Columbia, the school offers an online bachelor's degree in early childhood education in a mobile society. The education program offers flexible study options, where students can pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.

Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing education-specific coursework. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can individualize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.

After earning their degree, graduates often benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $42,700 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Undergraduate students at the college can expect to pay $15,850 in tuition and fees yearly. Students can meet with the education department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.

University of Missouri at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 9,722

Total Online Programs: 58

Online Bachelor's Programs: 14

Admission Rate: 81%

#2 Best Online Education Degrees

Prescott College

• Prescott, AZ

Prescott College is a private, nonprofit, four-year institution providing competitive study across 18 bachelor's degree programs. The private college supports 14 online bachelor's programs from its main campus in Prescott, Arizona. The BA in education provides a premier academic experience.

The education program balances rigor with flexibility. Learners seeking to modify their studies can work with their academic advisor. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.

Undergraduate tuition at the institution is $30,888. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited school.

Prescott College at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 649

Total Online Programs: 52

Admission Rate: 97%

#3 Best Online Education Degrees

Kansas State University

• Manhattan, KS

Kansas State University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 73 online degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 13 online bachelor's programs. Learners seeking competitive, customizable study relevant to the education field will find the school's online bachelor's in educational studies to be an attractive option. Working professionals and busy students often benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.

Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining additional knowledge. Enrollees can modify their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.

Graduates often grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $41,400 six years after completing their degree. Though educational costs vary, education students can expect to pay an average of $18,103 in tuition and fees. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the education department.

Kansas State University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 5,850

Total Online Programs: 73

Online Bachelor's Programs: 13

Admission Rate: 95%

#4 Best Online Education Degrees

Biola University

• La Mirada, CA

Biola University supports 2,206 distance learners across 14 fully online programs. Undergraduates choose from five online bachelor's programs at the private, nonprofit, four-year school. Students looking to advance in the education field will find the school's BS in early education to be an attractive option. This program offers customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.

Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge during general and advanced classes. These classes incorporate general and advanced knowledge applicable to the education field. While enrolled, learners can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and degree concentrations.

Graduates often greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $38,700 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.

Biola University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 2,206

Total Online Programs: 14

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Admission Rate: 70%

#5 Best Online Education Degrees

North Greenville University

• Tigerville, SC

Learners seeking advanced online study should consider one of North Greenville University's 18 online programs. Undergraduate students seeking flexible, remote study can choose from one of seven online bachelor's programs. From its campus in Tigerville, South Carolina, the school offers an online bachelor's in elementary education program. Working professionals and busy students often benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.

Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. With assistance from their academic advisor, enrollees can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.

A bachelor's degree often connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $27,800 six years after completing their degree. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.

North Greenville University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 396

Total Online Programs: 18

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Admission Rate: 63%

Online Bachelor's in Education Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked the following online bachelor of education programs based on quality, curricula, faculty strength, school awards, rankings, and reputation, including the school's reputation for providing online degree programs.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools  cannot buy better rankings  at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

• Affordability
• Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System  (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's  National Center for Education Statistics  (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the  College Navigator .

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from  AcademicInfluence.com , subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About our ranking factors.

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

• Collapse All

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%, online enrollment - 10%.

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through  contact page .

We thank you for your readership and trust.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Education Program?

Students pursuing an online bachelor's in education develop knowledge and skills in lesson planning and classroom management. They also learn how to work with exceptional students, support diverse classrooms, and develop innovative instructional methods.

Many bachelor's in education programs offer concentrations in areas like elementary education, secondary education, special education, and science education. Students should ensure their prospective programs offer concentrations aligned with their goals and interests.

Choosing an Online Bachelor's Degree in Education

When researching online education degree programs , students should consider several factors, such as program cost, transfer policies, and on-campus requirements. We cover several important considerations for prospective students below.

• Program Cost: Typically, public schools cost less than private schools, and in-state students pay less than out-of-state students. However, many schools allow all online students to pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
• Transfer Policies: Many schools offer transfer credit for prior academic, professional, and military experience, which often saves time and money on a degree.
• School Size and Type: A school's size and type can affect factors like class sizes, tuition rates, and student engagement. For example, a small, private school may have higher tuition rates but also offer more one-on-one attention from faculty than a larger public school.
• Program Length: Most programs take four years of full-time study to complete, but some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to graduate in 2-3 years.
• On-Campus Requirements: Many bachelor's in education programs exist completely online, while others require learners to visit campus for in-person components. Students should ensure they can meet all on-campus requirements before committing to a program.
• Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Nearly all bachelor's in education programs require a student-teaching practicum. Students should choose a program with practicum opportunities aligned with their interests and goals.

Bachelor's in Education Curriculum

• Child Development: Child development classes examine the principles of human growth and development and how they affect learning. The curriculum focuses on development from conception through adolescence, exploring aspects of cognitive, emotional, physical, and social development.
• Literacy: This course teaches students how to provide literacy instruction across grade levels. Students learn about developmental processes associated with literacy and reading while building knowledge and skills in effective instruction methods.
• Subject-Specific Curricula: Subject-specific courses prepare students to instruct a particular subject, such as math, English, or social studies. These classes vary based on the student's intended content area.
• Theories of Learning: This class examines the various theories and methodologies related to different learning modalities. Students learn when to use different methods and how to determine what strategy is best for a particular class or pupil.
• Instructional Methods: This course explores teaching and assessment methods, teaching students how to make informed decisions about leading their classrooms and educating pupils.

Bachelor's in Education Licensing and Certification

All states require teachers in K-12 public schools to hold licensure. Licensure requirements vary by state, but all states require a minimum number of student-teaching hours under the supervision of a licensed teacher. Students in a bachelor's in education program usually complete around one semester's worth of student-teaching, gaining practical experience in the field.

Licensure candidates must also pass exams. Exam requirements vary by state, but the Praxis exam and the edTPA are common requirements. Depending on grade level and intended content area, some prospective teachers may also need to pass skills tests or subject area exams.

If a teacher receives licensure in one state but wants to move to a different one, they must meet all of the new state's licensure requirements. Many boards of education provide state reciprocity — making it easier and faster for educators to earn licensure in a new state — but not all, so it's best to check with your local state board.

Teaching Jobs

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in education can pursue teaching jobs in public and private schools. They can work as elementary, middle, and high school teachers. With further study through a master's degree, graduates can also assume administrative education roles. Doctoral graduates can pursue research and faculty positions at colleges and universities.

Elementary School Teachers

Elementary educators typically work with K-6 students, ensuring they understand the fundamentals of basic subjects before moving to middle school. These teachers create and deliver lesson plans, teach students how to interact with their peers, provide evaluations, and communicate with parents and guardians about their child's progress. Elementary teachers need at least a bachelor's degree. Those who want to work in public schools also need licensure.

High School Teachers

High school teachers instruct 9-12-grade students. They provide instruction in specific content areas, administer assignments and grades, and help learners prepare for standardized tests. They may also write letters of recommendation for students applying to college. Like elementary school teachers, high school educators need a bachelor's degree at minimum. They also need a teaching license if they work in a public school.

Middle School Teachers

Middle school teachers typically work with students in grades 6-8. They create lesson plans, collaborate with other teachers and administrators on issues around student success, prepare learners for standardized tests, and communicate with parents. Middle school educators need at least a bachelor's degree. They also need a license when teaching in a public school.

Accreditation for Online Bachelor's in Education Degrees

Students should only consider accredited schools. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Only students at accredited schools can receive federal financial aid, and many schools only accept transfer credits and degrees from accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with an accredited degree.

Schools may receive regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions, while national accreditation applies to for-profit, vocational, and technical schools. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two.

Programs within a school, such as business, social work, and education programs, may also receive accreditation. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accredits teaching programs. Students can verify a school's accreditation status through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation .

Popular Questions About Education Degrees

How long does it take to earn a bachelor's degree in education.

A bachelor's degree in education typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.

Is It a BA or a BS in Education?

Students can earn a BA or a BS in education. BA programs focus more on liberal arts, while BS programs focus more on the sciences.

What Bachelor's Degree Should I Get to Become a Teacher?

Students interested in liberal arts topics should choose a BA program, while learners interested in STEM topics should select a BS program.

How Much Is a Bachelor's Degree in Education?

The cost of a bachelor's degree in education depends on several factors, such as type of school, residency requirements, and transfer policies.

Can I Teach Without a Teaching Degree?

Many states provide alternative paths to teaching certification for individuals with a bachelor's degree in an unrelated subject.

Can You Become a Teacher With an Online Degree?

Yes, as long as the degree comes from an accredited school.

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Education Bachelor’s Degrees

Why choose one of liberty university’s online education degrees at the bachelor’s level.

Children need strong role models who can help shape them into responsible citizens. You can be that mentor for the youth in your community with an online bachelor’s in education degree from Liberty University. Our School of Education is committed to providing the highest quality training for educators based on leading research and biblical principles. Partner with us and make a positive impact on the students in your community. 

Our 100% online* bachelor’s programs in education enable you to earn your degree from the comfort of your own home or office at times that are convenient for you. Explore our online bachelor’s of education degree programs to find the best fit for your career goals. Apply online today or call an admissions counselor at (800) 424-9595 .

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

Can you go to school online to be a teacher?

Yes – if you want to become a teacher, then Liberty University’s bachelor’s in education degrees can help you get there. 

If you want to meet all the requirements for teacher licensure with a bachelor’s program, then consider one of our BEd degrees online. These programs are designed to help you fulfill all licensure requirements. This includes core content as well as practical application during student teaching.

If you want to gain an education foundation that can lead to a master’s program, consider a BS in Education program. These degrees are designed to give you all the foundational knowledge you need to work in the field of education. However, this program does not meet state licensure requirements. Upon graduation, you will need to pursue a program like our Master of Arts in Teaching if you are still interested in licensure.

Are online education degrees respected?

Your degree will be respected if you are attending a reputable institution with appropriate accreditation. Whether or not your program is online is irrelevant to most employers, but it could make all the difference in your experience as a student.

