Best Online Bachelor’s in Education Degrees 2026

If you’re ready to become a teacher or work in education, earning a bachelor’s degree in education is one of the most direct paths forward. Today, many accredited universities offer an online bachelor’s degree in education, giving you the flexibility to complete coursework from home while preparing for classroom experience in your local area.

The best online bachelor’s in education degrees combine strong academics, practical training, and support for future licensure or education careers. Whether you’re pursuing an online teaching degree or a broader degree in education, choosing the right program can help you build the foundation you need for long-term success. 

What Is an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education?

An online bachelor’s degree in education is an undergraduate program that prepares you for careers in teaching, instructional support, curriculum development, or other education-related roles. While coursework is delivered online, most programs require in-person field experiences or student teaching in a local school.

Programs may lead to teacher licensure, depending on the concentration and your state’s requirements, or they may focus on broader education studies. You might earn a Bachelor of Education (BEd), Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in education or teaching, with concentrations such as elementary education, early childhood education, secondary education, or educational studies.

These programs typically include classes in child development, instructional methods, classroom management, educational psychology, and assessment strategies. By combining theory with hands-on experience, an online bachelor’s degree in education can prepare you for both immediate classroom work and future graduate study.

Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education Programs

Multiple colleges and universities around the country offer bachelor's degrees in education online, both general degrees and licensure-focused degrees. We’ve highlighted some of the best online bachelor’s in education programs below.

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) offers an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in educational studies and other education-focused pathways designed for students who want flexibility without sacrificing academic quality. Courses are fully online, and students complete required field experiences locally.

Based in Tempe, Arizona, ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its online platform is well established, with strong student support services and multiple start dates throughout the year, making it a practical choice for working adults pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education online.

2. Eastern New Mexico University

Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in early childhood education, along with other education-related pathways. Coursework is delivered online, with practicum experiences completed locally.

Students study topics like child development, curriculum planning, and classroom management while building practical teaching skills. Based in Portales, New Mexico, ENMU stands out for its accessibility and straightforward program structure, making it a strong option for students seeking a flexible bachelor’s degree in education.

3. Fort Hays State University

At Fort Hays State University (FHSU), students can pursue education-focused bachelor’s degrees online, including pathways designed for future teachers and education professionals. Programs emphasize instructional methods, learning theory, and classroom application.

Located in Hays, Kansas, Fort Hays State University is accredited by the HLC. Its long-standing commitment to distance education and broad online offerings make it especially appealing for students who want an online teaching degree from a public university with established virtual learning support.

4. Liberty University

Liberty University offers several fully online options, including a Bachelor of Science in elementary education and other teaching-focused pathways. Programs combine online coursework with required in-person student teaching arranged in your local area, helping bridge theory and classroom experience.

Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Its wide range of education concentrations and multiple start dates make it a flexible choice for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education online.

5. Old Dominion University

Based in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion University (ODU) delivers online education-related bachelor’s programs designed for students seeking flexibility without stepping away from academic rigor. Coursework is fully online, while required field experiences are completed in approved local settings.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the SACSCOC. The university’s strong ties to public education and its established online learning platform make it a solid option for students interested in an online teaching degree from a public institution.

6. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers online pathways in education that prepare students for classroom and education-support roles. Programs emphasize instructional strategies, assessment methods, and student development, with required field experiences completed in approved local schools.

Located in Orlando, Florida, the University of Central Florida is accredited by the SACSCOC. Its large public university network and established online infrastructure make it a strong choice for students seeking a flexible bachelor’s degree in education.

7. University of Maryland Global

The University of Maryland Global Campus is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and is known for serving adult and nontraditional learners. Its online bachelor’s programs in education-related fields focus on instructional design, educational studies, and learning development.

Headquartered in Adelphi, Maryland, UMGC structures courses in accelerated sessions, which can appeal to working students balancing school with other responsibilities. For those interested in a broader degree in education rather than traditional licensure, this online format offers accessibility and academic structure.

8. University of North Dakota

Located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, the University of North Dakota (UND) offers online bachelor’s degree options in education and related fields that blend academic coursework with supervised field experiences completed in students’ communities. Programs focus on instructional methods, educational psychology, and classroom practice.

The University of North Dakota is accredited by the HLC. Its long-standing teacher preparation programs and experience delivering distance education make it a dependable choice for students seeking an online bachelor’s degree in education from a public research university.

9. Western Governors University

Western Governors University delivers competency-based online programs, including a BA in educational studies and licensure-focused teaching degrees. Courses are fully online, and students complete required demonstrations and student teaching within approved local settings.

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Its self-paced model can be appealing if you want flexibility and the ability to progress through your online teaching degree as you master each subject area.

10. Wilmington University

Wilmington University offers fully online options such as a Bachelor of Science in elementary education and other teaching-focused pathways designed to prepare students for classroom roles. Coursework is delivered online, with required field experiences and student teaching arranged in approved local schools.

Accredited by the MSCHE, Wilmington University is based in New Castle, Delaware. Its smaller class sizes and career-focused structure make it an appealing choice for students who want a practical, accessible bachelor’s degree in education online.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

From there, we focus on factors that matter most when choosing an online bachelor’s degree in education. Our goal is to highlight accredited, nonprofit schools that offer meaningful flexibility, strong academic foundations, and clear preparation for education careers. These factors include:

• Accreditation: We prioritize institutions that hold recognized regional accreditation, ensuring your bachelor’s degree in education meets academic standards and is widely respected by employers and graduate programs.
• Online availability: Each school must offer fully online coursework for its education programs, with in-person field experiences arranged locally to support hands-on learning.
• Career alignment: We look for programs that connect coursework to real-world education roles, whether in classroom teaching, instructional support, or broader education settings.
• Student outcomes: We consider publicly available data on retention, graduation rates, and overall institutional performance to identify programs that support student success.

What Will You Learn in a Bachelor’s Degree in Education Program?

Coursework in a bachelor’s degree in education depends on whether you choose a teaching-focused pathway or a broader education studies program, and if you have a specialization like special education or social studies. Online teaching degrees at the bachelor’s level typically include classes in instructional methods and pedagogy, classroom management, educational psychology, subject-specific teaching strategies, lesson planning, and student assessment. You’ll also complete supervised field experiences and student teaching to prepare for licensure and teacher certification.

In contrast, non-licensure education degrees often focus more on learning theory, child and adolescent development, educational leadership foundations, and instructional design. These programs may be a good fit if you’re interested in roles outside the traditional classroom, such as training, curriculum support, youth services, or other types of school settings, or are interested in pursuing a master’s degree.

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Education Online?

Most online bachelor’s degree in education programs require about 120 credit hours and take four years to complete if you attend full time. This timeline is similar to a traditional on-campus bachelor of education program, though online formats can offer more scheduling flexibility.

Some schools provide accelerated pathways that allow you to move through coursework more quickly, while part-time options let you spread classes out over a longer period. Your timeline may also depend on transfer credits, prior coursework, and how many classes you take each term.

How Much Does an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education Cost?

The cost of an online bachelor’s degree in education can vary depending on whether the school is public or private and whether you qualify for in-state tuition. At many public universities, tuition may range from about $250 to $500 per credit, while private nonprofit institutions can fall between $400 and $650 per credit. With most programs requiring around 120 credits, total tuition often ranges from roughly $30,000 to $60,000 before financial aid.

Keep in mind that many students do not pay the full sticker price. Grants, scholarships, and federal financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs, especially if you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Financial Aid for Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Education

If you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education online, several financial aid options may help lower your overall cost. Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for programs like:

• Federal Pell Grants: Need-based grants that do not require repayment and are typically available to undergraduate students who meet income requirements.
• Federal student loans: Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans can help cover tuition and related expenses, with repayment beginning after graduation or when enrollment drops below half time.
• TEACH Grant: The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant provides up to $4,000 per year to eligible students who agree to teach in a high-need field at a low-income school for a set period after graduation.
• Institutional scholarships: Many colleges offer merit- or need-based scholarships specifically for education majors or future teachers.
• State-based aid programs: Some states provide additional grants or loan forgiveness programs for students who commit to teaching in shortage areas or public schools.

