Online Education Degrees and Careers

With an average starting salary of more than $50k for high school teachers, there's no better time to get a jump start on a career in education.

Earning Your Education Degree Online

Going to school can be stressful — if not a complete roadblock — when you're also juggling a job, are a parent, or are required to live far outside of your nearest campus due to military, career, or family commitments. Luckily, today it's becoming more and more common for schools to offer online education programs.

These types of degree tracks, often called distance learning programs, offer students significantly more flexibility in how they earn their online degree. At most schools, coursework is even offered asynchronously, meaning students are able to complete their classes at the time that is most convenient for them.

Featured Online Programs

While many prospective students hoping to pursue careers in teaching assume earning an education degree online is impossible due to the hands-on training requirements, there are actually a plethora of programs spanning the United States which offer students the ability to complete their online degree and fulfill the in-person aspects within their local community. These affordable, often accelerated, programs allow budding teachers to choose the internships and classroom training opportunities that make the most sense for them geographically and temporally.

Excellent teachers are needed in the United States now more than ever. With an occupational growth rate of 6% and an average starting salary of more than $50,000 for high school teachers, there's no better time to get a jump start on a career in education.

The Best Online Education Programs

Rank School Student to
Faculty
Grad
Rate
Retention
Rate
Accept
Rate
Enroll
Rate
School
Aid Rate
Default
Rate
Description Cost Address School Logo Websites  
1

LeTourneau University

14 to 1 42% 83% 49% 42% 57% 8%

Located in Longview, Texas, LeTourneau University offers two Christ-centered online degrees in education: the BA in interdisciplinary studies with a teaching certificate in early childhood-6th grade and the BA in interdisciplinary studies with certification for 4-8th grade. Both programs consist of 120 credits that include general core, major, and cognate courses. Both programs require students to complete a 12-credit sequence in theology, along with nine elective credits, with each requiring six credits of student teaching. Students take classes in five-week-long accelerated terms, and certificates may be paired with optional minors in leadership, management, project management, psychology, and reading.

Students can enroll during one of nine dates per year, and applicants must submit proof of high school graduation or a GED, transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores. Transfer applicants with fewer than 15 college credits must submit standardized test scores. In-state and out-of-state online students pay the same tuition rate.

N/A
2100 S Mobberly Ave
Longview, Texas 75602
Program Page
2

Asbury University

12 to 1 64% 81% 69% 33% 70% 6%

Located in Wilmore, Kentucky, Asbury University’s 124-credit BS in elementary education offers students both general education courses and 82-credit hours immersed in major-related studies. In addition to exposure to education theory, students complete hands-on student teaching and a guided inquiry clinical. The program also includes a three-course sequence in biblical studies and a 12-credit sequence of interdisciplinary liberal arts courses.

Applicants need a high school diploma or its equivalent and must submit official transcripts. Letters of reference are also required. The admissions office encourages applicants to contact one of their advisors prior to beginning the application process. Asbury allows students to transfer up to 75 credits from other institutions, and all students pay the same tuition rate irrespective of state residency.

N/A
1 Macklem Dr
Wilmore, Kentucky 40390-1198
Program Page
3

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

8 to 1 48% 82% 100% 29% 73% 7%

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College’s education degree online prepares graduates for careers as middle and high school language arts teachers or programs directors. Students in the bachelor's in English education (5-12) complete 18 credits of education core courses and 10 credits of developmental core courses. The major consists of 32 credits of creative writing and English content courses., and students finish the curriculum by completing three clinical experiences spread across 17 credits. Clinical experience options include working in a middle school or a high school or a combination of both.

To apply, students submit the free online application along with proof of high school graduation or GED scores, official transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores. Programs also require a personal statement, resume, and letter of reference. Although the college is located in Indiana, all students pay the same tuition rate.

N/A
1 St Mary of Woods Coll
Saint Mary of the Woods, Indiana 47876-1099
Program Page
4

University of North Carolina Wilmington

17 to 1 49% 84% 59% 32% 52% 6%

UNCW’s education degree online prepares graduates for work as K-6 elementary educators. The BA in elementary education consists of 124 semester hours, including general education and core courses. The major consists of 64-credit hours that include a 14-credit hour internship. Students may pursue concentrations in several fields, including behavioral studies, ESL, early childhood, fine arts, international studies, and language arts, among others.