All of our School of Education initial and advanced licensure programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation ( CAEP ) . This means you can be confident that you’re receiving an education of the highest quality.

Additionally, our BEd online requires you to complete student teaching at a school near you. This gives you real classroom experience in a location that is convenient to you. All of your other courses are completed online when it is convenient for you.

What is the best online college for a teaching degree?

The best online college will depend on your needs as a student. While there may be other online education programs available, we believe Liberty’s education degrees stand out. Here’s why:

• All of our School of Education initial and advanced licensure programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation ( CAEP ) .
• We are dedicated to our mission of Training Champions for Christ . This means all your coursework is taught from a Christian perspective so you can become an educator of integrity.
• All of your courses can be completed 100% online, and your student teaching can be completed at a school near you.

Teach Critical Skills with One of Liberty’s Online Education Degrees

Bachelor of education (b.ed.) degrees.

Fulfill all initial licensure requirements approved by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

• Business Education (6-12)
• Elementary Education
• English as a Second Language (ESL)
• English Education (6-12)
• Mathematics Education (6-12)
• Middle Education
• Physics Education (6-12)
• Physics Education – Earth Science (6-12)
• Social Studies Education (6-12)

Upon successful completion of Liberty University’s Virginia state-approved Bachelor of Education program, you may apply for your teaching license in another state through reciprocity, which may or may not result in additional requirements based on your state’s Department of Education   regulations .

Bachelor of Science (BS) Education Degrees 

Gain foundational knowledge and experience that can prepare you for a licensure-track master’s degree.

• BS in Early Childhood Education Interdisciplinary Studies
• BS in Elementary Education Interdisciplinary Studies
• BS in Special Education Interdisciplinary Studies

Highlights of Liberty University’s Online Teaching Degrees 

• 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 BS in Education or B.Ed. online from a nonprofit university, with this kind of recognition, can help set you apart from others in your field.
• Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.
• To continue our mission of providing affordable education, electronic textbooks are provided for all undergraduate courses at no cost to you. As a full-time student, this could save you an estimated $800-2,000 per year on textbooks!
• Our BS in Education and B.Ed. degrees are offered in 8-week course formats, with 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times.

Military Benefits for Our Online Education Bachelor’s Degrees

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe. Whether you are a current service member, discharged or retired from service, or the spouse of a service member or veteran, we are here to support you every step of the journey.

As a thank-you for your dedication and service to our country, Liberty is honored to serve and support you in your pursuit of online education by offering the following benefits: 

• Tuition discounts – $250 per credit hour for undergraduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a  First Responder  (less than $565 per course) 
• Potential college credit for military training
• 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)
• Undergraduate military tuition rates have not increased in over 10 years

Almost there! How may we contact you?

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Disclaimer: This calculator is a tool that provides a rough estimate of the total cost of tuition, and should not be relied upon to determine overall costs, as pricing may vary by program and tuition/fees are subject to change. Estimates are not final or binding, and do not include potential financial aid eligibility.

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You have to have a lot of self-motivation and self-discipline when you are going to school online, but the amazing thing is at Liberty you do not need to do it by yourself. You really do have resources like someone who is going to school on campus.

– Janae Fleming ’15, B.S. in Education

Academic Programs

• BA in Education
• Education Minors
• Master of Education (MEd) in Elementary Education
• MEd Secondary Education 5-12 Certification in the Sciences or Mathematics
• Master of Education for Practicing Educators
• Educational Administration Program

Advanced Programs

• Educational Specialist in School Psychology (EdS)
• Educational Leadership (Ed.D.)
• Endorsement offerings for practicing educators
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Bachelor of Arts in Education

Main content.

Great teachers come from a wide variety of backgrounds and undergraduate degree paths. Whether you’ve been envisioning this career for years or just starting to imagine yourself as a teacher, the School of Education at UW Tacoma is here to provide you with the pathways to begin a rewarding career!

Washington State needs qualified teachers. We especially need teachers who reflect the growing diversity of students in our classrooms. Competitive starting salaries with local districts average $65,000 with added financial incentives of $6,000-$10,000 for completing your master’s degree.

Our Teacher Credential Programs:

• Focus on the whole child: academic and socio-emotional well-being
• Emphasize equity and inclusion pedagogies always
• Promote family/community and school partnerships for learning
• Develop ethical advocates for diverse children, youth and families

Teacher Credential Program Benefits:

• Supportive faculty and staff
• Strong mentorship
• Multiple endorsement options
• High need or shortage area credentials
• Strong reputation with school districts

About the degree

The Bachelor of Arts in Education focuses on preparing ethical and reflective educators who transform learning, contribute to the community, exemplify professionalism, and promote diversity and justice in K-12 education. The program of study includes coursework and fieldwork in partner K-12 districts to merge cutting-edge research and theory with practice. Unique aspects of this program are the explicit integration of anti-racist, decolonizing, equity-centric, and inclusive pedagogies and practices, as well as partnering with communities, families/guardians, and school personnel to support a culturally responsive, holistic, and rigorous education for diverse learners.

This program will prepare students to be recommended for Washington State Residency Teacher Certification in Elementary Education Endorsement and a required choice of a concentration in a high- demand area, a second endorsement, in either Special Education or Teaching English Language Learners. Successful completion of all program and state requirements will prepare students to begin a career as a classroom teacher upon graduation.

UW Tacoma’s School of Education prepares you to enter the teaching profession ready to support students with a wide range of special needs, exceptionalities and learning differences in both special education and general education inclusion settings. We train teachers in specially designed instruction and research-based inclusion strategies to meet the multiple learning and social-emotional needs of diverse children and youth.

We prepare you to support English language learners across language proficiency levels in all content areas. The School of Education trains teachers for this diverse and fast-growing, high-need population by focusing on language growth, dual-language maintenance, academic development and socio-emotional well-being. We provide culturally/linguistically responsive and research-based curriculum and instruction in both coursework and field placements.

How to apply

Applications are currently being accepted..

Application deadlines are:

If you are NOT CURRENTLY a UW Tacoma student, you must first apply for admission to UW Tacoma.

CURRENT UW TACOMA students may complete the BA in Education Application

International Students are ineligible for the BA in Education Program

Questions? Contact Us:

Email:   [email protected]

Call:   (253) 692-4430

Visit: West Coast Grocery 324 (M-F 9am - 5pm)

Admissions Requirements

Admission to the BA in Education program may be declared if following requirements are met:

• at least  45 credits of completed college coursework

The following prerequisite courses each with minimum grade of 2.0:

• Introduction to Psychology
• Introduction to Ethnic/Gender Studies
• Education Service Learning (direct service to individuals)
• One college-level English Composition course

*Please see your advisor for additional program requirements or for questions.

  Book  Appointment Here:

Informational Sessions  

PROGRAM PLANS

BA_SPED_Program Plan_2023-2024.pdf

BA_ELL_Program Plan_2023-2024.pdf

• TPSYCH 101 Introduction to Psychology (5) I&S

Ethnic Studies Introduction (choose 1)

• T EGL 101 Introduction to Ethnic, Gender, and Labor Studies (2) I&S, DIV
• T EGL 112 Introduction to Indigenous Studies (5) VLPA, DIV
• T WOMN 101 Introduction to Women's Studies (5) I&S, DIV
• T EGL 266 Introduction to Labor Studies (5) SSc, DIV

Service Learning Focus (choose 1)

• T EDUC 290 Introduction to Teaching (5)
• T EDUC 292 Applied Urban Education (5) I&S
• T EDUC 301 Community Education: Learning Beyond the Classroom (5) I&S

English & Writing

• T CORE 101 Introduction to Academic Writing
• TWRT 120 Academic Writing
• TWRT 121 Academic Writing II

Mathematic Cognate

• T MATH 171 Mathematics for Teachers I: Number Systems and Algebraic Concepts (5) QSR
• T MATH 172 Mathematics for Teachers II: Statistics and Modeling (5) QSR
• T MATH 173 Mathematics for Teachers III: Geometry and Measurement (5) QSR

Science Cognate (choose 1)

• T CORE 102 Introduction to Science
• T EGL 304 Indigenous Ethnoecology
• T EGL 365 Indigenous Ethnobiology
• T BIOL 100 Introductory Biology
• T BIOL 102 Infectious Diseases in the 21st Century
• T BIOL 110 General Biology
• T BIOL 120 Introductory Biology I
• TESC 102 Aquatic Ecosystems in Urban Areas
• TESC 201 The Science of Environmental Sustainability
• TESC 345 Pollution and Public Policy
• T CHEM 131 Chemistry and Society
• T CHEM 142 General Chemistry I
• T PHYS 111 Introduction to Astronomy
• T PHYS 121 Physics-Mathematics
• ENVIR 100 Introduction to Environmental Science

Critical Humanities-Ethnic/Gender Literature (choose 1)

• TWRT 320 Rhetoric, Public Life and Civic Engagement
• TWRT 340 Asian American Rhetorics, Literacies, and Activism
• TWRT 388 Writing for Social Change
• T LIT 230 Multi-Ethnic Literature
• T LIT 320 African American Literature from Slavery to the Present
• T LIT 324 African American Women’s Literature
• T LIT 331 Immigrant and Ethnic Literature
• T LIT 332 Asian American Literature
• T LIT 335 Middle Eastern American Literature (5) A&H, DIV
• T LIT 388 Cross Cultural Studies in Contemporary Women’s Literature
• T LIT 431 Contemporary Native American Women’s Literature
• T LIT 432 American Indian Literature (5, max. 10) A&H
• T LIT 425 Literature of the Harlem Renaissance
• T LIT 476 American Women’s Literature 19th and 20th Century texts.
• T LAX 277 Latin American Literature (5) A&H
• T LIT 487 African Folklore and Literature (5) SSc
• T LAX 250 Latinos/as in the Media
• T LAX 267 Introduction to Chicano/a Literature (5) A&H, DIV
• T LAX 355 Migration and the Transnational Family in Latino Literature and Film
• T LAX 360 Latinx Performance Histories

