Earning an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree is not an easy task and it’s not undertaken by those who have little ambition. It is a rigorous program that will suit the most dedicated of educators and academics, providing them with a terminal education that will help see them reach the heights of their career. It is also a program that is being demanded by most schools and businesses in the country who are looking for a way for their passionate employees to have access to further education.
Students who take on an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education are working professionals who spend most of their time taking care of personal and professional responsibilities. They have unique needs that include online or mostly online degrees that cut down on the amount of time they have to spend on campus as well as affordable alternatives that will make it easier for them to invest in their future. Along with accelerated tracks and a multitude of concentration areas, this updated ranking on the degrees in this field will help students make headway into choosing a program that fits their needs.
Methodology
This ranking was made possible by the research conducted using the National Center for Education Statistics and its publicly available College Navigator database. A cursory search for the term “online Ph.D. in Education” brought up 25 potential schools. The schools were then individually reviewed and compared to each other based on several factors, including tuition rates. The final 20 schools, which are listed below, were chosen based on the school’s estimated in-state graduate tuition rate for the entire program.
Ranking Low-Cost Ph.D in Elementary Education
20. Northcentral University
San Diego, California
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Education, Concentration in Learning Analytics K12 Education
Tuition: $72,430
The online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that is offered by Northcentral University was designed for professionals who wish to work in PK-12 settings, both inside and outside of the classroom. This program offers over 15 different specializations, including Special Education, Learning Analytics in Higher Education, and Learning Analytics in K12 Education. Students can complete this degree in less than four years and will be treated to a tailored program that is offered 100 percent online with no residency requirements. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours, a culminating experience, and a comprehensive final written exam. More information on this degree, including program requirements and a list of course offerings, can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
19. Arizona State University
Phoenix, Arizona
Online Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation
Tuition: $64,341
Arizona State University confers an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that was designed to be completed in an accelerated format, making it a perfect choice for working professionals. This is a scholar-practitioner degree that focuses on educational leaders from a variety of settings. There are three concentrations available in this degree: PK-12 Change Leadership, Higher Education Change Leadership, and Systems, Professional and Reimagined Change Leadership. Students will find that this degree is available 100 percent online with no residency requirements. This degree requires a total of 90 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Systems Change and Leadership, Strategies for Inquiry, and Collaborative Approaches to Data-Informed Decision Making.
18. Saint Peters University
Jersey City, New Jersey
Online Doctor of Education, Specialization in Educational Leadership (K-12)
Tuition: $59,616
Students at Saint Peters University are offered the chance to complete an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that has a focus on educational leadership. This program was developed especially for district and school administrators as well as other professionals in educational systems. As a 100 percent online course of study, students will never have to attend campus for any reason. The program focuses on the different aspects surrounding the administration of education and will be perfect for professionals who are moving into working as leaders. This degree requires a minimum of 54 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Using Technology to Improve Curriculum Design, Organizational Behavior and Educational Administration, and Curriculum Development and Instruction.
17. The University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Specialization in Teachers, Schools, and Society
Tuition: $47,938
The University of Florida is home to an excellent low-cost online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that is perfect for students who are currently working in educational settings. This is delivered as a job-embedded, online, cohort program that was designed for students who are practicing educators; it will not be a good fit for professionals who wish to work as researchers. There are no residency requirements for this degree, making it a good choice for students who don’t live in the state. This degree requires that a student complete a minimum of 90 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Teacher Leadership for School Change, Critical Pedagogy, and Issues in School Reform.
16. Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Elementary Education
Tuition: $46,800
The affordable online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that is available from Ball State University was designed for students who wish to work as college or university professors. This degree is research-based with a focus on practical application for the classroom. The program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Please note that while this degree is available wholly online, field experiences are required for graduation; these can be completed in a student’s community. Students will have access to a challenging curriculum that focuses on teaching and education in higher education institutions. This program requires a minimum of 90 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a set of comprehensive exams. Sample courses include Philosophy of Education, History of American Education, and Educational Sociology.
