A great teacher in kindergarten or elementary school can make a world of difference in the learning experience and lives of children. If you’re looking up Master’s degrees in Elementary or Early Childhood Education, you already know this. You know your passion is for teaching, and you’re ready to take the next step to get an advanced degree. 
Did you know that teachers with a graduate degree may utilize their new knowledge of research and emerging theories in education to become leaders in their careers? Professional roles may not lead them entirely away from the classroom but give them greater influence into program and curriculum administration where they can best apply what they’ve gleaned in graduate school.
Graduates may become program administrators, instructional specialists, educational consultants, or even principals of elementary schools. The average pay of an elementary school principal in 2018 was $95,310 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Even if you haven’t set your sights on this type of role in education, teachers will always be needed. Glassdoor.com estimates that there are approximately 70,000 openings for teachers across the United States.
Many of the programs listed below are designed with current teachers in mind, while others are for those who are seeking more experience and education, as well as pursuing certification. Advanced teaching degrees have become even more affordable with many Federal programs offering loan forgiveness and states and schools providing financial support in the form of scholarships and grants. The Top 20 Cheap Master’s in Early Childhood Education Online Degree Programs for 2020 should have just the combination of curriculum and financial support you are looking for!
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No matter what degree you decide on, we hope our research and support has made the selection process easier. There are numerous resources BVS utilizes to collect information on degrees, and we encourage you to check them out for yourself!
Here are the Top 20 Cheap Master’s in Early Childhood Education Online Degree Programs for 2020!
20. Old Dominion University – Norfolk, VA
Master of Science in Education in Elementary Education for Licensed Teachers
At Old Dominion University, currently-licensed teachers can earn their Master of Science in Education in just a year and a half. The course content can be accessed from any location. The program is a total of 30 credit hours. It combines peer discussions, lectures from professors, regular, clear deadlines on assignments, and tests with a focus-only web blocker. Some courses even take place to live, via a web conference. These videos can be accessed later for repeated viewing. All online students have access to ODU’s Writing Center, ODU Libraries, and technical assistance.
Students with previous graduate work may be able to transfer some of their coursework to ODU. The University offers free unofficial transfer evaluation. ODU is a military-friendly institution and offers reduced tuition and scholarships to members of the military, veterans, and their dependents.
Net Price: $10,090 / Out-of-State: $27,900
19. University of Missouri-Columbia – Columbia, MO
Online Master’s of Elementary Education
The University of Missouri-Columbia’s Elementary Education: Online master’s degree is a 30-credit program. Some classes in the program take place on a particular day and time via live video feed. Students in the program will take courses that delve into topics on how to manage classrooms for optimum learning, teaching science and literacy, and meeting the needs of all learners. Additional coursework covers the mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in youth, as well as curriculum development and classroom research.
Students in the program should be accredited by May prior to enrollment in August. A 3.0 GPA is required in undergraduate coursework. Additional application materials should include a personal data sheet that details biographical information and professional experience, a statement of purpose, a resume, and two letters of recommendation. Praxis Exam Certification Score reports, or Missouri Content Assessment scores are also required.
Net Price: $9,787 / Out-of-State: $26,506
18. Ball State University – Muncie, IN
Master of Arts in Education in Elementary Education
Ball State University’s Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Elementary Education is a 30-credit program. Students in the program will take courses on fundamental concepts in elementary education, how to teach reading to elementary school students, discipline and classroom management, and development of elementary school programs. Additional coursework will cover effectively using technology and utilizing data for teaching and learning, as well as research in elementary education.
Classroom sizes are kept below 20 students and taught by professors who have taught elementary school. For students currently teaching in an Indiana school, this program will assist in renewing the ten-year teaching license. Indiana residents over the age of 60 also qualify for a 50% reduction in tuition.
Net Price: $9,774 / Out-of-State: $26,942
17. Eastern Kentucky University – Richmond, KY
Master of Arts in Education – Elementary Education
The Master of Arts in Education with a focus in elementary education at Eastern Kentucky University offers reduced tuition to active duty military, as well as up to nine transfer credits. Students currently certified to teach in the state of Kentucky may apply for further Kentucky teaching endorsement. Each term runs for eight weeks, and the program is a total of 30 credits.
