Which degrees are best for teaching?

The best degrees for teaching include a Bachelor's or Master's in Education, focusing on subjects like Elementary Education, Secondary Education, or Special Education. Bachelor’s degrees in specific subjects such as Mathematics, English, or Science can enhance teaching qualifications and allow you to show yourself as an expert in your field of focus.

How much do teachers make?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average pay for teachers is as follows: • Kindergarten & Elementary School Teachers: $61,620/year • Middle School Teachers: $61,810/year • High School Teachers: $62,360/year • Special Education Teachers: $62,950/year • Career & Technical Education Teachers: $61,450/year • Postsecondary Teachers: $80,840/year

How many years is a bachelor’s degree in education?

It takes four years, on average, for full-time students to complete a bachelor’s degree in education. Most programs require 120 credits, which means students take between 12 and 15 credits each semester to graduate in four years. Online education programs offer accelerated classes and allow students to finish a degree in less time (typically 3-3.5 years).

What is the difference between teaching and education degree?

The main difference is that a teaching degree emphasizes teaching and classroom management, while education has a broader focus. A bachelor’s in education degree covers teaching, but also includes studies in administration, curriculum development, and education policy.

What is the fastest degree to become a teacher?

The fastest degree to become a teacher is a Bachelor's in Education with a focus on fast-track programs. These programs, often called accelerated or alternative certification programs, allow students with existing degrees in unrelated disciplines to become certified teachers in a shorter time frame than the traditional 4-year pathway.

Is it hard to get a teaching degree?

For some students, getting a teaching degree is challenging due to academic rigor, classroom experiences, and assessments. It requires commitment, time management, and a passion for education. Meeting certification requirements and gaining practical teaching experience can pose challenges. But dedication and a genuine interest in teaching can make the journey a rewarding one.

What degree do most elementary teachers have?

Most elementary teachers get a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. This degree equips you with the necessary skills to teach a broad range of subjects to young learners. You can also pursue additional certifications or endorsements in specific areas like special education to enhance your qualifications for diverse classroom settings.

What type of teacher is in highest demand?

Specific needs vary by school and location, but the most in-demand subjects include science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Teachers with qualifications in a second discipline are highly sought after. If you can teach English and math, you’re going to be a hot commodity for a hiring committee.

Top Education and Teaching Bachelor's Programs

college rank best bachelors education teaching — High Resolution Badge

Quick Highlights:

Our #1 ranking college for a bachelor’s in education and teaching is Purdue University, followed by University of Washington-Seattle Campus.
A Bachelor’s in Education lets you work with students of all ages in different educational settings.
Programs in education cover areas like early childhood, elementary, secondary, and special education.
Many programs offer real-world teaching experiences through internships and student teaching.
Graduates can work in classrooms, educational policy, community organizations, or pursue further studies.

Think back to the teacher who changed your life—the one who made learning feel personal, exciting, and meaningful. If you’re ready to become that kind of educator, undergraduate education programs lay the foundation. These degrees don’t just prepare you to meet state certification requirements—they shape you into a confident, compassionate, and capable classroom leader.

A bachelor’s in education gives you the tools to design inclusive lessons, manage dynamic classrooms, and connect with students across backgrounds and abilities. Many programs offer early hands-on teaching experience, specialized endorsements, and dedicated support for licensure—so you can graduate ready to make an impact from day one.

Featured Programs

In this guide, we rank the top bachelor’s of education programs based on curriculum quality, real-world teaching preparation, and long-term career outcomes—so you can find the path that best fits your passion for teaching and your vision for the future.

Related (Campus):

Related (Online):

What Are the Best Bachelor’s in Education and Teaching Degrees?

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Purdue University

Location

West Lafayette, Indiana

Average Net Price

$11,898

More Information

Purdue University’s Bachelor of Arts in elementary education stands out because it combines theoretical coursework and field experience simultaneously. While most education and teaching programs require students to take core classes before they start clinical practices, PU requires them concurrently, meaning what is learned in the classroom is enforced through practical experiences right away.

In this program, students will take courses such as Multiculturalism and Education and The Inclusive Classroom to develop and increase awareness of diversity and inclusion. Clinical practice may be on Purdue’s campus, through Indianapolis Public Schools, or in Texas, Arizona, New Mexico or overseas. Courses are grouped together and taken in six semester blocks that accompany field experience.

Students complete 128 credit hours, including 32 credit hours in 300 level or above courses, while maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.8 will be eligible for teaching licensure in Indiana. Graduates are qualified to teach all subjects to elementary school students, from kindergarten through 6^th grade, in public or private schools in all 50 states.

35 Best Bachelor’s in Education and Teaching

What Are the Best Bachelor’s in Education and Teaching Degrees?

Purdue University

Location

Average Net Price

University of Washington-Seattle Campus