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A bachelor's degree in education prepares future educators to teach K-12 students and set them up for success. Teachers enjoy the intrinsic rewards of building relationships, taking part in a community, and contributing to students' growth. They also benefit from a steady job market.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in education, training, and library occupations will grow 5% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. To secure one of these positions, prospective teachers must complete at least a bachelor's degree in education and obtain state licensure.
What Is Education?
Since nationwide compulsory education began in 1918, every state across the U.S. has needed teachers to educate its youth. The education field now encompasses various roles, including classroom teachers, administrators, librarians, and curriculum developers. Education professionals can work in K-12 schools, education centers, universities, and curriculum and instruction organizations.
Educators play a major role in children's growth and development at all ages. Teachers instruct and nurture students, while instructional coaches and administrators ensure that school environments operate smoothly. Educators need compassion, patience, and flexibility to manage classrooms effectively and meet the needs of diverse students and families.
Prospective education professionals can begin their careers by pursuing online education degrees. These programs typically cost less than on-campus options and may allow enrollees to graduate more quickly. Keep reading for an overview of what to expect from online bachelor's degrees in teaching.
Why Get a Bachelor's Degree in Education?
Earning a bachelor's degree in education opens doors to several rewarding career paths. Most positions in education require at least a bachelor's degree with an active state teaching license.
Education professionals benefit from a growing job market, fulfilling work, and opportunities for increased salaries and promotion with experience.
The education industry experiences continual growth. In fact, the BLS projects an increase of 441,000 jobs in education, training, and library occupations from 2019 to 2029.
Many educational professionals enjoy helping students meet educational goals. Working with children demands a considerable emotional investment, but teachers reap the benefits of nurturing student relationships and aiding in development.
Many educational professionals with bachelor's degrees begin their careers in the classroom. Teachers may then advance to instructional coaching and administrative leadership roles. However, teachers may need both classroom experience and a master's degree to qualify for managerial positions.
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What to Expect From Online Education Programs
Education programs prepare prospective teachers to educate students effectively and compassionately. Bachelor's degrees in education typically take 4-5 years, depending on the student's program, pacing, and concentration. Enrollees who wish to learn at their own pace should consider online education programs, which may offer accelerated options and part-time enrollment.
Education degrees feature classroom and experiential learning opportunities. After finishing a teacher preparation program, candidates must typically complete edTPA. This exam provides a performance-based, subject-specific assessment of a candidate's ability to plan, instruct, and assess student learning.
Admission Requirements
Online teaching degree candidates must demonstrate academic achievement and dedication to the education field. Many education programs require a minimum 2.75-3.0 GPA and completion of prerequisite or introductory coursework. Some schools seek applicants with volunteer teaching experience.
Applicants generally provide admission documents, including transcripts, resumes, recommendation letters, and statements of purpose. Many online education programs accept transfer credits and AP exam credits. Fingerprinting and background checks remain mandatory in most education programs.
Learn More About the Application Process
Concentration Options
Education programs comprise multiple grade levels and areas, so teacher candidates must choose a concentration early in their major. The most popular concentrations include elementary, secondary, and special education.
Elementary Education
Elementary education encompasses the early formal schooling in grades K-5. Elementary teachers instruct students in social and emotional behaviors as well as core subjects like reading, writing, math, and science. Elementary education students may pursue specializations such as literacy, STEM, and special education.
Secondary Education
Secondary education includes middle and high school grades 6-12. At the secondary level, teachers must specialize in areas like English, math, science, history, or music. Secondary education students must complete college coursework in their content area and pass subject-specific state exams.
Special Education
Special education teachers develop skill sets to meet learners' individual needs. These teachers craft education plans to best support children with disabilities in any grade level. Special education teacher candidates may focus on topics like ASL, autistic spectrum disorders, or visual impairment.
Popular Education Courses
Education program requirements typically comprise core courses, elective options, and mandatory field experiences like practicums and student teaching. These requirements vary by state, school, and concentration, but some courses remain consistent across programs.
