Best Online Education & Teaching Programs in Washington (WA)

Are you passionate about shaping young minds and building a brighter future? If so — and if you’re interested in studying or living in the northwest — Washington is an ideal destination to earn your education degree. In fact, Washington and the entire western U.S. are characterized by a rampant shortage of teachers, with the state ranking 39^th in the nation for teacher-to-student ratios.

This detailed guide showcases Washington’s best online teaching and education programs. Here, you’ll find on-campus and online options tailored to various educational aspirations, from classroom teaching to educational leadership.

Explore diverse degree choices, insightful financial aid information, and more, all designed to enlighten your educational journey and equip you for a fulfilling career in the educational sector. Dive into this guide to unlock your potential and begin a rewarding educational path in one of Washington’s top education and teaching programs.

Top Online Teaching Degree Programs in Washington

When researching your school of choice, you’ll find the best online teaching and education programs in Washington provide an excellent alternative to traditional on-campus education, especially for working professionals and individuals needing the added flexibility and affordability of online learning.

Earning a teaching degree online is feasible, with various programs offering complete online courses that lead to certification. These programs often include interactive coursework, virtual classroom experiences, and some in-person fieldwork or internships, allowing you to balance studies with other commitments.

Seattle Pacific University (SPU)

Seattle Pacific University offers a menu of hybrid and online undergraduate and graduate education and teaching programs tailored for individuals seeking an education that integrates faith with learning.

• Curriculum Details: Includes courses in learning theory, general teaching methods, education reform, and educational technology. The program integrates Christian faith and values, including ethics courses, into its curriculum. You’ll also undertake a 70-day internship in a school setting, providing practical, hands-on experience in teaching.
• Standout Student Services: Graduates join a supportive community of alumni, connecting them with a network of professionals.

City University of Seattle (CityU)

City University of Seattle offers 20 different online degrees that are online or hybrid and is known for its comprehensive approach to teacher education.

• Curriculum Details: The curriculum encompasses extensive coursework in curriculum design, instructional methods, assessment, and feedback.The program includes practical experiences through internships, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings.
• Tuition and Fees: Detailed information can be found on their tuition page.
• Accreditation: The program’s reading endorsement is accredited through the International Dyslexia Association, ensuring access to the field’s most current research and practices.

Western Governors University (WGU)

Western Governors University offers a range of online teaching degrees through its Teachers College and is noted for its affordability and flexibility.

• Curriculum Details: The curriculum includes courses in educational theory, teaching methods, subject-specific content, and classroom management, preparing students for the realities of teaching.
• Learning Outcomes: WGU uses a competency-based approach, allowing students to progress through their degree at their own pace by demonstrating mastery of the subject matter.
• Tuition: WGU tuition starts at $3,825. Visit its tuition page for more information.
• Accreditation: WGU’s Teachers College is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), ensuring that the programs meet high teacher education standards.

Types of Education & Teaching Degrees You Can Earn in Washington

Washington offers a diversity of top teaching and education programs to cater to students at different stages of their educational and professional journey. Whether you prefer the flexibility of online learning or the traditional on-campus experience, you’ll find accredited programs that meet your needs. Below, we explore each degree type available from the best education and teaching programs in Washington and examples of accredited universities offering these programs.

Undergraduate Teaching/Education Degrees in Washington

Graduate Education Degrees in Washington

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Education Students in Washington

Education and teaching students in top Washington programs can access various financial aid options, including scholarships, loans, and other programs, to help fund their degrees. The Washington State Educator Workforce Program (EWP) offers financial aid specifically to attract and retain teachers in high-need subjects and locations. Most of these are conditional scholarships requiring a service commitment in return for funding. The Teacher Shortage Conditional Grant also encourages individuals to become teachers in designated shortage areas with financial aid based on need.

Specific schools may also offer scholarships to education and teaching students; for example, Washington State University provides approximately $325,000 annually in scholarship support to its education students.

For more comprehensive information about funding your teaching degree, you can explore STEPS’ financial aid guide and scholarships guide.

Job Outlook and Earnings Potential for Teachers in Washington

In Washington, the job market for graduates of top education and teaching programs, particularly in popular metro areas, is promising and competitive. Teaching positions are in high demand, reflecting a steady growth rate across various educational roles between 2021-2026.

Notably, salaries for education professionals in Washington are quite favorable, often surpassing the national average. This financial incentive and the state’s commitment to education make Washington an attractive location for aspiring educators.

Here’s a snapshot of the job outlook and earnings potential for some key roles in the education sector in Washington:

Sources: Washington State Employment Security Department; Bureau of Labor Statistics

Washington Teaching Professional and Student Resources

• Open Educational Resources | Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction The Washington OER Hub is an invaluable online library of K-12 open educational resources, offering a range of materials like lessons, videos, and guidance documents created specifically for Washington educators. It’s an excellent resource for finding content aligned with Washington learning standards.
• Teacher Programs | WSAC The Washington State Educator Workforce Program provides financial aid to attract and retain teachers in high-need subjects or locations. This is an excellent resource for students of top Washington education and teaching programs who are seeking financial aid options in shortage areas.
• The Center for Strengthening the Teaching Profession (CSTP) CSTP supports teaching excellence and student achievement in Washington. They offer resources, research, advocacy, and training opportunities for educators, making it a comprehensive resource for professional development.
• Washington Education Association (WEA) WEA provides support and resources for education professionals, including scholarships, professional development opportunities, and advocacy information. This is a valuable resource for current and aspiring educators.
• Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board – Equity Initiatives The PESB is dedicated to advancing equity in educator preparation and workforce development, offering resources and initiatives that address disparities and promote cultural competency.