How Much Does an Elementary Education Degree Cost? Elementary Ed Tuition Rates

In most states, you need at least a bachelor's degree in elementary education to work as an elementary school teacher. These programs cover topics like child development, classroom management, and lesson planning, and also include field experiences and practicum so students can get real-world experience in a learning environment.

The cost of higher education can vary depending on several factors, which can be frustrating when you're just trying to figure out how much it will cost you to earn your credential. Still, there are many affordable online elementary education degree programs to help keep these costs low. Keep reading to learn more about the cost of an elementary education degree.

Average Cost of a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education

Generally, bachelor's degree programs charge roughly the same rate for all majors. Most schools charge per credit, although some offer a flat rate for full-time students.

The average cost of a bachelor's degree will depend heavily on the type of college you attend. We've broken down the various types below.

Learn more: How To Pay for a Teaching Degree

Public College Tuition

Public colleges get their funding from the state. As a result, they usually charge in-state residents a far lower tuition rate than out-of-state residents.

On average, public, four-year colleges and universities charge $9,750 per year for tuition to undergraduate students. Out-of-state students, meanwhile, pay several times that, an average of $28,386 per year according to the Education Data Initiative.

Some colleges and universities offer in-state or lower out-of-state tuition rates for students from nearby states. For example, the Western Undergraduate Exchange is for students in states in the western U.S. Schools that participate in this exchange offer lower or in-state tuition to students from states within this region.

Private College Tuition

Private colleges and universities are those that are not fully funded by the government. There are two types of institutions: non-profit, meaning they are not running to turn a profit, and for-profit.

Nonprofit private colleges charge an average tuition of $38,421. Private schools do not charge a difference for in-state versus out-of-state students.

For-profit colleges average $15,868 per year. While this is quite a bit less, note that if you attend a for-profit college that doesn't hold regional accreditation, it will be much harder to transfer your credits.

Community College Tuition

Community colleges, and other types of two-year colleges like technical and vocational colleges, can be either public or private. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of a public two-year college for in-district students is $3,598 per year.

The average cost at a two-year nonprofit college is $20,019 per year, which is more than the cost of a four-year in-state college. For-profit colleges generally cost about $16,444 per year.

Online College Tuition

Tuition for online coursework is often the same or slightly less than in-person tuition. Sometimes colleges charge more for online courses, but this isn't particularly common.

However, there are a few situations in which you may end up paying more. For example, if a school offers a flat tuition rate for full-time on-campus students but charges per credit only for online students, you may pay more overall even if the credit rate is less.

Some public schools will charge online students the same tuition rate, regardless of their state of residency. Every so often a public school will charge a little more per credit for online courses but offer the same rate to everyone, which means that in-state students could end up paying a little more for online courses than they would for on-campus classes, while out-of-state students end up paying less.

Additional Costs To Consider

While tuition is a major expense in college, it won't be the only one. A few other costs to budget for include:

• Books and materials: According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of books and supplies ranges between $1,000-$1,500 per year.
• Technology and software: Some colleges and universities will provide technology and software, while others do not. Most students need a laptop or computer of some kind. This can range from a few hundred to several hundred dollars, but is usually a one-time fee.
• Fieldwork and student teaching experience: While you usually don't have to pay a fee to student teach, you still have to pay tuition during this time. You'll also pay for transportation to the elementary classroom, and you may not be able to work a job, even part-time, while student teaching.
• Licensing exams and fees: To obtain teacher licensure, you'll need to pass your state's licensing exams. These exams vary by state, and you could pay anywhere from $50-$200 per exam.
• Living expenses: While in college, you'll still need to pay for housing, food, and transportation. Costs can vary significantly depending on whether you live on or off campus and the city you live in. Some students choose to stay at home to save money.

How To Minimize Costs of an Elementary Education Degree

While the cost of an elementary education degree program can feel overwhelming, there are ways you can lower your overall costs. We've explained some of these below.

Community College Transfer Programs

Many students start their education at a community college because it often costs less than four-year schools. They earn an associate degree and then transfer to a four-year institution.

Bringing in previous credits will reduce the overall credit hours you need to take for your Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science program. Often, an associate degree will cover all general education courses, so you can focus specifically on your educator preparation program.

Online Degree Programs

As we mentioned above, online programs can sometimes cost less than in-person ones. Additionally, an online elementary education degree is often more flexible, allowing you to work a part-time job while earning your degree.

Part-Time or Flexible Study Options

Like online bachelor's programs, part-time and flexible programs can allow students to work while studying. They can also reduce the amount you're paying.

However, keep in mind that you may pay more per credit than you would if you study full-time, as some schools offer a flat rate for 12 or more credit hours per semester. You also may not be eligible for as much financial aid.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Elementary Education Students

There are several financial aid options for students working to become elementary school teachers. Below, we've highlighted a few of these options.

Federal and State Financial Aid

Federal and state financial aid can go a long way toward helping you cover your teaching degree. For example, the Federal TEACH Grant from the U.S. Department of Education gives students $4,000 per year to pay for their education degree, as long as they agree to teach for four years in a low-income school district once they receive their teaching license.

Scholarships for Education Majors

Education majors can pursue various scholarship programs. Check to see if your College of Education offers scholarships for future teachers.

There are also several websites you can use to find scholarships. One excellent tool is the scholarship finder on the Department of Labor's CareerOneStop website.

Work-Study Opportunities

Work-study opportunities allow you to work for your university or a partner program and earn money toward your tuition. You may be able to work in a role that helps you develop teaching competencies. For example, if your school has a daycare on campus, you could develop your elementary and early childhood education skills.

Start Your Elementary Education Degree

If you're ready to earn your degree in elementary education, check out the programs featured on Learn.org. Contact individual schools to learn more about financial aid eligibility and admissions requirements.