Students pursuing an online education degree may complete the following courses and experiential learning requirements:
Classroom Management
Students in this course learn to apply behavior interventions, set routines and procedures, and create successful learning environments. The course may offer a general approach to classroom management best practices or focus on specific grades or content areas.
Assessment
Core studies in assessment cover methods to measure classroom learning. Assessments come in various forms, including national exams, state benchmark tests, and daily classroom quizzes. In these courses, candidates implement formative and summative assessments to measure their students' progress.
Student Teaching
Essential to any education program, student teaching prepares degree-seekers for real classroom instruction. Though duties and required hours vary by state, student teachers collaborate with advisors and teachers to create lesson plans and instruct students in specific content areas.
How Much Will an Online Bachelor's Degree in Teaching Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), full-time undergraduate students paid an average of $35,331 in tuition and fees, room, and board during the 2019-20 school year. This average reflects all degree-granting four-year universities, but costs can vary widely based on the school's public or private status.
The NCES also reported an average total cost of $25,487 at public institutions and $53,217 at nonprofit institutions. Since these figures include on-campus fees, online students typically pay less than on-campus enrollees. Other factors that impact educational costs include location and student residency status.
Budget-conscious students should consider pursuing a public, online education degree. Remote learning can cost less per credit and help students save on commuting expenses and building fees. Online learners may also qualify for financial aid like scholarships, grants, and loans. Follow the links below to learn more about financial aid options.
Choosing the Right Online Education Bachelor's Degree
Our ranked list of the best online education programs provides a good starting point for your school search. Prospective students should also consider the following factors.
Independent accrediting agencies assess postsecondary programs for academic quality and rigor. Regional and national agencies accredit entire institutions, while programmatic accreditors evaluate individual programs. Recognized by the Department of Education, the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) reviews teacher preparation programs.
Prospective teachers can pursue numerous concentrations within the education field. Learners with a specific content focus in mind should determine that potential programs offer that specialization.
Online education degrees often cost less than on-campus programs. However, not all online programs offer the same tuition rates or financial aid opportunities. Students hoping to save money should thoroughly research different program options.
Why You Should Get Your Teaching Degree Online
Many education students face obstacles in balancing coursework and field experiences with work obligations. However, online learning permits a greater amount of flexibility and more opportunities for self-paced learning.
Though in-person field experiences remain mandatory, many online programs offer asynchronous studies, allowing students to complete most requirements outside of regular teaching and working hours.
Accrediting agencies are responsible for identifying in-person and online programs that meet educational standards. Students can rest assured that NCATE-accredited programs offer quality, online bachelor's degrees in education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bachelor's degree is best for teaching?
Prospective teachers should pursue a bachelor's in education. Potential concentrations include elementary, secondary, and special education.
Is getting an online education degree worth it?
Online education degrees offer flexibility and the opportunity to set an individual learning pace. Accredited online education degrees are held in the same regard as on-campus degrees.
How long does it take to get an online teaching bachelor's degree?
Many students complete an online education degree in four years. However, remote learners may pursue accelerated or part-time options.
What can I do with an online bachelor's degree in education?
An online bachelor's degree in education prepares learners for careers as teachers. This degree also acts as a stepping stone to pursue graduate degrees in the field.
Is teaching a good career?
>Teaching careers offer rewards like relationship building, positive job growth, and potential for career advancement through experience and further education.
The Best Online Education Programs 2022
#1 Best Online Education Degrees
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
- Seattle, WA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The flexibility of the bachelor of arts in early care and education program at the University of Washington-Seattle Campus makes it a great choice for students seeking a remote education that fits their schedule. The public institution educates 3,931 virtual degree-seekers. A supportive virtual community and other institutional resources benefit distance learners.
Degree candidates gain industry knowledge in engaging classes. The curriculum includes courses on general education and advanced topics, with the option to individualize classes and choose electives. Enrollees supplement their education with hands-on learning experiences. Degree-seekers who complete internships, externships, or research projects get first-hand experience of what it's like to work in the field.
