For teachers interested in work with elementary students and their schools and communities, a master’s degree in Elementary Education will increase knowledge and sometimes lead to a pay raise. Persons who complete a degree in Elementary Education can find work as elementary school teachers, curriculum directors, educational consultants, interventional specialists, educational researchers, community college instructors, and evaluation specialists. Online programs satisfy the increasing need for a flexible graduate level program for full-time teachers. Below are the most affordable online programs that will lead to a master’s degree in Elementary Education, taking solely cost into consideration. These are the cheapest options available. Some are Master of Education programs, some Master of Arts, and others Master of Science. Program tuition does not include fees, so please check directly with the institution for a list of comprehensive costs. Our data was derived directly from the university websites and from U.S. News and World Report.
#1. The American College of Education
The American College of Education is a for-profit institution out of Indianapolis, Indiana that 
provides exclusively online graduate programs. They offer a Master of Education in Elementary Education that requires 34 credit hours for completion. This program provides K-5 teachers with an in-depth study of elementary school topics. Students pursuing this degree will learn to design curricula and evidence-based instruction in response to student diversity, use assessment results to inform teaching practices, and collaborate with other professionals. This program is for educators who already have a teaching certificate, not those who require initial certification. Students will complete coursework in digital learning, assessment strategies, research methods, leadership, and curriculum. Residents of Ohio, Texas, Illinois, and Utah have state-specific admissions requirements — check directly with the institution for details. For persons without a teaching license, The American College also offers a Master of Arts in Elementary Teaching, which is also 34 credit hours for completion. Students in this program will engage in more broad teaching coursework as well as specific Elementary Education classes. The two programs have the same cost.
Accreditation: The American College of Education is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Tuition: $7,990
#2. Eastern New Mexico University
A state university located in Portales, Eastern New Mexico University enrolls over 5,000 students. 
They offer a Master of Education with Emphasis in Elementary Education degree that requires 36 credit hours for completion. This program is designed for students who want to strengthen their knowledge and understanding of instruction and curriculum. Persons pursuing this degree will engage in coursework that includes research, pedagogy in educational reform, instructional leadership, curriculum creativity, and content area literacy. Completion of this program can lead to a career as a classroom teacher, mentor, department chair, graduate-level leader, or professional development coordinator. The cost below assumes that students are taking no more than six credit hours per semester. Check with the institution for full-time rates.
Accreditation: Eastern New Mexico University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Tuition: $9,385
#3. Missouri State University
Missouri State University is a public institution with four campuses, the main of which is in Springfield.
They offer a Master of Science in Education – Elementary Education degree that can be completed in two years or more flexibly completed in up to eight years. This program is designed for teachers who want to deepen their knowledge and skills related to successful teaching in elementary schools. Core coursework includes curriculum, differentiated instruction, contemporary issues, research methodology, and theory and practice. Students in this degree program will be able to more effectively work with students, parents, colleagues, and community members, be able to demonstrate abilities in working with diverse populations of students, be more effective at program developments, and apply concepts and principles of elementary education curriculum and assessment. This degree can be a gateway to elementary school teaching, curriculum writing, education leadership, or PhD work.
Accreditation: Missouri State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Tuition: $9,405
#4. University of Central Missouri
A public institution in Warrensburg, the University of Central Missouri enrolls approximately 14,000
students. They offer a Master of Science in Elementary Education that requires 30 credit hours for completion. This program would be of interest to persons desiring leadership opportunities, increased knowledge of more effective assessment and teaching strategies, more opportunities for receiving peer support and feedback, and a salary increase in many states. Students will engage in core coursework that includes instructional practices, leadership and analysis, research and development, and curriculum and assesment. An internship is a program requirement. Persons applying to this program must already have teaching certification.
Accreditation: The University of Central Missouri is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Tuition: $9,722
#5. William Carey University
William Carey University is a four-year institution operated by the Mississippi Baptist Convention in
Hattiesburg, Mississippi. They offer a Master of Education in Elementary Education degree that requires 30 credit hours for completion. Students in this degree program will gain understanding and personal growth while broadening their knowledge base of elementary school teaching. By engaging in current research, technology, and evidence-based practices, students will reach their highest potential for working with children at all levels. This program can be started at any term, and classes are flexible with no synchronous meetings required. The objective of this M.Ed. is to build professional skills that affect positive changes in both classrooms and school districts. Students can complete this program in 15 months if they choose. William Carey University is ranked #25 best online graduate Education program by U.S. News and World Report.
