Best Online Education/Teaching Programs in New York (NY)

Teachers have an influence over many aspects of a student’s life — not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well. So, if you’re looking to make a difference in a child or young adult’s life, then maybe it’s time to pursue a teaching degree in the state of New York.

The Empire State has an array of affordable and high-quality colleges and universities that offer an endless number of teaching degree programs, one of which will likely fit your needs.

This guide takes a closer look at the top online education and teaching programs in New York and what each has to offer. Ready to explore your future degree?

Top Online Education/Teaching Degrees in NY

Earning a college degree isn’t easy, particularly if you’re working hard to make ends meet. So if your time is limited, consider earning a teaching degree online. New York has a number of top online teaching programs, many of which are more affordable and allow you to cut commute costs, on-campus fees, and school material expenses. It also gives you the flexibility to design your own schedule, and you can conveniently complete your assignments from any location.

Empire State University

At Empire State University, students can pursue their associate, bachelor’s or master’s degrees online and on their terms, whether they enroll on a part-time or full-time basis.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Educational Studies prepares undergraduate students for careers in early childhood studies, childcare administration, and adult education, among other positions in the field.

The school also offers online master’s degree options, including areas of specialization.

Bank Street University

Bank Street University is a graduate school in New York that offers several best-in-class advanced degrees in teaching and education online.

Some of the programs offered online include a master’s degree in special education, early childhood leadership, school district leader, progressive leadership (K-12) and leadership in mathematics, among others.

Niagara University

Niagara University offers an online MS degree program in elementary and secondary education. This is another top online teaching degree in New York, this one designed as a three-semester-long program for full-time study.

The 39-credit-hour program is meant for individuals interested in becoming certified teachers.

You can choose to earn your degree in early childhood and childhood education or middle childhood and adolescence.

The program starts either in the summer, spring or fall. Those who start in the summer can complete the program within one year.

Classes are a mix of synchronous or asynchronous coursework. Additionally, students must complete the coursework and 150 field hours during the first two semesters. The final semester includes a student teaching component and a seminar.

Types of Education & Teaching Degrees You Can Earn in New York

You have several options when it comes to choosing the degree level you want to pursue, depending on your career goals. In New York, you’ll find several top online and on-campus teaching programs that can lead to an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree or a doctorate.

Here’s a look at the various degree types available from some of the best teaching and education programs in New York, as well as links to the programs that offer them.

Undergraduate Teaching/Education Degrees in New York

Graduate Education Degrees in New York

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Education Students in New York

The cost of living coupled with college tuition can become overwhelming. Luckily, there are plenty of financial aid options available.

First, fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Secondly, check with your school. NYU, for example, offers scholarships and grants specific to those who plan to teach in public or private elementary or secondary schools that serve low-income families.

The school is also committed to the NYU Promise, offering free tuition to first-year undergraduate students whose families earn less than $100,000 a year.

State and local organizations may also offer financial aid. For instance, the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation sponsors the Masters-in-Education Teacher Incentive Scholarship Program, which may cover the entire cost of tuition.

For more tips, visit STEPS’ financial aid guide and scholarships guide.

Job Outlook and Earnings Potential for Teachers in New York

There has never been a need for more qualified teachers than now — particularly as the nation grapples with a critical shortage.

New York State is no different, as a wave of generational teachers prepare to retire and many more leave their careers due to various stressors, not excluding challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The good news is you will always have job opportunities. Data collected by the New York State Department of Labor shows a high job growth rate for most teaching positions, including for elementary school teachers, middle school teachers, and postsecondary teachers.

For example, the projected job growth rate for elementary school teachers is 15.5%, significantly more than the 7% national average. Additionally, the demand for special education teachers at the middle school level is higher than the 8% national average.

Sources: New York State Department of Labor; Bureau of Labor Statistics

New York Teaching Professional and Student Resources

• New York State Council of Educational Associations (NYSCEA) Members of NYSCEA often meet with New York State Education Department representatives about the latest initiatives and impactful issues. The organization prides itself on its advocacy work and offers information on upcoming events, including delegate meetings and conferences, on its website.
• New York State Education Department Check out this government agency’s website for job seeking opportunities, information on certification exams, and scholarships and grants. The site provides data and research, guides on how teachers can promote diversity and inclusiveness, and articles on directives from state leaders.
• New York State School Boards Association The New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) works to promote the value of public education and build collaborative partnerships in support of certain state and federal advocacy positions. It also collects, researches, and analyzes information concerning public education.
• New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) This organization is made up of nearly 700,000 teachers who currently work in or have retired from the state’s school system. The union site provides guides on becoming a teacher, information on certification and news articles, among other resources.
• The Education Trust–New York This organization promotes statewide education policies and advocates for children K-12. The group works to raise awareness of gaps in education equity and opportunities through partnerships with equity-driven advocates, educators, and state leaders.