Ethnic Studies/ Socio-Cultural (choose 1)

• T EGL 301 Introduction to Indigenous Women and Feminism
• T EGL 302 Tribal Critical Race Theory and Critical Race Theory
• T EGL 303 Introduction to American Indian Education
• T EGL 305 The American Indian Movement
• T EGL 306 Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific (5) SSc, DIV
• T EGL 340 Intersections: Race, Gender, and Sexuality in a Global Perspective
• T EGL 419 African-American Culture and Consciousness
• T EGL 380 Gender and Sexuality Across Cultural and Historical Contexts
• T EGL 310 Intersectional Feminisms
• T EGL 435 Migration in the Modern World: Migrants, Immigrants, and Refugees (5) SSc, DIV
• T HIST 416 Life and Thought: Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, and Angela Davis
• T HIST 440 Black Labor in America (5) SSc, DIV
• T HIST 441 Black Freedom Movement in Perspective
• T LAX 225 Latinx Cultural Expressions
• T LAX 238 Latinos in the United States
• T LAX 290 Latinx Social Movements
• T LAX 333 Latino Histories
• T LAX 356 Latinx Urban Communities
• T LAX 380 Latinx Sexualities
• T LAX 400 Afro-Hispanic Culture
• T LAX 410 Caribbean Basin: Selected Topics (5, max. 10) SSc
• T LAX 461 Contemporary Mexican Culture (5) A&H
• T SOC 265 Race and Ethnicity in the U.S.
• T SOC 270 Introduction to Asian American Sociological and Interdisciplinary Perspectives
• T SOC 434 Women, Race and Class: Identity and Intergroup Relations
• T WOMN 345 Women and Work in the United States
• T SOCWF 354 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (5) SSc

Psychology Cognate (choose 2) (1 must be a development course)

• T PSYCH 220 Lifespan Development
• T PSYCH 306 Community Psychology, Research, and Action
• T PSYCH 319 Child Development
• T PSYCH 320 The Race, Class, and Gender Contexts of Child Development
• T PSYCH 321 Adolescent Psychology
• T PSYCH 345 Stereotyping, Prejudice, and Discrimination
• T PSYCH 400 Psychology of Gender (5) SSc, DIV
• T PSYCH 407 The Cultural Context of Developmental Psychology
• T PSYCH 418 Lifespan Imaginative Play
• T PSYCH 455 Immigrant Youth and Families
• T PSYCH 461 Asian American Psychology
• TEDUC 402 Learning about Learning
• TEDUC 310 Race & Racism in Education
• TEDUC 471 Equity & Diversity in Schools and the Curriculum
• TEDUC 482 Foundations of Education: Policy, Ethics, & Philosophy

Spring (Year 3)

• TEDUC 410 Science Methods K-8
• TEDUC 449 Teaching & Learning in Inclusive Settings
• TEDUC 460 Mathematics Methods I
• TEDUC 474 Native American Education Narratives & Centering Tribal Sovereignty
• TEDUC 441 Reading Methods and Interventions
• TEDUC 448 Classroom Management for Equity & Justice
• TEDSP 448 Special Education Classroom Management for Equity & Justice
• TEDUC 461 Mathematics Methods II
• TEDUC 464 Methods & Curricula in ELL Literacy Instruction
• TEDUC 462 Social Studies Methods
• TEDUC 487 Field Experience
• TEDUC 490 Reflective Seminar: Essentials of Teaching Practice
• TEDUC 426 Arts in School
• TEDUC 488 Field Experience II
• TEDUC 463 Cultural & Linguistic Contexts for Instructing ELLs
• TEDSP 450 Special Education Principles & Practices I
• TEDUC 489 Field Experience III
• TEDUC 419 Linguistics for Teachers
• TEDUC 465 Research & Methods in Mathematics & Science Instruction for ELLs
• TEDUC 469 Testing & Evaluation for ELLs
• TEDSP 443 Math Methods & Interventions
• TEDSP 444 Special Education Assessment & Evaluation
• TEDSP 447 Special Education & the Law
• TEDSP 451 Special Education Principles & Practices II

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The Many Types of Education Degrees: How to Pick Your Path

Education degrees aren't just for classroom teachers.

Education Degrees: Picking Your Path

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Though some education degree programs focus on teacher training, others concentrate on education administration, policy or technology. Some education majors explore the unique challenges faced by rural or urban schools.

One common misconception about education degrees is that they're only useful for future classroom teachers.

However, education degrees can lead to all sorts of careers: They're often held by education administrators, policymakers, researchers, technologists, curriculum designers, learning scientists, school counselors or psychologists , standardized test-makers and textbook authors. Staffers at education-oriented government agencies at the local, state and federal level – such as the U.S. Department of Education – frequently have academic degrees in education as well, and the same is true for representatives of education-related charities and nonprofit organizations.

Here's what you need to know about the hierarchy of education degrees and how to choose the right one.

How to Tell if an Education Degree Is a Good Fit

An interest in helping others learn and a desire to work with children are common and compelling reasons for studying education, says Daniel A. Domenech, the executive director of AASA, The School Superintendents Association. Education majors tend to earn less than people who receive a comparable level of training in other fields, so a majority of people who become educators do so for non-financial reasons, he adds.

According to an August 2022 report from the Economic Policy Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank that analyzes working conditions for low-income and middle-income workers in the U.S., the pay disparity between teachers and similarly educated professionals reached an all-time high in 2021, when teachers received 23.5% lower wages on average relative to other workers with comparable credentials.

However, some education occupations typically lead to six-figure salaries. For example, the median salary among U.S. school district superintendents, the majority of whom have doctorates, was $147,000 in 2022, according to a recent report from AASA.

Laura W. Perna, vice provost for faculty at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education , says education degree recipients can use their degree to do good work and benefit society. "If we think about the important problems that need to be addressed in our world, you know, so much of the answer comes down to education," Perna says.

Stacey Ludwig Johnson, senior vice president and executive dean of the school of education at Western Governors University , an online university, emphasizes that schools and school districts aren't the only places where education degree recipients can use their skills. For instance, an educator can work as a corporate trainer, helping a business to increase the skills of its workforce, she says.

The Many Kinds of Education Majors

Among teaching degree programs, some focus on a particular level of education, such as preschool, elementary, middle or high school. Teaching degree programs may also hone in on how to teach a particular subject, or they can emphasize teaching methods that work well with a specific student population, such as adult learners, multi-lingual learners or individuals with disabilities.

When comparing education degree specializations, keep in mind that the earning potential of educators varies widely depending on which part of the education system they are trained for and what credential their job usually requires. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary among U.S. high school teachers, who typically had a bachelor's degree, was about $61,820 in May 2021. That's about twice the median salary of preschool teachers, who usually had an associate degree and earned $30,210. The median salary among principals, who usually had a master's degree, was $98,420.

Sometimes educators with the same level of education earn different amounts depending on their area of focus. For instance, BLS data reveals that though teachers who specialize in basic adult education generally had the same amount of training as high school teachers – a bachelor's degree – their 2021 median salary was roughly $2,100 lower.

Education Degree Levels and How to Find the Right Tier

Leadership roles in the education sector generally require graduate education . The more training educators have, the higher their salaries tend to be. For example, according to PayScale, a compensation data company, the average base salary for U.S. workers with a Bachelor of Education , or B.Ed. degree, was $57,000, whereas the average annual base salary among those with a Doctor of Education, or Ed.D. degree, was $80,000.

Prospective education students should analyze the resumes of people who have jobs they are interested in to figure out the highest level of education to pursue, experts say.

Associate Degrees

Many preschool teaching jobs require at least a two-year associate degree in early childhood education. Teachers' assistants or paraprofessionals usually need at least two years of college coursework or an associate degree to work in public school classrooms.

Bachelor's Degrees

A bachelor's is the minimum amount of education needed for an entry-level K-12 teaching position at a U.S. public school.

Master's Degrees

A few states require teachers to begin pursuing a master's degree within several years of beginning teaching to maintain their license. Teachers may also move up the pay scale with a master's. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 58% of U.S. public school teachers who taught during the 2017-18 school year had a more advanced degree than a bachelor's.

Instructional coordinators or curriculum specialists, the educational administrators who oversee curricula, standards, teaching materials and often assessments, usually have a master's, and their median salary was $63,740 in May 2021, BLS data shows.

College and university administrators, who earned a median annual salary of $96,910 in May 2021, also typically have master's degrees, according to the BLS. Work in education policy typically requires a master's degree as well.

Master's degrees in education usually require two years of coursework.

College faculty who research and teach about education typically have Doctor of Philosophy, or Ph.D., degrees, and they sometimes have Ed.D. degrees. According to PayScale, the average salary for a worker with a Ph.D. in education was $87,000. Doctoral programs in education usually last at least three years and often take longer to finish.

School district administration positions sometimes require doctoral education, and certain managerial roles at government agencies and nonprofit organizations are reserved for individuals with doctorates. Education researchers frequently have doctorates, and so do school psychologists.

Guidance on Figuring Out How Much Schooling You Need

When deciding how high of a degree they should aim for, education students should think about the level of expertise and the kinds of skills that their desired job requires, says Carol Basile, dean of Arizona State University's Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College . "As you continue to move up in any education organization, there begins to be more of a requirement for a doctorate," she says.

Searching for a grad school? Get our  complete rankings of Best Graduate Schools.

Grad Degree Jobs With $100K+ Salaries

Tags: education , education policy , education graduate school , teachers , careers , students

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This Florida university was just ranked among the nation’s best for online degrees

The University of Florida continued to receive high ratings for its online degree programs in a new ranking of the best programs in the country.

UF’s online bachelor degree program drew high marks, being named the nation’s second best of its kind in a ranking by U.S. News and World Report released Wednesday.

It was a drop from last year when the program earned the top honor. This year's top spot went to the University of Buffalo — SUNY.

More: How did Palm Beach County elementary and middle schools fare in 2023 Florida rankings?

