Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024

Badge for BEST ONLINE BACHELOR'S IN EDUCATION

Find top-ranked online bachelor’s in education degree programs that will prepare students for the teacher certification exams mandated by each state.

Top 10 Online Bachelor's in Education Degrees

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  1. University of Georgia
  2. University of Missouri
  3. Arizona State University
  4. University of South Carolina
  5. University of Arkansas
  6. Old Dominion University
  7. East Carolina University
  8. Webster University
  9. Liberty University
  10. Northern Arizona University
  1. University of Georgia
  2. University of Missouri
  3. Arizona State University
  4. University of South Carolina
  5. University of Arkansas
  6. East Carolina University
  7. Old Dominion University
  8. Liberty University
  9. Northern Arizona University
  10. Appalachian State University
  1. Liberty University 99%
  2. University of Southern Mississippi 99%
  3. Mississippi University for Women 99%
  4. Prescott College 98%
  5. Bluefield State University 97%
  6. Old Dominion University 95%
  7. Fontbonne University 94%
  8. Midway University 94%
  9. Cardinal Stritch University 93%
  10. Chaminade University of Honolulu 93%
  1. Florida State College at Jacksonville 23 to 1
  2. St. Petersburg College 22 to 1
  3. Regent University 21 to 1
  4. University of Arkansas 20 to 1
  5. Northern Arizona University 20 to 1
  6. Arizona State University 19 to 1
  7. East Carolina University 18 to 1
  8. University of Missouri 18 to 1
  9. University of South Carolina 18 to 1
  10. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater 18 to 1
  1. Campbell University $39,230
  2. Nova Southeastern University $36,300
  3. Bay Path University $35,781
  4. Prescott College $35,450
  5. Cardinal Stritch University $35,444
  6. Catawba College $32,868
  7. Brenau University $32,685
  8. Notre Dame College $31,950
  9. Webster University $29,840
  10. Fontbonne University $28,696
  1. Chaminade University of Honolulu $25,200
  2. Nova Southeastern University $22,062
  3. Bay Path University $19,235
  4. Saint Leo University $18,436
  5. Prescott College $16,824
  6. Regent University $16,028
  7. National University $15,912
  8. Campbell University $14,417
  9. Maryville University $14,346
  10. Brenau University $14,130
  1. Midway University
  2. Chaminade University of Honolulu
  3. Athens State University
  4. Concord University
  5. Cardinal Stritch University
  6. Chadron State College
  7. Fontbonne University
  8. William Carey University
  9. Stephen F. Austin State University
  10. University of West Alabama
  1. Bluefield State University
  2. Point University
  3. Midway University
  4. Charter Oak State College
  5. Athens State University
  6. Fontbonne University
  7. Granite State College
  8. University of West Alabama
  9. Concord University
  10. Bay Path University
  1. Point University 24%
  2. Regent University 32%
  3. University of Georgia 43%
  4. William Carey University 54%
  5. Webster University 55%
  6. University of South Carolina 64%
  7. Catawba College 67%
  8. University of West Alabama 69%
  9. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater 71%
  10. Bay Path University 76%
  1. Cardinal Stritch University 7 to 1
  2. Fontbonne University 9 to 1
  3. Prescott College 9 to 1
  4. Notre Dame College 11 to 1
  5. Bay Path University 11 to 1
  6. Brenau University 11 to 1
  7. Chaminade University of Honolulu 11 to 1
  8. Mississippi University for Women 11 to 1
  9. Catawba College 11 to 1
  10. Webster University 12 to 1
  1. Western Carolina University $1,000
  2. University of North Carolina at Pembroke $1,000
  3. St. Petersburg College $1,943
  4. Florida State College at Jacksonville $2,095
  5. Appalachian State University $4,242
  6. East Carolina University $4,452
  7. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater $5,417
  8. Idaho State University $5,928
  9. Empire State University $7,070
  10. State University of New York at Oswego $7,070
  1. Catawba College $3,594
  2. University of North Carolina at Pembroke $4,280
  3. University of the Cumberlands $4,282
  4. Western Carolina University $4,435
  5. Chadron State College $4,650
  6. East Carolina University $4,749
  7. Appalachian State University $4,839
  8. Stephen F. Austin State University $5,262
  9. Oklahoma State University–Stillwater $5,611
  10. Park University $6,663

Featured Programs

Key Takeaways

  • The recent shortage of qualified teachers makes a degree in education a solid career choice. And the degrees on our list will produce graduates with some of the most sought-after skills.
  • A holistic bachelor’s in education degree produces the most skilled teachers that can work in various settings and around students of specific school-age groups.
  • As educators or teachers, graduates of an online bachelor’s in education must have a passion for this extremely important work and possess strong problem-solving and communication skills to do their jobs effectively.
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What’s In An Online Undergraduate Degree in Education

A bachelor’s degree in education is a four-year program that prepares you for a career in education or teaching. For online schools, this program may also be completed in four years, although some schools offer acceleration programs to allow students to finish the course more quickly.

