Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degree (Non-Licensure)
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Overview

Study Advanced Instructional Methods for Elementary Education

Strengthen your role as an educator with an online1 Master of Education (MEd) in Elementary Education (Non-Licensure) degree from GCU. Our program supports you as you refine your instructional strategies, create engaging learning environments and recognize typical and atypical development. Whether you teach in a traditional classroom or an online learning environment, this degree can equip you with the tools and advanced knowledge for teaching in elementary and middle school environments.

Freedom to Earn Your Master’s in Education From Wherever You Are!
Why GCU

A Faith-Driven Approach to Teaching

In the Master of Education in Elementary Education program, you will study the historical, sociological and philosophical influences that have guided educational theory and practice. You will be taught by experienced educators as you explore current issues and trends in education. During the program, students conduct advanced research, where you can propose solutions to current issues in education, such as student literacy and creating differentiated learning environments for all students. Observational practicums integrated into your program teach you how to lead socially, culturally and academically unique kindergarten through eighth grade classrooms.

If you are interested in a licensure pathway, we offer an MEd in Elementary Education (Leads to Initial Teaching Licensure) program. This program can be ideal for those interested in obtaining licensure.

The College of Education offers a faith-integrated curriculum. This means that your lessons are thoughtful, intentional and engaging. You will have the opportunity to instill principles of your faith through your work in the classroom, such as in your practicum/field experiences and student teaching.

Earn Your Master's Degree Online

As a busy professional, you can pursue your master’s in elementary education online at GCU to earn your degree without sacrificing other responsibilities. You will also have access to GCU’s online learning resources and supportive online learning community of faculty and peers. 

Online Learning
Coursework

Topics Covered in the MEd in Elementary Education Program

The MEd in Elementary Education degree intertwines evidence-based theory with advanced teaching methods to improve learning. You will also be taught to evaluate instructional strategies for multiple content areas to develop a heightened understanding of a comprehensive education. 

Topics you will cover in your coursework include:

Educational foundations for structured English immersion

Developmental psychology

Methods for teaching language arts, science, math, social studies and the arts

Literacy intervention 

Teaching students with exceptionalities

Instructional planning and assessment

Develop Valuable Skills for Teaching Elementary Students

Throughout this MEd in Elementary Education degree program, you will be taught the following competencies:

  • Using collaboration to increase instructional effectiveness and student learning
  • Developing and managing engaging and differentiated classroom environments
  • Creating a foundation of literacy skills
  • Integrating multiple content areas into instructional activities

You can also look forward to completing observational and practice-based experiences.

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Careers

Career Paths for Master’s in Elementary Education Graduates

Our master’s in elementary education degree is designed to help you advance your skills and knowledge to continue serving as an effective educator. Whether you’re looking to enhance your leadership potential, specialize in a specific subject area or refine your teaching skills, this master’s degree can support your teaching journey. This program does not lead to initial teacher licensure.

Accreditation

Earn Your Elementary Education Degree From an Accredited University

GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Education upholds this commitment by aligning its practices with the standards set by the university’s accrediting bodies.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Read through some of the most frequently asked questions to learn more about earning your elementary education master’s degree.

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  1. Excluding observational and practice-based experiences, and student teaching.

  2. COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well.  Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers, retrieved July 14, 2025. 

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