UF also tied for second in a ranking of best online master’s degrees in education, alongside the University of Virginia. The top spot went to Clemson University, .

UF was the only Florida school to earn a Top 3 spot in U.S. News’ annual ranking of online degree programs.

The rankings evaluate schools’ online bachelor programs and seven different types of online master’s programs: MBAs, business, information technology, criminal justice, education, engineering and nursing.

U.S. News said in a news release that its rankings are compiled based on “factors such as faculty credentials and training, services and technologies available to students, student engagement and expert opinion on the academic quality of programs.”

Here are the top programs in each category. You can read the full rankings here .

2024 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs

BACHELOR'S PROGRAMS

1. University at Buffalo - SUNY

2. University of Florida

3. University of Illinois - Chicago

MASTER'S PROGRAMS

1. Indiana University - Bloomington

2. Carnegie Mellon University

3. University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (tie)

3. University of Southern California (tie)

3. University of Washington (tie)

Business, non-MBA

1. Carnegie Mellon University

2. University of Southern California

3. Arizona State University

Information Technology

1. Columbia University (tie)

1. Johns Hopkins University (tie)

3. Virginia Tech

Criminal Justice/Criminology

1. University of California - Irvine

2. University of New Haven

3. Boston University (tie)

3. Texas Christian University (tie)

3. University of Massachusetts - Lowell (tie)

1. Clemson University

2. University of Florida (tie)

2. University of Virginia (tie)

Engineering

1. University of California - Los Angeles

2. University of Illinois Urbana - Champaign

3. Pennsylvania State University (tie)

3. Purdue University - Main Campus (tie)

1. University of South Carolina

2. Indiana University-Purdue University - Indianapolis

3. Saint Xavier University

Andrew Marra is a reporter at The Palm Beach Post. Reach him at [email protected] .

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• Business Management – B.S. Business Administration
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• Marketing – B.S. Business Administration
• Accounting – B.S. Business Administration
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• Special Education and Elementary Education (Dual Licensure) – B.A.
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Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – B.S.

• Mathematics Education (Secondary)– B.S.

Science Education (Middle Grades) – B.S.

Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – B.S.

Science Education (Secondary Physics) – B.S.

• Science Education (Secondary Biological Sciences) – B.S.
• Science Education (Secondary Earth Science)– B.S.
• View all Education Degrees

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• View all Education Master's Degrees

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Educational Leadership – M.S.

Education Technology and Instructional Design – M.Ed.

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Teaching, English Education (Secondary) – M.A.

Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.

Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.

Teaching, Science Education (Secondary) – M.A.

• Teaching, Special Education (K-12) – M.A.

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• Mathematics Education (K-6) – M.A.
• Mathematics Education (Middle Grade) – M.A.

Mathematics Education (Secondary) – M.A.

• English Language Learning (PreK-12) – M.A.
• Endorsement Preparation Program, English Language Learning (PreK-12)

Science Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.

Science Education (Secondary Chemistry) – M.A.

Science Education (Secondary Physics) – M.A.

• Science Education (Secondary Biological Sciences) – M.A.
• Science Education (Secondary Earth Science)– M.A.
• View all Technology Bachelor's Degrees
• Cloud Computing – B.S.
• Computer Science – B.S.
• Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – B.S.
• Data Analytics – B.S.
• Information Technology – B.S.
• Network Engineering and Security – B.S.
• Software Engineering – B.S.
• Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor's and Master's Degree
• Information Technology Management – B.S. Business Administration (from the School of Business)
• View all Technology Master's Degrees
• Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – M.S.
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• View all Nursing Post-Master's Certificates
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WGU School of Education

Wgu teachers college, earn an education degree online, from home..

D'Lynn, M.S. Curriculum and Instruction grad

ONLINE TEACHING DEGREES

WGU's Teachers College Can Help You Prepare For Teacher Licensure In Any Of The 50 States

You have a calling—to help students get the most out of their education. Make sure you get the most out of yours. Earn a teaching degree for about half* what you’d pay at other online universities. Our student obsession means you get flexibility, affordability, quality, and personalized support.

Browse and compare our online teaching degree programs to find the best fit for your needs.

*WGU average annual bachelor’s tuition rates are 48% lower than the national average, compared to national rates reported by the  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems in 2022 . WGU average rate does not include rates for WGU Bachelor of Science, Nursing Prelicensure program.

RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE

The Teachers College at Western Governors University is granted accreditation for its initial and advanced licensure programs  from CAEP, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, 1140 19th St NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 223-0077. 

ACCREDITED AND RESPECTED

Initial licensure programs offered through the WGU Teachers College have been awarded full accreditation by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) through June 30, 2026.

WGU is a top conferrer of STEM degrees that is partnered with Beyond100K. WGU joins nonprofits, government agencies, companies, and foundations to combat challenges and prepare more teachers for STEM teaching positions nationwide.

Online Degree Options for Aspiring Teachers

An online teacher certification program for aspiring elementary teachers....

An online teacher certification program for aspiring elementary teachers.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching certification in your state.

• Time: 68% of students finish this degree within 36 months.
• Tuition:  $3,825 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 38 total courses in this program (39 for Washington residents)

Skills for your résumé included in this program:

• Elementary Reading Methods
• Language Arts Instruction
• Elementary Mathematics Methods
• Elementary Disciplinary Literacy
• Children’s Literature

This elementary education degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This online teaching degree program helps you to be eligible for teaching certification in any of the 50 states.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring...

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school science teachers. Leads to teaching license in all states that have a middle-grades general science teaching license.

Specific grade levels you are qualified to teach will vary depending on teaching certification in your state.

• Time: 62% of students finish this science teaching degree within 34 months.
• Tuition: $3,825 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 38 total courses in this program (39 for Washington residents).
• Heredity and Genetics
• Ecology and Environmental Science
• General Physics

This science teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school chemistry teachers.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.

• Time: 65% of students finish this online chemistry degree within 37 months.
• Courses : 39 total courses in this program (40 for Washington residents).
• Physical Chemistry
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Educational Psychology & Development
• Biochemistry

This chemistry teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. Earn a chemistry degree online and be eligible for a teaching certification.

Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) – B.S.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school earth science teachers.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching license options in your state.

• Time: 63% of students earn this middle school teaching and high school teaching degree within 33 months.
• Tuition: $3,825   per 6-month term.
• Courses: 37 total courses in this program (38 for Washington residents)
• Physical Geology
• Earth Systems

This geosciences teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This high school teaching degree program prepares you for teaching licensure in any of the 50 states.

Science Education (Secondary Biological Science) – B.S.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school biology teachers.

• Time:  61% of students earned this online biology degree within 38 months.
• Tuition: $3,825 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 37 total courses in this program (38 for Washington residents).
• Health Sciences
• Molecular and Cellular Biology

This biology teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school physics teachers.

• Time: 62% of students earn this online physics degree within 49 months.
• Educational Psychology 
• Physics: Waves and Optics
• Space, Time and Motion
• Conceptual Physics
• Physics: Mechanics

This physics teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. Graduates of this online teaching degree program will be eligible for teaching certification.

Special Education (Mild to Moderate) – B.A.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring special education teachers. Leads to your teaching license in states that offer a single teaching license in K–12 special education.

• Time: 61% of students finish this program within 34 months.
• Courses : 39 total courses in this program.

 If your state requires—or if you're interested in—dual licensure in both elementary education and K–12 special education, consider the  B.A. Special Education (K–12) program .

• Lesson Planning
• Behavioral Support Strategies
• Classroom Management

This online degree program includes a preclinical experience with face-to-face observation hours and a Student Teaching component hosted by an experienced teacher and directed by a clinical supervisor.

Special Ed and Elementary Ed (Dual Licensure) – B.A.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring K–12 special education teachers. Leads to dual licensure—elementary education teaching license and special education teaching license.

• Time: 60% of students finish this degree within 38 months.
• Courses: 44 total courses in this program (45 for Washington residents).

(Specific grade levels will vary depending on licensure in your state.) If your state offers a single K–12 special education teaching license and you are interested in focusing on teaching students with mild to moderate exceptionalities, consider the  B.A. Special Education (Mild to Moderate)  online teaching degree. 

• Elementary Social Studies Methods
• Elementary Science Methods
• Language Arts Instruction and Intervention

This special education teaching online degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. 

An online teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math...

An online teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers. Leads to teaching license in states that have a middle-grades math teaching license.

Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching licensure in your state.

• Time: 62% of grads earned this degree within 29 months.
• Tuition and fees: $3,825   per 6-month term.
• Courses: 39 total courses in this program.

Candidates for this science teaching degree program often include:

• Aspiring junior high math teachers who currently lack a teaching license
• Substitute teachers
• Career-changers with a passion for math
• School paraprofessionals
• Others who feel the call to teach

This science teaching degree program includes requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This science teaching degree prepares you to be eligible for a teaching license in any of the 50 states.

Mathematics Education (Secondary) – B.S.

An online teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers and high school math teachers.

• Time:  60% of students finish this degree within 40 months.
• Courses : 42 total courses in this program (43 for Washington residents).
• Trigonometry and Precalculus
• Probability and Statistics I and II
• Calculus I, II, and III
• Abstract Algebra
• College Geometry

This online math teaching degree program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This online math teaching degree program helps students become eligible for math teaching certification.

An online master's of arts in education degree and teacher certification...

An online master's of arts in education degree and teacher certification program for aspiring elementary school teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

Leads to a teaching license. Specific grade levels will vary depending on teaching certification in your state.

• Time:  64% of students finish within 24 months.
• Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term.
• Courses : 24 total courses in this program (25 for Washington residents)

This online teacher's degree requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching.

Teaching, Special Education (K–12) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current or aspiring teachers looking to...

An online master's degree for current or aspiring teachers looking to further their careers with a focus on K–12 special education.

• Time:  64% of students finish similar programs in 22 months.
• Courses: 26 total courses in this program.

This program is ideal for students who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field and are looking to earn their initial teaching license.