The admissions office can let prospective students know more about the enrollment criteria. Financial aid is awarded to 57% of all enrollees, so students should meet with the financial aid office to see if they qualify. Qualifying learners can use scholarships, fellowships, and other types of aid to reduce the price of their degree.
Percent Online Enrollment
8%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Best Online Education Degrees
Biola University
- La Mirada, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A La Mirada, California, school, Biola University provides premier online programs for degree candidates seeking competitive study. With five bachelor's programs available online, the private institution supports 2,206 virtual learners. The rigorous, industry-relevant education provided by the bachelor's in early childhood program appeals to degree-seekers interested in education.
Connecting with classmates and instructors in the virtual classroom space helps enrollees gain the full benefits of the education program's supportive online learning community. Enrollees take classes on foundational and advanced topics to gain relevant knowledge for a future career in education. Students benefit from hands-on practice and experiential learning opportunities like internships and research projects. The institution provides degree-seekers with access to student success-focused resources, such as career and academic advising, throughout the course of the program.
Learners should meet with a financial aid officer to discuss funding opportunities to help with the costs of an education degree. The college offers many fellowship, scholarship, and federal aid opportunities. Some form of financial aid is awarded to 100% of the institution's enrollees.
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Best Online Education Degrees
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers premier online degrees for students looking for a competitive program. With 14 bachelor's programs available online, the public institution supports 3,756 virtual learners. The bachelor of science in elementary education program provides a rigorous education for aspiring teachers.
Enrollees benefit from a supportive online community, connecting with peers and professors in a remote classroom space. Degree-seekers gain knowledge relevant to the field in classes that cover foundational and advanced industry topics. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, give learners hands-on practice to develop their skills for a future profession. Institutional resources focused on student success, like career and academic advising, are available to degree-seekers throughout the program.
Learners should ask a financial aid officer about funding opportunities to help bring down the costs of a degree. Students can explore many funding opportunities, including scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. In all, 98% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Education Degrees
North Carolina Central University
- Durham, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Trying to find a flexible education to prepare you for a teaching career? Look at North Carolina Central University's bachelor of science in birth-kindergarten teacher education. A total of 3,771 online learners receive a premier education from the public college, choosing from nine virtual bachelor's degrees.
The program helps students succeed in the field by giving them proper tools. Enrollees benefit from many different types of classes, covering both foundational and advanced topics. Depending on their career aspirations, degree-seekers can complete hands-on learning experiences to increase their industry knowledge. Learners benefit from internships, externships, and industry-specific research projects. Students can get help from their academic advisor and career counselor throughout the program.
Applicants who meet eligibility criteria can seek out internal and external funding opportunities, such as fellowships and internships, to help offset the price of their degree. The college supports degree-seekers in the educational journey with financial assistance, providing aid to 93% of enrollees.
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Education Degrees
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Regent University's bachelor's in early childhood education is a great choice for students seeking a flexible education to prepare them for teaching careers. The Virginia Beach, Virginia, school offers a total of 32 bachelor's programs remotely for 9,507 online learners.
The bachelor's program provides students with the tools they need for a successful career in early childhood education. Enrollees benefit from a variety of coursework, participating in classes that provide foundational and advanced knowledge of the field. Experiential learning opportunities help degree-seekers increase their industry knowledge to advance their career goals. Internships, externships, and applied research projects provide learners with valuable knowledge. Students can speak with their academic advisor and career services to receive guidance throughout the duration of their studies.
To offset degree costs, eligible degree candidates can pursue external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. A total of 99% of the college's enrollees receive financial aid from the leader in distance learning.
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Education Degrees
Regis University
- Denver, CO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A Denver, Colorado, school, Regis University provides premier online programs for students seeking competitive study. The 4,116 learners enrolled remotely at the private institution can choose from 26 bachelor's programs available online. The rigorous, industry-relevant education provided by the accelerated bachelor's in elementary education appeals to degree-seekers interested in the education field.
