35 Best Colleges for Elementary Education

Texas A&M University started out as an institution that provided mechanical and agricultural programs, primarily to those affiliated or serving with the military. Today, Texas A&M has an expansive campus with leading research facilities, and it serves a vast number of students, with the highest annual enrollment figures of any university across the United States. 

This Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies leads to a certification in EC-Grade 6 Core Subjects. This elementary education program is designed for future Texas teachers who want to work in an elementary school. It also places a great deal of emphasis on field experiences; you’ll spend a lot of your time working in elementary and early childhood placements. 

Comprising around 122 to 124 credit hours, the elementary education program is available to freshmen, transfer, and change of major students. You’ll need to meet Texas A&M’s admission requirements to be considered for this degree. You’ll also need to be admitted to the upper level teacher education program before starting your certificate. 

Undergraduate tuition rates vary depending on whether you’re a resident of Texas or not. Resident students will pay approximately $13,178 per year in tuition, with out-of-state students paying a premium at around $40,087. 

Purdue University has been ranked among the top 5 most innovative universities across America. With a history dating back to 1862, Purdue today celebrates many traditions, including an annual on-campus Grand Prix and the institution’s own official song, ‘Hail Purdue’. The university’s official colors, since 1887, are gold and black. 

Purdue’s elementary education program comprises 128 credits, made up of: 

• 71 credits’ worth of program major requirements
• 51 to 52 other departmental and program course requirements
• Five to six electives

As an elementary education major, you will start out with a foundation in core subjects, before moving onto advanced teaching theory and techniques. 

The elementary education curriculum has been carefully tailored to align with both state and national standards for elementary teacher training, with courses grouped into six semester blocks. These blocks feature an experiential placement in which you’ll apply the theory you’ve learned in practice, reinforcing what you’ve learned and developing your skills as a teacher. 

Undergraduates studying at Purdue pay $9,992 in tuition for state residents or $28,794 for non-residents. International students pay an additional premium for a total of around $30,794. Room and board is charged at the same rate regardless of residency, costing around $10,000. 

Ranked as the most innovative school in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, Arizona State University – Tempe is the home of the Sun Devils, a legacy you’ll join as a freshman. With a faculty nearly 5,000-strong, you’ll be taught by some leading figures, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners and more. 

ASU is one of the best schools for elementary education. With this elementary education degree, you’ll be prepared with the skills and theory needed to teach children in grades K-8. You’ll also benefit from a professional field placement before graduation, while additionally learning how to integrate modern media and technology into your curriculum. 

In your junior year, this field experience will take the form of a part-time internship within a K-8 classroom. As you progress into your senior year, you’ll complete a more intensive, full-time residency within a partnering school, working with a team of other educators and professionals. 

As a elementary education major at the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers’ College, you’ll pay annual tuition of around $10,710. Including fees, the total cost of this program is around $11,338 annually. These costs apply to any undergraduate student enrolling on this course who is also a state resident; non-residents can check their estimated costs using the university’s tuition estimator. 

The University of Florida frequently graces the top of many rankings; in fact, the U.S. News & World Report recently ranked this institution in 6th place for the top public schools in the nation. UF is one of the best colleges for elementary education majors.

This elementary education school is geared towards students who want to work as a teacher within a K-6 setting. Offered through the School of Teaching & Learning, you’ll have a choice of several degree and certification options, depending on the specific area of elementary education that you wish to work in. 

The Unified Elementary ProTeach (UEP) program is a five-year program culminating in a year’s internship and a master’s degree. There are also single and dual certification options available. For these elementary education programs, there are additional admission requirements; more information on these can be found on this page. 

Elementary education majors studying at UF who are also residents of the state pay around $6,380 tuition, with a total cost of approximately $21,430 with costs and fees included. Out-of-state students should add approximately $22,300 to this figure. For a more accurate picture of your tuition and costs, you can refer to the university’s net price calculator.

The University of Maryland dates back to the mid 1800s, with an inaugural class of just 34 students. Today’s students participate in a vast range of hundreds of clubs and organizations, which you can find here. The University of Maryland is among the best colleges for elementary education.

This Bachelor of Science in elementary education is designed to be completed within four years. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible for the state of Maryland’s elementary teacher certification. Combining theory and classroom teaching skills, the curriculum has been designed around the unique challenges facing teachers in the modern classroom. 