People who hold an online bachelor’s in education degree usually work as high school teachers, middle school teachers, and elementary school teachers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), teaching positions are expected to grow 4-5% in the next decade.

Find out what is the best career path for a teacher with an online bachelor’s in education.

Online Bachelor’s in Education Degree Courses

  • Educational Foundations: In this course, you will learn about theory in education. This course specifically focuses on ethics, history, and politics. You will also study the origins of the American education system, as well as the legal roles and responsibilities of teachers.
  • Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning: This online education degree course covers the strategies you can employ to integrate technology into your classroom. This course supports digital learning experiences, student engagement, and creativity. Especially in light of the pandemic, teachers are expected more than ever to be knowledgeable in using technology in their classrooms.
  • Introduction to Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. Upon completion, students are equipped to assess crucial issues in teaching. This course demonstrates the personality traits and skills needed for graduates to become effective teachers, as well as draft standards-based, clear lesson plans and assessments.
  • Educational Psychology: This course provides online education degree students an overview of the theories and principles of psychology in relation to education. You will understand how children learn, how you can help them develop psychologically, and how you can motivate them.
  • Managing Engaging Learning Environments: This course discusses the theoretical and practical principles around classroom layouts and how they correlate with providing positive behavioral reinforcement.

Online Bachelor’s in Education: Keys to Success

  • Check state certification requirements: Every educational certification varies across states. Make sure you check first that the certification from the online education program you are considering meets your state’s requirements.
  • Be prepared for field experience: While online bachelor’s in education is offered, be prepared for some in-person experience. Usually, fieldwork can be completed during an internship, practicum, or student teaching.
  • If you seek a teaching job in a specific age group or subject area, make sure you use the required field time to obtain experience in this specific area. Employers will prefer applicants who know the job they are applying for.

  • Embrace technology: As you go through your coursework in your education degree, make sure you have soaked up as much knowledge as you can, especially on the system used in delivering your course. Know about the best methods suitable for online-based teaching because soon, you will be on the other side of the equation. You will be the one giving assignments, and no longer be the one completing them.
  • Networking: This is interrelated to your field experience. If possible, try to create and establish as many networks as you possibly can during your education schooling. Many teachers are hired based on recommendations from their college instructors, especially when they are impressed with the student teacher’s performance. It’s best to make a solid network of education professionals even when you’re still completing your bachelor’s.
  • Continued Professional Development: For teachers, completing a bachelor’s degree in education is just the beginning. Learning never ends for educators. That is why after you secure a teaching position, you should continue taking additional classes. Oftentimes, school districts offer continuing education programs with reimbursed tuition.
  • Also, consider continuing on to get a master’s degree. This degree usually results in better career opportunities and higher salaries.

    There are many professional training opportunities and lectures available to teachers as well. Many of them cover the latest curriculum trends and technology. Be sure to take advantage of them.

Learn more about how to major in education.

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Ranking The Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Programs

An online bachelor’s degree program in education offers every student the opportunity to truly become experts in their field. We indexed some of the country’s best web-based education degrees at the undergraduate level. All are considered excellent programs.

A standout feature of each school is the superior coursework they offer to impart to every future teacher the modern theories, principles, and techniques of the practice.

Besides technical knowledge and the basics of ethical practice, the coursework also promotes the most important skills for a teacher to possess, including patience, a genuine love for teaching, and a deep concern for the welfare of students.

Professors who are notable for their contributions to the field make up the teaching staff in the bachelor’s in education online programs of the schools on our list.

Each program has earned the nod of regional accrediting academic agencies, proving the top-quality teaching degree online programs they offer.

