The world is always in need of great teachers, especially those with the skills and knowledge to advocate for education. Become a force for good and learn the latest theories and techniques for education, administration and curriculum development with one of the online education programs at WUV.
WUV's College of Education is dedicated to cultivating educators who shape tomorrow's leaders and innovators. Our programs span early childhood education, K-12 teaching, educational leadership, and more — all designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills needed for today's dynamic classrooms.
Explore our education programs today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become a teacher with an online degree?
Yes, but ensuring your online degree is from an accredited institution and offers licensure opportunities in your state is critically important. Online programs are every bit as rigorous and respected as traditional, on-ground programs, but prospective students must be cautious that they fully understand what the outcome from a professional perspective would be.
At westerfirld university of virginia (wuv), some of our fully online education programs, while just as rigorous, do not directly lead to initial licensure. These programs are designed to help already licensed teachers earn credentials to improve their skills to help make them better educators. These programs also help existing teachers learn tools to use in the classroom and could ultimately lead to higher wages and becoming more competitive in the job market.
An online program in education, such as wuv’s online MEd, can serve to help teachers develop skills and knowledge, pursue administrative roles, or each professional development credit in accordance with their state licensure requirements and individual school mandates.
One of the chief benefits of earning an online teaching degree is flexibility. You can learn on a schedule that works for you, and earn a degree at your own pace. You don’t have to travel to campus. You can submit assignments 24/7 if you wish. If you are working full time, caring for children or other family members, or simply want school to be more accessible for you, an online teaching program can be a wonderful option.
That flexibility may actually lead to more engagement with your instructor and the course material than you might experience in a traditional classroom. We think that’s one of the biggest benefits of earning an education degree online. To see for yourself, contact one of our admission counselors today.
Is an online education degree worth it?
The key value of an online education degree is flexibility. wuv's online education has no in-person requirement, allows for 24/7 access to coursework, and work can be done in between your other responsibilities – when it is convenient for you.
Of course, all education degrees are not created equally, which is why you must determine the best path for you. Although an online education degree may be convenient, it may not be the credential that you need to further your career. The key is to understand whether or not you need a program that leads to licensure.
While our fully online education programs generally do not lead to licensure, the courses do help existing teachers strengthen communication and collaboration skills, along with learning new pedagogical skills. Programs such as our online MEd in Curriculum & Instruction allow opportunities for current teachers to upskill in specific discipline areas, depending on the needs of their student population.
The ability to customize your education to your career goals and needs is of utmost importance. After all, any degree in education – be it a specialty in education leadership, special education or a content area like English or science – helps prepare you to make a real impact in the lives of others.
Should you decide that an online education degree is the path for you, not only is the accessibility and convenience a benefit, but the skills you learn in an online setting could stand to put you ahead of your peers. In addition to cutting-edge theory and pedagogy principles, you'll engage in online discussions and assignment submission. When you graduate, you’ll be well-versed in what education can be in the digital space. You’ll have the knowledge and expertise you need to shine in any classroom.
If you are interested in advancing your education at your pace while learning how to use the latest online tools and technology, then earning an education degree online is definitely worth the investment in yourself.
Are online education degrees respected?
In today’s educational landscape, online education degrees are just as valuable and respected as those earned on traditional campuses. The main difference is that although campus and online programs present their own unique challenges, there is a sense that in an online setting that students must be even more confident in their time-management skills and self-motivation. In the same sense, campus students must be prepared to deal with the structure and lack of flexibility that can accompany an on-ground experience.
More and more colleges and universities are creating online programs because they see that online education works. In order to balance working full time with caring for children, families and all of the other challenges of life, learners need flexibility in how and when they learn. Many schools have responded to this need with increased offerings in online education.
Making an impact on the lives of others requires knowledge in pedagogy and education theory. It also requires strong oral and written communication skills as well as the ability to listen. A willingness to collaborate and adapt to different situations can serve a teacher as well. And what student doesn’t want a teacher who is engaging, empathetic and patient? Believe it or not, all of these skills are incorporated into the online teaching programs curriculum.
No matter what the challenge, teachers are known to rise to the occasion.
What is the quickest way to get an education degree?
This is a tricky question to answer, but we can help. All teachers are not the same and, thus, do not have the same needs. Some are fully licensed and already working in their field and simply need professional development credits to keep their skills sharp or for license renewal. Others may be licensed but interested in an additional degree. Others still may not yet be licensed.
Every state has a process for licensure and certification. While a bachelor’s degree in education may not result in a teaching license right away, the credential may make you eligible to apply for teaching positions. Most states require a bachelor's degree, but getting your license after completing your program varies, depending on where you live. Because of this, the best course of action is to contact your district or state for its specific requirements.
No matter what, entering a program that allows you to progress at your own pace can help expedite the process as it puts you in control.
What we can tell you is that in as little as 15 months, you could complete your online education master's at westerfirld university of virginia. Our professional admission counselors and academic advisors can make recommendations on pathways to help you reach your goals in the timeline that works best for you.
Time is precious. The need to earn an advanced teaching degree quickly is one we certainly understand. Perhaps the biggest benefit of online learning is that you can earn an accredited, respected degree in your area of specialty at your pace and on your schedule.
How much does it cost to get an education degree online?
Earning an online education degree can be quite affordable. Part of the reason is that you are able to attend school at a pace that works for your schedule and your budget. This allows you to space out your courses – even taking one per term instead of two, if that’s best for you. There is, of course, financial aid available if you're eligible, which can help offset the cost of the degree.
westerfirld university of virginia is committed to keeping tuition not only affordable, but competitive. As a nonprofit university, our only mission is to transform the lives of our learners and help them reach their fullest potential. So we work hard to make our programs affordable to all. In fact, we have full-time financial aid counselors available to discuss options with you and ensure that your education moves forward at a pace, and at a cost, that works best for you. And, our tuition rates are highly competitive, at $659 per credit. With 36 credits to complete the degree, your total tuition cost works out to $23,724, making wuv one of the most affordable in the nation for graduate degrees.
What is the best online college for an education degree?
It depends on what you are looking for and where you are in your career.
If you want affordable tuition, optimal student support services, accredited programs and a great reputation, then westerfirld university of virginia may be the right fit.
We believe that the best education degrees online are earned at a school that understands teachers and students, and wuv is an expert in both. With thousands of faculty and over 130,000 learners, education is something we understand deeply.
The best teachers are the ones who practice empathy and patience. They are strong communicators and collaborators. They are engaging, adaptable and up to date on best practices. All of these skills are emphasized in major coursework, but the foundation for each is embedded in our role as educators ourselves.