If you love spending time with young people and have always loved school, you may be perfect for one of the cheapest online bachelor’s degree elementary education programs. Teaching is a challenging yet deeply rewarding profession that brings new adventures every day. People who are passionate about kids, want to make a difference, love teaching others, and can handle stressful situations should consider one of these degrees.
We have brought together 34 programs from 31 schools. In this list, you’ll find programs made for future teachers in classroom settings ranging from preschool through 6th grade. This includes kindergarten teaching and a variety of specializations. They come from accredited schools, and many hold programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Many have a low price, making them affordable and convenient.
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Average Cost (In-state): ~$49,900
Least Expensive (In-state & Out-of-state): Sterling College ~$17,400
Most Expensive: Nova Southeastern University ~$142,900
Scroll down to find data-driven information in a reliable system of scientific rankings. We don’t use fancy formulas; we simply calculate total full-time tuition and fees to make the most accurate prediction of the final cost. All the degrees listed above the dividing line are “Best Buys” that cost less than the national average.
18 Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degree Elementary Education Programs
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sterling College | (KS) | $17,400.00 | All Students |
2 | North Carolina Central University | (NC) | $22,040.00 $87,221.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
3 | University of the Cumberlands | (KY) | $24,680.00 | All Students |
4 | Southern Utah University | (UT) | $28,800.00 | All Students |
5 | Fort Hays State University | (KS) | $28,814.00 | All Students |
6 |  Western Governors University | (UT) | $31,400.00 | All Students |
7 | Dickinson State University | (ND) | $36,473.00 $44,873.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
8 | Southern Arkansas University | (AR) | $40,240.00 $61,600.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
9 | Southwestern College - Kansas | (KS) | $40,540.00 $31,240.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
10 | University of Wisconsin-Superior | (WI) | $40,920.00 | All Students |
11 | Western New Mexico University | (NM) | $41,887.00 $75,035.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
12 | Albizu University | (FL) | $42,228.00 | All Students |
13 | Dakota State University | (SD) | $42,570.00 $30,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
14 | Lynn University | (FL) | $45,200.00 | All Students |
15 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | (LA) | $48,000.00 | All Students |
16 | North Greenville University | (SC) | $48,160.00 | All Students |
17 | Wilmington University | (DE) | $48,220.00 $30,340.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
18 | Liberty University | (VA) | $48,892.00 $30,100.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Campbellsville University | (KY) | $50,430.00 | All Students | |
Oklahoma State University | (OK) | $52,123.00 $116,275.00 $52,123.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military | |
Mississippi State University | (MS) | $54,002.00 $50,902.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Mid-America Christian University | (OK) | $54,176.00 | All Students | |
Campbell University | (NC) | $56,040.00 $31,240.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Arizona Christian University | (AZ) | $56,050.00 | All Students | |
Southwestern Assemblies of God University | (TX) | $57,105.00 | All Students | |
 William Carey University Bachelor of General Studies / Educational Studies 14 | (MS) | $62,320.00 $36,720.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
University of Mary | (ND) | $63,836.00 | All Students | |
 Colorado Christian University | (CO) | $65,040.00 $35,760.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Chaminade University of Honolulu | (HI) | $74,135.00 $33,935.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Drexel University | (PA) | $80,280.00 | All Students | |
Nova Southeastern University | (FL) | $142,900.00 $100,540.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
Program Note: To qualify for a ranking, the online bachelor’s degree elementary education program must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table. Degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
CAEP Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
AAQEP Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
Rankings Note: These online college rankings are based on a GetEducated Winter/Spring 2023 review of regionally accredited, affordable online bachelor’s degree elementary education programs. Total cost includes full-time tuition and fees and was valid at the time of collection and specific to the online learning program. School profiles for the online bachelor’s in education in our directory may reflect a slightly different cost based on different editorial update schedules. The published cost is an estimated sticker price for the entire online bachelor’s degree elementary education program including fees. Actual costs may vary by student. Factors such as transfer credits, prerequisite courses, professional licensing and financial aid availability will affect final cost.