After satisfying the university’s undergraduate admission requirements, you will also need to meet the selective admissions requirement to continue with the program’s full, professional obligations. This includes completing at least 45 credits, maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75, and meeting minimum basic skills tests scores. 

Elementary education students at the University of Maryland who are also residents of Maryland will pay an annual tuition cost of around $8,824. This rises to $34,936 annually for any students from out of state and international students. Mandatory fees cost $1,955 regardless of residency, while room and board are approximately $8,064 and $4,760 respectively. 

Established in 1853 and opened in 1860, LSU started out as the Seminary of Learning of the State of Louisiana. Today, the institution offers programs for both undergraduates and graduates alike. More than $300,000,000 is awarded in financial aid each year, with two-thirds of students graduating without any student debt. 

With this elementary education program, you’ll have a choice of two concentrations. The four-year teacher certification track is geared toward those who want to become teachers in grades 1 through 5. The five-year certification with a master’s degree culminates in a year’s additional study, awarding a Master of Arts in teaching (MAT) qualification. 

There is also an additional track, a four-year program, for students who do not wish to pursue the additional concentrations above. To be eligible for this major, you’ll need to have completed a minimum of 24 hours of credit in 1000-level courses (or higher), in addition to having a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. 

The cost of attendance for an undergraduate enrolled at this university is around $11,962 for residents of Louisiana or $28,639 for non-residents; this covers both tuition and fees. The costs of room and board come to around $12,276, with an additional estimate of approximately $1,038 for books and supplies. 

Kansas State University’s College of Education trains more teachers than any other teacher training program in the state of Kansas. Accredited by the Kansas State Department of Education and NCATE, the college has also won more than 10 recent national awards, in addition to providing iPads to students for learning purposes. 

Comprising 120 credit hours, the College of Education’s BS in education will prepare you for licensure in K-6 classroom settings. Also available via distance learning, this degree program will see you concentrating your studies in three key areas:

• General education
• Professional studies – teacher education
• A subject area of your choosing

A professional development component of the degree in elementary education will see you complete forty hours of service that provides either educational services to youth and their families or professional services to the teaching discipline. You also can view this elementary education program’s learning outcomes matrix and student learning report online. 

Undergraduate tuition at Kansas State University is charged per credit hour. For in-state residents, this runs at around $312.50 per-credit, while out-of-state students will pay more than double at around $841.70. There are also mandatory fees, some of which may apply to your course, which you can read more about here. 

Louisiana Tech University welcomes students from a diverse range of backgrounds, including 47 U.S. states and more than 60 countries around the world. Through partnerships with local companies of all sizes, students are given real-world experiences that could give you a head start in your preferred career after graduation. 

According to TPI-US, Louisiana Tech’s undergraduate programs in the area of elementary education have been recognized as some of the most innovative in the nation. The elementary education degrees available include: 

• A BS in early childhood education – grades PK-3
• A BS in elementary education and special education mild/moderate – Grades 1-5′
• Other programs in secondary education for agriculture, English, and social studies 

Each of these elementary education programs comprises a minimum of 120 credits, with each lasting for four years. The early childhood education degree has also been named as one of the best bachelor’s degrees in this discipline by a recent ranking. Your choice of program will largely depend on your career aspirations in terms of your preferred age group and subject area. 

Tuition is charged per-credit hour and at separate rates depending on your residency status (to an extent). See this page on the university’s website for a more accurate estimate. 

The University of Houston was founded in 1927 and is located central to the hustle and bustle of Houston. The Tier One campus links students with modern programs and facilities. In total, the student body comprises roughly 50,000 students, supported by over 2,600 faculty members. Students may choose from around 250 undergraduate majors and minors. 

Thanks to the UH Teacher Education Program, the curriculum for this degree in elementary education includes teacher certification. Requiring around four years to complete full-time, you’ll graduate with a B.S. in Teaching & Learning. You will also be prepared to take up work as 

• An Early Childhood – 6th grade teacher
• A math, history, social studies, or science teacher for grades 4 through 8
• Other elementary education roles

Students enrolled at this best college for elementary education can also benefit from a partnership between the College of Education and UH at Sugar Land. This partnership provides access to training courses specific to early childhood through 6th grade generalist certification. You will also participate in numerous field experiences based within real schools. 