After admittance into UNCW, students must complete general education requirements prior to beginning the BA in elementary education at the Watson College of Education. Students who meet the requirements typically enter Watson in their sophomore or junior year. To apply to UNCW, applicants need a high school diploma or GED. Residents of North Carolina pay discounted tuition rates.

N/A
601 South College Road
Wilmington, North Carolina 28403-5963
Program Page
5

Drexel University

10 to 1 27% 84% 76% 8% 56% 4%

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University offers an online education degree on a part-time basis as a degree completion program to students with prior college credit. Students complete the BS in education in as few as 30 months across 10 quarter terms. The degree provides graduates with PK-4 elementary teacher certification or PK-4 and special education certification. Students must earn a total of 180 quarter credits in order to graduate, including general education and major related courses and 18 quarter credits of student teaching equal to 190 real world hours.

Applicants must already possess at least 24 college credits with a GPA of 2.5 or higher at a regionally accredited institution. The school will consider applicants with less than 24 college credits who have been out of high school for more than two years. Applicants must submit standardized test scores and official transcripts.

N/A
3141 Chestnut St
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
Program Page
6

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

16 to 1 26% 74% 33% 71% 74% 13%

Located in Waxahachie, Texas, SAGU offers several online education degree programs, including a 127-credit BA in elementary education, 127-credit BA in English, language arts and reading (middle and secondary education), 127-credit BA in history and social studies education, and 120-credit BA in education (pre-professional). The first three programs lead to teacher certification. All five programs include curriculum that combines general education, social science, natural science, Bible studies, major requirements, and more. Students must also complete student teaching courses.

All applicants to SAGU must provide a reference from a Christian leader, and freshman applicants must submit official transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. All students pay the same tuition rate irrespective of state residency.

N/A
1200 Sycamore
Waxahachie, Texas 75165
Program Page
7

University of Missouri-Columbia

20 to 1 47% 86% 78% 40% 47% 5%

The BES in educational studies with an interdepartmental emphasis consists of 120 credits, 45 of which comprise general education requirements. The interdepartmental emphasis lies not only with educational instruction but with career guidance and occupational analysis, training in human learning and special education, and skills in teaching vocational education to special-needs learners. Students typically complete the program in eight semesters, and many students transfer approximately 60 credits of prior college credit.

Freshman applicants must have a high school diploma or its equivalent and must submit ACT or SAT scores. Transfer applicants need at least 24 college credits, including English and math courses equivalent to MU’s, with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Missouri residents receive a tuition discount, and the university recommends that prospective students file the FAFSA quickly, as nearly 75% of MU’s students receive financial aid.

N/A
105 Jesse Hall
Columbia, Missouri 65211
Program Page
8

East Carolina University

18 to 1 33% 81% 77% 38% 57% 5%

ECU offers two degree completion online education programs: a BS in middle grades education and a BS in elementary education. Students take either degree on-campus at one of North Carolina’s community colleges to complete their general education courses. This includes on-site, full-time teaching courses. Otherwise, students take major courses entirely online. Both degrees take four years to complete for students who attend full-time.

To apply, students fill out an online application that determines whether they will commit to full-time or to part-time study. Depending on their choice, applications are due either in January or in February. Applicants should have a 3.0 GPA at the community college level and must submit ACT or SAT scores. East Carolina University is located in Greenville, North Carolina, and state residents pay discounted tuition.

N/A
East 5th Street
Greenville, North Carolina 27858-4353
Program Page
9

Liberty University

18 to 1 24% 69% 22% 47% 66% 7%

Liberty’s bachelor's degree in education online, the BS in elementary education interdisciplinary studies, instructs students in educational methods and interventions. Students can take the 120-credit program entirely online or in curriculum that includes a 300-hour, hands-on practicum for interested students. While the program does not lead to licensure, it serves as a foundation for careers in private schooling, as well as for master’s-level study.

To apply, prospective students should submit their official transcripts from prior colleges and high schools, as well as financial aid applications. Applicants must pass a background check. Transfer applicants may transfer up to 90 college credits from prior institutions. Although the university is located in Lynchburg, Virginia, it offers in-state and out-of-state students the same tuition rate. Military personnel are eligible for a discount.

N/A
1971 University Blvd
Lynchburg, Virginia 24515
Program Page
10

Judson College

9 to 1 31% 56% 65% 48% 72% 12%

Located in Marion, Alabama, Judson College offers three online education degrees leading to teacher certification in Alabama: the BS in elementary education, BA in secondary English/language arts (6-12), and BA in secondary general social studies (6-12). To ensure community-oriented learning, students learn in cohorts. Also, like on-campus students, online students partner with a mentor student and have one-on-one communications with their professors.

Students complete general studies core courses before beginning their education classes and must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher in order to graduate. To apply, prospective students must submit high school or college transcripts with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and a copy of their driver’s license or passport. In-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate.

N/A
302 Bibb St
Marion, Alabama 36756
Program Page
11

Union Institute & University

8 to 1 20% 67% 100% 35% 78% 6%

Located in Cincinnati, Ohio, Union’s online education degrees enable graduates to teach at any grade level in Florida schools. Students choose from the BS in elementary education, BS in exceptional student education (K-12), or BS in secondary education. All three programs combine online instruction with on-campus visits at Union’s Miami campus to form hybrid degrees, and all three 120-credit programs allow up to 90 credits to transfer from another institution.

Applicants with a high school degree or GED may apply with official transcripts and a personal essay, among other requirements. ACT or SAT scores are not required, and in-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate.

N/A
440 E McMillan St
Cincinnati, Ohio 45206-1925
Program Page
12

The Baptist College of Florida

15 to 1 19% 72% 56% 41% 56% 7%

Located in Graceville, Florida, BCF offers five online degrees in education: the 127-credit BA in elementary education, 132-credit BA in English secondary education, 125-credit BA in history/social studies secondary education, 127-credit BA in education studies, and 136-credit bachelor of music education. Each program requires general core courses and immerses students in at least 60 credits of education major material. While students take classes online, each of the five programs requires on-site student teaching. The education studies program does not lead to licensure.

Applicants must submit official transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, a recommendation from their pastor, a personal recommendation, and a BCF immunization form for consideration. All online students pay the same tuition rate irrespective of state residency.

N/A
5400 College Dr
Graceville, Florida 32440
Program Page
13

Regis University

14 to 1 47% 78% 96% 21% 56% 5%

The 120-credit BA in elementary education with initial licensure at Regis University consists of 45 credits of general core requirements, 30 credits of lower level major courses, 21 credits of upper level major courses, and 21 credits of student teaching. Students also take three credits of general electives and must pass either the PLACE or PRAXIS exam prior to teaching. The program focuses its curriculum around Jesuit ideals of community service and excellence.

Admissions encourages students to have three years of post-high school work experience prior to applying. Applicants must submit official transcripts with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and undergo a background check. While Regis is located in Denver, Colorado, online students pay the same rate irrespective of residency.

N/A
3333 Regis Blvd
Denver, Colorado 80221-1099
Program Page
14

Sterling College

14 to 1 20% 63% 44% 35% 74% 13%

Sterling College’s bachelor’s degree in education online trains teachers for K-6 instruction. The 124-credit BA in elementary education consists of 10-11 credits of general education courses in history, physical science, and sociology, and 40 credits of education core courses in teaching math, science, language arts, and social studies. One course focuses on music instruction to elementary school children. This program leads to licensure in Kansas, a highly respected and sought after credential by other states.

Applicants need a high school diploma or its equivalent for consideration and must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.2 and ACT or SAT scores. Though Sterling College is located in Sterling, Kansas, all students pay the same tuition rate irrespective of state residency.

N/A
125 W. Cooper
Sterling, Kansas 67579
Program Page
15

Southwestern College

8 to 1 41% 66% 88% 32% 51% 8%

Southwestern College offers a rigorous bachelor's degree in education online to students hoping to become professional educators. The BA in elementary education consists of 124 credits, 30 of which must be completed on-campus at Southwestern. The curriculum walks students through core, exploratory education, pre-professional education, professional teacher, and capstone student teaching courses. Southwestern supports online students by offering each student an advisor capable of answering questions and concerns. The degree leads to Kansas licensure.