Editorial Note: Online schools do NOT pay to be included in any GetEducated online degree ranking. These rankings are editorially independent, open to any regionally accredited or candidate college that offers an affordable online bachelor’s degree elementary education program that is available at least 80 percent through online learning and that is open to enrollment by the public. If your online college is regionally accredited and not currently reviewed by GetEducated, please contact us for inclusion.
These rankings of the cheapest online bachelor’s degree elementary education programs may NOT be re-posted online or reprinted in any format without a license from GetEducated ®. Consumer finance bloggers and writers can contact our editors for a free custom article on the cheapest online bachelor’s degree elementary education programs for use on your website. Our mission: Help consumers GetEducated ® about the best online colleges for cost and credibility.
Why Enroll in One of the Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degree Elementary Education Programs?
Here are a few reasons why people choose to enroll in an online bachelor’s degree elementary education:
- Rewarding career: Every morning, you could wake up knowing that today’s work will help a child have a brighter future. Working with young children may not be for everyone, but it can be one of the most deeply rewarding and fulfilling professions you’ll find.
- Strong pay: While people don’t become preschool, kindergarten, or elementary teachers for the salaries, the pay is strong. The median annual income for teachers, as measured in May 2021, was $61,400. The top 10% earn over $99,000 annually.
- Work where you want: This is a profession needed in all communities. Large cities, small towns, and rural areas all need excellent teachers. Wherever you want to live, there is a job waiting for you.
- School’s out for summer!: There is still work to do, but during the summer you get a vacation from your job, giving you a much-needed rest while providing the chance to earn even more money in a seasonal position.
What’s the Cost for The Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degree Elementary Education Program?
Regardless of your budget, you need to research the cost and find a program that works best for your unique needs. To help you make a decision, we have created an accurate list of rankings that show the cheapest online bachelor’s degree elementary education program, as well as the most expensive.
The average price of these programs is roughly $49,900. That seems like a massive number, but you should remember that these programs usually take about four years to complete. Most schools require payment by the semester, so you won’t have to drop a $50,000 check all at once. If we assume a four-year track, the average annual cost is roughly $12,475. This also translates to about $6,238 per semester for the program.
Of course, this is only the average. There are many programs priced well below this number. There are plenty of affordable options. 18 programs are below the average of $50,200, and eight programs have in-state tuition below $40,000, which comes out to less than $10,000 a year.
One program in particular stands out as far and away the most expensive. The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Nova Southeastern University. This program costs $142,900. The second-most-expensive is the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Drexel, which charges $80,280 for the four-year degree.
On the other end of the spectrum are our top three cheapest online bachelor’s degree elementary education programs:
#1. Sterling College – Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Offering the same low tuition rates to both in-state and out-of-state students, Sterling College in Kansas tops our list as the cheapest online bachelor’s degree in elementary education. This Christian-based college seeks to help develop students into professionals and leaders with Christian morals and ethics. This ethos is carried into its online elementary education bachelor’s program.
Students in this affordable program will benefit from personal advising, clinical teaching experiences in their local community, and a curriculum accredited by the Kansas State Department of Education. Courses teach classroom management techniques, lesson planning strategies, and methods of instruction. Classes examine ways to teach a wide range of subject matter including art, English, literature, math, science, social studies, reading, music, and physical education.
#2. North Carolina Central University – Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education / Literacy
Help students strengthen their reading and writing skills with this low-cost program focusing on literacy in elementary education. Coming in at #2 on our list of cheapest online bachelor’s degrees in elementary education, the cost for this four-year program is just $22,040 for North Carolina residents. Outside the state, however, students will pay nearly four times as much – $87,221, so non-resident students may want to check for more affordable options.
This flexible online degree program delves into content knowledge, teaching skills, and pedagogy. A particular emphasis is placed on teaching literacy skills to children in grades K through 6. Students will study literacy concepts including reading foundations and comprehension, integrating reading and writing across the curriculum, and assessing literacy skills. Graduates are eligible for initial K-6 teaching licensure in North Carolina.
#3. University of the Cumberlands – Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
With a convenient online structure and low tuition, the online elementary education bachelor’s degree from University of the Cumberlands can be a wise choice for future educators. This school, located in Kentucky, offers the same tuition to all students regardless of state residency. The entire four-year bachelor’s program can be completed for $24,680, the equivalent of $6,170 per year.