Undergraduate tuition and fees at the University of Houston can vary depending on: 

• The program you’re enrolling in
• The courses making up your curriculum
• Your residency

Thus, it’s difficult to provide an overall picture of tuition costing; however, the university has a tuition calculator on their website. 

With a history spanning more than 200 years, the University of South Carolina welcomes around 35,000 students annually, with the vast majority of these undergraduates. The institution has recently been named in numerous rankings by the U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and Kiplinger’s Inc. 

As a graduate of this bachelor’s degree in elementary education, you’ll be prepared to work with children in grades 2 to 6. You’ll also get the opportunity to specialize in additional areas of certification, including special education and literacy coaching. And you’ll learn how to: 

• Design curriculums
• Analyze student data
• Engage children in learning

As part of this elementary education program, you will take part in three internships through partnering local schools. These internships could be in rural, urban, or suburban areas, giving you the chance to work with those from a variety of backgrounds. You may also minor in a second area of study should you choose to do so. 

Elementary education majors at the University of South Carolina pay around $12,688 in tuition – including an additional technology fee – if residents of the state or $33,928 for non-residents. Housing costs around $8,374 and meals around $4,061, regardless of residency. In total, this makes total costs and expenses of around $26,373 and $47,613 for residents and non-residents respectively.

East Carolina University has been producing well-rounded graduates for more than 100 years. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the university was recently named as a ‘Best 385 College’ by The Princeton Review, in addition to ranking highly in other areas. 

At ECU, you can choose from two degree programs, one of which is offered at the undergraduate level. The undergraduate program is the B.S. in Elementary Education, which is combined with North Carolina A-level elementary licensure. After graduation, you’ll be qualified to work as a K-6 teacher. 

As an elementary education major, you’ll have the opportunity to work directly with faculty members who are considered experts within their respective fields. You’ll also get multiple opportunities to work in classrooms throughout the region, with one real-world experience offered in each semester. At the end of the teacher degree program, you’ll also complete a yearlong internship within a K-6 elementary classroom. 

North Carolina residents studying at the undergraduate level pay around $7,325 in tuition and fees, while non-residents pay around $23,602. Room and board comes to approximately $10,136 for both types of student. A more detailed cost of attendance can be gained by using the university’s calculator. 

According to the U.S. News & World Report, The University of Iowa ranks highly among the nation’s best public universities. Incidentally, Iowa has also ranked as the best college town in the United States, in addition to being fourth on a list of the best places to live in the country.

This Bachelor of Arts in elementary education comprises a minimum of 120 credit hours. You’ll also have the choice of combining this program with another. Students may choose either the bachelor’s degree in special education subprogram or master’s degree in teaching and learning. 

Your curriculum will depend on whether you’re taking a combined program with your elementary education degree. But there are some courses – the GE CLAS Core – that must be taken by all enrolled students. These include core subjects in areas such as: 

• Communication and literacy
• Natural, quantitative, and social sciences
• Culture, society, and the arts

The estimated cost of attendance for an undergraduate at The University of Iowa is around $21,420 annually for in-state students or $43,383 for non-residents. This comprises tuition, associated fees, and the cost of housing and meal plans. It doesn’t include estimated costs of around $4,180 for books and supplies, personal expenses, and transport. 

Established in 1886, the University of Wyoming is based in Laramie and welcomes over 12,000 students from more than 90 countries around the world. It’s an institution that looks after its students; in fact, recent freshmen were given a $3,250 grant for support with living and study costs. 

This Bachelor of Science in elementary education will prepare students to teach grades K-6, in addition to Wyoming state licensure. As part of your elementary education program, you’ll take courses in major subject areas including: 

• Science
• Math
• Art
• Music
• Communication

You’ll also take education courses in areas such as assessment, content pedagogy, and special education. 

In addition to the above areas of study, you will also choose from 18 credit hours within four areas of concentration. These include: 

• Interdisciplinary Early Childhood (Birth to Eight)
• Creative Arts
• International Education Studies/American Cultural Diversity
• Environmental Studies

This elementary education program also includes a number of hands-on experiences. 

The University of Wyoming provides a rough cost estimation for all undergraduates on its website. Non-residents can expect to pay around $30,718 annually, while Wyoming residents pay around $16,978. This is representative of all tuition and fees, though it does not include personal expenses, books and supplies, and transportation costs. 