• Professional, Ethical and Legal Guidelines in Special Education
• Management Strategies for Academic and Social Behavior
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Methods of Instruction and Intervention
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

Find a rewarding career teaching students with diverse challenges and special learning abilities with this teaching master's degree.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for...

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

• Time: 61% of students finish this middle school math teaching degree within 24 months.
• Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.
• Courses: 20 total courses in this program (21 for Washington residents).
• Educational Psychology
• Algebra for Secondary Mathematics Teaching
• Mathematics History
• Essential Practices for Supporting Diverse Learners

This M.A. Teaching program in middle grades math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. It differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary) program in that it does not require courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. The curriculum of this online math degree is designed to prepare middle school math teachers for success.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle school or high school math teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

Leads to teacher licensure. Specific grade levels will vary depending on the teaching certification in your state.

• Time: 64% of students finish this high school math teaching degree within 25 months.
• Courses: 21 total courses in this program (22 for Washington residents).
• Algebra for Secondary Teaching
• Geometry for Secondary Teaching
• Statistics and Probability for Secondary Teaching

This online teaching degree in secondary math education requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. This program differs from the M.A. Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) program in that it includes courses in upper levels of calculus, including advanced calculus and mathematical modeling. Graduates from this secondary math degree program will be eligible for a teaching license in any of the 50 states.

An online teaching master's degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school English teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

• Time: 63% of students finish this online English degree program within 21 months.
• Courses: 17 total courses in this program.
• English Pedagogy
• Reading Instruction and Interventions
• Disciplinary Literacy

This online English degree prepares students for teaching certification in any of the 50 states.

An online master's teaching degree and teacher certification program for...

An online master's teaching degree and teacher certification program for aspiring middle or high school science teachers who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field.

• Time: 62% of students finish this secondary science teaching degree within 24 months.
• Courses: 18 total courses in this program (19 for Washington residents)
• Science Technology
• Science Methods

This program requires in-classroom observation and a term of full-time student teaching. You'll be prepared to teach in middle school or high school settings, based on teaching certification in your state.

Online Degree Options for Current Teachers

An online master's degree for current teachers looking to move into a...

An online master's degree for current teachers looking to move into a school or district leadership position, like principal, vice principal, or administrator.

• Time:  60% of grads earned this degree within 23 months.
• Courses: 13 total courses in this program.

This program is for licensed teachers who are ready to take the next step in their education career.

• School Financial Leadership
• People & Talent
• School Operations and Management
• Leadership Ethics

Put your leadership skills to good use—in the service of America's children—with this education master's degree. 

States that do not accept this program: Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in...

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching science to middle school students.

Available in all states that offer a middle-grades general science endorsement.

• Time: 63% of students earned this degree within 18 months.
• Courses: 14 total courses in this program.

This program is for currently licensed teacher who want to add middle-grades science to their license.

• Earth science
• Space science

Propel your career as a middle school or junior high science teacher with this M.A. degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching chemistry to middle or high school students.

• Time:  64% of students earn this degree within 18 months.
• Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term.
• General Chemistry

Propel your career as a junior high or high school chemistry teacher with this education master's degree.

Science Education (Secondary Earth Science) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching earth science to middle or high school students.

• Time:  60% of students earn this degree within 14 months.
• Courses : 12 total courses in this program.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who want to add secondary earth science to their license.

• Ocean Systems

Propel your career as a junior high or high school geoscience teacher with this education master's degree.

Science Education (Secondary Biological Science) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching biology to middle or high school students.

• Time:  62% of students earn this degree within 17 months.
• Tuition:  $3,975   per 6-month term.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who want to add secondary biology to their license.

• Human Anatomy and Physiology

Propel your career as a junior high or high school biology teacher with this education master's degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching physics to middle or high school students.

• Time:  62% of students earn this degree within 15 months.
• Courses : 13 total courses in this program.

This program is designed for already-licensed teachers who wish to add secondary physics to their licensure.

• Waves and optics
• Electricity and magnetism
• Space, time and motion

Propel your career as a junior high or high school physics teacher with this education master's degree.

Mathematics Education (Middle Grades) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle school students. Available in states that offer a middle-grades math teaching endorsement.

• Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 16 months.
• Tuition: $3,975 per 6-month term.

This program is designed for current teachers who are looking to add middle grade math to their license.

• College algebra
• Finite mathematics
• Trigonometry and pre-calculus
• Mathematics learning and teaching
• College geometry
• Probability and statistics 

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in junior high students a love of math with this education master's degree.

Mathematics Education (K–6) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to elementary school students.

• Time: 61% of students earn this degree within 12 months.
• Tuition: $3,975   per 6-month term.
• Courses: 10 total courses in this program.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to add K-6 math education to their license.

• Number Sense and Functions
• Geometry and Statistics
• Research Design

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in elementary-age students a love of math with this education master's degree.

An online master's degree for current teachers who want to specialize in teaching math to middle and high school students.

• Time: 64% of students earn this degree within 18 months.
• Courses: 18 total courses in this program.

This program is designd for current teachers who are looking to add secondary math to their license.

• Probability and statistics
• Algebra for secondary mathematics teaching
• Mathematics history and technology
• Mathematical modeling and applications

Focus your teaching passion on instilling in junior high or high school students a love of math with this education master's degree.

English Language Learning (PreK–12) – M.A.

An online master's degree for current teachers whose next career goal...

An online master's degree for current teachers whose next career goal includes a focus on teaching in ELL or ESL settings.

• Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 17 months.
• Courses: 11 total courses in this program.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to add ELL or ESL to their license.

• Assessment Theory and Practice
• Language Production, Theory and Acquisition
• Instruction Planning and Implementation
• Theories of Second Language Acquisition

Grow your teaching career on a commitment to ensuring language barriers don't become a barrier to learning with this education master's degree.

English Language Learning (PreK–12) Endorsement Prep

An online program for currently licensed elementary and secondary school...

An online program for currently licensed elementary and secondary school teachers who desire to be licensed to teach in ELL or ESL settings.

Become highly qualified in ELL or ESL, increase your career opportunities, earn re-licensure points, and possibly become eligible for lane changes leading to increased salary.

• Time: 62% of students finish within 13 months.
• Courses: 8 total courses in this program.

This program is for current teachers who are looking to earn an ELL/ESL endorsement.

Advance your teaching career and help ensure language barriers don't become a barrier to learning.

Other Online Education Degree Options

These online, non-licensure educational studies degrees prepare you to...

These online, non-licensure educational studies degrees prepare you to make a difference in a field that interests you.

Based on your career goals and interests, you can choose an educational studies program in one of 10 content areas that meets your needs while working toward employment in school settings, corporate training, or instructional design. These programs do not lead to a teaching license.

• Time:  Completion time varies depending on the specialty track you choose.
• This bachelor's degree allows students to learn about education but does not include student teaching and it does not lead to a teaching license.

Focus areas of this educational studies degree program include:

• Elementary Education
• Elementary and Special Education
• Mild to Moderate Special Education
• Secondary Biology Science Education
• Secondary Chemistry Science Education
• Secondary Earth Science Education
• Secondary Physics Education
• Middle Grades Science Education
• Secondary Mathematics Education
• Middle Grade Mathematics Education

The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for...

The M.Ed. in Education Technology and Instructional Design from WGU is for instructional designers tasked with creating engaging and immersive virtual learning experiences that can substitute for on-ground instruction.

No teaching license required.

• Time: 62% of students finish this program in 10 months.
• Tuition:  $3,975 per 6-month term
• Courses:  12 total courses in this program.

This program includes two tracks for students to choose from:

• The K-12 pathway
• The Adult Learner pathway
• Learning Experience Design
• Assessment and Learning Analytics
• Learning Technology
• Research Methodology

Develop training and instruction expertise to help you in the classroom, in educational settings, or in corporate world.

An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and...

An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and are looking to further their careers with a graduate program focused on curriculum development and design.

• Time: 62% of students earn this degree within 12 months.
• Differentiated Instruction
• Curriculum and Instruction Design
• Educational Research

Help schools create engaging, meaningful, and memorable learning experiences to improve learning outcomes for all students with this M.S. degree.

Education Programs

Here at WGU, we offer bachelor's and master's degrees that lead to a teaching license, master's degrees for current teachers to add to their licensure, and other master's degree programs focused on educational development. Whatever your career goals are, there is a program at WGU that can help you reach them. Learn more about which type of education degree program is the best fit for you.

View Bachelor's Degrees

Programs leading to a bachelor's degree and preparation for an initial teaching license.

View MAT Degrees

Master's degree programs for those who already hold a bachelor's degree, but are interested in an initial teaching license.

View Master's Degrees With Licensure

Master's degree programs for current teachers who want to add to their teaching license.

View M.S. Ed Degrees

Master of Science in Education programs for current teachers or other professionals looking to further their career.  

Find the Right Teaching Career for You

Teachers are role models who truly make a difference to their young students. But teaching is much more than helping kids learn to read and do math. Teachers change lives, and it takes a special kind of person to be an outstanding teacher.

Become a Teacher

Find Your Career Fit

WGU vs. Traditional Universities Compare the Difference

Traditional Universities

AVG. yearly tuition For BACHELOR’S DEGREES

AVG. yearly tuition For MASTER’S DEGREES

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

Flat rate per 6-month term

A counselor you have to schedule time with

An individual Program Mentor who knows your goals and schedule

Scheduled time

Whenever you feel ready

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

* Average yearly bachelor's degree tuition according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2022). ** Average yearly master's tuition according to data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2022).

See a Breakdown of Course Costs

Education scholarships.

WGU Become a Teacher Scholarship

For aspiring teachers, this scholarship can be applied toward any of WGU’s Teachers College degree programs leading to teacher licensure.

WGU Loves Teachers  Scholarship

For prospective teachers who want to earn their teacher certification and current educators ready to advance their careers.

WGU's K–12 Partner  Scholarship

For the men and women who work in America’s K–12 schools and districts who desire to earn a WGU bachelor's or master's degree.

