Best Online Teaching Degrees of 2024

Want to pursue a teaching degree in your own time? An online teaching degree allows you to study virtually from anywhere and potentially spend less.
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Updated February 6, 2024

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Do you want to join the 3.5 million public school teachers working in the United States? If you said "yes," online teaching degrees can get you to that goal faster. Online teaching degrees can offer a more flexible and sometimes cheaper road to a new career.

Graduates of online teaching degree programs can also pursue careers outside the classroom in administration or instructional design. Possible online teaching degrees include associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. You can spend between 2-6 years earning a degree.

Explore five top online teaching degrees to see which program suits your career path, timeline, and budget. Also, learn more about salary expectations for each degree level.

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Teaching Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, IA
$37,518 $37,518 66%
#2 Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
$9,489 $25,560 96%
#3 Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA
$32,954 $32,954 78%
#4 Minot State University
Minot, ND
$6,892 $6,892 88%
#5 Wilmington University
New Castle, DE
$11,700 $11,700 Not provided

Top 5 Online Teaching Degrees

#1 Best Online Teaching Degrees of 2024

Buena Vista University

  • Storm Lake, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $465
Out-of-State | $465

Credits to Graduate: 120

BVU's bachelor's in education provides online and on-campus options for students interested in teaching careers that do not require K-12 licensure. Coursework includes 30 credits in education, with 12 credits in core courses and 18 credits from various educational departments. 

Graduates may pursue work as academic advisors, Peace Corps workers, or staff members at boys and girls clubs. Applicants who already hold associate degrees from Iowa community colleges can transfer all qualifying credits into their major.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,518
Out-of-state
$37,518
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,936
Out-of-state
$9,936
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
1,959
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Teaching Degrees of 2024

Kansas State University

  • Manhattan, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $394
Out-of-State | $394

Credits to Graduate: 120

K-State's educational studies bachelor's degree prepares graduates to pursue work in education policy, international education, or non-school youth work settings. This 100% online program requires 33-34 general education credits, 29-32 credits of professional coursework, and 36 credits in a self-designed area of emphasis.

Each student completes 18-22 credits of electives and an internship. Applicants first receive admission to the pre-professional program and, upon completing the necessary K-State requirements, are admitted to the professional education program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,489
Out-of-state
$25,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,294
Out-of-state
$23,018
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
20,229
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Teaching Degrees of 2024

Fresno Pacific University

  • Fresno, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: California Commission on Teacher Credentialing

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $550
Out-of-State | $550

Credits to Graduate: 120

The California-based FPU offers a BA in early childhood development through online or on-campus delivery. FPU's program emphasizes education that meets the needs of exceptional children. The curriculum includes 39 credits of major courses, such as biblical perspectives for educators, human diversity and relations, and children's play and learning theory.

Each applicant should possess a GPA of 2.4 or higher and two years or more of postsecondary work experience. Prospective students who do not meet these requirements may still receive consideration. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,954
Out-of-state
$32,954
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
3,524
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#4 Best Online Teaching Degrees of 2024

Minot State University

  • Minot, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $299
Out-of-State | $299

Credits to Graduate: 120

MSU's bachelor of science in early childhood education equips graduates with the skills to pursue work with children from birth to age eight in settings that do not require teacher licensure. This online degree requires 38-40 credits in general education studies and a required specialization in special education. 

Courses include curriculum and planning for early childhood, teaching diverse learners, and technology in teaching. Each enrollee also completes a one-credit pre-K practicum. Candidates should submit their high school transcripts with their applications, which includes a $35 fee.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,892
Out-of-state
$6,892
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,992
Out-of-state
$8,992
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
2,836
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Teaching Degrees of 2024

Wilmington University

  • New Castle, DE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $409
Out-of-State | $409

Credits to Graduate: 121-122

WilmU's BS in education studies provides concentrations in early childhood education (pre-K), elementary education (K-6), middle-level education (6-8), and skilled and technical sciences. Each program prepares educators to pursue roles outside the public school system.

Courses include literature for children, introduction to trauma-informed approaches, and classroom culture and student behavior. Enrollees can study online or on campus, and transfer students generally take 30-33 credits to complete their degrees. Each applicant must submit transcripts, along with a $35 application fee.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,700
Out-of-state
$11,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
13,129
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.

We rank schools using factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.

Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page.

Why You Should Get Your Teaching Degree Online

  • You'll get to perform meaningful work and help students succeed.
  • You may qualify for student loan forgiveness
  • You may benefit from union advocacy and generous time off, especially during summers.
  • You'll usually receive a pension retirement with an employer match.
  • Online teaching programs let you earn your degree on your own schedule.
  • You can gain work experience while going to school online.

Did You Know…

Public school teachers in 2020-2021 earned higher degrees than they did 10 years prior, with 51% that held master's degrees, compared to 48% in 2011-2012.