Hunter College has been welcoming students through its doors for almost 150 years. More than 170 academic programs are available, with students benefiting from three well-equipped campus locations across New York City. Support services include virtual admissions sessions and Skype calls with admissions officers prior to your application. 

This degree in early elementary education will prepare students to become state-certified early childhood education teachers in New York State. You’ll apply for your initial certification during your final semester of study, and you will be required to pass all necessary New York State Teacher Certification examinations. 

In addition to meeting all the basic requirements for the CUNY Common Core Requirement module, you will also take a scheduled sequence of courses in education. What’s more, the elementary education degree includes fieldwork in public schools across New York City, which will allow you to practice the theory you’ve learned. 

New York State residents studying at the undergraduate level will pay around $7,380 annually in tuition, while non-residents pay approximately $19,050. Fees for full-time students, including an activity fee, technology fee, and service fee, come to around $225.10. Estimated costs for books and supplies and other expenses can be found here. 

With origins dating back to 1902, Fort Hays State University is based in a busy downtown area and surrounded by leading businesses. This elementary education program provides students with excellent hands-on experience opportunities, in addition to an enriching student experience on-campus. 

Students enrolling in this elementary teacher education program have a choice of studying on-campus or remotely, online. Regardless of your choice, you will take part in field experiences across different environments. This will give you varied opportunities to apply your skills and knowledge with feedback from your tutors. 

Comprising 127 credit hours, this elementary education program provides a blend of: 

• General education coursework
• Professional studies and major courses
• Internships and methods courses
• Student teaching experiences

All coursework needs to be completed to a minimum grade of ‘C’, and students may take a maximum of two internships each semester. 

Undergraduate students at Fort Hays State University typically pay around $5,449.20 in tuition as a state resident or $15,895.80 as a non-resident. Books and supplies are around $606.00, and room and board is around $8,374.00. There’s also a net price calculator available for a more accurate estimate of costs. 

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) comprises seven different campuses across the state of Alaska. With a student body of around 8,500, undergraduates make up nearly 90% of all students. It’s the number one university for commitment to quality higher education, according to Times Higher Education. 

UAF offers one of the best elementary education programs in the U.S. This elementary teacher education program is a very hands-on program, including: 

• Several fieldwork placements
• A yearlong internship
• Supporting coursework in a broad range of subjects

The elementary education curriculum has also been designed to align closely with experiences and resources unique to the state of Alaska. 

The elementary education program is available face-to-face at the Anchorage UAF main campus or fully online, with internship opportunities available in different areas across the state. It has also been accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). With close partnerships and experts in local schools, you’ll be supported the whole way through your teacher degree program. 

Undergraduates at the University of Alaska Fairbanks pay around $8,757 if residents of Alaska. Non-residents pay a premium, at around $25,398. A full list of expenses including fees and housing and meal plan options are available on the university’s financial aid webpage. 

The University of Southern Mississippi (or ‘Southern Miss’) has been training elementary and special education teachers for more than a century. In fact, graduates of their dual degree program for these disciplines are highly sought after by employers. All teacher degree programs under Southern Miss’ School of Education are also accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. 

Available at the Gulf Park or Hattiesburg campuses, or as a fully online or hybrid program, the Elementary Education/Special Education Dual Degree Program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Around 83% of graduates find employment after completion of the program, while around 72 foundation-based scholarships are also available. 

You’ll participate in field-based practicum placements in each semester, with a total of 840 hours of field-based instruction being part of the elementary teacher education program. You’ll get hands-on experience working one-to-one with children in a range of subjects, and you’ll be mentored by experienced professionals in the field. 

State residents studying at the undergraduate level will pay approximately $4,393 to $5,125 in tuition each term, depending on the number of credits being taken. Non-residents pay an additional $1,000 per-term in additional tuition. You can find a table detailing the full rates details on the university’s website. 

According to the QS World Rankings in 2020, the University of Michigan is the highest-ranking public school in the world. As a new student, you’ll have a choice from more than 280 degree programs, many of which include hands-on experience opportunities both at home and abroad. 

A large focus of the elementary teacher training program at UoM revolves around the practices intended to disrupt inequality at school. With either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science track to choose from , you’ll take 120 credit hours in total, with hands-on, practical experiences built into the program. 

First-year students who want to pursue an elementary teaching career may also apply for the Teacher Education Preferred Admissions (TEPA) program. With a small faculty-student ratio of just 1:8, this program has been named the second best elementary teacher education program in the country by U.S. News & World Report. 

