A career in education can be one of the most fulfilling occupations. Teachers have a profound impact on students and nearly everyone can recall the influence of a good teacher.
State requirements generally require a bachelor's degree in order to earn licensure to teach.
Virginia's online education degree programs are well respected and provide students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities that will help them to be highly prepared and effective teachers.
Online Education Degrees in Virginia
These schools represent the best Virginia online education programs.
1. Bluefield University
Bluefield University offers a fully online bachelor's in early childhood education that can be completed in as little as two years. The program's duration depends largely on whether a student has transfer credits.
This program focuses on birth through age six. In addition to learning through quality coursework, students are connected with mentor teachers for fieldwork. The program does not include licensure.
Graduates are prepared for successful careers in early childhood education as:
- teaching assistants
- child advocates
- childcare center teachers
- childcare center directors.
2. Liberty University
Based in Lynchburg, Liberty University offers multiple online bachelor's degrees in education that prepare graduates for careers teaching in elementary and secondary schools.
Students don't ever have to travel to class in these programs, which are fully online and fulfill the Virginia Department of Education's licensure requirements.
That means graduates are ready to start pursuing job opportunities immediately after graduating, which students at Liberty can do in less than four years.
3. Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University (ODU), based in Norfolk, offers an online bachelor's in elementary education for adult and nontraditional learners who already have earned some credit hours at another institution.
By transferring their previous credits to ODU, students will have a jump start toward earning their degree through ODU's flexible online format.
The program is designed to satisfy state licensure requirements and consists of 120 credit hours, at least 30 of which must be taken at ODU.
4. Mary Baldwin University
This private university based in Staunton maintains a robust offering of online programs, including an online bachelor's program in special education.
Students learn foundational subjects and work with an adviser in their final semester to receive a student teaching placement at a Virginia school that suits the student's needs and interests.
While the special education program prepares students for teacher licensure, the online liberal arts and interdisciplinary degree is available to those interested in education but not a license.
5. Regent University
Regent University, based in suburban Virginia Beach, offers an online bachelor's degree in early childhood education that compares strongly to other Virginia online education programs.
This fully online program emphasizes the development of children from birth to age eight and it prepares graduates to develop effective lesson plans and curate positive childcare environments.
The university offers generous financial aid opportunities, with $22 million distributed last year and four out of five students earning aid.
There are also multiple programs and services designed to provide additional support to military and veteran students.
Other Online Education Programs to Consider
Many other online learning programs can equip students in Virginia for careers in education. Here are some of the top programs outside of Virginia.
University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix's online bachelor's in elementary education is geared toward preparing graduates for licensure and employment or advanced degree coursework.
The program, which is completely online, ensures students learn how to develop innovative instructional strategies, use technology effectively and apply professional ethics at work.
Students can enroll any time of year and take one class at a time, and they can transfer significant credit hours from other schools toward their University of Phoenix degree.
Walden University
Walden University offers an online bachelor's in elementary education that is designed specifically for military and veteran students.
The flexible online format and rigorous academic coursework provides students with an opportunity to earn a high–quality degree in a format that fits their busy lives.
The bachelor's program also is designed to prepare students for teacher licensure, so they can pursue a license in Virginia and their dreams of teaching in a classroom.
Plus, the university offers affordable tuition and substantial financial aid, including an innovative program that provides funds to students who've successfully completed courses.
Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers an online bachelor's in elementary education that includes start dates on the first of every month, allowing students to move quickly into the program.
The degree can be completed in less than three years, and students have the certainty of affordable tuition through six–month term rates, rather than paying per credit hour.
Students graduate with a portfolio of work, including experience in the classroom and working directly with a mentor teacher.
FAQs: Earning an Online Education Degree in Virginia
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Virginia online education programs.
What Are the Requirements for Teacher Licensing in Virginia?
There are many different paths to becoming licensed to teach in Virginia. Generally, prospective teachers must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university and an official transcript.
They also must have completed necessary assessments, subject area knowledge, student teaching, and professional studies, as well as other state requirements.
What Teaching Degree Pays the Most in Virginia?
Post–secondary law teachers pay the most in Virginia, with an average annual salary of $159,670. Of course, that occupation generally requires advanced degrees.
Preschool special education teachers earn an average of $74,990, while instructional coordinators earn an average of $74,710.
What Is the Average Salary for Education Jobs in STATE?
In Virginia, $64,730 is the average annual salary for education jobs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Pay is typically higher in Northern Virginia, where education jobs command an average salary of $71,730.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Education Degree?
Beyond classroom teacher positions, a degree in education can prepare graduates for many different careers, including childcare center directors, tutors, and instructional coordinators.
Graduates also can pursue education policy work at the local, state, or federal levels.
Start Your Education Program in Virginia Today
If you are ready to start exploring the possibilities of earning a bachelor's degree from a Virginia online education program, we're here to help you navigate your options. Reach out to Best Accredited Colleges today.
