Elementary educators introduce students to some of the most fundamental early learning tasks: reading, math equations, basic science, and social studies. If you're passionate about educating young children and paving the way to bright futures, an elementary education degree online can help you get there. As a teacher, you'll provide children with a safe, structured environment where they are able to explore and build important social skills. You will develop lesson plans and work to meet each child's specific needs. A successful elementary teacher is patient, passionate about education, and cares about children. If you are creative, energetic, and compassionate, a career in elementary education may fit you perfectly.The field of elementary education presents exciting career opportunities. With more children enrolling each year and baby boomers approaching retirement, job prospects for elementary teachers look good. This means that elementary teachers will continue to be in high demand across the country.An online degree in elementary education can give you the boost you need to become highly marketable in the field. Many online degree programs in education are available, including elementary education bachelor's degree online programs and online master's in elementary education programs. Elementary education degrees cater to your interests and offer a variety of concentrations, so don't feel boxed into a specific subject or grade level. By earning a flexible online degree, you can steer your own future — just as you'll steer those of your students as a teacher.
Online Elementary Education Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $7,960 | 15.91% | 2 years | Not reported | Not reported | Not reported |
| Bachelor's | $16,525 | 10.32% | 4 years | $32,000 | $45,000 | Not reported |
| Master's | $16,700 | 9.75% | 1+ years | $48,000 | $59,000 | 5.4% |
In order to work at a public elementary school, a bachelor's degree is required. Fortunately, many elementary education degrees online are offered at this level. Public elementary school teachers must also have a state license or certificate, and some states require teachers to pursue a master's degree upon completion of licensure. Many online elementary education programs are designed for working professionals earning a master's degree, and online master's in elementary education programs offer a variety of concentrations that allow you to build expertise in a specific area and boost your job prospects.
Online Elementary Education Degrees
Online Elementary Education Find Accredited Degrees
Online Elementary Education Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary School Teacher | $54,550 | 6% | 1517400 |
| Kindergarten Teacher | $54,550 | 6% | 1517400 |
| Childcare Worker | $20,230 | 5% | 1260600 |
| Childcare Center Director | $45,670 | 7% | 64000 |
Online Elementary Education Professional Requirements
Certified Childcare Professional (CCP)
The Certified Childcare Professional (CCP) credential is designed for teachers who want to demonstrate their knowledge of early childhood development and their mastery of the principles and techniques of working with young children. It is required for those who have yet to complete their degrees or for teachers with degrees in an unrelated field. It can take up to a year to earn the CCP, but the timeline varies from student to student based on their training.
Childhood Development Associate (CDA)
If you want to take the next step in your career, you may benefit from the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education. The Childhood Development Associate (CDA) can be earned in four areas: Preschool (center-based), Infant/Toddler (center-based), Family Child care, and Home Visitor. The CDA is "the sole nationally recognized ECE credential, accepted in all 50 states and U.S. territories." It is highly recommended. 120 hours of formal early childhood education training is needed. You'll also need 480 hours of professional experience in the appropriate age group, observation by a Council for Professional Recognition certified Professional Development Specialist, a CDA examination, and a statement of ethical conduct.
American Board for Certified Teacher Excellence (ABCTE)
The ABCTE is an online, self-paced program certifying educators in several subjects and is recognized in 12 states across the U.S. Whether you should get this certification or not depends on the state you live in. But the certification can be used in place of a master's degree to get a temporary teaching license. This credential is a teaching certification providing professionals with an alternate pathway to becoming a teacher if they do not have traditional early childhood education degrees, for instance. It involves two exams: a subject area exam and a pedagogy exam.
National Board Certification
National Board Certification is the most respected professional certification available in education in the United States. It is highly recommended. NBCTs are recognized for having met the highest standards set by the profession. While each state has its own licensure system, this credential signifies that the teacher has gone beyond state standards. Certification is awarded in 25 areas, from pre-K through 12th grade. Educators can complete the certification process in one year; some may take several years.
State Specific Licensure Requirements
Each state has its own licensure requirements for educators. Click on State Specific Licensure Requirements, click on your state on the map to see the requirements.