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50 Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Degree Programs

  1. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    43%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    44K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1320/29

    Career Outlook for Education degree at University of Georgia

    Cost of Degree: $11,180
    Expenses: $16,362
    Starting Salary: $50,557
    Salary after 4 years: $54,149
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Education

    Concentrations

    • Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 48 months
    • Format: Online
  2. #2

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    Career Outlook for Education degree at University of Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $11,981
    Expenses: $17,240
    Starting Salary: $48,418
    Salary after 4 years: $51,859
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BES in Educational Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education in a Mobile Society
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: `
    • Format: Online
  3. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    85K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Arizona State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,618
    Expenses: $19,509
    Starting Salary: $47,477
    Salary after 4 years: $50,851
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BAE in Educational Studies

    Concentrations

    • Educational Studies
    • Early Childhood Educational
    • Required Credits: 114-120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 114-120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1280/29

    Career Outlook for Education degree at University of South Carolina

    Cost of Degree: $12,688
    Expenses: $17,251
    Starting Salary: $46,108
    Salary after 4 years: $49,385
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Educational Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  5. #5

    University of Arkansas

    Fayetteville , AR
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    32K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1125/24

    Career Outlook for Education degree at University of Arkansas

    Cost of Degree: $9,656
    Expenses: $18,644
    Starting Salary: $45,082
    Salary after 4 years: $48,285
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Education

    Concentrations

    • Human Resources And Workforce Development Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  6. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/24

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Old Dominion University

    Cost of Degree: $11,220
    Expenses: $17,780
    Starting Salary: $41,660
    Salary after 4 years: $44,620
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Technology Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  7. #7

    East Carolina University

    Greenville , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    31K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at East Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $7,325
    Expenses: $16,488
    Starting Salary: $39,179
    Salary after 4 years: $41,963
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Elementary Education (K-6)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Birth Through Kindergarten (B-K) Teacher Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Middle Grades Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Family And Consumer Sciences Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  8. #8

    Webster University

    Saint Louis , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    55%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/23

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Webster University

    Cost of Degree: $29,840
    Expenses: $22,662
    Starting Salary: $71,878
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Education
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Educational Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  9. #9

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    131K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $16,203
    Expenses: $19,987
    Starting Salary: $62,124
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BEd in Business Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BEd in English Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Mathematics Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Physical Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Physics Education - Earth Science 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Middle Education

    Concentrations

    • English
    • Social Science
    • Math
    • Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Elementary Education

    Concentrations

    • Middle Grades English
    • Middle Grades Mathematics
    • Middle Grades Science
    • Middle Grades Social Science
    • Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Social Studies Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Biblical And Educational Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online
  10. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    32K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Northern Arizona University

    Cost of Degree: $11,810
    Expenses: $16,928
    Starting Salary: $38,153
    Salary after 4 years: $40,864
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    Bachelor of Science in Education in Career and Technical Education

    Concentrations

    • Business and Marketing
    • Education and Training
    • Family and Consumer Science
    • Health Careers
    • Industrial and Emerging Technologies
    • Occupational
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  11. #11

    Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Nova Southeastern University

    Cost of Degree: $36,300
    Expenses: $20,570
    Starting Salary: $83,432
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Exceptional Student Education ESOL
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education ESOL/Reading
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  12. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    22K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/24

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Appalachian State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,450
    Expenses: $15,252
    Starting Salary: $37,297
    Salary after 4 years: $39,948
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Middle Grades Education
    • Required Credits: 73
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 70
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 72-75
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  13. #14

    Idaho State University

    Pocatello , ID
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    15K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Idaho State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,958
    Expenses: $14,556
    Starting Salary: $37,554
    Salary after 4 years: $40,222
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Secondary Education

    Concentrations

    • Family And Consumer Science
    • Business Technology
    • Business Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Secondary Education

    Concentrations

    • Business Technology
    • Business Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  14. #15

    Campbell University

    Buies Creek , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Campbell University

    Cost of Degree: $39,230
    Expenses: $21,310
    Starting Salary: $87,034
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Elementary Education (K-6)
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  15. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    16K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at University of Southern Mississippi

    Cost of Degree: $9,450
    Expenses: $16,550
    Starting Salary: $36,527
    Salary after 4 years: $39,123
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Elementary Education

    Concentrations

    • Teacher Assistant
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online
  16. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Mississippi University for Women

    Cost of Degree: $7,866
    Expenses: $14,227
    Starting Salary: $33,277
    Salary after 4 years: $35,641
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health Education
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Public Health Education
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  17. #18

    St. Petersburg College

    St. Petersburg , FL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    33K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at St. Petersburg College

    Cost of Degree: $2,682
    Starting Salary: $31,395
    Salary after 4 years: $33,626

    Online Degrees

    BS in Educational Studies And Community Leadership

    Concentrations

    • Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Educational Interpreting
    • Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Educational Studies And Community Leadership Degree with Preschool Specialization

    Concentrations

    • Educational Interpreting
    • Early Childhood Education
    • Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  18. #19

    Park University

    Parkville , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    12K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Park University

    Cost of Degree: $9,702
    Expenses: $13,335
    Starting Salary: $76,229
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Education Studies