This program focuses on teaching kindergarten through fifth grade in elementary and middle school environments. Education fundamentals are complemented with a well-rounded liberal arts curriculum. The university is committed to providing an education that is practical and workplace ready.
Some of the courses available in this major include:
- Effective Teaching Practices
- Concepts of Mathematics for the Elementary and Middle School Teacher
- Classroom Management and Behavior
- Basic Concepts Concerning Education
Pre-K through 6th Grade: The Online Degree Types
Within this list, you’ll find a variety of online bachelor’s in education programs. Although they all focus on teaching children from preschool through sixth grade, they come with a variety of focus areas. There are also different types, including “bachelor of arts” and “bachelor of science” programs.
All of these programs require four years of study, which includes at least 120 credit hours. This means most students will have about 15 credit hours per semester to complete the degree.
The teaching degree includes a variety of classes, starting with general education, which are part of every bachelor’s degree. There is a lot of variation, but most schools require courses in science, math, English, literature, and other liberal arts subjects. The goal of these classes is to create a well-rounded graduate, which is one of the goals of classic academia.
There will also be teaching-specific courses that will develop your expertise in classroom performance, assessment, and curriculum design. These programs take a special look at teaching young students, but the subject matter is often applicable to all teaching careers, not just preschool through sixth grade.
These programs will likely include an internship at an elementary school. You’ll be required to observe an experienced teacher and likely participate in teaching.
There are also bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of science (BS) programs. The differences may seem minor, and much of the coursework will overlap. However, a BA usually takes a broader look at elementary education, while a BS is more focused on the technology of teaching or scientifically-proven methods for delivering an education.
Courses for a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education
As you can see, there is a lot of variety in these programs. Although they are all online bachelor’s degree elementary education programs with a focus on preschool through sixth grade, there are many specializations. To help us better understand the different programs, let’s take a closer look at the coursework from a few examples:
Fort Hays State University – Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
The BS in elementary education from Fort Hays State University requires a total of 127 credit hours, including 25 hours of major courses and professional studies, 14 hours of credit courses, 21 hours of internships and method courses, and 12 credit hours of student teaching.
The major courses in this program take a broad look at teaching. There are a variety of classes including “Elementary Art Methods,” “Elementary School Music,” and “Instructional Tech for Elementary Teachers.” There are also courses on literacy, science, social studies, and more.
North Greenville University – Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Educational Studies
This is an extensive teaching degree that includes general education, theological study, and teaching skills. The first two years of the program mostly focus on general and religious studies, while the final two years take a deeper dive into teaching young children.
Courses in teaching include numerous subjects that create a well-rounded educator. They include broad classroom skills, such as student assessment and classroom management, as well as specific topic-oriented instruction. These will include math methods, teaching science, and writing.
Oklahoma State University – Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
This online program delivers a curriculum that is identical to the in-person program. It can lead to teacher certification once the graduate meets all school and state requirements. The program requires general studies like history, English, and natural sciences before enrolling in core courses.
Once the general education classes are complete, students can move into the major requirements, which include classes like “Children’s Literature Across the Curriculum,” “Literacy Assessment and Instruction,” and “Teaching Mathematics at the Primary Level.”
Accreditation for Elementary Education
Accreditation is a seal of approval that assures students are receiving a high-quality education. It makes sure that teaching degrees prepare students properly, so they are ready for the challenges of this profession.
Institutional
There are two important types of accreditation. The first is institutional, which focuses on the entire college or university. This type of accreditation is completed by regional groups that include the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Programmatic
There is also a type of accreditation known as programmatic, which focuses on specific degrees. This type is completed by groups that specialize in a specific academic subject. For example, if you are looking for a medical degree in respiratory care, you might find programs with accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.
For an online bachelor’s degree in education, the most important group is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This group is operated by volunteers who are experts in education. The body includes policymakers, teachers, parents, and school leaders. The group dates back to 1954, when it was known as the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. While there are other accrediting bodies in the elementary education space, this organization remains the most important.