Start Your College Journey at WGU

WGU has built a special, accelerated path for students ages 14-18 with a high school diploma or equivalent, and their families. Now enrolling for this exclusive opportunity.

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What Benefits Do Teachers Get?

Learn about the perks and benefits associated with being a teacher, and how they affect one's bottom line.

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What is EdTech? And What Are the Benefits?

Learn more about the risks and rewards of using EdTech in the classroom and how advancements enhance education.

What School of Education Alumni Are Saying

People love their WGU experience. See why it means so much to them, and what makes us different.

"The quality of education is fantastic and yet attainable even on my own. I usually do not learn well in an online setting, but this program made it easy because it was well laid out and the instructors always answered questions in a timely and effective manner. "

— Jayme Benabides, M.Ed. Learning and Technology grad

"Not only did WGU provide the opportunity for me to earn the education I never finished, their competency program provided quality knowledge which opened doors which had been locked. I am forever grateful."

— Rodney Clause, M.A. Math Ed. grad, M.S. Ed. Leadership grad, M.Ed. Learning & Technology grad

"Others may think academia is not for them, but earning a college degree is vastly more than solely a person’s intellectual capacity. Earning my degree from WGU demonstrates effort, resilience, and pride. That is what earning my degree from WGU means to me."

— Antonio Romayor, Jr., M.Ed. Learning & Technology grad

Turn Your Passion Into an Education Career

As a nonprofit organization, WGU provides a convenient, cost-effective path to your bachelor's or master's degree in education.

Progress through courses as soon as you can prove you’ve mastered the material, rather than advancing only when the semester or term ends. 

WGU is about real-world results—providing an impressive return on the investment. A WGU degree tells employers that you will be an asset to the team. 

School of Education FAQs

Can you get a teaching degree online.

Yes. It is possible to get a teaching degree online. Many universities offer accredited online programs where students can earn a bachelor's or master's degree in teaching. Often, students are also required to complete observation hours and demonstrate teaching experience at a local school. At universities like WGU, students are worked with individually and paired with a suitable school for this commitment.

How much does an online teaching degree cost?

Online bachelor's degrees cost on average $38,000 to more than $60,000 in total cost. Some online universities allow students to finish quickly while paying less. At WGU, for example, students are charged per six-month term instead of per credit. This means they often can finish their degrees in somewhere between 6 and 24 months. Tuition per six-month term is $3,825 with cost varying depending on how many terms a student takes to finish their degree.

How long does it take to get a teaching degree online?

Through most online programs, it takes roughly two to four years to earn a teaching degree. Many programs require a final project, thesis, and teaching experience as part of a capstone course before a degree is granted. Some universities, like WGU, allow students to complete a degree in 36 months on average through term-based tuition and a competency-based model.

How do I get an online teaching degree?

A bachelor's degree is the minimum education required to become a licensed teacher in every state. These teaching degrees require approximately 120 credits and take about four years to complete. However, an online degree may allow you to accelerate your program and graduate faster. Graduates can go on to teach in early childhood programs, public schools, and private schools.

What can I do with a teaching degree?

Teaching degrees open many career pathways. Most online teaching degrees are designed to lead to licensure, or add an endorsement to an existing license, so the most direct career pathway is working as a classroom teacher. Professional offerings include preparation for positions as a school administrator, curriculum specialist/designer, instructional designer, and technology specialist.

Further positions within the education world that may be open to those with a degree in teaching include: guidance counselor, instructional coach, positions within the Department of Education, school administrator, educational consultant, college or university academic advisor, school librarian, school technology specialist, private tutor, museum educator, after-school program coordinator, or positions within educational tools companies – i.e. textbook companies and companies that develop educational resources.

What can I do with an education degree?

In addition to becoming a teacher, an education degree could put you on a path to these careers. Keep in mind that they may also require additional training:

• Education consultant
• Juvenile corrections worker
• School psychologist
• Guidance counselor
• Career counselor
• Child life specialist
• Recruiter or admission counselor
• Family counselor

What are the types of education degrees?

There are many different types of degrees and certifications you can get in education. At the most basic level, they include the following:

• Certificate in Teaching and Education
• Associate Degree in Teaching and Education
• Bachelor Degree in Teaching and Education
• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)—These degree programs typically lead to initial licensure
• Master of Science in Education (M.Ed)—These degree programs typically are for advanced education positions, not teaching
• Doctoral Degree in Teaching and Education

You can get subject-specific teaching degrees in several different areas—for instance in science education, math education, or special education.

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Provincial Attestation Letter Request Now Open. Visit cbu.ca/ircc for info.

Bachelor of education, general requirements.

• Social Studies: six credits in university social studies from among History (with a preference for local and Canadian History), Geography, Political Science, Anthropology, Sociology, Economics, Law, Classics, African Canadian Studies, Mi’kmaq Studies, Acadian Studies and/or Philosophy
• Science: Six credits in university science coursework from any one or combination of the following disciplines: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology/Earth Sciences, Oceanography, and Environmental Studies
• Mathematics: Six credits in university Mathematics coursework with a preference for a course in fundamental concepts
• English: Six credits in university English coursework
• Three credits of Critical Study Coursework
• Three credits of Developmental Psychology: PSYC 2601 or equivalent three credits in university Developmental Psychology coursework.

First Teachable Area : A concentration of at least thirty credit hours of university coursework in a single discipline selected from below.

Second Teachable Area : A concentration of at least eighteen credit hours of university coursework in a second single discipline university coursework in a single discipline selected from below.

Intermediate/Secondary Teachables: Mi’kmaw Language, English, Math, French, Fine Arts, Technology, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology/Earth Sciences, Oceanography or Environmental Studies) and Social Studies (History, Geography, Political Science, Anthropology, Sociology, Law, Economics, African Canadian Studies, or Mi’kmaq Studies). Anthropology can be used as a second teachable area only. Business (Business Administration, Commerce, Marketing, Accounting, Finance, Organizational Behaviour, Secretarial Arts), and Family Studies (Combination of courses from two of the following three areas: Foods and Nutrition, Family Dynamics and Textiles/Housing).

Please review the full admission requirements to the B.Ed. here . To learn more about CBU’s Bachelor of Education Program, please email [email protected]

• See CBU’s English Language Requirements here .

Please select your country to view admission requirements.

Transfer Student Requirements

• In order to transfer to CBU you must be in good academic standing at your current/previous institution.
• You must meet the general admissions requirements (or the post-secondary equivalent) for the program, found under the Canadian or International tabs of this tool.
• To see if your institution is an articulation partner, please view our articulation agreements page.
• International students: [email protected] .
• Canadian students / Permanent Residents of Canada: [email protected]

Cape Breton University is pleased to offer two accelerated Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) programs to help meet the needs of growing communities in Nova Scotia, and in an effort get highly skilled, qualified teachers in the classroom quickly with proper education for the September 2024 school year.

An 8-month online B.Ed. pilot program has begun in January 2024 and will conclude in August 2024. In addition, CBU’s current 15-month B.Ed. program will transition to a 12-month on-campus program, beginning May 2024.

Students will complete the same requirements of the current 15-month B.Ed. program, which includes 48 credits of coursework and 12 credits of practicum work in both the 8-month and 12-month programs.

Application Dates to Consider

Bachelor of Education (On-Campus, 12 month) Program Intake: May 2024 Application Deadline: February 15, 2024

For a full list of application deadlines, please visit Canadian Application Deadlines .

The B.Ed. program is not accepting international applicants at this time. Please contact [email protected] with any questions or concerns.

Take On A Class Of Your Own

If your dream is having the opportunity to positively impact young lives and influence growing minds through education, the Bachelor of Education program at CBU will help you fulfil your true calling. In only 12 months, beginning each May, the 60-credit Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program equips aspiring teachers with the critical skills, knowledge and experiences they need to become professional educators.

Ready to Apply?

Applicants may apply to either the Elementary Education or Secondary Education stream, with each stream providing opportunities to apply relevant curriculum, instructional theory and methods for a career in education. In addition to its focus on Education for Sustainability and Indigenous education, the program includes other unique opportunities, such as a service-learning project and a professionalism workshop series.

During the program, students receive hands-on teaching experiences through 720 hours of practicum. Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for a Nova Scotia teaching license, along with licensing and employment for any other province, territory or international opportunity they choose to pursue.

TUITION AND FEES

SCHOLARSHIPS & BURSARIES

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING PROGRAMS

What is the tuition for this program.

8 Month Online Pilot, 12 Month On-Campus, 15 Month On-Campus (Tuition & Fees Per Program)

These numbers are an estimate for planning purposes only, and include tuition for the entire 8, 12 and 15 month programs. These numbers do not include lab or accommodation fees.

• Residents of Nova Scotia: $20,694 per program
• Residents of Canada: $22,747 per program
• For more information, please contact [email protected]

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B.Ed. Concentrations

CBU’s B.Ed. program not only offers you current teaching methodologies grounded in educational research to equip you for today’s classrooms, but also allows students wishing to take a deeper look into our embedded themes of L’nu/Indigenous Education and Education for Sustainability the option to complete their degree with a concentration area.

L’nu Education Concentration

L’nu or L’nuk, is the term the Mi’kmaq use to describe themselves as Indigenous people. It means “the people.” Designed in collaboration with Unama’ki College, the program’s L’nu Education concentration makes CBU’s B.Ed. program one of a kind in Nova Scotia.

Students completing the B.Ed. with the L’nu Education Concentration will complete all common core requirements for the elementary or secondary program and the following 6 credits within the ‘L’nu Focus Electives’.

· EDUC4133 Teaching English as an Additional Language (3 credits)

· EDUC4136 Teaching and Learning the L’nu Way (3 credits)

Education for Sustainability Concentration

The CBU B.Ed. also has the distinction of being the only program in the province which offers an Education for Sustainability focus. This focus is woven in each of the courses offered throughout the program.

