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Achieve your career goals and inspire the next generation of learners with a master’s in elementary education from a top university.
If you have a passion for helping children learn, this ranking is for you. We all know that having a great teacher can make a massive impact on a child’s life - but nobody becomes a master teacher overnight.
Mastering the art of teaching takes time, experience, and preparation. Studies show that excellent teacher preparation makes a huge difference in student outcomes. By pursuing an advanced degree in education, you’ll learn evidence-based practices and experience the essential mentorship that you’ll need to excel in the classroom.
What kind of Master’s in Elementary Education degree should you get?
There are a lot of options out there. This ranking covers quite a few - from degrees that provide initial licensure to those that provide advanced credentials. Some are practitioner focused, while others lead to careers in research.
One thing that all the programs on this ranking do have in common is that they are campus-based programs. But if you can’t (or don’t want to) put your life on hold to complete your master’s degree, there are excellent online options available.
The days when an online degree was a dubious achievement are well in the past. Accredited online degrees are as rigorous as their campus-based counterparts and respected by employers.
Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.
How much money do people make with a master’s in elementary education?
Nobody goes into education to become rich. That said, getting a Master’s degree in Education can deliver huge benefits to your paycheck - even after you factor in the cost of the degree. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics ranks a Master’s in Education among the degrees that deliver a “relatively high” payoff.
A master’s degree opens doors to the highest paying jobs in education (like school principalships), and for all other jobs it confers a significant yearly wage premium. Here are a few incentivizing numbers from the BLS:
Education Administrators with master’s: $23,000 average annual wage premium
Elementary teachers with master’s: $11,900 average annual wage premium
Elementary, Middle, High School Principal: $92,510 median annual salary
Sponsored Schools
What can you do with a master’s degree in elementary education?
The schools on this ranking have some of the top education programs in the country, and their Master’s in Education programs provide outstanding training in both teaching and leadership. Whether you want to teach for the rest of your life or move into another career, your master’s degree will open doors to countless job opportunities. Here are some possibilities:
Principal or Administrator
Educational Researcher
Instructional Specialist
Corporate Trainer
Educational Consultant
What are the requirements for a master’s degree in elementary education?
The programs on this ranking are some of the most selective in the country. These schools are looking for highly qualified and committed candidates—and it’s your job to prove that they want you in their program.
Admissions teams do look at academic performance, but good grades are only one part of the package. You will need to demonstrate your passion for educating young children in diverse and inclusive settings. Schools provide a variety of ways to do this, but here are a few common admission requirements:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a pretty healthy GPA
GRE or other standardized test scores
Experience working with children in some capacity (coaching, mentoring, tutoring)
A personal statement outlining your career goals
For programs leading to advanced credentials, you may need an initial teaching license.
What are the best master’s in elementary education degrees?
So what makes for a top program? At College Choice, we are looking for schools that deliver both academic excellence and return on investment.
First of all, accreditation is critical, so all the schools on our list are regionally accredited. Additionally, many programs are accredited by the main educational accrediting bodies: NCATE, CAEP, or TEAC.
The College Choice score we give to each school takes into account a variety of factors. Our research team slogs through the data, weighing academic reputation rankings, program tuition rates, early career earnings of graduates, and student satisfaction. And we’re confident that the resulting score reflects the quality of program you’ll encounter.
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
CollegeChoice.net 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 Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students interested in advancing their career can earn their master's in elementary education at Stanford University. Located in Stanford, California, the private university offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. In the master's in elementary education program, learners complete a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes advanced elementary education knowledge and skills.
Master's candidates rely on the school's support services to make progress toward their degree. Academic advisors help with course selections, while career counselors host workshops, offer internship programs, and provide career planning services. The university provides career advising, tutoring, and library services to master's degree-seekers.
Stanford University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 89
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 4%
Graduation Rate: 94%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 5-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $52,479
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $52,479
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $92,800
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,857
Out-of-state
$52,857
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$52,479
Out-of-state
$52,479
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
4%
Students Enrolled
17,249
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Vanderbilt University stands out for its 104 master's programs, which include an M.Ed. in elementary education program. The master's in elementary education incorporates career-focused training to help students advance their professional opportunities. Flexible enrollment options make it easier for busy enrollees and working professionals to attend a graduate program.
Learners take theoretical and practical elementary education classes to gain a comprehensive knowledge of the field. Students strengthen their career-readiness through internships and hands-on learning opportunities. A concentration also helps learners specialize their training and pursue focused careers after completing the master's degree.