Accreditation: William Carey University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Tuition: $9,900
#6. Delta State University
A public institution providing comprehensive undergraduate and graduate courses, Delta State 
University is located in Cleveland, Mississippi and enrolls over 4,000 students. Their Master of Education in Elementary Education degree requires 30-36 credit hours for completion. It is designed to prepare quality teachers who can deliver effective instruction at all levels of elementary school. This program balances academic content with practical learning experiences while engaging students in a rich online learning community. Core coursework includes psychology of learning, methods of research, classroom management, and curriculum theory development. A teaching certificate is required for admission into this degree program. Below is the price for 30 credit hours.
Accreditation: Delta State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Tuition: $10,020
#7. University of Alabama
With over 35,000 students enrolled, The University of Alabama is a public research institution located in Tuscaloosa. 
They offer many online degree programs, including a Master of Arts in Elementary Education. This program provides groundwork in educational research as it impacts schools, curriculum, and practice. Students will be able to connect research and instructional methods to student learning through coursework and practicum experience. They will engage in required coursework that includes curriculum, educational research, and evaluation of classroom learning. Students choose one or two specialty options from the following: Language Arts, Literacy, Mathematics. Science, and Social Studies. A teaching certificate, a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, and sufficient GRE or GMAT scores are all required for admission into this degree program. Applications are accepted year-round and students may begin the program fall, spring, or summer semester.
Accreditation: The University of Alabama is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Tuition: $10,800
#8. University of North Dakota
Located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, UND is the state’s largest university with an 
enrollment of 15,000 students. Their Master of Science in Elementary Education degree requires 32 credits for completion. This program will equip educators to create learner-centered environments supported by resources and technology while enhancing their knowledge of curriculum, instructional practices, and assessment strategies. Graduates will be selective in their approach to teaching and leadership and be capable of making broad contributions in the field of education. Students are provided with support services such as online tutoring, library, tech support, and advising services. Highly qualified faculty with doctoral degrees and extensive teaching experience are committed to distance learning and the success of their students. Persons enrolled in this program will engage in semester-based courses and a teaching practicum. The Master of Science is designed for both licensed and non-licensed individuals who are interested in a research-oriented program of study. Students can finish this program in as little as two years.
Accreditation: The University of North Dakota is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Tuition: $12,881
#9. University of Mississippi
The University of Mississippi is a state institution located in Oxford with an enrollment of over 
23,000 students. They offer a Master of Education in Elementary Education that seeks to prepare teaching professionals to become specialized master teachers in K-6 classrooms, curriculum directors, evaluation specialists, educational consultants, interventional specialists, educational researchers, and community college instructors. This 30 credit program engages students in teaching methods based on research and technology. Students will complete coursework in educational research, curriculum and theory, literacy, measurement and evaluation, and integrating the internet into education. Praxis II scores and a teaching license or eligibility for a teaching license are required for admission. Applications are due in the spring of each year and students begin the program in the summer semester. The University of Mississippi is ranked #25 best online graduate Education program by U.S. News and World Report.
Accreditation: The University of Mississippi is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Program Tuition: $13,290
#10. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
A public, comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate programs to over 8,500 
students, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania is located an hour north of Pittsburgh in Slippery Rock. They offer a Master of Education in Elementary Education that requires students to choose one of three concentrations: K-8 Math/Science, K-12 Reading Specialist, or K-12 Reading Specialist with Coaching Literacy Endorsement. The first two concentrations require 30 credits for completion while the Coaching Literacy Endorsement adds three additional hours to the course load. The Slippery Rock Master of Education program offers working professionals flexibility and convenience, small class sizes, and experienced faculty with doctoral degrees. A teaching certificate is required for admission to this program. Slippery Rock University is ranked #184 best online graduate Education program by U.S. News and World Report. Below is the cost for 30 credit hours.
Accreditation: Slippery Rock University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Tuition: $14,370