Prospective students need at least six college credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 prior to applying to Southwestern. They also need official transcripts, proof of identity, and financial aid forms. Admitted students must maintain a 2.75 GPA in order to graduate. Though Southwestern is located in Winfield, Kansas, in-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate. Military students receive discounted tuition.

N/A
100 College Street
Winfield, Kansas 67156-6224
Program Page
16

University of Southern Mississippi

17 to 1 27% 74% 67% 41% 66% 12%

Southern Miss offers a BS in elementary education to teacher’s assistants hoping to become full-time K-5 teachers. The degree prepares graduates for work as behavior intervention specialists, curriculum specialists, reading interventionists, mentors, community education coordinators, and advocacy directors. Instructors deliver coursework asynchronously, and the program consists of 120-124 credits. Students complete general and education core courses before advancing to senior level coursework in the major. The program concludes with two student teaching capstones.

Applicants must submit a complete online application along with official transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Southern Miss accepts an ACT composite score of 21 or SAT score of 860. Though located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Southern Miss allows in-state and out-of-state students to pay the same tuition rate.

N/A
118 College Drive # 0001
Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406-0001
Program Page
17

Park University

12 to 1 22% 75% 67% 30% 46% 10%

Park University’s BSE in education studies consists of 120-credit hours that includes four optional emphasis areas: young child, youth, early childhood education and leadership, and early childhood education teaching young children. After completing general core requirements, students spend at least 57 credits immersed in the education major and also select a minor or leadership area of concentration.

Applying to the bachelor’s degree in education online is separate from applying to Park. Park’s admissions office must first admit applicants after review of student’s official transcripts, ACT scores, letters of reference, background check, and a cumulative GPA of 2.75. Though the university is located in Parkville, Missouri, in-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate. Military students pay discounted tuition.

N/A
8700 NW River Park Dr
Parkville, Missouri 64152-3795
Program Page
18

Ottawa University-Online

3 to 1 21% 63% 99% 46% 47% 10%

Ottawa University’s bachelor's degree in education online equips educators with both primary and secondary content strength areas. Students who earn the BA in secondary education graduate with knowledge in business, English, history, or mathematics. These content areas reinforce secondary school instruction by developing additional critical thinking and analytic skills that graduates utilize in their classrooms.

The curriculum also explores education psychology, foundations of school diversity, and principles of the teaching profession. The program includes several hands-on teaching and capstone opportunities. Some core courses vary depending on the student’s state residency to meet state-specific requirements.

Applicants must submit their official transcripts and standardized test scores. The admissions office also requires applicants to submit a personal essay. While the university is located in Ottawa, Kansas, all students pay the same tuition rate irrespective of state residency.

N/A
1001 South Cedar
Ottawa, Kansas 66067
Program Page
19

Brandman University

15 to 1 N/A 58% 73% 80% 56% 4%

Brandman’s education degree online equips students to teach multiple subjects at various grade levels. Students pursuing the BA in liberal studies, multiple subjects teaching complete the program in either hybrid or fully online format, with focus subjects including language arts, science, math, art, history, human development, health, and physical education. All coursework at Brandman aligns with common core principles, and the curriculum includes applied research projects, child learning development exploration, and concludes with a capstone.

Applicants need at least 12 college credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 and must submit official transcripts from all prior institutions. In-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate. The university encourages students to submit the FAFSA to qualify for financial aid.

N/A
16355 Laguna Canyon Road
Irvine, California 92618
Program Page
20

Chaminade University of Honolulu

11 to 1 20% 76% 86% 30% 44% 9%

Chaminade offers two online degrees in education that qualify graduates to work as teachers at any grade level. Students may pursue either the BS in elementary education (K-6) or the BA in secondary education (grades 6-12). Either of these degrees lead to licensure in the state, and most states accept a Hawaii teaching license. Both programs also consist of 120 credits that include general core, education core, elective courses, and on-site student teaching.

