An online master’s degree program in elementary education may provide individuals with in-depth training on the theories and methods of teaching children at the elementary level. In this one to two-year program, students may learn how to become leaders in the education field, advance curriculum plans, and provide children with specialized learning methods. These programs may include select education-based electives along with core elementary education classes such as foundations in teaching, instructional planning, and elementary science methods.

After completing the program, students may either seek entry to upper-level employment or further their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program in the same or related field. Master’s degree graduates may be eligible to work in public schools, private schools, district education offices, state-level education departments, and charter school systems.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 10% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for these programs may include major-specific elementary education coursework. Elementary education courses may teach students how to perform diagnostic methods to identify a child’s literacy level, teach an elementary class using advanced methods, and create a productive learning environment. Core elementary education courses may include the following:

• Foundations of Teaching
• Instructional Planning and Presentation
• Elementary Reading and Literacy Methods
• Application of Elementary Mathematics Methods
• Issues in Educational Research
• Language Arts Instruction and Intervention
• Elementary Science Methods

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may obtain employment in public schools, charter schools, private schools, district central educational offices, and in state education programs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities are projected to increase by 15% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Elementary School Principal
• Kindergarten Teacher
• Reading Diagnostician
• Elementary School Teacher
• Special Education Teacher

Continuing Education

Graduates may have the opportunity to continue their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral program in elementary education may provide students with enhanced training on teacher development and student learning. Students may also be required to conduct scholarly research on the advancement of educational methods. Select employers may require students to hold a master’s degree for placement in upper-level elementary education positions.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook