If you're looking to start your educational career or switch into it, a bachelor's degree in education is the first step.
We found the top online education bachelor's degree programs based on factors such as admission and graduation rates, accreditation, net price, and career outcomes.
Our ranking list can help you explore some of the best online bachelor's degree programs in education and find the right fit for your schedule, budget, and professional goals.
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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Bachelor's in Education Programs
Is an Online Bachelor's in Education Right for You?
Pros
Solid Employment Rate: Class of 2024 graduates with a bachelor's in education had a 68% employment rate, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
Relevant Coursework: According to a 2024 BestColleges survey, more than half (56%) of online students and graduates said their classes featured assignments they could use to explore career options.
Positive Online Learning Experience: 97% of survey respondents would recommend online education to others.
Strong ROI: 94% said their online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
Cons
Lower Salary Expectations: The median salary for 2024 graduates with a bachelor's in education was only $46,768, according to NACE.
High Program Costs: In our survey, just over 1 in 5 online bachelor's students and graduates said paying for higher ed while minimizing student debt was the biggest challenge in completing their program.
Financial Planning Regrets: 28% of online education, psychology, and social sciences students and graduates said they wish they'd researched cost and financial aid options more thoroughly before enrolling.
How to Choose the Best Bachelor's in Education Program for You
When choosing the best bachelor's in education program for you, it's important to compare tuition costs, financial aid options, application requirements, and accreditation statuses.
Also, make sure the program is approved by the state where you plan to work. Each state sets its own requirements for teacher licensure, so attending a state-approved program can make your certification process go more smoothly.
Cost of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Education
Online
$9,594 Avg. Tuition & Fees
$5,334 Avg. Price After Grants & Scholarships
On-Campus
$14,226 Avg. Tuition & Fees
$6,060 Avg. Price After Grants & Scholarships
Source: NCES PowerStats; latest available data is from 2019-2020
Scholarships for Education Majors: Explore education scholarships offered directly by your school or program, as well as private scholarships meant for students studying education or who plan to become teachers.
Online Student Scholarships: Look into scholarship opportunities specifically designed for online students.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Complete the FAFSA to see if you qualify for federal aid, which can include grants — free money for college you don't have to repay.
Student Loans: If needed, consider taking out direct subsidized and unsubsidized student loans from federal sources. Only consider private lenders like banks and credit unions as a last resort.
Bachelor's in Education Program Length
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
Bachelor's in Education Application Requirements
Official Transcripts: You'll have to send all colleges you apply to an official high school transcript directly from your school.
Standardized Test Scores: Submit your scores from standardized tests, such as your SAT or ACT scores. Note that many colleges are now test optional, so be sure to check if scores are required before you sit for any exams.
Letter of Recommendation: Make sure to include at least one letter of recommendation from a high school teacher or mentor, if required.
Personal Statement: This essay should focus on your background and goals. Some colleges may also ask you to complete supplemental essays.
Application Fee: This typically costs around $50. Some colleges don't require an application fee at all, while others may waive it for low-income students.
Accreditation for a Bachelor's Degree in Education
The college or university you attend must have institutional accreditation for you to receive federal financial aid. Accreditation also confirms that an institution meets certain rigorous educational quality standards, such as faculty qualifications and academic support.
In addition to institutional accreditation, many education programs hold programmatic accreditation. This means the program has been evaluated and meets high academic and professional standards.
For education programs, the primary accrediting body is the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). You can find a list of accredited programs on the CAEP website.
Jobs With a Bachelor's in Education
Education Beyond a Bachelor's in Education
Master's in Education: You can earn a master's in education and specialize in subjects such as curriculum and instruction, educational psychology, or special education. Adding a master's degree to your resume can boost your earning potential and open doors to administrative positions like school principal.
Doctorate in Education: You can pursue a Ph.D. in education, which typically prepares graduates for college teaching or research, or a doctor of education (Ed.D.), which targets those who want to move into educational leadership roles or work in public policy.
Education Certificates: Certificate programs are designed for working adults looking to advance their skills or career. These are often shorter and cheaper than degrees while offering a focused approach in education specialties such as instructional supervision, education administration, and educational technology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's Degrees in Education
Most states require you to have a state license if you want to teach in a public school. Earning a bachelor's in education is usually just the first step. After that, you'll have to pass a state-issued certification exam and complete a student teaching experience.