Applicants need a high school diploma with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75, transcripts, ACT or SAT scores of 19 or 920-1000, respectively, and personal statement. Transfer applicants need a cumulative college GPA of 2.0, and all students pay the same tuition rate irrespective of state residency.

N/A
3140 Waialae Avenue
Honolulu, Hawaii 96816-1578
Program Page

education1

Job Outlook for Education Graduates

Earning online education degrees isn't just a pathway to a higher salary — it's necessary for your career. While graduates holding associate degrees may be allowed to work as teachers aides or assistants, every state requires teachers to hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Luckily, it's fairly easy to earn your bachelor's degree in education online, making a career as a teacher much more attainable for busy and adult students.

Furthermore, many colleges offer online master's programs in education, allowing graduates to access salaries that are $7,000 higher per year (on average) than their counterparts with a bachelor's degree. Ultimately, many teachers make an excellent living, especially in the states where teachers are paid the most, like New York, Massachusetts, and Washington D.C.

School Type Salary Range (annual) Average (with Associate) Average (with Bachelor's) Average (with Master's)
Elementary School (public) $30,440 – $67,229 N/A (Teachers are required to hold bachelor's degrees at a minimum) $43,591 $50,591
Middle School (public) $32,971 – $69,354 N/A (Teachers are required to hold bachelor's degrees at a minimum) $45,830 $52,830
High School (public) $33,667 – $73,140 N/A (Teachers are required to hold bachelor's degrees at a minimum) $47,760 $54,760

Source: PayScale

Please note that private school teachers typically make between $10 to 15 thousand less per year than their public school equivalents.

Education Salaries

The salary you'll be able to earn as an educator is dependent on what grade you teach, the state and town you teach in, what level of degree you hold, and how many years of experience you have. While it's a good idea to get a better understanding of what level of pay you'll be eligible for based on your own data, the following are the average salary outcomes for US-based teachers.

Preschool teachers typically earn the lowest salary among teaching positions, however educators at this level are not required to hold a bachelor's degree. With an associate degree, preschool teachers typically make about $28,790 per year, or just under $14 per hour. This is also a growing field — job opportunities for preschool teacher are expected to rise 7% by 2024.

By contrast, kindergarten and elementary school teachers earn a higher salary, but the job growth rate for the field is slightly slower at 6%. Teachers at this level are also required to hold a bachelor's degree, and many choose to pursue their early childhood education degree online. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers usually make about $55,490 annually, and that number can rise significantly based on experience. Teaching at the middle school level is comparable to teaching in elementary school; educators are also required to hold at least a bachelor's degree, average salaries are about $56,720 per year, and a projected 36,800 new middle school teaching jobs will be filled by 2024.

High school teachers make just slightly more per year, at $57,910, however at this level it's a good idea to look into online master's programs in education to ensure you're eligible for the most competitive jobs.

Featured Online Programs

Types of Education Careers

Most education students choose their specialization or career before deciding on what type of degree they'll pursue. Often degrees can be fairly specialized, and knowing what path you're going to follow will allow you to choose the program that is most germane to your desired career.

Preschool Teacher

Preschool teachers tend to work with children who are younger than five, in the years before they are old enough to enroll in kindergarten. Requirements for these educators can range significantly, from holding just a high school diploma to requiring a bachelor's degree depending on the school. The lower education requirements are often reflected in salary, and teachers can expect to earn about $28,790 per year. Preschool teachers introduce their students to core subjects like reading, writing, and math, as well as help young children develop social and communication skills.

Kindergarten and Elementary School Teacher

Teaching in kindergarten or elementary school extends the subjects learned in preschool, and children are tasked with basic mathematics and simple reading and writing, as well as further developing their social, emotional, and communication skills. This position pays about $55,490 annually.

Middle School Teacher

When students reach middle school, the begin to take more specialized classes, like biology and social studies. They also continue their training in reading, writing, and math. Middle school teachers educate students from grade six to grade eight, preparing them for the more difficult coursework that they will take when they get to high school. Teachers earn an average of just under $57,000 per year at the middle school level.