Elementary education students at the University of Michigan who are also state residents can expect to pay tuition and fees of around $15,948 in their freshman year (though tuition can rise for juniors and seniors). Non-residents pay approximately $52,266 in tuition, making this one of the more expensive institutions for non-residents. 

Marshall University offers more than 100 academic programs across 4 campuses. Students participate in 16 NCAA Division I athletic teams, in addition to a broad range of other clubs and organizations. Marshall University also offers tuition rates that are 31% lower than the national average for other four-year public schools. 

The bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Marshall University includes the CIF (Curriculum, Instruction, & Foundations) Program, which is designed to give pre-service teachers the necessary educational, elementary, and secondary foundations required by teachers. You’ll cover a broad range of subject areas in core disciplines, in addition to the theory and practice of teaching. 

As part of your plan of study, you have the option of choosing an add-on endorsement for either special education or early childhood (Pre-K). Access to the CIF Program requires a minimum GPA of 2.80 and completion of Level I Clinical from the program curriculum. You’ll also need to pass the PRAXIS Core exam and have completed at least 26 credit hours. 

Undergraduate tuition costs approximately $4,471 for WV residents or $10,147 for non-residents, making it one of the better value institutions in the nation. Most degree programs come with additional fees, which you can find on the undergraduate fee page; the cost of additional credits can also be found here. 

Mississippi State University (MSU) is a great place for students to get involved in what motivates them. With hundreds of student organizations and the option – and guidance – to start your own, you’ll never be short on things to do. MSU’s official colors are maroon and white. 

With this bachelor’s degree in elementary education, you’ll be prepared to teach within elementary grades after gaining a strong foundation in your subject matter areas and the foundations of educational practice. You will also have a choice of three licensure options, before taking a teaching internship in your final year of study. 

Licensure options available include the early childhood (PreK-3) concentration, which leads to K-3 interdisciplinary certification and PreK endorsement. Option two is the middle school (K-8) concentration, plus two endorsement areas, leading to K-6 interdisciplinary certification and 7th to 8th grade endorsement. Finally, the middle school (K-8) concentration and K-8 endorsement in special education forms the last option. 

Tuition and fees at Mississippi State University are charged on a per-credit hour basis. For full-time undergraduate students taking 12 or more credits per-semester, this equates to around $4,455.00 each semester. Non-residents pay a higher rate of around $11,975.00 every semester. These totals are inclusive of applicable fees. 

The University of Nebraska—Lincoln has been recognized for many things, including being a top 100 university for U.S. patents and ‘Best Value School‘. Students are known as ‘Huskers’ and choose from over 150 majors. This university houses one of the best colleges for elementary teachers in the U.S.

The College of Education and Human Sciences offers an elementary teacher education program that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Education with certification. Upon graduation from this program, you’ll be ready to teach in grades K-6 settings. This bachelor’s degree may only be taken on-campus as opposed to via distance learning. 

Comprising 120 credit hours, you’ll need to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 to graduate. Your first year will lay a solid foundation in key subject areas and teaching methodologies, before moving onto more advanced course areas. You’ll also take practicum courses throughout your studies. 

According to the Fiske Guide to Colleges, Nebraska is one of the ‘Best Buy’ institutions in the nation. Residents pay tuition of just $259.00 per-credit hour (approximately $21,876 including housing and meal plans), while non-residents pay around $830.00 (or $39,006 in total). 

Dating back to the mid-1900s, the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is part of the 17-campus UNC System. Starting out with just 238 students in 1947, the institution has grown to support a student body of around 18,000 students. You won’t want to miss UNCW’s teaching degree programs!

This elementary education program, based at the Watson College of Education, leads students to licensure as a teacher in the state of North Carolina. As a licensed teacher with this bachelor’s degree under your belt, you’ll be prepared to teach students in grades K-6. 

The framework followed by this curriculum is a tried and tested method that’s applied to all teacher education programs at this university. You’ll demonstrate your understanding of: 

• Teaching methodology
• Working with diverse student groups
• Curriculum development
• Assessment techniques
• Reflective practice

State residents who are enrolled full-time in an undergraduate program can expect to pay around $25,755 annually, of which $4,400 is tuition. Non-residents pay around $39,863 annually ($18,508 in tuition). You can see a full estimated cost breakdown, including fees, housing and meals, and books and supplies, on this page.