Vanderbilt University at a Glance:
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 9%
Graduate Tuition In State: $48,624
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $48,624
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 68%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,800
Out-of-state
$50,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$48,624
Out-of-state
$48,624
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
13,131
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
8%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
The master of teaching in elementary education at the University of Virginia is one of 72 master's programs offered at the university. The program builds advanced knowledge and skills, helping students increase their career opportunities. Flexible enrollment options make it easier for busy enrollees and working professionals to attend a graduate program.
During the program, learners complete a challenging curriculum that builds comprehensive knowledge of elementary education. Students complete internships and hands-on learning opportunities to complement their classroom knowledge and expand their professional networks. Concentrations and electives allow learners to customize the degree based on their career goals.
University of Virginia at a Glance:
Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 24%
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,578
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,770
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 57%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $15,914
Average Price After Aid: $17,579
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,970
Out-of-state
$47,833
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,578
Out-of-state
$27,770
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
25,012
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
William & Mary
Williamsburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students seeking increased professional responsibilities can earn their master's in elementary education degree at William & Mary. The public institution offers several enrollment options on its Williamsburg campus and through its online programs. In the M.A.Ed. program, learners strengthen their knowledge and skills through a rigorous curriculum.
Master's candidates rely on the school's support services to make progress toward their degree. Financial aid advisors connect students with resources to pay for graduate school, while academic advisors recommend course selections. The university also offers library services, networking events, and more for graduate degree-seekers.
William & Mary at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 19
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 38%
Graduation Rate: 90%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,516
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,305
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $47,400
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,728
Out-of-state
$40,089
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,516
Out-of-state
$28,305
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
38%
Students Enrolled
8,773
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
5%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
North Carolina State University prepares graduates for career advancement in its master's in elementary education program. This Raleigh, North Carolina-based public school serves degree candidates of all types, with online enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. In the master's in elementary education program, learners complete a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes advanced elementary education knowledge and skills.
College resources and support services help master's candidates complete their degree and plan their next steps. Academic advisors recommend course selections, while financial aid counselors connect students with scholarship and grant opportunities. The university also hosts networking and training events for master's degree-seekers.
North Carolina State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 97
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Admission Rate: 45%
Graduation Rate: 82%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,095
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,421
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $45,000
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$26,421
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
36,304
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners seeking a graduate degree in elementary education can enroll in the master's program at Boston College. The master's in elementary education program allows students to grow their earning potential and advance their careers. Flexible enrollment options appeal to working professionals who need to schedule classes around their other responsibilities.
Learners strengthen their theoretical and practical understanding of elementary education through the program's challenging curriculum. Students apply their classroom knowledge through internships and hands-on learning opportunities, which also build professional connections. Concentrations and electives let learners specialize their education around particular fields.
Boston College at a Glance:
Location: Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 27%
Graduate Tuition In State: $30,600
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,600
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 56%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,780
Out-of-state
$56,780
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$30,600
Out-of-state
$30,600
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
27%
Students Enrolled
14,747
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in elementary education program in at Virginia Tech offers an affordable, rigorous option for graduate learners. The master's program allows students to grow their earning potential and advance their careers. At the school, graduate programs offer flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for working professionals.
The master's curriculum encourages a comprehensive understanding of elementary education through both theoretical and practical knowledge. Internships and experiential learning opportunities build professional connections and provide real-world experience. Concentrations and electives allow learners to customize the degree based on their career goals.
Virginia Tech at a Glance:
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 70%
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,701
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,614
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 65%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,385
Average Price After Aid: $18,449
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,420
Out-of-state
$29,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,701
Out-of-state
$27,614
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
36,383
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
Indiana University Bloomington
Bloomington, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Indiana University Bloomington stands out for its 109 master's programs, which include an elementary education program. Students advance their training and increase their career opportunities in the M.S.Ed. in elementary education program. Graduate programs prioritize flexibility through their enrollment options, which help enrollees balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and practical knowledge to build a comprehensive understanding of elementary education. Internships and hands-on learning opportunities strengthen classroom skills and help students expand their professional networks. Faculty advisors help learners choose electives and concentrations to specialize their education.
Indiana University Bloomington at a Glance:
Location: Bloomington, Indiana
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 78%
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,501
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,932
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 84%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $11,645
Average Price After Aid: $13,036
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,575
Out-of-state
$35,140
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,501
Out-of-state
$31,932
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
43,260
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
University of Washington
Tacoma, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners seeking a graduate degree in elementary education can enroll in the M.Ed. program at the University of Washington. Students advance their training and increase their career opportunities in the master's in elementary education program. Working professionals benefit from the school's flexible enrollment options, which make it easier to schedule classes around other responsibilities.
Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of elementary education through a curriculum that highlights theoretical and practical approaches. Students complete internships and hands-on learning opportunities to complement their classroom knowledge and expand their professional networks. Choosing a concentration also helps learners gain specialized skills in a specific area of elementary education.
