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K-12 Education


Teachers in K-12 education play a key role in helping students develop critical academic and social skills. K-12 education jobs range from kindergarten teachers who may help children learn to tie their shoes and function independently to teachers working for online high schools, helping students make college choices or tackle complex algebra problems.

Teachers in K-12 education need to be able to teach multiple subjects, from math to reading to art, and use hands-on teaching in the classroom to keep students engaged.

Education and Career Opportunities in K-12 Education

K-12 education degree programs are typically bachelor's degree programs, although many teachers go on to earn a master's degree. Teachers interested in teaching younger children may earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education while teachers at the middle or high-school level are more likely to specialize in a particular topic such as math or social studies. These teachers may earn a bachelor's degree in their field in addition to a teaching certificate. Public school K-12 education jobs require licensure and all general education teachers must have a bachelor's degree.

Some teachers may advance into positions in education administration such as principal or vice principal. Typically, K-12 education jobs in administration require a master's degree in education or a related field. Median annual salaries for K-12 education jobs range from $50,510 for elementary school teachers to $52,200 for secondary school teachers, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports. Administrators at the elementary and secondary level had median wages of $85,220 in 2009.

Employment is expected to grow as fast as average for all occupations. Job growth is driven largely by student enrollment, which is growing more slowly than in the past. Demand for teachers in special education, English as a second language, and upper match and science should be the strongest in coming years.



University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix As the largest private university in North America, University of Phoenix has more than 200 locations, and is available online in most countries around the world. Whether you're seeking a college degree at an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level, we can help you reach your academic goal—and sooner than you might think.

  • A.A. in Elementary Education
  • B.S. in Education / Elementary Education
  • Continuing Education for Educators.
Ashford University
Ashford University Earn the degree you've always wanted at Ashford University. Achieve your goals with the resources you need, including an innovative online classroom and a supportive environment. Your education at Ashford University is a shared experience that unites you with students and faculty around the world. Ashford University is defining the modern college experience.

  • AA/Early Childhood Education
  • BA/Organizational Management - Elementary Education
  • BA/Education Studies
  • BA/Social Science - Early Childhood Education
  • BA/Organizational Management - Early Childhood Education
Post University
Post University

Getting your Online degree does not have to be impersonal. At Post University Online, you will engage in meaningful career-oriented programs with like-minded students and receive personal attention from our dedicated faculty within a caring and supportive learning environment. Earn your bachelor's degree, associate's degree, or certificate in one of the many programs offered by Post University entirely online.



  • A.S. in Early Childhood Education
  • B.S. in Child Studies
  • Early Childhood Education Administration
Ashworth College
Ashworth College Get the hands-on training and skills it takes to succeed with Ashworth College, a respected, worldwide leader in distance education. Study at the times and places most convenient for you.

  • Associate of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education
Western Governors University
Western Governors University At Western Governors University, your competence - the knowledge and skills you possess - is the ultimate focus of every degree program.

  • B.A. in Early Childhood Education (Birth through Grade 3)
  • B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (K-8)
  • B.A. in Science (5-12, Physics)
  • B.A. in Science (5-12, Chemistry)
  • B.A. in Science (5-9)
Walden University
Walden University Balance your personal and professional commitments while earning a respected Ph.D., master's degree, or bachelor's degree online at Walden University. Programs offered in management, education, psychology and health and human services.

  • B.S. in Educational Studies
  • B.S. in Instructional Design & Technology
  • B.S. in Child Development - General
  • B.S. in Child Development - Administration and Management
  • B.S. in Child Development - Dual Concentration (Preschool & Infant/Toddler)
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University

Earn your degree online with Grand Canyon University. We offer approximately 100 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs that can be completed 100% online. Degree programs are available in the fields of education, nursing and health sciences, business, fine arts and production, and liberal arts.



  • B.S. in Elementary Education: English
  • B.S. in Early Childhood
  • B.S. in Elementary Education: Science (Leads to initial teacher licensure)
  • B.S. in Elementary Education: Math (Leads to initial teacher licensure)
  • B.S. in Secondary Education: Math
Kendall College Early Childhood Education Program
Kendall College Early Childhood Education Program Boost your career with an education from Kendall College Early Childhood Education Program. Earn a Bachelor of Arts degree or Illinois Type 04 certification online while continuing to work, earn an income, and manage your personal life.

  • B.A. in Early Childhood Education - Without Certification
  • B.A. in Early Childhood Education - With Certification
Rasmussen College Online
Rasmussen College Online Rasmussen College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA 30 LaSalle Street, Suite 2400 Chicago, IL 60602-2504).

  • Business Management Associate Degree - Child Development
Stratford Career Institute
Stratford Career Institute Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

  • Early Childhood Education
  • Child Psychology
  • Child Day Care Management