What Can You Do with a Master’s in Elementary Education?
Key Takeaways
- Graduates with a master’s in elementary education instruct students from kindergarten to sixth grade in basic subjects such as reading and math.
- Elementary education teachers use a hands-on approach to teach tricky concepts, solve problems, and improve critical thinking.
- Median salary for a teacher with an elementary education master’s degree is $63,670 per year.
Choosing from the diverse career paths with a master’s in elementary education can be challenging, especially with the evolving demands in the education sector. If you’ve ever wondered about what you can do with a master’s in elementary education, you’re about to explore the various career opportunities this degree can unlock.
Featured Programs
What Can You Do with a Master’s in Elementary Education?
From elementary school teachers and school principals to educational consultants, there’s a wide range of career paths students can choose from after getting a master’s in elementary education.
Elementary School Teacher
Students can become elementary school teachers with a master’s in elementary education. In this role, students instruct kids from kindergarten to fifth or sixth grade in basic subjects such as reading and math to prepare them for middle school.
Elementary school teachers are responsible for helping students learn and use vital concepts. Often, they use a hands-on approach to explain tricky concepts, solve problems, and improve critical thinking.
Some additional job duties include running the class, setting up meetings with parents, and attending conferences and workshops. If you choose this career path, you can earn an average salary of $63,670 per year.
- Median salary: $63,670 per year
- Work experience: 1-2 years
- Number of jobs that will open (2022-2032): 10,700
Middle School Teacher
A middle school teacher teaches students in grades six through eight, helping them build on what they learned in elementary school and get ready for high school. They may also collaborate with special education teachers to adjust lessons or even teach together.
Middle school teachers often develop creative lesson plans that engage students and make learning more interactive.
Additionally, some middle school teachers coach sports teams and advise student clubs, which often meet outside regular school hours. As a middle school teacher, you can make around $53,363 per year. Plus, the expected growth rate for these jobs from 2018 to 2028 is 4%.
- Median salary: $53,363 per year
- Work experience: 2 years
- Number of jobs that will open (2018-2028): 25,000
Elementary School Principal
If you want to lead in education while still working closely with students, a career as a school principal might be a perfect fit.
They handle everything from daily activities and coordinating curriculums to managing staff and ensuring the school is a safe place to learn.
To become a principal, you usually need a master’s degree in education and teaching experience. The pay is typically good, with elementary school principals making around $92,372 per year and there are over 14,000 new job opportunities expected to open between 2018 and 2028.
- Median salary: $92,372
- Work experience: 3-5 years
- Number of jobs that will open (2018-2028): 14,200
Instructional Coordinators
Want to make a difference in education without being in the classroom? Consider becoming an instructional coordinator! Also called curriculum developers, they help create teaching materials, track learning outcomes, and set standards for teaching quality.
Instructional coordinators work in different sectors like schools, businesses, government, and the military. They create lesson plans that work for different kinds of students.
To be an instructional designer, knowing how to use online learning platforms or expertise in a specific subject can be beneficial. While a master’s degree can help for some jobs, it’s not necessary for corporate positions.
- Median salary: $74,620 per year
- Work experience: 5 years
- Number of jobs that will open (2022-2032): 5,300
Education Consultant
Students with a master’s in elementary education can also become educational consultants. They provide training to teachers and other staff on the latest technologies, curriculum plans, and teaching methods.
They may also analyze student test scores, suggest improvements, and run workshops. To become an educational consultant, learners typically need a graduate degree, such as a master’s in elementary education.
Education consultants can earn an average salary of $79,608.
- Median salary: $79,608
- Work experience: 3-5 years
- Number of jobs that will open (2018-2028): 32,400
What is a master’s in elementary education exactly?
A master’s in elementary education is a graduate degree program that prepares professionals to teach kids from kindergarten to eighth grade.
Usually lasting 1.5 to 2 years, it involves completing around 30 to 60 credits. However, this can vary depending on the institution and whether students are studying full-time or part-time.
Students will explore practical, evidence-based, and inclusive teaching approaches to meet the needs of different kinds of learners. Some course topics that students may learn include:
- Child & adolescent development
- Curriculum design
- Classroom management & engagement
- Special education
- Content & techniques for teaching literacy, language, mathematics, social studies, and science
- Assessment
Is a master’s in elementary education worth it?
A master’s in elementary education can offer several tangible benefits to educators. For instance, it can deepen their expertise, open new career opportunities, and increase income potential. Let’s explore each separately:
- Higher pay: Teachers or educators who have a master’s in elementary education often earn more money. On average, they make 27% more than those who only have a bachelor’s degree in education. This increase in income motivates many to pursue further education.
- Better credentials: Getting a master’s degree can really improve a teacher’s qualifications. With more knowledge and skills, teachers can better meet the different needs of their students and use innovative teaching methods.
- Leadership opportunities: Having a master’s degree opens up chances to take on leadership roles in education. These roles could include being a headteacher or instructional coordinator. These positions allow educators to shape and influence the future of elementary education.
What are the admission requirements for a master’s in elementary education?
To get into a master’s program in elementary education, students usually need to meet certain requirements. Here’s a list of what you will typically need:
- Bachelor’s degree: Learners must have a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from a recognized college or university. It doesn’t have to be in education, but related fields are accepted.
- Official transcript: Students need to send an official transcript to show their undergraduate coursework and grades. Make sure it comes directly from your college to the graduate admissions office.