Here are some CAEP-accredited programs in our database:
- North Carolina Central University – Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education / Literacy
- University of the Cumberlands – Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- Western New Mexico University – Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- Liberty University – Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education
This is just a small sample. At the time of this writing, 15 programs hold accreditation from the CAEP.
You’ll also find some programs accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). The AAQEP is a newer group, but it’s also recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. The Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Western Governors University is accredited by the AAQEP.
Typical Admission Requirements for Online Elementary Education Degrees
Each school has different standards. You will have to meet a variety of requirements to enroll in one of these programs, but usually the requirements are fairly light and, if you have a decent academic background, you will find an online bachelor’s degree in education that fits your needs.
Some programs may require you to meet certain GPA standards. Although not required by all, some schools require incoming students to have a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA.
Most major universities will require standardized test scores, such as the ACT or SAT. While more schools are dropping this requirement and using flexible enrollment standards, a strong score on either of these tests will help your enrollment chances.
Some colleges may also request a personal essay. For teaching programs, you’ll need to describe why you want to be an educator and what you plan to do with your degree.
Let’s look at an example. Mississippi State University, which offers the online Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education / Early Childhood or Middle School (PreK-6), requires applicants to submit official SAT or ACT scores and have official high school transcripts sent to the admissions office. You must have a 2.5 GPA minimum and submit two recommendation letters from educators who are familiar with your work.
Licensing and Certification for Pre-K, Kindergarten, and Elementary Teachers
To become a teacher, you need a license, often called a certificate, which is issued through the state. Each state is different, although the details are usually similar.
After earning your online bachelor’s degree in education, you will need to check the requirements for the state where you want to teach. The guidelines generally include a basic skills test, which demonstrates your baseline knowledge of teaching. If you are teaching a specific area, you’ll need to complete a subject-knowledge test. (Subject-knowledge tests are rare for elementary teachers. They are more common for middle and high school teachers who teach a specific subject like math, science, or history.)
Once you have completed all the requirements, you can apply for your teaching certificate. The school that issued your degree (the school you attended) may need to provide approval or confirmation before you can apply.
Salary and Career Outlook for Teachers
Teaching may not have a reputation for high salaries, but teachers do have the opportunity for significant earnings. They also work in a stable, widespread career that brings job options in every community.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for kindergarten and elementary teachers (May 2021) is $61,400. The top 10% earn over $99,000, so there is room for excellent earnings.
The expected career growth (2021 – 2031) for this profession is 5%, which is right alongside the growth for all occupations in the U.S. This shows that while it’s not a high-growth industry, it is a strong profession that will continue to thrive. This is a large occupation as well. By 2031 the BLS expects over 1.5 million elementary teachers in the U.S.
The highest concentration of elementary school teachers is in Vermont, where there are 11.9 elementary teachers for every 1,000 jobs. Vermont is followed by Maryland (11.36), Alabama (11.29), North Dakota (11.29), and Kansas (11.27).
The Next Education or Degree?
An online bachelor’s degree in education from an accredited institution is all the formal classes you need to start a rewarding, engaging teaching career. For many, this is where formal education ends, which is perfectly fine.
However, it is possible to continue your education, especially if you want to become a specialized teacher or work as a school principal or administrator.
A master’s degree in education requires two years of study. They usually have strong GPA requirements for incoming graduate students, so you should maintain high grades if you think a master’s is in your future. Many schools require at least a 2.5 minimum GPA, but some schools require 3.0 or higher.
With a master’s degree, you can work as a school principal, an important career with a high median income. (Nearly $100,000.) You could also become an instructional coordinator.
Even if you do not attend graduate classes, you will need continuing education to maintain your teacher’s license. Every state requires teachers to meet requirements for continuing education credits or classroom hours. Usually the renewal term is five years, although some states have longer or shorter periods.
All workers in all fields need a commitment to lifelong learning, but it seems especially important for teachers. By taking classes, watching seminars, attending conferences, and reading publications, you can continue to be the best teacher possible!
Fulfill Your Potential through the Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degree Elementary Education Program!
If you are looking for one of the most rewarding careers, teaching young students may be perfect for you! To learn more about these affordable online bachelor’s degree elementary education programs, request more information from GetEducated.com today!