How To Choose the Right Bachelor’s Degree in Education

Choosing the right bachelor’s degree in education is about more than finding an online format. You’ll want a program that aligns with your career goals, fits your schedule, and meets state or employer expectations.

Licensure vs. Non-Licensure Pathways

Some online teaching degree programs are designed to lead directly to teacher licensure, while others focus on broader education studies. If you plan to become a classroom teacher, make sure the program includes supervised student teaching and meets your state’s certification requirements. If you’re interested in roles outside traditional K-12 teaching, a non-licensure degree in education may offer more flexibility.

Accreditation

Institutional accreditation ensures your bachelor’s degree in education meets recognized academic standards. Attending an accredited college or university can affect your eligibility for federal financial aid, graduate school admission, and certain professional credentials.

Field Experience Requirements

Even in an online bachelor’s degree in education, hands-on learning matters. Review how the school arranges practicum placements or student teaching, and confirm whether you can complete requirements in your local area.

Program Format and Flexibility

Some programs follow traditional semester schedules, while others offer accelerated terms or competency-based models. Consider whether you need part-time enrollment, multiple start dates, or asynchronous coursework to balance work and family responsibilities.

Career Support and Outcomes

Look for schools that provide academic advising, career services, and licensure support. Reviewing graduation rates and retention data can also give insight into how well the program supports students from enrollment to completion.

Career Outlook With an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education

Earning a bachelor’s degree in education can prepare you for careers in teaching and related fields, many of which are projected to remain steady or grow in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to remain relatively steady between 2024-2034, with demand driven by student enrollment and teacher replacement needs. The same is true for middle school and high school teachers. 

Beyond classroom roles, the BLS reports projected slight growth for instructional coordinators from 2024 to 2034, highlighting additional career paths for those with a bachelor’s degree in education and experience.

FAQs About the Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education Programs

Finding the right online bachelor’s degree for you can feel overwhelming. To help with this process, we’ve answered some frequently asked questions about the best online bachelor’s degrees in education below.

Is an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education Worth It?

An online bachelor’s degree in education can be worth it if you want flexibility while preparing for a career in teaching or related fields. Accredited programs follow the same academic standards as on-campus degrees and include required field experiences, so you can build both knowledge and practical skills. The value ultimately depends on your career goals, your state’s licensure requirements, and the quality of the program you choose.

Is an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education Respected by Employers?

Employers typically focus more on accreditation, licensure eligibility, and your teaching experience than on whether your degree was completed online. If you earn your bachelor’s degree in education from an accredited nonprofit institution and complete required student teaching, it is generally viewed similarly to a traditional on-campus degree. Demonstrated classroom readiness and professional references often carry the most weight.

Who Should Consider a Bachelor’s Degree in Education Program?

A bachelor’s degree in education may be a good fit if you want to become a teacher, instructional aide, curriculum specialist, or pursue graduate study in education. It can also appeal to career changers or working adults who need an online teaching degree that offers flexible scheduling. Before enrolling, consider whether you want a licensure-track program or a broader education studies pathway.

Can You Become a Teacher With an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Education?

You can become a teacher with an online bachelor’s degree in education, provided the program is designed to meet your state’s licensure requirements. Licensure-track programs include supervised student teaching and specific coursework aligned with state standards. Before enrolling, confirm that the program leads to certification in your state and that you understand any additional testing or application requirements.

How Do Student Teaching Requirements Work in an Online Program?

Even in an online teaching degree program, student teaching is completed in person at an approved school in your local area. The university typically works with you to arrange placements and assigns a supervisor to observe and evaluate your performance. While coursework is delivered online, this hands-on experience ensures you graduate with real classroom practice.

Explore Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Education

Find the perfect bachelor’s degree in education by exploring the top online programs featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual institutions to learn more about admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.