Admission to the program requires a valid teaching license or certification and a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate coursework. Applicants may substitute GRE or MAT test scores in lieu of this requirement. Eastern Kentucky University has a robust scholarship foundation, where students can apply for funding based on merit.
Net Price: $9,366 / Out-of-State: $18,250
16. North Carolina State University at Raleigh – Raleigh, NC
Master of Arts in Teaching with Elementary Education
In North Carolina State University’s Master of Arts in Teaching, students who are enrolled full-time will complete the degree program in 1.5 years. Graduates of the program are not only earning an MAT but a teaching license as well. The program is designed to prepare its students to teach in K-12 schools. It is best suited to those new to the profession of teaching.
The MAT consists of 33 credit hours, including 15 core credits, where students will take classes on how to develop and interpret assessment, diversity in the classroom and community, behavioral management in the classroom, and leadership as a teacher. All students will also complete a minimum of 21 hours in a supervised teaching internship. The program has start dates four times per year. A bachelor’s degree is required for admission. Applicants should have academic coursework in math, science, literature, sociology, and American history. The application does not require GRE or MAT test scores.
Net Price: $9,058 / Out-of-State: $27,406
15. University of Northern Iowa – Cedar Falls, IA
Master of Arts in Education, Elementary Education
University of Northern Iowa’s Master of Arts in Elementary Education is geared towards currently licensed elementary school teachers. Students go through the program with the same cohort of peers over five consecutive semesters. The program was designed to align with standards set by the National Board for Professional Teaching. Course offerings include topics on the foundations of instructional technology, methods, and materials in literacy education, issues and trends in curriculum, and educational research. All students will engage in a supervised research project at the end of the program.
Students in the MAE program are assigned to a faculty advisor for guidance and support throughout the program. The University of Northern Iowa has a team of technical support specialists available to assist distance-learning students during the week until 9 pm. The university also provides ample opportunities for guidance in eLearning.
Net Price: $8,699 / Out-of-State: $19,241
14. University of North Dakota – Cedar Falls, IA
Master of Education in Elementary Education
The University of North Dakota’s Master of Education in Elementary Education requires 32 credit hours for completion and is typically concluded in two or more years. Currently-licensed elementary school teachers will have the opportunity to hone their knowledge in teaching science, social studies, reading, and math. The program features a practicum as well as a thesis or project.
Applicants to this program must submit a personal statement that addresses their interest in the program, personal and professional goals, and why they believe they are a good fit for the profession. Additional admission requirements include teaching licensure, a GPA of at least 2.75, and English Language Proficiency. Active members of the military pay only the standard online graduate tuition rate, regardless of their residence.
Net Price: $8,477 / Out-of-State: $20,047
13. West Virginia University – Morgantown, WV
Advanced Master of Arts in Elementary Education
The Advanced Master of Arts in Elementary Education program at West Virginia University comprises a total of ten courses for a total of 30 credit hours. The program offers a diverse curriculum, with classes in topics such as 21st-century teaching and learning, history of American education, and integrating technology in the classroom. Online coursework will sometimes occur as live classroom sessions, accessed via the web. Students will receive an orientation to WVU’s eCampus, which utilizes Blackboard as its learning management system.
The program has new start dates for the fall, spring, and summer terms. Application materials require proof of a teaching certificate, a personal statement of goals, and transcripts from all previous institutions. Qualified applicants should possess an undergraduate degree as well as a minimum GPA of 2.75. Online students receive academic support from advisors.
Net Price: $8,376 / Out-of-State: $23,616
12. University of Mississippi – University, MI
Master of Education in Elementary Education
The Master of Education in Elementary Education at the University of Mississippi is a 30-credit hour program that can be completed in five consecutive semesters. Starting in the summer semester, students will take two classes to finish the program by the end of the following summer semester. Courses in the program cover topics on educational research, advanced curriculum and theory, necessary skills in reading, and integrating the internet into education. Other subjects in the program include remedial reading and problems in teaching mathematics.
All students in the M.Ed. program complete at least 45 clock hours of fieldwork through an internship or practicum. They are also required to engage in a capstone project during their last semester. Applicants to the program must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the final 60 credits of their undergraduate work. Two reference forms, as well as a Praxis II Content score, are also required. Additionally, applicants must have or be able to obtain educator licensure in elementary education.
