Best Bachelor's in Elementary Education Programs in Florida
All 45 Elementary Education bachelor's-level programs in Florida, ranked overall on graduation rate, affordability, and more, from the IPEDS database.
A bachelor's in elementary education is the standard credential behind a Florida teaching license, and Florida has 45 accredited elementary education bachelor's programs to compare. This ranking scores every one on the outcomes that actually affect your return: graduation rate, in-state affordability, and selectivity, all pulled from the public federal IPEDS database. University of Florida ranks first with a score of 89, on a 91 percent graduation rate.
Elementary school teachers in Florida earn a median of $58,930 a year according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, against a national median of $63,970. Each section below covers a specific decision point, cost and real ROI, Florida licensure, accreditation, online and accelerated formats, and career outlook, so you can compare elementary education programs in Florida on the factors that change your outcome rather than on marketing.
- 1
University of Florida
89score- 91%Grad rate
- $4,477/yrIn-state tuition
- $25,694/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 24%Admit rate
- 36,573Undergrads
- 46Grads/yr
- 1400SAT mid
- Bachelor of Arts in Education in Elementary Education
- CAEP-accredited
- Online
About the programThe University of Florida in Gainesville offers a Bachelor of Arts in Education in Elementary Education through UF Online, leading to Florida teacher certification for grades K-6. The competency-based program blends job-embedded coursework with practicum placements and full-time internships in Florida public schools, and graduates can add English for Speakers of Other Languages and Reading endorsements. Florida residency is required so students can complete practicum and internship hours in a Florida public school, and a Level II background check is required before the upper-division program. UF's educator preparation programs, including elementary education, hold CAEP accreditation. Among Florida's 45 ranked bachelor's-level programs, this one posts the highest graduation rate at 91%. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts rank is built from three numbers: graduation rate, admission rate, and in-state tuition, in that order of weight. Its strongest card is completion: a 91% graduation rate lands it in the top 1% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. Admissions are competitive, a 24% acceptance rate, which nudges it further up. Cost only helps its case: at $4,477 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. Strong on the measures that matter most, it earns a place near the top.
- 2
Florida State University
87score- 86%Grad rate
- $4,640/yrIn-state tuition
- $19,084/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 24%Admit rate
- 32,720Undergrads
- 71Grads/yr
- 1340SAT mid
- BS in Elementary Education (combined with MS in Curriculum and Instruction)
- On-campus
About the programFlorida State University in Tallahassee, FL offers a BS in Elementary Education built into a combined bachelor's and master's pathway leading to an MS in Curriculum and Instruction. The program prepares candidates for the Florida Professional Educator's Certificate in Elementary Education, grades K-6, with endorsements in ESOL and Reading. Students complete field experiences woven throughout coursework and finish with a semester-long student teaching placement before earning teacher certification. FSU delivers this elementary education program only through in-person instruction on its main campus, with no online or distance learning option. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts place on the list comes down to outcomes, selectivity, and price, weighted in that order. Start with the outcome that matters most, 86% of students graduate, top 2% among Florida programs, which is the biggest reason it sits where it does. It is genuinely selective too, admitting just 24% of applicants, a sign of a competitive, well-prepared cohort. Cost only helps its case: at $4,640 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. Strong on the measures that matter most, it earns a place near the top.
- 3
University of Central Florida
82score- 78%Grad rate
- $4,478/yrIn-state tuition
- $19,810/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 40%Admit rate
- 59,552Undergrads
- 268Grads/yr
- 1275SAT mid
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programThe University of Central Florida frames its Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education as a K-6 Certification Track, a state-approved teacher preparation program recognized by the Florida Department of Education. Experience anchors the degree, since candidates complete two teaching internships that place them alongside learners of varying abilities, including students with disabilities and English learners. That range is intentional, preparing future teachers for the mix of needs they will meet in a real Orlando-area classroom. Graduates earn ESOL and Reading Endorsements in addition to their teaching credential, rounding out the skills expected of an elementary educator. The through line is practical readiness, with certification and endorsements built into a single, coherent path to the front of the classroom. It awards more bachelor's-level elementary education degrees than any of Florida's 45 ranked bachelor's-level programs, 268 in the most recent year. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. Its strongest card is completion: a 78% graduation rate lands it in the top 7% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 40% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. Cost only helps its case: at $4,478 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. Together, that is one of the strongest profiles on the page.
- 4
University of Miami
78score- 84%Grad rate
- $60,720/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 19%Admit rate
- 13,250Undergrads
- 20Grads/yr
- 1400SAT mid
- Elementary Education/Exceptional Student Education (B.S.Ed.)