Source: NCES

Does Accreditation Matter for Online Teaching Programs?

Accreditation is essential for online teaching programs. In order to get your teaching license, you must earn your online education degree from an accredited college or university.

Many online schools for teaching are also programmatically accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This accrediting agency, which is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, ensures aspiring teachers receive a high-quality education.

Milton Paredes, an online teaching student at Reach University, explained how accreditation played an important role in deciding what school to attend online for his online teaching degree.

"Academic excellence is the reputation that I was looking for in an online [teaching] program, and knowing I chose one that was accredited made my decision easier," said Paredes.

What Degree in Teaching Should You Get?

Common Types of Teaching Degrees
Degree Teaching Degree Options
Associate Degree
  • AA in education
  • AS in education
Bachelor's Degree
  • Bachelor of education (B.Ed.)
  • BA in education
  • BS in education
Master's Degree
  • Master of education (M.Ed.)
  • Master of arts in teaching (MAT)
  • MA in education
  • MS in education
Doctoral Degree
  • Doctor of education (Ed.D.)
  • Ph.D. in education

The path to becoming a teacher has many roads — quite a few education degrees can lead to a career in teaching.

With an associate degree in education, you can become a paraeducator, substitute teacher, preschool teacher, or teaching aide. This degree can be a quick start for those eager to jump into the field.

However, you'll need a bachelor's degree to earn a teaching license. You can choose from a bachelor of education (B.Ed.), a BA in education, and a BS in education. You could also get a bachelor's degree in the subject you wish to teach.

A master's degree in education will increase your expertise and can qualify you for higher-paying administrative and leadership positions.

Finally, with a doctorate in education — either a Ph.D. or an Ed.D. — you can teach at the college level, develop curricula, and conduct research.

How Much Does an Online Teaching Degree Cost?

The average cost for undergraduates at public four-year colleges increased from $9,100 to $9,700 in the 2021-2022 school year, as stated by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Private nonprofit four-year colleges billed students $38,800, while private for-profit institutions cost $17,800. In 2021-2022, graduate students at public and private schools paid a national average ranging from $12,596 to $29,931.

One of the biggest benefits for online learners is flat-tuition rates. By studying virtually, you can often access in-state tuition rates from any state. Some online programs do charge out-of-state fees, and some online graduate programs have higher tuitions than undergraduate distance education programs at the same institution.

Studying as an out-of-state on-campus learner usually means higher education costs. Tuition and fees for in-state students at public four-year colleges in 2021-2022 amounted to $9,596, while out-of-state learners paid $27,457, according to NCES.

How Much Money Can You Make With a Teaching Degree?

After completing an online teaching degree, many graduates opt for a career in the classroom. This isn't the only career option. An online teaching degree and internships provide the freedom to explore other areas of education.

You can launch careers in administration, special education, curriculum development, or research. As noted in the chart below, what you achieve career-wise really depends on the degree you pursue and any specializations or additional certifications.

Teaching Careers and Salaries
Job Minimum Education Requirement Median Salary (May 2022) Job Growth Rate 92022-2032)
Adult basic and secondary education and ESL teachers Bachelor's degree $58,590 -13%
Elementary, middle, and high school principals Master's degree $101,320 1%
High school teachers Bachelor's degree $62,360 1%
Instructional coordinators Master's degree $66,490 2%
Middle school teachers Bachelor's degree $61,810 1%
Postsecondary teachers Master's degree or doctoral degree $80,840 8%
Postsecondary education administrators Master's degree $99,940 4%
Preschool teachers Associate degree $35,330 3%
Preschool and childcare center directors Bachelor's degree $49,690 -3%
Special education teachers Bachelor's degree $62,950 0%
Training and development managers Bachelor's degree $120,000 6%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

How to Become a Teacher in 6 Steps

Not everyone's career path to becoming a teacher will look the same, but there are some key steps that can get you there.

1 Determine Your Career Goals

As you begin your journey, consider what you'll want to teach, where you'd like to teach, and what qualifications the state you want to teach in requires.

For a career in teaching, you'll need to choose what grade level you want to teach, and usually a subject to specialize in, such as math or social studies. The career path for a college history professor will look pretty different from that of a kindergarten teacher.

Outlining your goals for your teaching career will guide your choice of where to go to school and what degrees you wish to pursue.

2 Choose a Specialization

A lot of your teaching education will focus on a chosen specialization. You may opt to teach a specific age group or subject area.

Specializations can also cater to administration and leadership roles in education, such as dean and principal.

Common education and teaching degree specializations include:

3 Earn a Bachelor's Degree

For most teaching positions, you'll need a bachelor's degree.