Net Price: $8,300 / Out-of-State: $23,564
11. University of South Alabama – Mobile, AL
Master of Arts in Elementary Education
The Master of Arts in Elementary Education at the University of South Alabama is intended for current teachers who wish to advance their knowledge of K-6 education. Students who complete the program will be eligible for the Class A Professional Elementary certificate. Over 30 credit hours, students are exposed to concepts for instructional planning, trends, and practices in teaching reading, and multicultural experiences in schools. Additional coursework will cover topics in microcomputing systems, as well as educational research and evaluation.
To gain admission to the program, applicants must already possess a Class B Professional Educator Certificate in the same teaching field. Additional materials include a personal statement and transcripts from all previous institutions. A minimum GPA in undergraduate work is required. If this criterion is not met, GRE scores may substitute GPA.
Net Price: $7,812 / Out-of-State: $15,324
10. University of New Mexico – Albuquerque, NM
Master of Arts in Elementary Education
The University of New Mexico’s Master of Arts in Elementary Education is a 32-credit-hour program that focuses on preparing its students to be leaders within classrooms and schools. Course offerings that support this goal cover a diverse set of topics. Among the required courses, students will take classes such as Educational Leadership in a Democratic Society, Data-Informed Instructional Leadership, The Process of Reflection and Inquiry, and Principles of Curriculum Development. Concepts in social justice are also a cornerstone of the curriculum.
Applicants to the program should have an elementary or secondary teaching license, a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate work, and a minimum of 12 semester hours of coursework in elementary education. For those seeking funding, The University of New Mexico’s Graduate Studies office maintains a listing of UNM’s many scholarships offered internally to graduate students.
Net Price: $7,448 / Out-of-State: $22,038
9. Appalachian State University – Boone, NC
Master of Arts in Elementary Education
The Appalachian State University’s Master of Arts in Elementary Education is a 39-credit-hour program. The core curriculum is 27 credit hours, with 12 credit hours in teaching math, science, social studies, or language arts. Within the core curriculum, students will study issues of diversity in the classroom, trends in education, leadership for school improvement, curriculum design, and using technology for instruction.
For students who have not had any teaching experience in grades K-6, additional credits in an internship/practicum will be required. GRE or MAT scores are required for admission unless the applicant has a 3.4 GPA in undergraduate work. A resume, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from all previous institutions are also required.
Net Price: $7,302 / Out-of-State: $22,109
8. East Carolina University – Boone, NC
Master of Arts in Education in Elementary Education
East Carolina University’s Master of Arts in Elementary Education is a 36-semester-hour program. The curriculum incorporates 24 core classes with nine credits within the student’s selected concentration. Concentration areas include education for academically gifted children, content pedagogy, early childhood, teacher leadership in elementary school, teaching children in poverty, and teaching English as a second language. Students may opt to engage in a six-hour thesis instead of fulfilling the nine credits within a concentration. All students are required to submit a final research project.
Prospective students are encouraged to attend a virtual open house via WebEx, where they can find out more information on the program’s cost and taking classes online. Applicants should possess a current teaching license and an undergraduate degree. Letters of recommendation, a resume, a statement of purpose, and transcripts from all prior institutions are required.
Net Price: $7,143 / Out-of-State: $22,420
7. Pittsburg State University – Pittsburg, KS
Master’s in Elementary Education
Pittsburg State University’s Master’s in Elementary Education is a 33-credit-hour program that combines seven required courses, three electives, and a practicum experience. Core areas of study cover instructional planning, the management of the educational environment, evaluation and assessment, and research and inquiry.
The M.Ed. offers further licensure for an ESOL endorsement or in environmental education. The Career Services office at Pitt State assists current online students and alumni with job searches and career development. PSU’s M.Ed. program is ranked among the Top 25 Top Online Graduate Programs by U.S. News & World Report. Pitt State has been offering graduate degrees since 1929 and has a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Net Price: $7,100 / Out-of-State: $18,152
6. Delta State University – Cleveland, MS
Master of Education in Elementary Education
Delta State University’s Master of Education in Elementary Education is a 36-credit program. Newly-admitted students will begin the program taking classes in the psychology of learning, methods of educational research and statistics, and the historical foundation of educational thought and curriculum methodologies. Students will then move on to delve deeper into topics on effective instruction in elementary schools, classroom management, and literacy instruction. All students complete a practicum and a research proposal.