- On-campus
About the programThe University of Miami's Bachelor of Science in Education in Elementary Education/Exceptional Student Education is built for teachers who want to serve a wide range of learners, leading to dual Florida certification across grades K-6 in elementary education and K-12 in exceptional student education. Reading and ESOL endorsements come with the degree, further widening what graduates are prepared to teach. Classroom experience is heavily emphasized, since ten of the required TAL courses embed hands-on placements in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, exposing future teachers to diverse, urban, and under-resourced settings. The university describes the program as the first of its kind in Florida to combine these two certification areas. Based in Coral Gables, it offers an on-campus, practice-rich path for teachers who plan to work across general and special education. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. Start with the outcome that matters most, 84% of students graduate, top 5% among Florida programs, which is the biggest reason it sits where it does. It is genuinely selective too, admitting just 19% of applicants, a sign of a competitive, well-prepared cohort. The one drag is price, $60,720 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability. That combination is what puts it in the top handful here.
- 5
University of South Florida
78score- 77%Grad rate
- $4,559/yrIn-state tuition
- $15,473/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 43%Admit rate
- 38,525Undergrads
- 105Grads/yr
- 1225SAT mid
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- CAEP-accredited
- On-campus
About the programThe University of South Florida's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education wastes little time getting students into schools, opening clinical placements as early as the first semester through district partnerships across the Tampa Bay area. That early start feeds into a sequence of three field experiences and a full-time final internship in a partner elementary school, giving candidates a long runway of practice before they lead a classroom of their own. The face-to-face program leads to K-6 teacher certification in Florida and is backed by the College of Education's CAEP accreditation. Students are not limited to the main campus either, since the degree is also offered at USF's Sarasota-Manatee and St. Petersburg locations. It is a program that treats real classroom time as central, not supplemental. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. Its strongest card is completion: a 77% graduation rate lands it in the top 10% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 43% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. Cost only helps its case: at $4,559 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. Together, that is one of the strongest profiles on the page.
- 6
University of North Florida
71score- 69%Grad rate
- $3,996/yrIn-state tuition
- $16,799/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 53%Admit rate
- 13,735Undergrads
- 41Grads/yr
- 1170SAT mid
- Bachelor of Arts in Education (BAE) in Elementary Education
- CAEP-accredited
- On-campus
About the programFieldwork is the organizing principle of the University of North Florida's Bachelor of Arts in Education in Elementary Education, which builds field-based courses and an internship into a curriculum aligned with Florida Department of Education certification requirements. Many of those placements happen in local Jacksonville-area schools, reflecting the College of Education and Human Services' belief that teachers learn best by doing. The design gives students steady, hands-on classroom time rather than saving practice for the very end. Completing the program leads to Florida K-6 teacher certification. Its educator preparation programs carry accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, a signal that the training meets recognized professional standards. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts place on the list comes down to outcomes, selectivity, and price, weighted in that order. Start with the outcome that matters most, 69% of students graduate, top 19% among Florida programs, which is the biggest reason it sits where it does. A 53% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. Cost only helps its case: at $3,996 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. On balance it is a well-rounded pick, which is what earns it a spot this high.
- 7
Florida International University
69score- 74%Grad rate
- $4,721/yrIn-state tuition
- $16,529/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 55%Admit rate
- 45,193Undergrads
- 98Grads/yr
- 1165SAT mid
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
About the programAt Florida International University, the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education pairs academic study with real classroom time, matching coursework in subjects such as literacy, mathematics, and classroom management with fieldwork and student teaching in Miami-area schools. The 120-credit program, offered through the College of Arts, Sciences and Education, prepares candidates for Florida teacher certification in grades K-6 and includes an ESOL endorsement for supporting English learners. Students who want to go further can add a Reading Endorsement alongside the degree. Backing the program is approval from the Florida Department of Education, confirming it meets state standards for educator preparation. The overall shape is a practical, classroom-connected path for future elementary teachers in South Florida. This bachelor's-level elementary education program prepares graduates for work as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. Its strongest card is completion: a 74% graduation rate lands it in the top 14% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 55% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. Cost only helps its case: at $4,721 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. No single weakness drags it down, and that consistency lands it in the upper tier.
- 8
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
69score- 53%Grad rate
- $3,152/yrIn-state tuition
- $14,524/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 21%Admit rate
- 7,890Undergrads
- 29Grads/yr
- 1105SAT mid
- Elementary Education, B.S.
- CAEP-accredited
- On-campus
About the programFlorida Agricultural and Mechanical University's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education blends broad general education with focused professional preparation across its 120 credit hours, a mix meant to produce well-rounded teachers for grades K-6. Practicum hours and a full student teaching internship give the coursework a hands-on counterweight, while embedded ESOL and Reading endorsements widen what graduates are certified to teach. Based in Tallahassee, the degree is primarily campus based, though some required courses are available online for added flexibility. The College of Education's program is approved by the Florida Department of Education and accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Before earning certification, graduates must pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examination. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThree things decide where a program lands on this list: how many students finish, how selective it is, and what it costs. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 53%, solid without being a standout. Admissions are competitive, a 21% acceptance rate, which nudges it further up. Cost only helps its case: at $3,152 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. On balance it is a well-rounded pick, which is what earns it a spot this high.
- 9
The University of Tampa
67score- 64%Grad rate
- $32,096/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 40%Admit rate
- 10,598Undergrads
- 40Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programThe University of Tampa's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education leads to K-6 teacher certification in Florida and rounds out that credential with required ESOL and Reading endorsements, so graduates are ready to support English learners and developing readers. Coursework reaches beyond the basics into curriculum integration, technology use, and strategies for teaching learners with special needs, while teaching internships give candidates hands-on classroom experience before they graduate. The program carries accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, a mark of recognized quality in teacher training. Before earning certification, students must pass the Florida Teacher Certification Exams, including the General Knowledge Test and the Elementary Education Subject Area exam. The overall arc moves steadily from broad preparation to classroom-ready practice. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. Its strongest card is completion: a 64% graduation rate lands it in the top 21% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 40% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $32,096 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability. No single weakness drags it down, and that consistency lands it in the upper tier.
- 10
Rollins College
65score- 75%Grad rate
- $60,580/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 48%Admit rate
- 2,640Undergrads
- 20Grads/yr
- 1265SAT mid
- Elementary Education Major
- On-campus
About the programRollins College in Winter Park, FL offers a bachelor's-level elementary education major that prepares students for professional teacher certification in Florida for grades K-6. The state-approved program builds on Rollins' liberal arts curriculum with clinical experiences in local classrooms, including a required student teaching internship of fifteen weeks in an approved area school. Coursework such as Classroom Management and a Reading Field Experience component gives students hands-on preparation before they enter the field. Rollins reports that 100 percent of its education graduates who applied for teaching positions over the past decade have been hired by local schools. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. Its strongest card is completion: a 75% graduation rate lands it in the top 12% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 48% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $60,580 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability. No single weakness drags it down, and that consistency lands it in the upper tier.
- 11
Florida Atlantic University
65score- 63%Grad rate
- $2,522/yrIn-state tuition
- $14,374/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 66%Admit rate
- 24,876Undergrads
- 90Grads/yr
- 1120SAT mid
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
- CAEP-accredited
- On-campus
About the programGrounded in the classroom from the start, Florida Atlantic University's Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education pairs professional coursework with supervised field experiences that run throughout the degree and build toward full-time student teaching in an approved elementary classroom. Based in Boca Raton, the program is designed for students who want to teach the youngest grades, leading to a Florida teaching certificate for grades K-6. Rather than treating language and literacy support as afterthoughts, it weaves ESOL and Reading endorsements directly into the coursework, so candidates graduate ready for the diverse classrooms they will enter. The College of Education backs the program with CAEP accreditation. Candidates must also pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examination before stepping into their student teaching placement. Earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education is a common route toward becoming one of Florida's elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. Start with the outcome that matters most, 63% of students graduate, top 24% among Florida programs, which is the biggest reason it sits where it does. A 66% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. Cost only helps its case: at $2,522 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. On balance it is a well-rounded pick, which is what earns it a spot this high.
- 12
University of West Florida
63score- 59%Grad rate
- $3,735/yrIn-state tuition
- $16,004/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 58%Admit rate
- 9,970Undergrads
- 27Grads/yr
- 1125SAT mid
- Bachelor of Elementary Education (B.A.)
- Hybrid
About the programThe University of West Florida in Pensacola offers a Bachelor of Elementary Education (B.A.) that prepares candidates for K-6 teacher certification in Florida. The 60-credit-hour program includes two 100-hour clinical field placements in K-6 classrooms followed by a semester-long student teaching capstone, along with endorsements in reading and English for speakers of other languages. Coursework is available face-to-face, hybrid, and online, though on-campus classes are prioritized for this major. The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) through Spring 2030. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. Its strongest card is completion: a 59% graduation rate lands it in the top 29% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 58% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. Cost only helps its case: at $3,735 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. No single weakness drags it down, and that consistency lands it in the upper tier.
- 13
Florida Gateway College
61score- 54%Grad rate
- $2,369/yrIn-state tuition
- $9,473/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 2,921Undergrads
- 8Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programBuilt as a natural next step for students who already hold an Associate in Arts degree, Florida Gateway College's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education is a 120-credit, state-approved path into the K-6 classroom. The program layers Reading and ESOL endorsements, both K-12, onto its core certification, so graduates leave prepared to reach readers and English learners alike. Coursework is paced for real life, with required field experience hours scheduled outside class times and full-time or part-time options at the Lake City campus. Along the way, students assemble a professional portfolio and prepare for all three components of the FTCE certification exams. The result is an accessible, practical route to Florida Elementary Teacher Certification for grades K through 6. This bachelor's-level elementary education program prepares graduates for work as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. Start with the outcome that matters most, 54% of students graduate, top 43% among Florida programs, which is the biggest reason it sits where it does. Cost only helps its case: at $2,369 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. On balance it is a well-rounded pick, which is what earns it a spot this high.
- 14
Florida Gulf Coast University
60score- 57%Grad rate
- $4,191/yrIn-state tuition
- $22,328/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 63%Admit rate
- 14,463Undergrads
- 54Grads/yr
- 1120SAT mid
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programThe Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education prepares candidates for Florida certification as elementary teachers across kindergarten through grade six. The curriculum embeds a Reading Endorsement and an ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Endorsement. Candidates complete more than 600 hours of classroom experience across four semesters, including Blocks 1-2 field experience and Blocks 4-5 student teaching, with placements at two FGCU Early Learning Centers and in the surrounding five-county service area. The program is delivered on campus in Fort Myers. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. Its strongest card is completion: a 57% graduation rate lands it in the top 31% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 63% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. Cost only helps its case: at $4,191 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. No single weakness drags it down, and that consistency lands it in the upper tier.
- 15
Chipola College
59score- 53%Grad rate
- $2,365/yrIn-state tuition
- $8,195/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 1,934Undergrads
- 19Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-6)
- On-campus
About the programChipola College offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in Marianna, Florida, a program housed in the School of Education that leads to K-6 teacher certification. Students complete field experience through a local school district as part of their classroom preparation. The college reports that graduates are certified and placed in teaching jobs at a rate of 90 to 100 percent, giving students in the Panhandle a direct path into the classroom. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThree things decide where a program lands on this list: how many students finish, how selective it is, and what it costs. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 53%, solid without being a standout. Cost only helps its case: at $2,365 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results. No single weakness drags it down, and that consistency lands it in the upper tier.
- 16
Baptist University of Florida
58score- 52%Grad rate
- $13,800/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 36%Admit rate
- 521Undergrads
- 3Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Elementary Education
- Hybrid
About the programBaptist University of Florida in Graceville offers a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, a 124 credit hour program approved by the Florida Department of Education for K-6 teacher certification. Students complete more than 600 hours of classroom experience through progressive internships and a Reading Practicum, culminating in a 12 week final internship in a Florida public school classroom. Coursework combines in-person instruction with online options for select semesters, though the capstone internship must be completed on site. Graduates become eligible for a Professional Florida Teaching Certificate in elementary education with ESOL and Reading endorsements. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 52%, solid without being a standout. A 36% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $13,800 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 17
Ave Maria University
57score- 54%Grad rate
- $28,815/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 41%Admit rate
- 1,301Undergrads
- 10Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programAve Maria University, a private nonprofit institution, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education through its Education department. The four-year undergraduate program prepares students to teach at the elementary level, and all coursework is delivered on campus in the town of Ave Maria, Florida. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThree things decide where a program lands on this list: how many students finish, how selective it is, and what it costs. Start with the outcome that matters most, 54% of students graduate, top 43% among Florida programs, which is the biggest reason it sits where it does. A 41% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $28,815 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 18
Florida Southern College
55score- 71%Grad rate
- $42,900/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 64%Admit rate
- 2,682Undergrads
- 22Grads/yr
- 1240SAT mid
- Elementary Education (BA or BS)
- On-campus
About the programAt Florida Southern College, the residential Bachelor's in Elementary Education gets candidates into classrooms from the very first semester, with clinical placements that continue straight through to a final internship. Those experiences unfold across the college's own lab schools, including the Early Childhood Learning Lab and Roberts Academy, as well as local Polk County elementary classrooms, giving students an unusually wide range of settings. The degree leads to Florida professional certification for grades K-6 and comes with built-in endorsements in Reading and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Students who want to specialize can add optional tracks in areas such as STEM, social-emotional learning, and the Orton-Gillingham approach to structured literacy. Approved by the Florida Department of Education, it offers a hands-on, classroom-immersed route into elementary teaching. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. Its strongest card is completion: a 71% graduation rate lands it in the top 17% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 64% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $42,900 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 19
