Online Elementary Education Programs
Online Elementary Education Programs
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Our online degrees in elementary education offer a flexible path to certification, equipping you with the skills to pursue roles in the classroom. Online programs reflect the same educational standards as on-campus offerings, with opportunities to learn from experienced instructors and engage with diverse peers.
Through our Learning Management System, you can engage with peers and professors in forums and group projects, while also using tools like eBooks, calendar reminders and technical support. Dedicated student services counselors are here to guide you throughout your academic journey.
Our online education degrees are designed to provide the skills and tools needed to help make a lasting impact on the next generation of young learners.
If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the Accreditation and Compliance/State disclosures link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).
Visit the "State Disclosures" section on the page of the program you’re interested in at gcu.edu for details on state restrictions.
If you're considering an online elementary education degree, we've gathered answers to your most frequently asked questions.
The best degree for elementary education depends on your career goals. A bachelor’s in elementary education may be ideal for those seeking initial teacher certification. A master’s in elementary education can help you deepen your expertise. A doctorate in education may be suited for leadership, research or policy roles.
Yes, online elementary education degrees from accredited institutions like GCU meet high academic standards. Many of our education programs are accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) and are designed to support your growth as a future educator by emphasizing relevant skills and knowledge. This accreditation also adds credibility to your qualifications, with many employers viewing accredited online degrees as a flexible and worthwhile option for both aspiring and current teachers.3
At GCU, you can take elementary education courses online, offering you flexibility while juggling life’s other demands. Besides the core benefits like learning from experienced faculty, you'll also enjoy the freedom to study anywhere — whether that’s your cozy couch or a favorite coffee shop. Plus, the online community lets you connect with classmates from all over, bringing unique perspectives to your studies. Licensure programs require in-person practicum/field experience hours.
Our online elementary education programs are designed to help you prepare for a variety of careers within kindergarten and elementary school, including preparing you to earn your initial teacher licensure. Most education programs offer field experiences; however, those leading to licensure involve more hours of in-depth hands-on learning. We’re here to support you every step of the way as you work toward your teaching career and strive to make a lasting impact on the lives of young students.
Earning an online master’s degree in elementary education can help you build skills that may expand your career possibilities and deepen your impact as an educator. You’ll be taught advanced, innovative teaching methods that can support your efforts to influence the next generation of learners.
Online master’s degrees for elementary education include:
An online bachelor’s degree in elementary education offers a solid foundation for starting your career in education. We provide a variety of online pathways, allowing you to choose the one that best aligns with your goals.
Online elementary education degrees for bachelor’s students include:
Online students can still experience the sense of community found in a traditional campus setting. Our Learning Management System is built to keep you connected, offering interactive discussion forums and collaborative projects. Whether you're engaging with classmates, sharing ideas or reaching out to your professor for extra support, you'll have plenty of opportunities to stay engaged and build meaningful connections. Whether you're balancing work, family or both, our online programs offer the support, instruction and community to help you move forward — on your schedule.
The College of Education offers a straightforward admission process tailored to each program, with requirements varying based on your chosen path and whether you study online or on campus. As a new college student or transferring from another school, our admission team will guide you through the process and answer your questions about life as a Lope. We are here to support your every step.
GCU has been institutionally accredited by the HLC since 1968 and prioritizes quality education and comprehensive instruction. The College of Education shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies. They help guide our commitment to developing skilled and knowledgeable educators through our online teaching and education degrees.
As an online student, you’ll take interactive courses that build the skills needed for a career in teaching and educational leadership. Engage with coursework that balances theory and practical application through virtual classrooms, multimedia content and collaborative discussions. With flexible courses and online learning resources, GCU helps you stay connected with instructors and peers.
GCU offers online doctoral degrees for experienced educators ready to lead and innovate in the field. These advanced online programs emphasize research, transformative practices and strategic leadership, providing flexibility.
Online doctoral education programs include:
Online elementary education courses can help you prepare for a career teaching young learners in public and private elementary and secondary schools. They help you identify students' strengths and needs, enabling you to tailor content and instruction to diverse interests while fostering an inclusive, engaging learning environment that supports all students' growth.
Elementary education graduates may be prepared to pursue careers such as:
Elementary school teacher
Special education teacher
Teaching assistant
Students who graduated from GCU’s College of Education since 20091
Median annual wage for kindergarten and elementary school teachers as of May 20232