    Concentrations

    • Early Childhood Education: Teaching Young Children
    • Required Credits: 58
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle School Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  19. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

    Cost of Degree: $3,495
    Expenses: $15,038
    Starting Salary: $31,138
    Salary after 4 years: $33,351
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BIS in Applied Education Studies

    Concentrations

    • Learning And Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 18-24 months
    • Format: Online
  20. #22

    Saint Leo University

    Saint Leo , FL
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1085/23

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Saint Leo University

    Cost of Degree: $27,050
    Expenses: $19,552
    Starting Salary: $75,779
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Educational Studies

    Concentrations

    • Early Childhood Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Education Grades K-6
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  21. #24

    National University

    San Diego , CA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    22%

    Student body

    29K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at National University

    Cost of Degree: $13,320
    Starting Salary: $88,534

    Online Degrees

    BA in Elementary Education

    Concentrations

    • Nevada Elementary Licensure
    • BAECE: Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 180
    • Completion time: 4.5-5.5 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in English Education

    Concentrations

    • Nevada Secondary Licensure
    • Required Credits: 180
    • Completion time: 4.5-5.5 years
    • Format: Online
  22. #26

    Granite State College

    Concord , NH
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    15%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Granite State College

    Cost of Degree: $7,806
    Starting Salary: $33,619
    Salary after 4 years: $36,008

    Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Studies- Education And Training
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education

    Concentrations

    • Teacher Certification
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in English Language Arts Teacher Certification

    Concentrations

    • Early Childhood Education And Early Childhood Special Education
    • Elementary Education And General Special Ed
    • General Special Ed
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Studies Teacher Certification

    Concentrations

    • Elementary Education And General Special Ed
    • General Special Ed
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  23. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $4K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/22

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Western Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $4,453
    Expenses: $14,888
    Starting Salary: $35,330
    Salary after 4 years: $37,840
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Birth-Kindergarten Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  24. #28

    Brenau University

    Gainesville , GA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Brenau University

    Cost of Degree: $32,685
    Expenses: $16,730
    Starting Salary: $68,126
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  25. #29

    Regent University

    Virginia Beach , VA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    32%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/22

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Regent University

    Cost of Degree: $19,680
    Expenses: $11,182
    Starting Salary: $68,426
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Early Childhood Education (Non Licensure)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Studies-Teacher Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  26. #31

    Wilmington University

    New Castle , DE
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    19K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Wilmington University

    Cost of Degree: $12,030
    Starting Salary: $69,927

    Online Degrees

    BS in Education

    Concentrations

    • Early Childhood Education
    • Elementary Education K-6
    • Middle Level Education Grades 6-8
    • Skilled And Technical Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  27. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    975/19

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Bluefield State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,840
    Expenses: $16,100
    Starting Salary: $27,289
    Salary after 4 years: $29,228
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Elementary Education

    Concentrations

    • Middle Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  28. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1165/24

    Career Outlook for Education degree at State University of New York at Oswego

    Cost of Degree: $8,769
    Expenses: $18,740
    Starting Salary: $40,291
    Salary after 4 years: $43,154
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Business and Marketing Education

    Concentrations

    • Degree Completion
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Technical Education 7-12

    Concentrations

    • Degree Completion
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Family and Consumer Sciences Education

    Concentrations

    • Degree Completion
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Agricultural Education

    Concentrations

    • Degree Completion
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Trade Education 7-12

    Concentrations

    • Degree Completion
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Careers Education 7-12

    Concentrations

    • Degree Completion
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
  29. #35

    Catawba College

    Salisbury , NC
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/22

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Catawba College

    Cost of Degree: $32,868
    Expenses: $16,410
    Starting Salary: $64,075
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BAE in Birth-Kindergarten Education.
    • Required Credits: 56
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  30. #36

    Notre Dame College

    Cleveland , OH
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Notre Dame College

    Cost of Degree: $31,950
    Expenses: $16,168
    Starting Salary: $65,875
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Education

    Concentrations

    • Mild/Moderate Intervention Specialist
    • Required Credits: 119
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Education

    Concentrations

    • Early Childhood
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  31. #37

    University of the Cumberlands

    Williamsburg , KY
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/19

    Career Outlook for Education degree at University of the Cumberlands

    Cost of Degree: $9,875
    Starting Salary: $57,322

    Online Degrees

    BA in Elementary Education

    Concentrations

    • English/Communications
    • Interdisciplinary
    • Social and Behavioral Studies
    • Special Education*
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Science in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  32. #39

    Maryville University

    Saint Louis , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    14K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Maryville University

