10 Things You Must Know About Online Teaching Degree

Education has always been a powerful force for change, and teaching remains one of the most impactful professions worldwide. With the rise of digital learning, more and more aspiring educators are turning to online teaching degree programs as a convenient, flexible, and accessible way to earn credentials. Whether you want to become a licensed teacher, pursue advanced studies, or specialize in a certain educational field, online degrees offer countless opportunities.

But before you enroll, it’s crucial to know how online teaching degrees work, what to expect, and how they compare to traditional programs.

In this article, we’ll cover the 10 most important things you must know about online teaching degree programs, so you can make an informed decision about your future in education.

1. What an Online Teaching Degree Really Is

An online teaching degree is an academic program delivered primarily or entirely through digital platforms, allowing students to study remotely instead of attending classes in person. Depending on the program, you may earn:

Bachelor’s Degree in Education – for aspiring teachers seeking initial licensure.
Master’s Degree in Education (M.Ed.) – for current teachers looking to advance their careers.
Doctorate in Education (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) – for educators pursuing leadership or research roles.
Specialized Certificates – in areas like early childhood education, special education, or ESL (English as a Second Language).

Most programs are designed to meet the same academic standards as traditional, campus-based programs, but they’re delivered through online lectures, assignments, discussion forums, and virtual classrooms.

2. Accreditation Is Non-Negotiable

When researching programs, accreditation is the first thing you should check. Accredited programs are officially recognized for meeting quality standards set by educational boards and accrediting agencies.

Regional Accreditation – Ensures overall institutional credibility.
Programmatic Accreditation – For teaching programs, look for recognition from bodies like CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation).

Why is accreditation important?

It determines whether your degree will be recognized by employers and state licensing boards.
Only accredited programs make you eligible for federal financial aid.
Accredited degrees are more likely to transfer if you pursue further education.

Enrolling in a non-accredited program can limit your career options, so always double-check accreditation before applying.

3. Online Doesn’t Mean “Easy”

Many students mistakenly assume online teaching degrees are easier than traditional ones. In reality, they require just as much dedication—sometimes even more.

Here’s why:

Self-Discipline: Without in-person classes, you need strong time management skills to stay on track.
Workload: Online programs cover the same curriculum, assignments, and exams as on-campus degrees.
Technology Skills: You’ll need to navigate digital tools, submit assignments online, and participate in virtual discussions.

The flexibility of online learning is a huge advantage, but success depends on your motivation and commitment.

4. Fieldwork and Student Teaching Are Still Required

One of the biggest misconceptions is that online teaching degrees are 100% virtual. While most coursework is online, student teaching and practicum experiences are still mandatory for those pursuing teaching licensure.

Student Teaching: A supervised teaching placement in a real classroom, usually during your final year.
Practicum: Hands-on experience working with students, often shorter than student teaching.

Your program will typically help arrange placements at local schools near you, so you don’t need to travel to the university’s campus. However, you should be prepared for in-person commitments even in an online program.

5. Online Degrees Can Be More Affordable

Cost is often a deciding factor, and the good news is that online teaching degrees are generally more affordable than on-campus programs.

Savings come from:

Lower tuition at many online universities.
No commuting, housing, or relocation expenses.
Access to digital resources instead of physical textbooks.

That said, tuition can still vary widely depending on whether you choose a public university, private college, or online-only institution. Also, some schools charge out-of-state tuition even for online students. Always compare total costs—including fees—before enrolling.

6. Financial Aid and Scholarships Are Available

Just like traditional students, online learners may qualify for:

Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA).
State Education Grants (varies by location).
Scholarships specifically for teaching students.
Employer Tuition Assistance if you’re already working in education.

Many universities also offer their own scholarships and tuition discounts for online students. If affordability is a concern, don’t skip exploring these options—it can make a huge difference in managing your educational investment.

7. Online Degrees Are Respected by Employers

A common worry is whether employers value online degrees as much as traditional ones. The answer: Yes, if the program is accredited.

Today, online education is widely accepted, especially since many established universities now offer online teaching programs alongside their on-campus versions. In most cases:

Your diploma won’t even specify that the program was online.
Employers care more about accreditation, licensure, and teaching skills than whether you studied online or in person.
The ability to succeed in an online degree can even highlight your discipline, adaptability, and tech skills—qualities valued in modern classrooms.

8. Specializations Can Boost Your Career

Teaching is a diverse field, and online degrees often offer specializations to help you tailor your education to your career goals. Popular tracks include:

Early Childhood Education
Elementary or Secondary Education
Special Education
ESL (Teaching English as a Second Language)
Educational Leadership
Curriculum and Instruction
Instructional Technology

Specializations not only expand your knowledge but also make you more competitive in the job market. For example, teachers with expertise in special education or bilingual education are in especially high demand.

9. Time Commitment and Program Length

The time it takes to complete an online teaching degree varies depending on your level and schedule:

Bachelor’s Degree: Typically 4 years full-time, but accelerated options exist.
Master’s Degree: 1–2 years full-time, or longer part-time.
Doctorate: 3–6 years, depending on research requirements.

Some online programs offer asynchronous learning (study at your own pace), while others use synchronous learning (live online classes at set times). Choose based on your lifestyle and availability.

Remember, flexibility doesn’t mean unlimited time—programs still have deadlines, and you’ll need to keep up with assignments and exams.

10. Online Learning Skills Matter as Much as Teaching Skills

Succeeding in an online teaching degree requires more than just passion for education—it also demands strong digital literacy. You’ll need to get comfortable with:

Learning Management Systems (LMS) like Blackboard, Canvas, or Moodle.
Video conferencing tools (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet).
Online collaboration platforms (Google Workspace, discussion forums).
Digital assessment and classroom management software.

These skills not only help you succeed as a student but also prepare you for 21st-century teaching, where online and hybrid learning are becoming standard in schools worldwide.

Bonus: Is an Online Teaching Degree Right for You?

While online degrees offer flexibility, affordability, and accessibility, they’re not the best fit for everyone. You may thrive in an online program if you are:

Highly self-motivated and organized.
Comfortable with technology.
Balancing education with work or family responsibilities.
Looking for specialized programs not available locally.

But if you prefer face-to-face interaction, struggle with time management, or lack reliable internet access, a traditional on-campus program may serve you better.

Final Thoughts

Earning an online teaching degree is an exciting opportunity for aspiring and current educators alike. It combines the convenience of digital learning with the rigor of traditional programs, while often offering lower costs and flexible schedules.

Before enrolling, remember these key points:

Choose an accredited program.
Be prepared for student teaching requirements.
Understand the costs and explore financial aid.
Select the right specialization to match your career goals.
Commit to strong self-discipline and online learning skills.

Ultimately, an online teaching degree can open the door to a rewarding career shaping the next generation of learners. With careful planning and commitment, it can be your pathway to becoming a successful, licensed, and impactful educator.