Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degree (Non-Licensure)
Online Master’s in Elementary Education Degree (Non-Licensure)
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Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
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.
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
Throughout this MEd in Elementary Education degree program, you will be taught the following competencies:
You can also look forward to completing observational and practice-based experiences.
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.
Teach with purpose. A degree from GCU can prepare you to build vibrant, student-centered classrooms that make a lasting impact.
Read through some of the most frequently asked questions to learn more about earning your elementary education master’s degree.
If a candidate already holds a teaching certification in a different subject area, this non-licensure program may be a good fit for practicing teachers seeking to enhance their knowledge, skills and potential career opportunities.
Further, as parents and educators advocate for reduced class sizes, maintaining a consistent number of classes may necessitate an increased need for teachers in these schools.2
Master’s-level programs are designed to challenge you to deepen your previous knowledge of your field by teaching you more advanced concepts and useful skills that can be applied to your career. This program builds on your previous knowledge and helps you to apply your studies while working in the classroom. If you identify the areas that you find challenging, you can focus your energy on improving those skills.
You must have a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for the master’s in elementary education online program. To determine your eligibility and view more information on other GCU admission requirements, visit our graduate admission requirements page.
Excluding observational and practice-based experiences, and student teaching.
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.
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.
