Did you know that there's no such thing as a K-12 degree? Imagine you're getting ready to teach a kindergarten class but have to fill in as a 12th-grade teacher. The lesson plans would differ quite a bit, wouldn't you agree?
It's why colleges and universities offer degrees for certain ages, subjects, or students. Teachers choose the group of students they want to specialize in, and then gain the skills and knowledge to teach specifically that group. Future teachers typically accomplish this by earning a bachelor's degree and becoming a licensed teacher.
Online teaching degrees are widely available. These degrees offer more convenience and flexibility than traditional programs. The list of common online K-12 education degrees includes:
Early childhood education
Elementary education
Secondary education
Special education
Math education
Science education
Music education
We'll explain more about these degrees, careers you can pursue, and how much money you can potentially earn as a teacher.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Types of Online K-12 Education Degrees
Online K-12 education degree programs explore theories and provide practical experience for teaching. These programs consist of courses covering general education, core coursework, instruction, assessment, and classroom management.
Teaching degree options at the bachelor's degree level include a bachelor of arts (BA) in education, a bachelor of science (BS) in education, and a bachelor of education (B.Ed.). The specific focus of these degrees depends on your concentration, such as the following examples:
Early Childhood Education
A bachelor's degree in early childhood education focuses on working with young children, typically from birth to age eight. The curriculum covers topics like child development, curriculum planning, classroom management, and how to foster positive learning environments for young children in classroom settings.
Elementary Education
A bachelor's in elementary education prepares you to become an elementary school teacher. Core courses may cover educational psychology, managing engaging learning environments, social and emotional learning, and inclusive classroom techniques. The focus of these courses relates to students in grades K-6.
Secondary Education
A bachelor's in secondary education prepares you for teaching roles at the middle and high school levels. These programs often focus on developing teaching skills, content knowledge in specific subject areas and classroom management techniques. Other courses may cover how to navigate the unique needs of adolescent learners in secondary schools.
Special Education
A bachelor's in special education provides the skills and knowledge to teach students with disabilities, from mild to moderate. The curriculum includes courses in education foundations, behavior management, advocacy and instructional techniques. Some programs prepare you to become special education teachers at various grade levels.
Math Education
A bachelor's in math education prepares you to teach math at various levels, such as middle or high schools. These programs typically include coursework in advanced mathematics, pedagogy and educational psychology. They also emphasize instructional strategies and content knowledge specific to math education, such as calculus, linear algebra, and statistics.
Science Education
A bachelor's in science education helps you become a science teacher. The area of focus depends on your program. Options may include chemistry, physics, earth science, or biological sciences. In each, you'll gain the knowledge, skills and credentials needed to teach the sciences and help young minds understand them.
Music Education
A bachelor's degree in music education prepares you for roles as a music teacher. Music education degrees typically include coursework in music theory, music history, conducting, pedagogy, and performance. It also includes education classes to develop teaching skills and knowledge related to music education.
Best Online K-12 Education Degrees 2024
Why Should You Get Your Teaching Degree Online?
Pursuing a teaching degree online offers many benefits and advantages for aspiring educators. Online teaching degrees offer flexible scheduling, accessibility, and a diverse variety of program options. Consider the following reasons:
Flexibility: Online programs generally offer flexibility. Some programs offer asynchronous learning, meaning you can study at your own pace and manage your time around other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities. However, some programs are synchronous and have set times, so choosing the one that works best for you is key.
Convenience: Learning can take place from anywhere, so there's no need for commuting or relocating if you have reliable home internet. Having flexibility is particularly helpful if you live in a remote area or have limited access to traditional brick-and-mortar institutions.
Personalized Learning: Online programs often provide individualized attention and support. This allows you to tailor your studies to your specific needs and interests.
Cost-Effective: Online degrees often have lower tuition fees and can save on other expenses such as commuting, housing, and textbooks.
Diverse Program Options: Online teaching degrees cover a wide variety of specializations, grade levels, and subjects. This allows you to find a program that aligns with your career goals.
How Much Do Online K-12 Education Degrees Cost?
Tuition costs for online K-12 education degrees vary based on several factors, such as the institution and the student's residency status (in-state or out-of-state).
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition and fees for online bachelor's degrees in education costs $6,472. For comparison, a traditional (in-person) degree costs $9,022.
Costs of Online vs. In-Person Bachelor's in Education Degrees
Online
$6,472
In-Person
$9,022
Source: NCES
What Can You Do With Online K-12 Education Degrees?
An online bachelor of education degree can help you pursue many careers. You could become a certified classroom teacher, with specific qualifications for subjects or grade levels. For example, you might be a science or elementary school teacher. Other common careers include instructional coordinator and English as a second language (ESL) teacher.
| Education Role | Median Entry-Level Salary |
|---|---|
| High school teacher | $62,360 |
| Kindergarten and elementary school teacher | $61,620 |
| Middle school teacher | $61,810 |
| Special education teacher | $62,950 |
| Adult basic and secondary education and ESL Teachers | $58,590 |
| Instructional coordinator | $66,490 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Frequently Asked Questions About Online K-12 Education Degrees
What is the Career Outlook for Teachers?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects little to no change for teaching positions. For example, the BLS projects job growth for middle school teachers to increase by 1% from 2022-2032.
Despite the limited job growth, most teaching positions should have many openings. The BLS expects about 109,000 openingsfor kindergarten and elementary school teachers each year during that period. Similarly, the BLS projects about 67,100 openings for high school teachersand 42,000 for middle school teachers.
How Do You Become a Certified Teacher?
Becoming a certified teacher requires several steps. Specific requirements can vary significantly between states. You should research and consult with the education department or certification board in your state to ensure you meet all the requirements.
Generally, you must earn a bachelor's degree in education or specific subject areas. Then, you must complete a teaching preparation program, gain practical classroom experience, complete teacher certification exams, and complete any necessary background checks. Finally, you can apply for certification.
Additionally, you must enroll in an accredited bachelor's program that meets your state's teacher certification requirements.
What is the Fastest Way You Can Get a Teaching Degree?
The fastest way to get a teaching degree is through an accelerated program. These programs take around 1-2 years to complete and are for people who already have a bachelor's degree in a related field and want to switch careers to teaching. It focuses on education coursework and student teaching.
Otherwise, it typically takes between 4-5 years to become a certified teacher. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years to complete, though part-time programs may take longer.
Page last reviewed Februar 15, 2024.