The program culminates with a comprehensive exam, a teacher work sample, a dispositions portfolio, and a teacher intern assessment instrument. Admission to the Master of Education in Elementary Education is contingent on the applicant holding a Class A teaching certificate and receiving satisfactory scores on one of several nationally recognized tests.
Net Price: $6,859
5. California State University, Fullerton – Fullerton, CA
Master of Science in Education, Elementary Classroom Teaching concentration
California State University, Fullerton’s Master of Science in Education in Elementary Education is a 30-credit degree program. Students in the MS in Education program take nine required courses, including Survey of Educational Research, Learning Theory for Classroom Use, and Curriculum Theory. Students will then move on to specific coursework for instruction, such as Technology and Problem Solving in Schools, Reading/Language Arts in the Early Childhood Curriculum, and Assessment Across the Curriculum.
To complete the MS degree, a research seminar of three credits and a project or thesis of one to three credits is required. The program’s admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree and a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits. Applicants should also have a teaching credential or experience that is equivalent. Deadlines to apply for fall term are March 1 and October 1 for the spring term. The College of Education at CSUF has numerous scholarship opportunities.
Net Price: $6,850 / Out-of-State: $18,730
4. University of North Carolina at Charlotte – Charlotte, NC
Master of Education in Elementary Education
The Master of Education in Elementary Education at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is designed for current teachers. The program has several concentrations that can lead to further certification in several areas. These areas include STEM Education, Academically or Intellectually Gifted, Literacy, Elementary Mathematics, and Anti-Racism in Urban Education. The program’s curriculum emphasizes cultural knowledge, leadership in instruction, and diversity in worldviews. The program is a total of 30 credits and intended for part-time study.
Core coursework will cover topics such as Classroom Management and Leadership for Diverse Learners, Instructional Differentiation and Leadership for 21st Century Learners, and Teacher Inquiry and Data Analysis in the Elementary Classroom. Students will complete a capstone or reaction research project from the data they’ve collected in their classrooms. UNC Charlotte participates in the North Carolina Teaching Fellows initiative, where students in an education program may be eligible for funding or a forgivable education loan for service.
Net Price: $6,832 / Out-of-State: $20,266
3. North Carolina A&T University – Greensboro, NC
Master of Arts in Teaching – Elementary Education
The Master of Arts in Teaching – Elementary Education at North Carolina A& T combines clinical practice experience and 30 hours of coursework. During the program, students will take licensure exams in Pearson or Praxis Mathematics and Pearson Foundations of Reading. Students must also pass the edTPA portfolio. Courses in the program will cover topics on Introduction to Exceptionalities, Science in Elementary Schools, Foundations in Reading, and Assessment of Learning.
The clinical practice component is a total of nine credit hours and equals 60 hours of hands-on teaching experience plus a full instructional day for an entire semester. Eligible applicants to the program will have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 2.8. Application materials require a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. North Carolina A&T’s Office of Career Services assists current students and alumni with job placement and assistance.
Net Price: $6,526 / Out-of-State: $19,416
2. Western Governor’s University – Salt Lake City, UT
Master of Arts in Teaching, Elementary Education
The Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary Education at Western Governor’s University is a 24-credit program usually completed within one to two years. Students in the program are assigned a program mentor. Foundational courses in the program cover topics on Principles of Psychology for Child and Adolescent Development; Fundamentals of Diversity, Inclusion, and Exceptional Learners.
Students in the program will participate in a preclinical experience, where they will observe a classroom setting for 75 hours. These preclinical experiences lead to actual demonstration teaching in an elementary school classroom. The host teacher and supervisor will assess the student’s skills. WGU award more than $15 million in scholarship funds in 2018.
Net Price: $6,070
1. Eastern New Mexico University – Portales, NM
Master in Elementary Education
Eastern New Mexico University’s Master in Elementary Education is intended for currently practicing elementary school teachers. The program is a total of 36 credit hours, with nine core credit hours and 27 credits in a chosen concentration. Courses offered include the Teacher as Researcher; Critical Pedagogy in Educational Reform; and Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. Students delve into subjects such as Instructional Leadership, Creativity across the Curriculum, and Trends in Mathematics and Science. Online students at ENMU can take advantage of many of the same services as campus students, just remotely. ENMU has an Online Writing Center for help with papers, a tutoring service for online students, and an Online Counseling Center.
Net Price: $6,013 / Out-of-State: $11,788
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