There are numerous opportunities to get involved in on-campus activities at the University of Arkansas. For example, you could: 

• Join the student government
• Participate in one of the university’s 34 fraternities and sororities
• Volunteer to help out the local community

Additionally, the university’s teachers college is something to get excited about!

The College of Education and Health Professionals offers an elementary education teacher training program that leads to state licensure. Admission to the Elementary Licensure (ELEL) B.S.E. program is highly competitive and can only be sought once you’ve completed all required pre-elementary education requirements. 

To remain enrolled in the teacher training program, you’ll also need to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in your coursework. What’s more, you will need to complete a teaching audition and pass the PRAXIS II examination. Overall, the elementary education bachelor’s degree involves approximately 9 months of internship or student teaching experience. 

Undergraduates at the University of Arkansas will pay tuition of around $7,568, with a total cost of approximately $26,176 including fees, room and board, books and supplies, and other personal expenses. Non-residents can expect to pay around $42,664 annually by comparison. A detailed breakdown of costs can be found on the university website. 

Brigham Young University has the largest undergraduate enrollment of any private university in the United States, with a student body that’s around 33,633-strong. More than 30,000 of these students are enrolled in undergraduate programs. What’s more, over two-thirds of this number have served missions since the university opened its doors. 

This elementary education program is designed to prepare you for work as a K-6 teacher with a Utah Teaching License. The curriculum covers all core subject areas: 

• Science
• Math
• Literacy
• Social studies 

This teacher degree program heavily emphasizes evidence-based instruction methods. 

Thanks to the BYU Public School Partnership, which includes 5 school districts – you will have numerous opportunities to develop your hands-on experience in the classroom. You’ll also participate in a one-semester block of student teaching, which will see you teaching within a primary grade classroom. 

While some universities charge separate rates for residents and non-residents, Brigham Young University is a religious institution. Instead, tuition is charged at different rates for latter-day saints and non-latter-day saints. Full cost estimates for tuition, fees, and other expenses can be found on the university’s cost of attendance page. 

Established in 1848, the University of Mississippi (or ‘Ole Miss’) is the flagship university of the state. It holds the highest research activity classification from the Carnegie Classification, in addition to being the state’s largest university. The student body comprises around 25,000 students who study programs from 15 academic divisions. 

This Bachelor of Arts in elementary education comes with a special education endorsement and comprises 122 credit hours. You’ll choose two areas of concentration from the following options: 

• Computers
• Foreign languages
• Fine arts
• English
• Science
• Math
• Social studies

With this degree in elementary education, you may pursue a K-12 license in mild and moderate disabilities or a K-6 elementary education licensure. 

While enrolled at this teachers college, in addition to completing the mandated coursework, you will also be expected to complete teacher observations. School placements will be arranged for you by the Student Advising and Field Experience (SAFE) office. 

For a full-time undergraduate student who is a resident of the state, tuition comes to around $8,718.00. Including fees, the total cost of attendance is around $19,488.00 annually. Non-residents pay a little under double this figure, at around $35,760.00. These figures include:

• Books and supplies
• Housing
• Food
• Personal and travel expenses

A four-year public college, SUNY Oneonta has small class sizes and numerous opportunities for research and participation at the undergraduate level. Dating back to the late 1800s, the university has grown to become a top-ranking public institution according to U.S. News & World Report and Forbes. 

SUNY Oneonta has been training prospective teachers for a long time. Their current course offerings include: 

• Childhood Education (Grade 1-6)
• Early Childhood/Childhood Education Dual Certificate (Birth through Grade 6)

Both elementary education degrees focus upon three key areas, including: 

• Liberal arts
• General education
• Professional practice

Regardless of your choice, you’ll study in class sizes of around 20 to 30 elementary education majors. You’ll gain practical experience through full-time three-week placements within partnering schools. In your final semester, you will take two teaching placements across New York State to put everything you’ve learned into practice. 

Undergraduates at SUNY Oneonta pay around $7,070 in tuition for a total cost of around $22,860 including fees and room and board. For non-residents, tuition costs around $16,980, with total annual costs of around $32,770. Tuition for online programs is around the same as that charged to residents, making it an ideal option for non-residents wishing to study here. 