High School Teacher

In the final years of mandatory education, high school students learn highly specialized subjects, take electives, and are encouraged to start acquiring vocational skills. Teachers at the high school level are typically specialists in a certain area, and teach only that subject throughout the day. High school teachers may hold their bachelor's or master's degrees, though for more competitive positions a graduate-level degree may be required. The average salary for a high school teacher in the US is $58,000 annually.

College Professor

If you elect to be a postsecondary educator, you may be required to earn your Ph.D., though some community colleges employ teachers with their master's. Like high school, teachers in universities are subject area experts, and typically teach one or two courses pertaining to the same subject throughout the day. College professors may also be required to participate in research projects or publish papers. However, their salaries reflect the extra work; median pay for college professors is $75,430 per year.

Special Education Teacher

Lastly, you may choose to become a special education instructor. Doing so requires a bachelor's degree and specific licensure, as well as a healthy dose of care and patience. Special education teachers work with students spanning learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities, and are tasked with creating tailored lessons for their students based on their needs. They often also help students communicate better and learn to manage their emotions. On average, special education teachers earn just shy of $58,000 per year.

Luckily, there are plenty of online education programs available to help you get your footing in the teaching career of your choice.

Types of Education Degrees

Students who are pursuing their online teaching degrees tend to work towards their bachelor's or master's, as there are fewer career opportunities available to graduates who hold an associate degree. Beyond the more expansive list of job opportunities for bachelor's degree holders and above, salaries are also significantly higher.

Regardless, there are a multitude of ways to earn your secondary education degree online, including a breadth of online master's programs in education. You can also choose to earn your early childhood teaching degree online, if your goal is to instruct students at the elementary school level. No matter what, an online teaching degree is the right first step in jumpstarting your teaching career.

Degree Level Definition Possible Concentrations Median Annual Salary
Associate Two-year degree, typically from a community college Elementary education $28,790 annually
Bachelor's Four-year, university degree Elementary education, special education, early childhood education, middle grades education, secondary education, language arts education, social sciences education, earth science education, life science education, mathematics education, physical science education, physical education $57,000 annually
Master's Two-year, university degree Nutrition education, mathematics education, special education, international education, technology education, literacy education, physical education, physical science education, early childhood education, elementary education, middle grades education, secondary education, language arts education, life science education, educational leadership, assessment and policy in education, reading and writing, child study, bilingual education $60,990 annually

Education Certifications and Licensing

education2

Earning your online education degree is not the final step on the road to becoming a teacher. Regardless of where you teach, you'll need to have a professional teaching licenses, the exact requirements for which are set at the state level. As such, it's important to choose the right teacher preparation program (TPP) for your career goals. TPPs are generally included as the last piece of your education. Core curriculum in online master's programs in education or some bachelor's programs should prepare you for acquiring your certification.

That being said, most schools will require you to apply for the TPP within your program. This typically involves an exam or series of exams, however which exam that is exactly varies from state to state. The most common test is the Praxis I.

Next, when you finish your degree program, you'll send documentation to your state's teacher certifying agency. The process for certification is variable, so it's a good idea to speak with your advisor or professors about what will be required from you in order to obtain your credentials.

Once you're certified, it's important to keep your eye on the expiration date. Many states allow you to use the same credential for the duration of your teaching career, as long as it is renewed regularly. Other states will require you to be recertified after some duration of time. The advisors within your program should be able to give you all the details you need about maintaining your certification.

Education Scholarships

For students who need help paying for their education, there is more than $19 billion in scholarship money available to students in the United States each year. Both niche scholarships for education majors and general scholarships for all college students are plentiful, and may students are able combine a series of scholarships to alleviate a large portion of their tuition. Furthermore, many teaching concentrations, like special education and mathematics, qualify as high demand fields, making scholarships available for students in those specializations even more accessible. The following is a list of eight general and specific scholarships that you may qualify for as an education major.

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant (TEACH)

See Scholarship
Students must commit to working in a high-demand subject and spend a minimum of four years teaching at a school which serves low-income populations.

  • Amount: Recipients may be granted up to $4000 per year
  • Deadline: Varies by state
Phi Delta Kappa International Education Foundation

See Scholarship
For high school school seniors and undergraduate students who are part of the Educators Rising program.

