Online and Distance Degrees > Degree Programs > MA in Elementary Education

Master of Arts (MA) in
Elementary Education

Online

Program Overview

The University of Alabama offers you the ability to earn a master’s in Elementary Education in a 100% online format for your convenience. Upon completion of the program, you will earn Elementary Education K-6 certification. In addition, if you also hold a prior bachelor’s level certification in Early Childhood Education, you can also earn Early Childhood Education P-3 certification.

  • Program Format

    Online
  • Credit Hours

    30-36
  • Tuition Per Hour

    $440

Advance Your Teaching Skills

By earning an Elementary Education degree, you’ll be prepared to integrate educational design and inclusive teaching practices into your lessons and your classroom to promote student growth, collaboration, support and advocacy. The program provides grounding in educational research as it impacts schools, curriculum and practice, and the coursework links that research to student learning. You will also be periodically involved in practicum experiences that extend your studies into the classroom.

Educators who hold a master’s degree may have an advantage in the job market and qualify for a pay increase in some states. If you have a bachelor’s degree, this program is ideal for new and veteran teachers who wish to advance their skills with the latest teaching methods for K-6 education.

  • Application DeadlineApplications accepted year round
  • Fees$10 College of Education graduate fee (per credit hour)
  • RankingRanked 3rd for the Best Online Master's in Elementary Education by thebestschools.org (2022)
  • AccreditationCouncil for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
  • Required For EntranceBachelor's level teaching certificate in Elementary Education

Curriculum

The online Master of Arts in Elementary Education consists of 30-36 credit hours. In addition to courses in the areas of curriculum and instruction, foundations, and research, students enroll in 12 credit hours in the teaching fields of their choice.

Please note that courses are subject to change.

  • BER 500 Introduction to Educational Research
  • BER 550 Evaluation of Classroom Learning (required for those who have not taken an evaluation of technology and learning course as part of an undergraduate or graduate program)
  • CEE 532 Early Childhood and Elementary School Curriculum
  • CEE 574 Guiding Early Childhood and Elementary Pupil Learning
  • Foundations Course – approved by adviser

  • CAT 531 Computer Based Instruction
  • Adviser approved elective
  • SPE 500 Introduction to Exceptional Children and Youth (required for those who have not taken a special education survey course)

Students choose one specialty option (two are recommended)

  • Language Arts
  • Literacy
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies

Admission

Admission to the Master of Arts in Elementary Education degree program requires the following:

  • A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Transcripts from all institutions attended
  • A valid bachelor’s level professional educator certificate in elementary education or an approved equivalent
  • Undergraduate degree GPA of 3.0 or a 3.0 GPA or higher in a completed graduate degree program
  • Statement of purpose
  • Completed UA Graduate School application
  • Completed requirements for fingerprinting/background clearance
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • References from current and former professors and/or supervisory personnel knowledgeable of the applicant’s academic and professional capabilities for all College of Education programs that lead to professional certification

Applications are accepted each semester. Students may begin the program in the fall, spring or summer semester.

This program leads to Alabama Class A certification in Elementary Education (K-6). If you reside or intend to seek professional licensure outside of the state of Alabama, please review the requirements for that state prior to applying to this program.

The programs listed in the current UA Graduate Catalog that lead to Alabama Class A and Class AA professional certificates may be altered to meet certification standards adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education.

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Contact Us

Program Information

Hannah Homan
Admissions Representative
800-467-0227
hannahh.bama@ua.edu

Admissions Information

UA Online
800-467-0227
online@ua.edu

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