Students completing the B.Ed. with the Education for Sustainability Concentration will complete all common core requirements for the elementary or secondary program and the following 6 credits within the ‘Sustainability Focus Electives’.

· EDUC4104 Sustainable Well-Being and Deep Learning (3 credits)

· EDUC4114 Teaching and Learning for a Sustainable Future (3 credits)

Why study at CBU?

There’s no feeling like helping shape young minds and giving students a great foundation for life. Come to Cape Breton and get the experience that makes a difference in the classroom. With this unique opportunity to sharpen your skills, you’ll fulfil your passion for inspiring a new generation through education. CBU’s 12-month Bachelor of Education delivery model allows students to fast track to career opportunities so you can start teaching – and never stop learning. Students who begin the program in May will be eligible to apply for a teaching license for September of the following year. This means our students have the advantage of entering the workforce a full year earlier than students in a two-year B.Ed. program.

This B.Ed. is the only Nova Scotian program offering an Education for Sustainability (EFS) focus. Each course integrates sustainability education, and specific courses are offered on the subject, including Teaching and Learning for a Sustainable Future and Sustainable Happiness.

Designed in collaboration with Unama’ki College , the program’s Indigenous concentration makes CBU’s B.Ed. program one of a kind in Nova Scotia.

What skills will I gain from this program?

• Skills and knowledge needed to be a professional educator in either elementary or secondary education.
• Reflective practice
• Indigenous education
• Education for Sustainability (EFS)
• Inclusive education
• Culturally responsive pedagogy

Possible Career Paths

• Classroom teacher
• Adult educator
• Corporate trainer
• Education managers or recruiters
• Curriculum developer
• Attendance support worker
• Community outreach worker

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• The community action  service-learning action project (CASL project)
• 720 hours of practicum
• Student research opportunities

• Admissions for Education Programs

I’m ready to apply!

Start my application, faculty & staff, dean, school of education and health.

Department: Education

Email: [email protected]

Kristin O'Rourke

Assistant professor.

Phone: 902-563-1647 Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Manager, Experiential Learning

Email: [email protected]

Unama’ki espi-kina’matno’kuom etek Mi’kma’ki, wla na no’kamanaq aq maqamikewminu mena’qiknmuetuk.

Cape Breton University is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaw People.

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Is a University Degree Worth It?

Understanding the Numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

A university degree can prepare you for entry-level roles, a new career or help you advance in your current field. The potential to earn a higher salary and lower unemployment rates are just a couple of reasons why pursuing a degree is worth it, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics ( BLS ).*

Other  benefits of a college degree include:

• A broader range of job prospects
• Expansion of your professional network
• Personal growth

Depending on your goals, completing a degree could mean earning an associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degree:

• Associate degrees typically require 60 credits of coursework, or the equivalent of 20 college courses. They can take up to two years to complete, although some students can finish more quickly. Find out if an associate degree is worth it .
• Bachelor’s degrees require 120 credits of coursework and can take up to four years to complete. Explore the benefits of a bachelor's degree .
• Master's degrees are graduate-level degrees that help you build advanced expertise in your industry or prepare you for a new career. They typically take two years to complete, but the timeframe varies depending on the number of credits in your program and the number of classes you take each term. Determine whether you should get a master's degree .
• Doctoral or professional degrees signal your expert knowledge in a field and can include the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or the Doctor of Education (MEd). Is a doctorate degree worth it? Consider your personal and professional goals .

Thanks to the flexibility provided by the different types of programs and degree options available, you can often balance work and personal responsibilities with your coursework.

Even if it's been years since you've learned in a classroom setting, your education can often be tailored to your schedule and needs , said Olivia Casey, MEd , admission lead at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).

"I speak with adult learners coming back to school after being out of the classroom for a long time, and their biggest fear is they can't do it," she said. "But you can. Education is for everyone: there's no right or wrong time to start a degree."

Can You Earn More Money With a Degree?

No matter what degree you complete, the data shows it still pays to advance your education. A degree resulted in higher median weekly salaries for workers in 2023, BLS reports:

• Those with associate degrees earned a median of $1,058 per week, or 17.7% more than high school graduates who earned just $899 weekly.*
• Individuals with bachelor’s degrees earned a median weekly salary of $1,493, while those with master’s degrees earned $1,737.*
• Holders of doctorates or professional degrees enjoyed weekly median salaries of $2,109 and $2,206, respectively.*

It's important to remember that these numbers represent an average and could vary widely depending on your job, field, employer, major, geographic location and degree type.

A University Degree Pays Off in Personal Satisfaction

His organization aims to serve as a “resource broker” for veterans seeking assistance. He credited his university experience for giving him the tools to bring his dream to life and set an example for others in his community.

“A lot of young kids look up to me, and I try to counsel as many people as I can, encourage them to be a better person," Williams said. "Hopefully, I can get an opportunity to motivate more people through my actions and the things I've learned through the program.”

Find Your Program

Does a degree still have value to employers.

While some companies are dropping or loosening their degree requirements in favor of skill-based hiring, a recent study from Harvard Business School and The Burning Glass Institute have found that employers haven't changed their actual hiring behavior ( PDF Source ).

A report from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce also projects that, by 2031, 72% of jobs in the country will require a degree or some sort of post-secondary training. Of those jobs, 29% will require some college or an associate degree and 42% will require a bachelor’s degree or higher.

A university degree is worth it because it shows employers that you have the technical skills and the “ soft skills ” needed to be successful in your role. According to a recent LinkedIn study , some of the skills employers most often look for in candidates include problem-solving skills, the ability to learn new things, analytical skills and the ability to communicate clearly.

If you’re concerned about future employment, BLS data shows that having a degree decreased the risk of unemployment for people in 2023.*

Workers with an associate degree had a 2.7% unemployment rate, those with a bachelor’s degree had a 2.2% unemployment rate and those with a master’s degree had a 2% unemployment rate, according to BLS.* Those with only a high school diploma had a 3.9% unemployment rate, BLS reported.*

What Degrees are Employers Looking For?

Employers are looking for candidates with degrees and majors that will prepare them to apply their critical thinking and technical skills on the job. According to the U.S. Census Bureau , in 2022, the top five most common degree fields were:

• Business management and administration
• General business

While engineering, computer science and other STEM degrees didn't make the top five majors list in 2022, the National Center for Education Statistics in 2021 reported that 5% and 3% of college degrees were awarded in these majors, respectively.

Some of today’s most in-demand jobs can be found in these sectors, and earning a degree can make you attractive to employers.

In 2023, STEM workers earned a median annual salary of $101,650, according to BLS.* Some roles, such as information security analyst, which typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer science , are expected to grow a whopping 32% within the next decade, BLS reported.* Computer and information systems managers, who also typically hold bachelor’s degrees, earned a median salary of $169,510 in 2023, according to BLS.*

Healthcare 

Depending upon your major and degree, you can prepare yourself for roles such as health information technologist, registered nurse or nurse practitioner. In 2023, according to BLS, health information technologists, who typically enter the field with an associate degree, earned $62,990 , whereas registered nurses earned an average median salary of $86,070 .*

Business and Management

Individuals working as bookkeeping , accounting and auditing clerks, who typically enter the field with an associate degree, made a median annual salary of $47,440 in 2023, BLS reports.* Administrative and facilities managers, who typically enter the field with bachelor’s degrees, earned an average median salary of $104,900 , according to BLS.*

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree  can further position you for management roles in several areas of business, including human resources, information systems marketing and operations, to name a few. According to a 2023 report, employers that took part in a survey administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council projected 2023 starting salaries for MBAs to be a median of $125,000, compared to $75,000 for those with bachelor’s degrees ( GMAC PDF source ).*

Regardless of your degree or field of study, you'll acquire valuable skills that will enhance your appeal to potential employers.

It's Never Too Late to Pursue Your Degree

Just a few months into the program, she secured an HR generalist job at a small manufacturing company and began working with her supervisor to grow into a future management position . Woodard credited the university's accessibility team  and advisors for regularly checking in with her on her progress, which helped her reach the finish line.

"I wish I could've done it earlier, but I don't regret any steps I did or didn't take," Woodard said. "Timing is different for everyone, so if you're thinking about going back to school, do it when it's right for you."

Education Sparks Future Growth

In her admission role, Casey helps adult students from various backgrounds determine their goals, evaluate program options and plan their schedules. Many students have shared with her the impact earning a degree has had on their lives — beyond landing a new job or earning more money. Some said their degrees helped them become more confident, communicate better or solve tough problems they couldn't tackle before. Others said college changed the lives of the people around them.

"When we hear education changes lives, we often latch on to the job or income part," she said. "But education changes your life in every facet you can think of."

Determining whether a university degree is worth it depends on your career goals, personal situation and future aspirations. While completing a degree requires work, the long-term benefits are worthwhile for many.

*Cited job growth projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Actual salaries and/or earning potential may be the result of a combination of factors including, but not limited to: years of experience, industry of employment, geographic location, and worker skill.

Krysten Godfrey Maddocks ’11G is a writer who covers K-12 and higher education topics, including policy and the role of digital technology in education. She spent almost a decade working in various marketing roles at an educational assessment company before launching a strategic marketing company. Maddocks earned a master's degree in marketing from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor's degree in English/ journalism from the University of New Hampshire. Connect with her on LinkedIn .

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About southern new hampshire university.

SNHU is a nonprofit, accredited university with a mission to make high-quality education more accessible and affordable for everyone.

Founded in 1932, and online since 1995, we’ve helped countless students reach their goals with flexible, career-focused programs . Our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH is home to over 3,000 students, and we serve over 135,000 students online. Visit our about SNHU  page to learn more about our mission, accreditations, leadership team, national recognitions and awards.

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10 facts about today’s college graduates

Having a bachelor’s degree remains an important advantage in many sectors of the U.S. labor market. College graduates generally out-earn those who have not attended college, and they are more likely to be employed in the first place. At the same time, many Americans say they cannot afford to get a four-year degree – or that they just don’t want to.

Here are key facts about American college graduates.