15. Mercer University
Atlanta, Georgia
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $42,525
Mercer University confers an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education that focuses on curriculum and instruction. This program does lead to a Level 7 Service Certificate Upgrade once a student graduates and passes the GACE Content Assessment for Curriculum and Instruction. The program was developed as a cohort, hybrid degree; students will need to attend campus every weekend for class. This degree requires a minimum of 90 credit hours, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final written exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
14. Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
Online Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in K-12 Leadership
Tuition: $39,000
Students enrolled at Grand Canyon University are offered the chance to complete an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that will focus their education on the leadership aspects of the K-12 school settings. Students will engage with theory and research all throughout this low-residency course of study. Residencies include doctoral writing retreats as well as three-day residencies on campus for intensives. All other courses are taught online, giving professionals the flexibility they need in a degree. This program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a final exam. Sample courses include Building a K-12 Community, Issues and Trends in K-12 Education, and Developing the Research Proposal.
13. Texas Tech University
Tyler, Texas
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction, Concentration in Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education
Tuition: $37,329
Texas Tech University delivers an affordable Ph.D. in Elementary Education online that is delivered to students who are interested in becoming specialists in curriculum and instruction. This is a hybrid, cohort program; courses are delivered online and students will be required to complete three summer intensives that last between one to two weeks each. This degree focuses on the intricacies of building and sustaining an educational program. The curriculum is focused on providing students with a variety of ways to make a career in the educational world, including positions in public and private settings. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 90 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
12. The University at Buffalo
Buffalo, New York
Online Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum, Instruction and the Science of Learning, Concentration in Elementary Education
Tuition: $35,864
Students enrolled at the University at Buffalo are offered the chance to complete an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education that focuses on the science of learning. There are five concentrations available with this degree, including Elementary Education, Reading Education, English Education, and Mathematics Education. This program can be customized to a student’s needs, enabling them to focus their research and dissertation on their particular field of focus. This degree can take between four to six years to complete and can be completed as a low-residency or 100 percent online course of study. Internships are not required for this degree. This degree requires a minimum of 62 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. More information on this degree and its requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
11. Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Specialization in Elementary Education
Tuition: $35,700
Liberty University confers an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that provides students with an online degree that has no residency requirements. This program was developed for professionals who are interested in becoming leaders and administrators in educational settings. Students will find that this degree was developed to deepen their understanding of the field while ensuring that online students always have access to their education. This online degree features accelerated courses, online mentors, and research projects that will empower and drive students to illumination. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 60 credit hours, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Advanced Educational Statistics, Theories of Educational Leadership, and Qualitative Methods of Research.
10. The University of Mary
Bismarck, North Dakota
Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Tuition: $35,100
Students at the University of Mary have the option to complete an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree. This program was developed as a low-residency, cohort program. Students will be able to access a Christ-centered program that focuses on respect and service through their course of study. This program can be completed in two years or less, making it a great choice for professionals who are interested in a terminal degree that takes less than four years to complete. This program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include School-Community Relations, Assessment and Accountability in Education, and School Systems and Finance.
9. The University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Curriculum Studies Concentration
Tuition: $33,703
The University of South Carolina confers an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that can be completed in just three years. Built for certified teachers, this program welcomes all professional educators who are interested in completing their education and becoming administrators or leaders in their field. This program focuses on a diverse curriculum that features issues that focus on contemporary and historical curriculum issues. This degree is delivered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. This program is completed in eight-week terms, meaning that working professionals will be able to complete the program in three years. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 60 credit hours, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Introduction to Diversity and the Curriculum, Applications of Learning Principles, and Instructional Design and Assessment.
8. Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, Tennessee
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $31,350
The affordable Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction degree that is offered by Carson-Newman University was designed for the teacher-practitioner who are interested in moving towards becoming leaders in their profession. This program focuses on the different aspects of leadership in educational settings. Students will take on this 100 percent online degree with the knowledge that they will never have to set foot on campus. This degree requires that students complete a minimum of 57 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final written exam. Sample courses include Diversity and Exceptionality Practice and Theory, Evaluation for Continuous Improvement, and Educational Leadership Theory and Policy Analysis.
7. The University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Online Doctor of Education, Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $30,000
The University of Louisiana at Monroe confers an affordable Ph.D. in Elementary Education online degree that is focused on curriculum and instruction. This is a 100 percent online course of study; there are no residency requirements. Students will focus on research and theory, making it a great choice for students who are interested in research-based positions after graduation. Students will have access to a degree that focuses on research practices in educational settings and features a great focus on a research proposal that turns into the dissertation. This degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final written and oral exit exam. Sample courses include Education for Diversity in a Global Society, Research in Effective Teaching and Learning, and Instructional Design and Technology Integration.
6. Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $27,940
Students at Texas A&M University can complete a low-cost Ph.D. in Elementary Education online degree in less than four years. This is a low-residency, cohort program that requires at least five years of teaching experience as well as a teaching license that is in good standing. Students will find that it is possible to complete the degree in less than four years. This program requires that students complete at least 60 credit hours of coursework, an internship, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final written exam. Sample courses include Mixed Methods Research in Curriculum and Instruction, Problem-Based Research Frameworks, and Grant Writing for Professional Development.
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4. Delta State University
Cleveland, Mississippi
Online Doctor of Education in Professional Studies, Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $25,354
Students at Delta State University confers an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that can be completed online with no residency requirements. This degree is rigorous and will require that students complete at least one practicum in their chosen concentration. The program was built so that all requirements can be completed in their community. The program also requires field experiences in a classroom setting, so students are expected to have a valid teaching license that is in good standing. This degree requires a minimum of 63 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Leadership Theory and Application, Supervisory Techniques, and Instructional Strategies in Elementary Education.
3. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Online Doctor of Education in Elementary Education
Tuition: $24,720
Kennesaw State University provides students with a chance to complete an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree. This program is designed for PreK-5 educators who have already completed a graduate degree in the field. Students without a degree in this field will not be accepted into the program, so students should keep this in mind. The program is focused on the skills and tools necessary to become leaders in the field. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 66 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Technology Enriched Curriculum, Curriculum Development and Assessment, and Critical Literacy Education for Elementary Teachers.
2. New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
Tuition: $19,900
The online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that is offered by New Mexico State University is offered to students during odd-numbered years, making it a great choice for this program. The degree is offered in three tracks: General, On-Campus, or Online. Students who take the online program will not be required to attend campus and will instead complete their degree entirely online. This program requires that students complete a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Curriculum for a Diverse Society, Pedagogy of Learning in a Diverse Society, and Critical Issues in Literacy Education.
1. Columbus State University
Columbus, Georgia
Online Doctor of Education, Curriculum and Leadership
Tuition: $17,887
Columbus State University is home to an online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degree that focuses on the accountability of educators within their fields. This is a low-residency, cohort program; students will meet face-to-face for intensives that are spaced throughout the program of study. This degree is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. This degree offers three specializations: Curriculum, Educational Leadership, and Higher Education. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 63 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and a comprehensive final exam. Sample courses include Diversity in Education, Quality Assessment and Evaluation, and Curriculum Development and Reform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Your Career Options for an Affordable Accelerated Online Ph.D. in Elementary Education?
- School Counselor
- Chief Information Officer
- Education Administrator
- Social Worker
- School Principal
- Special Education Teacher
- Community Service Manager
- Chief Executive Officer
- Educational Psychologist
- School Administrator
- Elementary School Teacher
- Curriculum and Instruction Designers
- Curriculum Coordinator
- Director of a Nonprofit Organization
- Superintendent
How Much Can You Earn in this Field?
The average salary for professionals in the education field is $77,000. This range focuses on educators, however; the salary range for all positions found in the field is $65,000 to $125,000. These numbers reflect positions held in public and private sector companies as well as careers that may keep a professional in America or see them travel abroad. It also includes positions in which tenure has been established, providing individuals with a steady income.
A professional with a doctorate will net the most amount of money as an educator; however, the actual salary depends on the state in which professionals work in. The American education system is diverse both in culture and financial needs and so many individuals will find that the salary they could earn varies wildly when discussing two different states.
There are also students within the field that do not work specifically in the classroom but are involved in education. These are mostly administrative and leadership positions, such as education administrator or instructional coordinator. These positions make the most money, with university professors, deans, and presidents making well over $100,000 as a salary, not including any bonus forms of compensation, should any be applicable.
What are the Various Disciplines of Elementary Education?
Elementary education is a field that focuses on young learners. It is also a sub-discipline of the larger education field, one that is critical for a strong educational foundation for America’s youth. And while educational degrees were primarily created for educators, a wide variety of professionals also benefit from a terminal program in this area.