    Cost of Degree: $27,166
    Starting Salary: $76,680

    Online Degrees

    BA in Human Development and Family Studies

    Concentrations

    • Child Life Specialist
    • Early Child Development
    • Youth Development
    • Family Life Education
    • Adult Development and Aging
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  33. #40

    Bellevue University

    Bellevue , NE
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    19K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Bellevue University

    Cost of Degree: $8,790
    Expenses: $16,395
    Starting Salary: $90,785
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Adult Education
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  34. Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1065/21

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Stephen F. Austin State University

    Cost of Degree: $10,600
    Expenses: $14,518
    Starting Salary: $39,693
    Salary after 4 years: $42,513
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BBA in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Business Communication and Corporate Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies

    Concentrations

    • Special Education Teacher Certification
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  35. #43

    William Carey University

    Hattiesburg , MS
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/24

    Career Outlook for Education degree at William Carey University

    Cost of Degree: $14,685
    Expenses: $16,248
    Starting Salary: $60,773
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Physical Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health, Physical Education And Recreation
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  36. #44

    Fontbonne University

    Saint Louis , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Fontbonne University

    Cost of Degree: $28,696
    Expenses: $17,036
    Starting Salary: $69,477
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Special Education: Paraprofessional Pathways to Teaching
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  37. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Cardinal Stritch University

    Cost of Degree: $35,444
    Expenses: $14,792
    Starting Salary: $83,132
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA/BS in Education Studies

    Concentrations

    • Introduction to Education
    • Classroom Management and Culture
    • Reading and Language Arts Integration
    • Secondary Curriculum and Methods
    • and Secondary Education Application
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  38. #47

    Concord University

    Athens , WV
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    40%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1012/21

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Concord University

    Cost of Degree: $9,100
    Expenses: $14,418
    Starting Salary: $30,539
    Salary after 4 years: $32,709
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  39. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Athens State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,540
    Starting Salary: $36,271
    Salary after 4 years: $38,848

    Online Degrees

    BS in Education

    Concentrations

    • Post-Secondary Instructor
    • Military Instructor
    • Early Instructor
    • Secondary Instruction
    • Instructional Design
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  40. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Chaminade University of Honolulu

    Cost of Degree: $28,544
    Expenses: $19,890
    Starting Salary: $61,524
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Secondary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Education For Oceania
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education

    Concentrations

    • Montessori Credential
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  41. #50

    Midway University

    Midway , KY
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $25K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1070/22

    Career Outlook for Education degree at Midway University

    Cost of Degree: $25,050
    Expenses: $17,000
    Starting Salary: $56,122
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Education Studies

    Concentrations

    • English
    • Math
    • Science
    • Social Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Middle School Education

    Concentrations

    • English
    • Mathematics
    • Social Studies
    • Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Secondary Education

    Concentrations

    • English
    • Math
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online

Career Outlook for Students with Education Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Educational Leadership And Administration

Degree Level: Bachelor's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $10,123
  • Avg. Expenses*: $17,712
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $37,404
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $40,062
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 13 years
  • Job Growth: 1.60%
  • Number of Jobs: 651,000
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Training and Development Managers6.54%$111,455
Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary1.10%$96,328
Education Administrators, Postsecondary3.53%$94,550
Education Administrators, All Other2.78%$86,555
Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare-2.94%$49,873

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$57,617$89,633$143,355

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#2 New York5% higher than average$118,999
#3 Georgia13% higher than average$95,747
#4 Virginia5% higher than average$99,731
#5 Tennessee14% higher than average$89,691
#6 Delaware2% higher than average$105,079

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Training and Development Managers$111,455
Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary$96,328
Education Administrators, Postsecondary$94,550

Did you know that an online bachelor’s of education degree is one of the best college majors for weathering an economic downturn?

Frequently Asked Questions About Education Degrees

Why get a bachelor’s in education?

Leading a classroom is an incredibly rewarding career. The best path to becoming a teacher is by first becoming a student in an education program. The bachelor’s degree in education prepares students to sit for the teacher certification exams mandated by each state.

Back to top.

What will I learn when getting a bachelor’s degree in education?

Education majors will learn everything they need to successfully manage a classroom, network with parents and administration, and create engaging assignments and assessments. A degree in education will typically focus on one age group or subject area so that students have a deep understanding of the group they plan to teach.

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How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in education?

Programs take 4 years or less and can be completed online or in-person. Both types of degree usually require students to complete a practicum in a classroom in order to gain real world teaching experience.

Back to top.

Back to Top

Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?

If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.

In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resumé differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).

While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

Resources for Online College-Bound Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here