According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics and the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE), the field of elementary education is poised for growth over the next eight years. A strong driver for the selection of elementary education as a degree is the knowledge that the field positively impacts the lives of individuals and communities. State licensing and regulation require a bachelor’s degree in education to teach in a public school in Kentucky. EKU’s convenient and flexible online degree provides access for those needing a virtual classroom to obtain teacher certification and achieve advancement in the field.
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Regardless of U.S. labor market conditions one constant holds true: Education boosts earnings and reduces unemployment.
According to the Association of Public & Land-Grant Universities (APLU) the earnings gap between college graduates and those with less education continues to widen. In 2021, median income for recent graduates reached $52,000 a year for bachelor’s degree holders aged 22–27. For high school graduates the same age, median earnings are $30,000 a year.
Those with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, 75% more over the course of their lifetime.* In addition to increased earning potential, a bachelor’s degree can provide opportunities for promotion or entry into a new career.
*Georgetown University Center on Education and Workforce
People with a bachelor’s degree earn
*National job opportunities data is based on national medians and figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational outlook handbook.
*Local job opportunities data is based on estimated base pay and figures from Indeed.com.
A degree in elementary education is an excellent way to enter a field that is both rewarding and in demand. If you have a passion for teaching and want to make a difference in your community, EKU’s online elementary education degree is your first step to a great new career.
As an elementary education teacher, you have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families. You will have the chance to inspire them, encourage them, and help them develop a love for learning. You will also have the chance to instill positive values, such as empathy, kindness, and responsibility.
Working in elementary education can be highly fulfilling and rewarding. You will have the chance to see the progress that your students make over time, and you will have a sense of pride in the knowledge that you have played a part in their success.
You also have the opportunity to be creative and flexible in your approach to teaching. You can develop innovative lesson plans, incorporate technology, and personalize learning to meet the needs of each student.
Elementary education is a crucial and rewarding field that shapes the minds of future generations. Pursuing a degree in elementary education is a great way to enter this field and make a difference in the lives of young children.
The EKU Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all of your career and professional development needs. We offer a variety of services to current online EKU students and alumni to help you with your career development, decision-making and job search.
Services include: