At a Glance
- Fully online didactics, in-person student teaching
- Top online providers: WGU, ASU, Western Oregon, Grand Canyon, UNC Charlotte
- Typical length (bachelor's): 3–4 years
- Typical length (MAT): 1–2 years
- Cost range: $10,000–$40,000
- Elementary Teacher median (May 2024): $62,340
- Critical check: state approval in your licensure state
- Accreditation: regional + CAEP recommended
What Counts as This Kind of Degree?
Online teaching degrees deliver teacher preparation courses through asynchronous or synchronous online formats while coordinating in-person student teaching placements near the student's location. Well-designed programs result in a credential functionally identical to an on-campus degree.
Quality varies widely. The baseline is regional accreditation plus state approval of the specific program in the state where you'll be licensed. CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) accreditation is an additional quality signal.
Who These Programs Suit
- Working adults making a career change to teaching
- Military spouses needing portable education
- Rural students without nearby on-campus options
- Parents and caregivers with geographic constraints
- Career changers who can complete student teaching in their area
Degree and Credential Levels
The table below summarises the main credential levels for this field.
CredentialTypical LengthWhat You Can DoOnline BS in Education (initial)3–4 yearsElementary or secondary initial licenseOnline BS + licensure program3–4 yearsSubject-specific teacher preparationOnline MAT1–2 yearsCareer changers with non-education bachelor'sOnline M.Ed. (non-licensure)1–2 yearsCurrent teachers advancingOnline post-bacc certification1 yearQuickest path if bachelor's already held
Online, Hybrid, and Campus Options
The core pedagogical coursework is fully online. Student teaching — typically 10–16 weeks full-time — must be in person and supervised. Good programs have established networks to place you in your local schools; weak programs make you find your own placement, which can delay completion.
Career Paths, Salaries, and Job Outlook
Figures below are May 2024 national median wages from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook unless otherwise noted. Actual pay varies by state, specialty, employer, and experience.
RoleMedian Annual Wage (May 2024)Projected Growth 2024–2034Elementary School Teachers$62,340+0%Middle School Teachers$63,470+0%High School Teachers$64,580+1%Special Education Teachers$66,630+0%Instructional Coordinators$74,620+2%
Online vs on-campus degree format has no effect on starting pay — salary schedules are based on degree level and years of experience, not program format. Pay-lane bumps for master's apply equally.
What Programs Cost
WGU: ~$4,000 per term, competency-based — motivated students can finish bachelor's in 2–3 years for $10,000–$15,000. ASU Online BS Education: ~$50,000. Online MATs typically $15,000–$30,000. Praxis and state exam fees: $200–$600 total.
How to Choose the Right Program
- Confirm state approval in your licensure state — not just accreditation.
- Require regional accreditation plus ideally CAEP.
- Verify student-teaching placement support. "Bring your own" models delay grads.
- Check published licensure and exam pass rates.
- Compare cost vs competency-based options (WGU).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Enrolling in a program not state-approved where you plan to teach
- Ignoring student-teaching placement support in enrollment decisions
- Picking a program without published licensure exam pass rates
- Overpaying for a brand when WGU or state universities deliver equivalent outcomes
- Not verifying Praxis/state-test prep is included in the program
Key Terms Glossary
- CAEP — Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation — quality signal for teacher prep
- State approval — Your state's board of education approves the specific program for licensure
- Student teaching — 10–16 weeks of full-time in-person supervised classroom experience
- Praxis — Common testing battery required for licensure in most states
- Competency-based education — Advance by demonstrating mastery rather than seat time
- Pay lane — District pay structure rewarding higher degree levels
- Reciprocity — Interstate recognition of licensure
- Emergency credential — Temporary license issued in shortage areas with reduced requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online teaching degrees legitimate?
Yes — regionally accredited, state-approved programs produce licensed teachers at the same rate as on-campus.
Does the diploma say online?
Typically no. At most accredited universities the diploma is identical.
Can I become licensed fully online?
Coursework can be online; student teaching must be in person.
Is WGU respected?
Yes — regionally accredited and CAEP-aligned. Widely accepted for licensure.
How long does an online bachelor's take?
3–4 years; competency-based (WGU) can be faster for motivated students.
Will my license transfer states?
Partially. Most states have some reciprocity but may require additional coursework or tests.
Key Takeaways
- Online teaching degrees are legitimate if regionally accredited and state-approved
- Student teaching must be in person regardless of program format
- WGU offers competency-based option with the best cost profile
- Verify state approval of the specific program, not just the school
- Pay and hiring outcomes match on-campus graduates
Online teaching degrees work — but only if the program is both regionally accredited and state-approved where you'll be licensed. WGU, ASU Online, and several state universities lead the category. Confirm student-teaching placement support before enrolling.
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