An online elementary education degree program prepares you to teach core subjects to elementary aged students, typically from kindergarten through middle school grades, depending on your state’s teaching certification requirements. These programs combine educational theory with hands-on classroom experience, helping you build the instructional strategies and classroom management skills needed to lead your own classroom.
Ready to find your program? Browse over 270 elementary education degree listings below.
Elementary education focuses on teaching young learners foundational academic and life skills, typically in kindergarten through sixth grade, though some states extend this to eighth grade.
Professionals in this field:
Unlike early childhood education, which emphasizes developmental play, elementary education focuses more on formal academics and subject-based instruction grounded in research-based concepts, including the science in elementary education.
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This degree prepares you for teaching and education-related roles across various educational settings.
Common career paths include:
Most graduates pursue classroom teaching roles in public or private schools, supported by teaching certification and licensure.
Students exploring related fields may also consider:
Elementary education careers center around classroom instruction and student development.
Examples include:
These roles require both subject knowledge and strong classroom management skills to create meaningful learning experiences.
Elementary education offers stable employment opportunities.
Teaching also offers benefits such as structured schedules, time off during summers and holidays, and opportunities for professional growth.
This field is ideal for individuals who want to directly impact children’s academic development and lives.
Key benefits include:
Programs focus on teaching methods for core academic subjects and classroom management.
Common coursework and major courses include:
Most online elementary education degree programs also include professional core courses and require student teaching placements lasting 12 to 20 weeks to ensure hands-on experience in elementary classrooms.
This field is best suited for individuals who are patient, creative, and passionate about teaching elementary aged students.
You may be a good fit if you:
Teaching at this level requires both emotional resilience and enthusiasm to create engaging, meaningful learning experiences.
Most elementary education careers require formal education and licensure.
Advanced degrees or certificates may be required for career advancement or continued licensure.
Teacher licensure is mandatory for public school teachers in all 50 states.
Common requirements include:
Additional certifications in areas like ESL or special education can improve job prospects and salary potential.
GetEducated has many resources available to teachers, or those wanting to enter the profession. Articles include:
When selecting a program, consider:
Programs aligned with state educational requirements are essential for licensure and a successful teaching career.
GetEducated has many ranking reports for elementary education related degrees:
Costs vary depending on the program and level.
Many online elementary education students qualify for financial aid, scholarships, and federal benefits, helping to make education affordable.
Resources like GetEducated help you find programs aligned with your goals.
You can:
Browse programs below to get started.
An elementary education degree prepares you to teach core academic subjects to young students, typically in kindergarten through sixth grade, with some programs extending to middle school.
Early childhood education focuses on developmental learning for younger children, while elementary education emphasizes structured academic instruction across core subjects.
Yes. Public school teachers must earn at least a bachelor’s degree and obtain state licensure or teaching certification.
You can work as an elementary school teacher, private school teacher, tutor, or instructional support specialist.
Elementary teachers earn more than $55,000 annually on average, with higher salaries possible based on experience and location.
Yes. It offers stability, meaningful work, and the opportunity to shape children’s academic and personal development.
It can be challenging due to classroom management, diverse student needs, and workload, but it is highly rewarding for those passionate about teaching.
Yes. Teachers can specialize in areas like ESL, special education, literacy, or STEM to improve job opportunities and earning potential.