Degree candidates benefit from a supportive learning remote community, connecting with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom environment. The curriculum covers foundational and advanced topics, preparing enrollees with relevant knowledge for their future careers. Internships, research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities help learners practice hands-on skills to build their competency for a job. Throughout the program, degree-seekers can access institutional resources geared toward student success, such as career and academic advising.
Funding opportunities found with the help of a financial aid officer can bring down degree costs. The college offers many fellowship, scholarship, and federal aid opportunities. Of all enrollees, 99% receive some kind of financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Education Degrees
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
- Saint Mary of the Woods, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College's bachelor of science in education is a great choice for students seeking a flexible education to prepare them for the education field. The private college connects 347 distance learners with a premier education and offers 25 bachelor's programs remotely.
Degree candidates prepare for a successful career with the tools they gain in this bachelor's program. The curriculum includes a variety of coursework, giving enrollees broad knowledge of both foundational and advanced topics. Experiential learning opportunities deepen degree-seekers' industry knowledge, helping them advance their career goals. Learners can also complete internships, externships, or industry-specific research projects to gain valuable knowledge. Throughout the program, students can get guidance from their academic advisor and career counselor.
To offset degree costs, eligible students can pursue external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. A total of 100% of enrollees at the college receive financial aid from the leader in distance learning.
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online Education Degrees
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive study should consider the premier online programs at East Carolina University, located in Greenville, North Carolina. The public institution supports 13,890 online learners, with 18 bachelor's programs offered remotely. The bachelor's in birth-kindergarten teacher education program provides a rigorous industry-relevant education.
The program's virtual classroom space lets learners connect with peers, professors, and other members of the distance learning community. The foundational and advanced topics covered in classes prepare enrollees with relevant knowledge for their future careers in education. Experiential learning opportunities, including internships and research projects, help degree-seekers strengthen their competency for a future profession in the field. Career counseling, academic advising, and other institutional resources focused on student success are available to degree-seekers during the program.
Learners should ask a financial aid officer about funding opportunities to help reduce degree costs. The college features many different scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid opportunities. Some kind of financial aid is provided to 79% of enrollees at the institution.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Education Degrees
University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Wilmington, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The flexibility of University of North Carolina Wilmington's bachelor's in elementary education program makes it a great choice for students seeking a remote education that fits their schedule. The public institution offers eight of its bachelor's programs remotely, providing an industry-relevant education to 8,500 virtual degree-seekers. A supportive virtual community and other institutional resources benefit distance learners.
The program's engaging classes provide students with industry-relevant knowledge. The curriculum covers general education and advanced topics and can be customized. Enrollees can add to their academic experience with hands-on learning opportunities. Research, internships, and externships help provide a firsthand experience of working in the field.
Prospective students can learn about enrollment criteria by talking to the admissions office. Learners can also meet with the financial aid office to explore eligibility requirements for funding opportunities, as 72% of all students receive some form of financial aid. Scholarships, fellowships, and other aid opportunities let eligible learners lower their degree costs.
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Education Degrees
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Drexel University provides flexible education opportunities for all kinds of degree-seekers interested in the private institution. From its main campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the college supports eight online bachelor’s programs, reaching 9,300 distance learners across the country. Aspiring teachers often find the top-ranking bachelor's in elementary education program to be a great choice.
Degree candidates can connect with supportive peers and distinguished faculty members. Learners advance their personal and professional goals by completing coursework and projects in a remote learning space. Faculty-driven research, internships, and externships are some of the opportunities students can pursue. Enrollees can customize their academic experience by working with an advisor to choose electives and an individualized plan of study.
An education at the college is more affordable through a variety of internal and external opportunities for financial assistance. Scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid benefit students who meet the eligibility requirements. The college reports that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of aid to offset educational expenses.
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education