Wilmington University has a total enrollment of around 20,000 students, with a student-faculty ratio of around 17:1. Their tuition rates are among the lowest in the region, with out-of-state (non-international) students paying the same as their peers, regardless of residency. There are also additional tuition discounts for military-affiliated students. 

The elementary education (Grades K-6) program at Wilmington University is recognized nationally by the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI). To ensure that you meet the requirements for the program, you’ll need to register for EDU 102 E-Folio and EDU 203 Instructional Technology as your first courses in this teacher degree program. 

In addition to the remaining courses in the curriculum, you’ll also gain practical experience comprising 60 hours’ worth of field experience. You will also complete an additional 30 hours in mandatory seminars. Actual placement locations will be arranged for you by the university via partnerships with local school districts. 

Tuition at Wilmington University is charged on a per-credit basis. Depending on your place of study, you’ll pay between $250 and $381 per-credit. Elementary education majors pay the upper rate of $381. There are several courses that are subject to reduced tuition rates. You can find more on these, in addition to a net price calculator on this page. 

Opened in 1886 to a class of just 21 students in a one-room building, Winthrop University has since grown to become an institution that has been ranked among the best Southern public universities by U.S. News & World Report. It has also been named among the top 25 public and private institutions in the region. 

In this elementary education program, you’ll be engaged in practical experiences right from the offset, with your first placement taking place in freshman year. In total, you’ll spend approximately 1,200 hours in a public school classroom gaining valuable real-world experience as a teacher or teaching assistant. 

Comprising a total of 123 credit hours, the teacher degree program results in a Bachelor of Science upon graduation, which will allow you to obtain licensure for teaching in grades 2-6. And your curriculum will not only prepare you to teach, but also to utilize the unique technologies and teaching methods from the 21st century. 

Prospective students at Winthrop University can expect to pay approximately $16,400 if they are residents of the state or around $31,002 as a non-resident. Room and board costs around $9,810, books and supplies around $1,200, and transportation and personal expenses around $1,592 each. There may also be additional loan fees of around $86. 

Established in 1855 under the name New Jersey State Normal School, this institution routinely ranks in seventh place for the highest four-year graduation rate in the nation. What’s more, TCNJ has also featured in first place on a list of the country’s top public institutions according to U.S. News & World Report. 

The College of New Jersey offers two four-year programs for undergraduates: 

• Early childhood education 
• Elementary education

Additional, five-year options are available, which include the: 

• Five-year urban education
• Five-year early childhood/special Education
• Five-year early childhood education/education of the deaf & hard of hearing programs

Regardless of your major of choice at the undergraduate level, you will be required to select a second major from the following: 

• Art
• Biology
• English
• History
• Math
• Music
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish
• STEM
• Women’s & gender studies

To proceed with your practicum experiences, you’ll need to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. 

Tuition fees at The College of New Jersey are charged at different rates for residents and non-residents. New Jersey residents can expect to pay tuition and fees of around $16,942 annually, while non-residents pay around $28,921. Room and board comes to around $13,964 regardless of residency. 

Dallas Baptist University was founded just before the turn of the 20th century, in 1898. Programs are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, with a number of degree completion and online education courses also available. Students from more than 50 different countries call DBU their home away from home. DBU also serves as one of the best elementary education degree colleges in the country.

DBU offers the B.A. or B.S. in Core Subjects EC-6 Teacher Certification program. If you’re planning to teach early childhood education up to 6th grade, this elementary education curriculum is geared towards you. The curriculum follows the core subjects set out for children of these ages according to the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC). 

You’ll study a blend of courses that cover: 

• General studies
• Professional accountability
• A dual academic major

To proceed into the Educator Preparation Program, you will need to meet additional requirements set out by the DBU College of Education. More information on these can be found on this page. 

Both residents and non-residents at Dallas Baptist University pay the same tuition fees for their education. The costs associated with room and board and housing can vary depending on the selections you make. For more information, see this page on the university’s website. 

Dating back to 1874, York College of Pennsylvania sits on a 190-acre campus in the suburbs of York. Its most popular majors include:

• Education
• Nursing
• Business
• Engineering
• Criminal justice

Programs feature workshops and other experiences designed to prepare you for the world of work, with every qualified student guaranteed an experience-based learning opportunity. 

In this early elementary program, you’ll be prepared to support the unique cognitive, emotional, and social development needs of children from the ages of birth through to age nine. You will also gain a strong understanding of the unique challenges facing students with special needs and how to adapt your teaching methods to suit these children. 