  • Amount: $1,000 each for 30 students
  • Deadline: March 1
STEM Teacher Graduate Scholarships by the AFCEA Educational Foundation

See Scholarship
For undergraduate and graduate students concentration their degree in education in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) field.

  • Amount: Between $2,500 and $5,000
  • Deadline: April 22
Hispanic Scholarship Fund

See Scholarship
For students from Hispanic backgrounds pursuing an undergraduate degree and maintaining a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

  • Amount: Up to $5,000
  • Deadline: March 30
Gates Millennium Scholars Program

See Scholarship
For any minority student with a GPA of 3.3 or higher who has qualified for a Federal Pell Grant.

  • Amount: Various
  • Deadline: January 13
AASEA Memorial Scholarships

See Scholarship
For education majors at the junior or senior undergraduate level or graduate students who are committed to teaching special education.

  • Amount: $2,000
  • Deadline: April 30
Ron Brown Scholars Program

See Scholarship
For African-American high school seniors planning to pursue a degree in education.

  • Amount: $40,000
  • Deadline: November 1

Professional Organizations

During or after obtaining their online teaching degrees, new and future educators may be eligible to become part of a professional association for teachers. Being part of an association creates a lot of benefits for you as a member, the first and foremost of which is the continuation of your own education. Many teachers join organizations to position themselves at the forefront of new methodologies, teaching ideas, and resources within the teaching community.

Associations are also a great way to get involved with education from a political standpoint, allowing you to advocate for high education standards, fair pay for teachers, and other important issues through a larger, more powerful, more unified voice.

Equally importantly, association membership can go a long way towards obtaining a job or moving into a new position. These organizations promote professional networking, and many member make lasting connections with other teachers across the nation and the world, who become their advocates during job hunts. Associations also look good on your resume as a teacher, making membership beneficial even if you choose to never speak to another member of the organization.

After earning your secondary education online degree, association membership can be a good next step in furthering your career. The following is a list of five popular associations for teachers.

  • School Superintendents Association (AASA): The AASA is an association for education administrators, and acts as a political voice for public education. Superintendents become members of AASA to become advocates for education, professional enrichment, and networking. Members may also obtain prestige through a series of awards, including the AASA Awards, AASA National Superintendent of the Year, and the AASA Women in School Leadership Award.
  • Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI): Membership with the ACEI means continuing your education as an educator, leaning on peers and organizational resources to understand innovative methodologies and ideas. Members are able to network with educators across the globe, sharing information and resources and ultimately helping the organization advance education for students everywhere. The organization also offers a series of awards, like the Emerging Leaders Award and Student Excellence award, to its members and organizes a series of events every year.
  • American Federation of Teachers (AFT): The AFT works to support fairness and democracy in quality of education and economic opportunity for teachers and education professionals. The organization promotes their mission through events, activism, and community engagement. Today, more than 1.6 million members are helping the organization attain its goals.
  • Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE): AMLE is an association for teachers at the middle school level, educating students from ages 10-15. The organization's mission is to help middle school teachers better engage with their students, grow as educators, and make a positive impact in their schools. The organization offers multiple publications and events as resources, such as AMLE Magazine, the Middle School Journal, and the annual AMLE conference.
  • ASCD: ASCD is a general association for all teachers and administrators committed to helping all children succeed academically. Membership with ASCD includes a series of publications, like Educational Leadership magazine and the Education Update Newsletter, as well as a number of tools to help educators grow professionally, such as members-only webinars.

Open Courseware

If you're still considering signing up for an online education program, you can test your interest in the subject area and your ability to complete coursework by participating in a free online course.

Not only are these programs a good way to measure your ability to complete online courses and your engagement with the subject, they also look good on college applications and resumes. These courses can help you build out a portfolio at a minimum, and can sometimes be translated into actual college credit, depending on your program.

Alternatively, if you've already graduated and are working as an educator, open courseware can help you keep updated on current standards in education, help you flesh out your knowledge in certain subject areas, or introduce yourself to new topics you may not have covered over the course of your degree program. Some excellent free online courses include:

General Education Courses

Special Education Courses

Courses for English Teachers

Courses for Math Teachers

Courses for Technology Teachers

Courses for Science Teachers

View Other Degree Rankings