University of Washington at a Glance:
Location: Tacoma, Washington
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 87%
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,198
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $32,439
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 83%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $11,067
Average Price After Aid: $10,620
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,370
Out-of-state
$37,071
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,198
Out-of-state
$32,439
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
5,329
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#10 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
Loyola University Maryland
Baltimore, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in elementary education program at Loyola University Maryland stands out for its academic rigor and flexibility. The program appeals to students seeking a graduate degree that will increase their career opportunities. Working professionals benefit from the school's flexible enrollment options, which make it easier to schedule classes around other responsibilities.
The master's curriculum balances theoretical and practical approaches to elementary education, emphasizing a comprehensive understanding of the field. Students complete internships and hands-on learning opportunities to complement their classroom knowledge and expand their professional networks. Learners work with faculty advisors to choose electives or concentrations that customize the program.
Loyola University Maryland at a Glance:
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,910
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,910
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 93%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$48,700
Out-of-state
$48,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,910
Out-of-state
$17,910
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
5,473
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
8%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#11 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
Arizona State University
Glendale, AZ
4 years
Campus
The elementary education master's program at Arizona State University, one of 12 master's degrees, offers a rigorous education. The master's in elementary education strengthens subject-specific knowledge, allowing graduates to pursue advanced career opportunities. Flexible enrollment options, including on-campus and online classes, help enrollees fit school into their busy schedules.
The M.Ed. program uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes theoretical and practical approaches to elementary education. Students complete internships and hands-on learning opportunities to complement their classroom knowledge and expand their professional networks. Concentrations and electives let learners individualize the program based on their interests and professional goals.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Location: Glendale, Arizona
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,720
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,544
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $12,442
Average Price After Aid: $9,349
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,175
Out-of-state
$27,360
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,720
Out-of-state
$23,544
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
4,929
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#12 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
University of South Carolina
Columbia, SC
4 years
Online + Campus
For students seeking career advancement, the University of South Carolina offers a master's program in elementary education. The public institution, located in Columbia, offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. During the MAT in elementary education program, learners take their elementary education knowledge to the next level thanks to accessible graduate courses.
College resources and support services help master's candidates get the most out of graduate school. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors recommend grants and scholarships to pay for a master's degree. The university also offers library services, networking events, and more for graduate degree-seekers.
University of South Carolina at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 108
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Admission Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 77%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,737
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,760
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $43,900
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,288
Out-of-state
$33,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,737
Out-of-state
$29,760
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
35,364
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
New York University
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in elementary education program at New York University is one of 201 master's degrees offered by the university. The master of arts in childhood education and childhood special education strengthens subject-specific knowledge, allowing graduates to pursue advanced career opportunities. Flexible enrollment options, including on-campus and online classes, help enrollees fit school into their busy schedules.
Learners take theoretical and practical elementary education classes to gain a comprehensive knowledge of the field. Students strengthen their knowledge through internships and other hands-on learning opportunities, which also build valuable professional connections. Learners specialize their education by choosing electives and concentrations.
New York University at a Glance:
Location: New York, New York
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 16%
Graduate Tuition In State: $33,408
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $33,408
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 52%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,684
Out-of-state
$50,684
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,408
Out-of-state
$33,408
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
52,885
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#14 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Minnesota offers a total of 171 master's degrees, including a top-ranked M.Ed. program in elementary education. Students gain advanced knowledge and skills in the program. At the school, graduate programs offer flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for working professionals.
The master's curriculum encourages a comprehensive understanding of elementary education through both theoretical and practical knowledge. Students can often complete internships and other hands-on learning opportunities, gaining varied experience while building professional connections. Learners specialize their education by choosing electives and concentrations.
University of Minnesota at a Glance:
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 57%
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,580
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,204
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 81%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,544
Average Price After Aid: $17,279
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,318
Out-of-state
$31,616
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,580
Out-of-state
$27,204
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
51,327
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Master’s In Elementary Education Degrees 2022
Teachers College at Columbia University
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
The Teachers College at Columbia University stands out for its 62 master's programs, which include an elementary education program. The MA in elementary inclusive education with a gifted extension program builds advanced knowledge and skills, helping students increase their career opportunities. Flexible enrollment options, including on-campus and online classes, help enrollees fit school into their busy schedules.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and practical knowledge to build a comprehensive understanding of elementary education. Internships and hands-on learning opportunities encourage students to gain varied experience while building professional connections. Learners choose concentrations and electives to build specialized skills in a specific area of elementary education.
Teachers College at Columbia University at a Glance:
Location: New York, New York
School Type: Private
Graduate Tuition In State: $40,800
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $40,800
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$40,800
Out-of-state
$40,800
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,489
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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