Field experiences are woven into the curriculum early, with a student teaching experience in the final semester. Throughout your elementary education program, these practical placements will teach you how to manage a classroom and plan and deliver lessons. You’ll also be ready to seek licensure in Pre-K to grade 4 settings. 

The total cost of attendance for undergraduate students studying at York College of PA is around $16,695 per-semester. This comprises around $10,850 in tuition and fees, $3,260 for a traditional dorm room, and $2,585 for a basic meal plan. Books typically cost around $600, with an additional $1,025 for personal and travel allowances. 

Established in 1914, Colorado Christian University is consistently ranked in the top 2% of all colleges and universities in the nation by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA). Students may choose from over 50 degree programs, with an additional 80 degree options offered for adult and graduate students. 

CCU’s College of Adult and Graduate Studies offers the Bachelor of Arts in elementary education (licensure), in addition to a second program option without licensure. Both elementary education programs comprise 120 credit hours, with courses taken consecutively and normally completed within a five-week block per-course. You may also be able to transfer credits to speed up your degree progression. 

With the exception of the obvious requirement to pass a state licensure examination, there is not a great deal of difference between the two teacher degree programs. Both involve practical placement experiences, and both are accredited too. However, student teaching is only required for students who are enrolled in the licensure track. 

Elementary education majors enrolled in between 12 and 18 credits per-semester can expect to pay tuition of around $34,250 annually. Including student body fees and room and board, the total cost of attendance is around $46,950. This figure excludes the cost of travel, books, and personal expenses, which can vary widely. 

The University of Richmond dates back to 1830, with students to this day being known as ‘Spiders’. According to the university website, the institution ranks among the nation’s best liberal arts colleges, in addition to being among the best value liberal arts colleges according to multiple publications. 

This elementary education program has been designed for community college students who have already begun a teacher training program, but who want to transfer and earn a degree part-time while continuing to work. Classes can be taken in the late afternoon or evening to allow for easier time management. 

You’ll have the choice of several concentrations, including the: 

• Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts
• Liberal Arts Major
• Elementary Education Concentration

This academic program will also prepare you to gain state licensure to work as an elementary education teacher. Upon admission to the elementary education program, you will also have access to an undergraduate advisor who will help you understand the program requirements in more detail. 

An elementary education major at the University of Richmond can expect to pay tuition fees of approximately $31,300 per semester. For first-year residency, there’s a charge of around $6,300 for the year, plus a variable rate of between $1,000 and $7,130 for meal plans, depending on your selections. 

According to a recent publication by Edsmart.org, Bethel University is among the top 10 best Christian colleges and universities. 

At this university, students can pursue a B.A. in K-6 elementary education. This can also be paired with a number of concentrations, including: 

• Communication Arts and Literature Middle Level Endorsement
• Mathematics Middle Level Endorsement
• Social Studies Middle Level Endorsement
• Spanish Middle Level Endorsement

Throughout your elementary education coursework, you’ll take part in practical placements, including student teaching and internships within partnering school districts. These programs have also been ranked by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) as being the top elementary teacher preparation programs in the Midwest. 

An elementary education major who is studying 12 to 18 credits per-semester can expect to pay around $38,870 in tuition. Including the cost of room and board, total expenses come to around $50,000 annually. There may be additional fees, which you can read more about on this page. 

Bay Path University has been recognized as a top-performing school in the areas of innovation and economic diversity, according to the U.S. News & World Report. Established in 1897, the university is named after the Bay Road, a footpath that was heavily used by Native Americans and which later became a key route between early settlements in Connecticut and the larger towns of Massachusetts Bay. 

Bay Path University offers an elementary education licensure degree program, which has a strong foundation in liberal arts. With this teacher degree program, you’ll earn your initial teaching licensure for grades 1 through 6, which is issued by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. 

A secondary elementary education program is offered, which does not lead to licensure. This second non-licensure track is geared towards students who are considering a master’s degree in psychology, education, or a related field. On this track, you will not take the Massachusetts Tests of Educational Licensure, nor the practicum course. 

Students pursuing an elementary education program at Bay Path University can expect to pay tuition of around $35,781 annually. Room and board is charged at roughly an additional $12,799, depending on your choice of meal plans. There’s also an additional $2,999.00 health insurance program fee.