This Pew Research Center analysis about U.S. college graduates relies on data from sources including the Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the National Center for Education Statistics, the National Student Clearinghouse and the Federal Reserve Bank, as well as surveys conducted by the Center.

Everyone who took the Pew Research Center surveys cited is a member of the Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP), an online survey panel that is recruited through national, random sampling of residential addresses. This way nearly all U.S. adults have a chance of selection. The survey is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, partisan affiliation, education and other categories. Read more about  the ATP’s methodology .

Nearly four-in-ten Americans ages 25 and older have a bachelor’s degree, a share that has grown over the last decade. As of 2021, 37.9% of adults in this age group held a bachelor’s degree, including 14.3% who also obtained a graduate or professional degree, according to data from the Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey. That share is up 7.5 percentage points from 30.4% in 2011.

An additional 10.5% had an associate degree in 2021. About four-in-ten Americans ages 25 and older had a high school diploma with no further education (25.3%) or completed some college but didn’t have a degree (14.9%).

In a reversal, women are now more likely than men to graduate from college, according to the Current Population Survey . In 2021, 39% of women ages 25 and older had a bachelor’s degree or more education, compared with 37% of men in the same age range. The gap in college completion is even wider among adults ages 25 to 34: 46% of women in this age group have at least a bachelor’s degree, compared with 36% of men.

In an October 2021 Pew Research Center survey of Americans without a degree, 34% of men said a major reason why they have not received a four-year college degree is that they just didn’t want to. Only one-in-four women said the same. Men were also more likely to say a major reason they didn’t have a four-year degree is that they didn’t need more education for the job or career they wanted (26% of men said this vs. 20% of women).

Women (44%) were more likely than men (39%) to say not being able to afford college was a major reason they don’t have a bachelor’s degree. Men and women were about equally likely to say a major impediment was needing to work to help support their family.

There are racial and ethnic differences in college graduation patterns, as well as in the reasons for not completing a degree. Among adults ages 25 and older, 61% of Asian Americans have a bachelor’s degree or more education, along with 42% of White adults, 28% of Black adults and 21% of Hispanic adults, according to 2021 Current Population Survey data. The share of bachelor’s degree holders in each group has increased since 2010. That year, 52% of Asian Americans had a four-year degree or more, compared with a third of White adults, 20% of Black adults and 14% of Hispanic adults.

The October 2021 Center survey found that among adults without a bachelor’s degree, Hispanic adults (52%) were more likely than those who are White (39%) or Black (41%) to say a major reason they didn’t graduate from a four-year college is that they couldn’t afford it. Hispanic and Black adults were more likely than their White counterparts to say needing to work to support their family was a major reason.

While a third of White adults said not wanting to go to school was a major reason they didn’t complete a four-year degree, smaller shares of Black (22%) and Hispanic (23%) adults said the same. White adults were also more likely to cite not needing more education for the job or career they wanted. (There weren’t enough Asian adults without a bachelor’s degree in the sample to analyze separately.)

Only 62% of students who start a degree or certificate program finish their program within six years, according to the most recent data from the  National Student Clearinghouse , a nonprofit verification and research organization that tracked first-time college students who enrolled in fall 2015 with the intent of pursuing a degree or certificate. The degree completion rate for this group was highest among students who started at four-year, private, nonprofit schools (78.3%), and lowest among those who started at two-year public institutions (42.2%).

Business is the most commonly held bachelor’s degree, followed by health professions.  According to the  National Center for Education Statistics , about a fifth (19%) of the roughly 2 million bachelor’s degrees conferred in 2019-20 were in business. Health professions and related programs were the second most-popular field, making up 12.6% of degrees conferred that year. Business has been the single most common major since 1980-81; before that, education led the way.

The  least  common bachelor’s degrees in 2019-20 were in military technologies and applied sciences (1,156 degrees conferred in 2019-20), library science (118), and precision production (39).

There is a growing earnings gap between young college graduates and their counterparts without degrees. In 2021, full-time workers ages 22 to 27 who held a bachelor’s degree, but no further education, made a median annual wage of $52,000, compared with $30,000 for full-time workers of the same age with a high school diploma and no degree, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This gap has widened over time. Young bachelor’s degree holders earned a median annual wage of $48,481 in 1990, compared with $35,257 for full-time workers ages 22 to 27 with a high school diploma.

The unemployment rate is lower for college graduates than for workers without a bachelor’s degree, and that gap widened as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. In February 2020, just before the COVID-19 outbreak began in the U.S., only 1.9% of college graduates ages 25 and older were unemployed, compared with 3.1% of workers who completed some college but not a four-year degree, and 3.7% of workers with only a high school diploma. By June 2020, after the pandemic hit, 6.8% of college grads, 10.8% of workers with some college, and 12.2% of high school grads were unemployed.

By March 2022, the unemployment rate had nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels for college graduates (2%) while dropping to 3% among those with some college education but no four-year degree, and 4% among those with only a high school diploma.

Recent college graduates are more likely than graduates overall to be underemployed – that is, working in jobs that typically do not require a college degree, according to an analysis of Census Bureau and BLS data by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York . As of December 2021, 41% of college graduates ages 22 to 27 were underemployed, compared with 34% among all college graduates. The underemployment rates for recent college grads rose in 2020 as the COVID-19 outbreak strained the job market, but have since returned to pre-pandemic levels.

As of the end of 2021, only 34% of underemployed graduates ages 22 to 27 worked what the Fed defines as “good non-college jobs” – those paying at least $45,000 a year – down from around half in the 1990s. The share of underemployed graduates ages 22 to 27 in low-wage jobs – those earning less than $25,000 annually – rose from about 9% in 1990 to 11% last year.

When it comes to income and wealth accumulation, first-generation college graduates lag substantially behind those with college-educated parents, according to a May 2021 Pew Research Center analysis . Households headed by a first-generation college graduate – that is, someone who has completed at least a bachelor’s degree but does not have a parent with a college degree – had a median annual income of $99,600 in 2019, compared with $135,800 for households headed by those with at least one parent who graduated from college. The median wealth of households headed by first-generation college graduates ($152,000) also trailed that of households headed by someone with a parent who graduated from college ($244,500). The higher household income of the latter facilitates saving and wealth accumulation.

The gap also reflects differences in how individuals finance their education. Second-generation college graduates tend to come from  more affluent families , while first-generation college graduates are more likely to incur education debt than those with a college-educated parent.

Most Americans with college degrees see value in their experience. In the Center’s October 2021 survey , majorities of graduates said their college education was extremely or very useful when it came to helping them grow personally and intellectually (79%), opening doors to job opportunities (70%) and developing specific skills and knowledge that could be used in the workplace (65%).

Younger college graduates were less likely than older ones to see value in their college education. For example, only a third of college graduates younger than 50 said their college experience was extremely useful in helping them develop skills and knowledge that could be used in the workplace. Among college graduates ages 50 and older, 45% said this.

• Higher Education

Katherine Schaeffer is a research analyst at Pew Research Center

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Comparing the compensation of federal and private-sector employees in 2022.

Compared with private-sector employees, the average compensation costs for federal employees in 2022 were greater among workers whose education culminated in a bachelor’s degree or less, but lower among workers with more education.

In this report, the Congressional Budget Office compares the cost that the federal government incurred in 2022 for the wages and benefits of its civilian employees with the cost that private employers incurred for employees who appear similar in their educational attainment and other observable characteristics likely to affect wages.

• Wages. For federal civilian workers whose highest level of education was a bachelor’s degree or more, the cost of wages in 2022 was less, on average, than the cost for private-sector workers with similar observable characteristics. Among workers with less education, federal workers’ wages cost more than those of their counterparts in the private sector, on average.
• Benefits. For employees at most levels of educational attainment, the cost of federal benefits—including retirement benefits and paid leave—exceeded the cost of benefits for their private-sector counterparts in 2022. Those differences in benefits were smaller for workers with more education.
• Total compensation. For federal workers whose highest level of education was a master’s degree or more, the cost of total compensation (the sum of wages and benefits) was less, on average, than the cost for their counterparts in the private sector. For workers with less education, the government spent more on total compensation than it would have if average compensation had been comparable with that in the private sector, after accounting for certain observable characteristics.
• Comparison with the findings in CBO’s 2017 report. CBO’s previous comparison of federal and private-sector compensation covered the period from 2011 to 2015. By 2022, federal compensation had declined relative to private-sector compensation, primarily because lawmakers enacted across-the-board salary increases for federal employees that were smaller than wage growth in the private sector.
• Other job attributes that affect recruitment and retention. Job security, deferred compensation, and the flexibility to work from home are other job attributes that workers may value. By offering more of those job attributes, the federal government and private-sector employers can recruit and retain a highly qualified workforce while spending less on wages and benefits. Federal employment offers more security than many jobs in the private sector, making federal employment more attractive for workers. But a greater share of federal compensation is deferred until retirement, which many workers find less valuable than wages. Federal employees and their private-sector counterparts teleworked at roughly similar rates in 2022.

Data and Supplemental Information

• Data Underlying Figures and Tables

Related Publications

• Atlas of Military Compensation December 5, 2023
• Approaches to Changing Military Compensation January 14, 2020
• Comparing the Effects of Current Pay and Defined Benefit Pensions on Employee Retention: Working Paper 2018-06 June 21, 2018
• Options for Changing the Retirement System for Federal Civilian Workers August 29, 2017
• Comparing the Compensation of Federal and Private-Sector Employees, 2011 to 2015 April 25, 2017
• Federal Contracts and the Contracted Workforce March 11, 2015
• Comparing Benefits and Total Compensation in the Federal Government and the Private Sector: Working Paper 2012-04 January 30, 2012
• Comparing Wages in the Federal Government and the Private Sector: Working Paper 2012-03 January 30, 2012
• Analysis of Federal Civilian and Military Compensation January 20, 2011
• Characteristics and Pay of Federal Civilian Employees March 1, 2007
• Comparing the Pay and Benefits of Federal and Nonfederal Executives November 1, 1999