If you're interested in a position that doesn't require a bachelor's degree, it's still a good idea to consider getting this degree for future career opportunities.

When choosing an online education degree, take time to vet the program for several features. Make sure the program is accredited, offers your desired specialization, and fits within your budget and schedule.

4 Enroll in an Educator Preparation Program

An educator preparation program is a state-approved program that covers the training requirements you'll need for your state's teaching license or certification.

Most bachelor's degrees in education and teaching will include the teacher preparation program within the curriculum.

Your bachelor's program will also likely include student teaching opportunities. This way, once you've graduated, you can apply for your teaching license right away.

You can also take an alternative route and complete an educator preparation program through a university or a state-sponsored program.

For example, if you earned a bachelor's in history and wish to become a teacher, you can participate in Teach for America and earn the same educator preparation requirements for certification.

5 Get State Licensure

Online teaching programs prepare you for state licensure (sometimes called certification), which you'll need in order to teach in the U.S.

Licensure requirements vary by state. Make sure your online teaching program meets the requirements for the state you plan to teach in.

In most states, you'll need to do the following before you can qualify for a teaching license:

  • Earn a bachelor's degree in education or your subject area from an accredited institution.
  • Complete a certain number of hours of student teaching.
  • Complete a teacher preparation program.
  • Pass a background check.
  • Pass your state's teacher certification exam and, if applicable, a subject exam.

Once you've met your state's requirements, you can apply for a teaching license. This license allows you to legally teach in that state.

Learn more about teaching licensure requirements for aspiring teachers in Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Texas.

6 (Optional) Pursue a Graduate Teaching Degree

There are many reasons to continue your education as a teacher. A graduate degree can unlock new opportunities, increase your salary potential, and broaden your expertise.

You can get a master's in education and choose a concentration in the subject you teach. You can also specialize in administration and learn to become a school administrator or principal.

A doctorate can qualify you to teach at the university level. With a Ph.D. in education, you can transition into pedagogy, teaching students how to become teachers. You may also have a future in research or the government.

This highest level of education also unlocks research opportunities and respected credentials.

Q&A With a Real Online Teaching Program Student

Milton Paredes serves as distance facilitator for the Ouachita School District in Donaldson, Arkansas. He finds fulfillment in helping students succeed academically in an online environment and when students realize their academic potential. He also works in ministry at his local church as a college and career pastor.

Milton is currently an online student at Reach University, where he is pursuing a bachelor's in global education in order to work as a history teacher.

Q: Why did you decide to pursue an online teaching degree?

Honestly, I feel like teaching is a calling. I had many teachers throughout my school years who were a great influence and played a small part in molding me into the person I am. It will bring me great satisfaction to see students succeed. … The affordability of an online [education] degree and lack of travel expenses proved to be the best value and opportunity for me to reach my goal of becoming an educator.

Q: Should students worry about how employers may view online degrees?

There may have been some apprehension years ago, but now online programs have established themselves academically while filling the needs of schools searching for teachers.

Q: What is something that surprised you about online learning?

I think the thing that most surprised me about online learning is how helpful and willing instructors are in guiding students through the course. I was worried about not having the support one would normally find in an in-class program, but that is certainly not the case.

Q: What is your biggest piece of advice to students considering an online teaching college?

Do not be discouraged if you feel like you are not initially successful in navigating through courses. With a little time, it will become familiar to you and when it does, remember why you started your journey and keep working toward your goal!

Frequently Asked Questions About Teaching Programs

What degree do you need to be a teacher?

To become a certified teacher, you'll need an accredited bachelor's degree. All public schools will require you to have a bachelor's degree in order to hold a full-time teaching position. You'll also need a bachelor's to earn state licensure.

How long does it take to get a teaching degree?

You can typically earn a teaching bachelor's degree within four years. If you pursue an online teaching degree, you may be able to speed up the timeline through an accelerated program.

Students who already hold an associate degree may be able to complete an undergraduate teaching degree in around two years.

Can you be a teacher with an associate degree?

If you have an associate degree, you can be a teacher assistant or educational aide but not a full-time teacher at a public school. All states require you to have a bachelor's degree in order to be eligible for a teaching license.

You can often transfer course credits from an accredited associate degree in teaching to a bachelor's degree program.

Can you be a teacher without a degree?

State teaching credentials require at least a bachelor's degree.

There are a few potential exceptions. Educators at homeschooling co-ops may not need licensure or a degree. The same goes for private, not-for-profit, and some charter schools.

Can you become a teacher with an online degree?

Yes, you can become a teacher with an online degree. Earning a teaching degree online is no different than earning one on campus. In fact, your diploma won't have any indication that you earned your degree online.

Online colleges offer the same curricula and quality as on-campus colleges do, largely thanks to the rigorous accreditation standards they must meet.


Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed January 2, 2023.


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