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, eligible students can pursue Alabama Class A certification in Elementary Education (K-6).

Program Format
Online
Credit Hours
30-36
Tuition Per Hour
$480

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
Scholarships and Grants AvailableDiscover a range of scholarships and grants to support your educational journey
Teacher Salary ScheduleAccess the Alabama State Department of Education Salary Schedule to understand earning potential for educators
Completion TimeMost students earn their degree in less than two years

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 field(s) of their choice in consultation with the department.

Please note that courses are subject to change.

The programs listed in the current UA Graduate Catalog that lead to Alabama Class A and Class AA professional certificates for service in the public schools may be altered to meet certification standards adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education. Check with the appropriate department head for information about current requirements.

Required Courses

CEE 532 Early Childhood and Elementary School Curriculum
CEE 574 Guiding Early Childhood and Elementary Pupil Learning
BER 500 Introduction to Educational Research
BER 550 Evaluation of Classroom Learning (required for those who have not completed an appropriate evaluation of technology and learning course)
CAT 531 Computer Based Instruction
SPE 500 Introduction to Exceptional Children and Youth (required for those who have not completed an appropriate special education survey course)

Additional Requirements

Foundations of Professional Studies Course
- Students choose one course from the ALSDE-approved list – see academic department or the College of Education’s Office of Student Services
Advisor-approved elective
Specialty Area
- Students choose 12 hours from an approved list of options which must include at least one specialty option with two courses. Two specialty options are strongly recommended.
  - Language Arts
  - Literacy and Reading
  - Mathematics
  - Science
  - Social Sciences

The UA Graduate Catalog is published annually. State-approved program checklists may be updated more frequently and are thus likely to provide the most up-to date information about requirements. Students should consult their advisors each semester before registering.

Admission

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

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Official 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
- Recommendation letters must be 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) for eligible students. 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.

Find more information and learn about restrictions related to this degree program that may exist regarding licensure in the state in which you reside.