The main disciplines of elementary education are education, psychology, sociology, and lifespan development. All four areas play a role in not only what a student should learn at different points in their life, but also how they learn and retain information. Lifespan development is an integral subject in this paradigm as it provides professionals with insight into how young students learn and how to tell if their students might have learning disabilities.
As with any field in education, there are sub-disciplines for elementary education. Most of the sub-disciplines focus on different subject areas that are common in elementary schools across the nation. Other fields of interest include curriculum and instruction, adult education, literacy, technological literacy, and diversity.
Is a Teaching License Necessary to Enter into an Online Ph.D. in Elementary Education Program?
No, a teaching license is not necessary for acceptance into most doctoral education programs. Students will find that the necessary requirements they will need to meet in order to enter the program depend on the designation of the degree. Students may find that their career choice also may make this choice for them.
For instance, a professional who would like to work in the classroom will most likely undertake a Doctorate in Education in Elementary Education. Known as a practical degree, professionals will need to have a license in order to enter this program as internships and access to classrooms may be required for graduation. It’s also important to note that a teaching license in this field is only to ensure that students have enough work experience in the field to be able to keep up with the theories and concepts learned in the program.
Students who wish to work as researchers or in the private sector in businesses will most likely complete a Doctor in Philosophy in Elementary Education. Taking about four years to complete on average, this degree is less likely to require a teaching license due to the fact that the program does not focus on teaching in the classroom. Some academic programs may still require it, but it is a requirement that is usually waived if a student has other assets on their application.
Why Do Some Programs Require Field Experiences and Others Don’t?
Not all Ph.D. in Elementary Education programs require field experiences. In fact, at the doctoral level, finding a program that has field experiences isn’t rare but rather uncommon. Online programs do utilize field experiences much like on-campus programs, but they are likewise uncommon.
Field experiences are usually linked to a student’s chosen concentration area within their program. Some concentrations require an internship, practicum, or field experience in order to acclimate a student to that career, especially if it is a career option that they have not explored yet. This may a concentration area in special education or curriculum instruction.
What is a Teacher Portfolio and Why is it Important for Elementary Education?
A teacher portfolio is a record of a student’s progress within their education. Generally, this focuses on a student’s work and educational experiences, including student teaching practicums, any papers that were submitted to a research journal and case studies that may have played a large role in a student’s education.
It is also an assessment tool used by schools to ensure that a student can demonstrate knowledge in their area of expertise. It is usually presented along with a Doctor of Education program, as Ph.D. programs focus on a dissertation for the culminating experience. However, students in both programs may be required to complete a teacher portfolio.
The inclusion of a teacher portfolio in a student’s degree plan is beneficial to the student as well. Should they pursue teaching, a portfolio will be a requirement for applying for jobs. It is also a living record of that student’s teaching journey and can be used throughout their entire career, regardless of what they choose to do in terms of their job. As a resume and an assessment tool, students will find that curating their own teacher portfolio will be useful to them in their career even if it is not required by their school.
Elementary education is necessary for all of America’s children because it plays a large role in what they will learn and how they will grow their worldview. Students need qualified teachers and partners to help them realize their own goals, making it more important than ever that teachers pursue the best education possible. With this ranking of online Ph.D. in Elementary Education degrees offered to students, they stand a chance at making a real difference in the lives of American students all over the country.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the Top 20 Most Affordable Online Ph.D. in Elementary Education.
Other Rankings of Interest:
- 20 Most Affordable PhD in Online Teaching Online
- 25 Most Affordable Online Curriculum & Instruction Degree Programs (Ph.D.)
- 20 Most Affordable Online Early Childhood Education Degree Programs (Ph.D.)
- 10 Most Affordable Ph.D. in English Language Learning Online
- 20 Most Affordable Online Special Education Degree Programs (Ph.D.)
- 25 Best Affordable Online Curriculum and Instruction Degree Programs (Master’s)
- 25 Best Affordable Online Educational and Instructional Technology Degree Programs (Master’s)
- 25 Best Affordable Online Educational Leadership and Administration Degree Programs (Master’s)
- 25 Best Affordable Online Higher Education Studies Degree Programs (Master’s)
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