- Admission essay: Candidates often have to write an essay explaining why they want to pursue a master’s in elementary education, their beliefs about teaching, and their career goals.
- Letters of recommendation: You’ll usually need two to three letters from people who can vouch for your academic abilities, character, and potential as a teacher.
- Writing sample: Some programs may request a sample of your writing to show how well you can communicate on paper, which is important for teachers.
- Resume or CV: Students will need to provide a detailed resume or curriculum vitae that highlights their academic and professional experiences related to education.
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Best Accredited Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Programs
If you’re thinking about getting a master’s in elementary education, it’s important to choose a top-quality, accredited program that aligns with your career aspirations. Selecting the right course can significantly impact your professional growth and opportunities.
We’ve rounded up a list of the top 4 accredited schools in education that provide students with a master’s in elementary education or a similar program:
| University | Accreditation | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University Of Virginia | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges | In-state: $794; Out-of-state: $1270 |
| Vanderbilt University | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges | $1,303 |
| Stanford University | Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission | $1,6535 - $1,851 |
| Kansas State University | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation | In-state: $536; Out-of-state: $536 |
- #7 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #8 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025
Tuition + fees
$21K
Acceptance
19%
Graduation
95%
Student body
29K
Median SAT/ACT
1470/33
Career Outlook for Elementary Education degree at University of Virginia
Cost of Degree: $22,612Expenses: $18,940Starting Salary: $88,369Salary after 4 years: $89,038Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salary- Estimated cost per credit: In-state $794; out-of-state $1270
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Required credits to graduate: 30
- Format: On-campus
Elementary Education: M.T. - Master of Teaching program at the University of Virginia helps prepare future teachers to support young learners both academically and socially. Students will learn teaching principles and get hands-on experience through internships in various schools.
It’s a one-year, 30-credit-hour program starting in June, where students get to work closely with experienced teachers and clinical coaches.
- #15 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2025 #1 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2025
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
93%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for Elementary Education degree at Vanderbilt University
Cost of Degree: $56,128Expenses: $25,644Starting Salary: $89,403Salary after 4 years: $90,152Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salary- Estimated cost per credit: $1,303
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Required credits to graduate: 31
- Format: On-campus, Online
At Vanderbilt University, the elementary education (M.Ed.) program requires students to finish 30 credits. Students learn about specific subjects such as arts education, children’s literature, and social studies methods while exploring Nashville as a learning hub.
In the fall, the focus will be on building strong foundations in reading, English language arts, and math. Alongside the coursework, you’ll also take part in a learning ecologies class and gain practical experience in schools. This includes working with multilingual learners and students from under-resourced neighborhoods.
Completing this master’s degree qualifies students for a teaching license in K-5. Notably, in 2023, 97% of graduates from Vanderbilt found employment shortly after graduation.
- #3 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #3 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #4 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
95%
Student body
20K
Median SAT/ACT
1540/34
Career Outlook for Elementary Education degree at Stanford University
Cost of Degree: $59,499Expenses: $25,349Starting Salary: $146,551Salary after 4 years: $147,778Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salary- Estimated cost per credit: $1,6535 - $1,851
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
- Required credits to graduate: 45
- Format: On-campus
The STEP Elementary Master Program at Stanford University takes about a year to finish and requires 45 credit units. It’s ranked #5 in the QS World University Rankings and focuses on connecting research with teaching.
Students will study courses such as educational psychology, curriculum studies, and educational technology. They also get hands-on experience teaching in local schools.
After completing the program, graduates are ready to be top-notch elementary school teachers or pursue other career opportunities.
- #3 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #13 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #2 Best Colleges in Kansas 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Kansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
69%
Student body
23K
Career Outlook for Elementary Education degree at Kansas State University
Cost of Degree: $11,786Expenses: $18,344Starting Salary: $57,762Salary after 4 years: $58,200Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salary- Estimated cost per credit: In-state $536; out-of-state $536
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- Required credits to graduate: 31
- Format: On-campus, online
Another master’s in elementary education program students can enroll in is Kansas State University. They offer a one-of-a-kind online Master of Arts in Teaching (Elementary Education) program if you dream of becoming a licensed K-6 teacher in Kansas or a state that recognizes Kansas licenses.
This program caters to current educators holding a provisional Kansas teaching license. Key courses cover topics such as the basics of education, educational research, and teaching science and math to elementary students.
K-State offers three chances to start each year, and students can graduate in just twelve months. To apply, you’ll need to submit a statement of goals, a resume, and three professional references.
Related Questions
What Is the Best Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Program?
The best master’s in elementary education program varies based on school type, accreditation, and personal circumstances. Some of the top schools offering these programs include Harvard University, Stanford University, and the University of Pennsylvania. Choosing a program from a reputable institution can enhance your career prospects and ensure you receive a high-quality education
How Much Does a Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Cost?
Although the program cost depends on various factors such as credits required, type of program (in-person or online), or location (in-state or out-of-state), students should be ready to pay anywhere from $12,392 to $26.621 to get this degree.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in Elementary Education Degree?
Typically, a master’s in elementary education can take two years to complete. However, there are accelerated programs students can join to finish their degrees within a year.
Conclusion
Whether you aim to become an elementary school teacher, a curriculum designer, or an educational consultant - pursuing a master’s in elementary education can open up a wide range of career opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. By selecting a program from an accredited institution, you can get a high-quality education that will equip you with the skills you need to thrive in this field.