Doral College
55score- $3,120/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 537Undergrads
- 13Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with ESOL and Reading Endorsement
- Online
About the programDoral College offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with ESOL and Reading Endorsement, delivered fully online. The degree prepares candidates to teach the K-6 classroom and leads to teacher licensure in Florida. ESOL and reading endorsements are built into the degree rather than pursued separately, and field experiences are embedded within methods coursework. Students complete a reading practicum and a culminating student teaching internship. The program is designed for those who want an elementary teaching credential with added preparation in literacy and English language learners. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThree things decide where a program lands on this list: how many students finish, how selective it is, and what it costs. Cost only helps its case: at $3,120 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 20
Ana G. Mendez University
50score- $11,850/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 4,780Undergrads
- 5Grads/yr
- Elementary Education
About the programAna G. Mendez University's Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education prepares generalist teachers who are comfortable across the elementary curriculum, from literacy and math to science and social studies. The 126-credit program offers both a certification track and a non-certification track, and it threads clinical field observations throughout the coursework before candidates reach Internship I and Internship II, two full-time semesters of supervised work in an elementary classroom. Students who intend to teach in public schools must pass all state examinations required for professional certification. One important caveat sets this program apart: institutional catalogs from both 2023-2024 and 2025-2026 confirm it is not admitting new students, which points to a lasting closure to new enrollment rather than a brief pause. Prospective applicants should weigh that status carefully before counting on this route. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts place on the list comes down to outcomes, selectivity, and price, weighted in that order. The one drag is price, $11,850 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 21
South Florida State College
49score- 48%Grad rate
- $3,135/yrIn-state tuition
- $11,829/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 2,880Undergrads
- 10Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Teacher Education (BSETE)
About the programSouth Florida State College in Avon Park, FL offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Teacher Education, known as the BSETE, for students pursuing elementary education as a career path. The program prepares candidates to teach grades K-6 across diverse educational settings and with students of varying capabilities, supporting progress toward Florida teacher certification. Students complete an internship and student teaching component as part of the degree requirements. As a state college in the South Florida State College system, the program gives Avon Park area students a local route into elementary education and teacher licensure. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 48%, solid without being a standout. Cost only helps its case: at $3,135 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 22
Indian River State College
48score- 45%Grad rate
- $2,496/yrIn-state tuition
- $9,360/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 15,429Undergrads
- 42Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements
- Online
About the programIndian River State College in Fort Pierce, FL offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with Reading and ESOL Endorsements, an online program built for students pursuing teacher certification in Florida. The curriculum emphasizes literacy instruction and English for Speakers of Other Languages support, paired with multiple field experience requirements in Florida schools. IRSC reports a 100% job placement rate for graduates of its Bachelor of Science in Education programs. Students who already hold a bachelor's degree can also enter teaching through the college's Educator Preparation Institute pathway. Earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education is a common route toward becoming one of Florida's elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThree things decide where a program lands on this list: how many students finish, how selective it is, and what it costs. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 45%, solid without being a standout. Cost only helps its case: at $2,496 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 23
Stetson University
46score- 62%Grad rate
- $57,010/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 72%Admit rate
- 2,349Undergrads
- 11Grads/yr
- 1165SAT mid
- Bachelor of Arts in Education: Elementary Education (Grades K-6) with ESOL Endorsement and Reading Endorsement
- On-campus
About the programStetson University's Bachelor of Arts in Education prepares candidates to teach elementary grades K-6 and meets the certification requirements of the Florida Department of Education. Offered on campus through the Department of Education in DeLand, the program builds in the ESOL and Reading endorsements required by the state. Coursework includes methods for weaving music, art, drama, and movement into the elementary curriculum, and candidates complete supervised student teaching in school classrooms before graduating. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. Its strongest card is completion: a 62% graduation rate lands it in the top 26% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 72% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $57,010 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 24
Hobe Sound Bible College
46score- 50%Grad rate
- $7,200/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 131Undergrads
- 3Grads/yr
- Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programHobe Sound Bible College's Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education is an on-campus program in the Education Department built around weekly hands-on classroom experience at Hobe Sound Christian Academy, an accredited Master School. The program frames its mission as equipping teachers to know Christ and to make Him known. Graduates are eligible to apply for Florida state teacher certification by passing three FTCE exams, the General Knowledge Test, the Professional Educators Test, and the Subject Area Examinations, though certification is not required to earn the degree. This licensure-eligible track is distinct from HSBC's separate online Elementary Education option. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts place on the list comes down to outcomes, selectivity, and price, weighted in that order. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 50%, solid without being a standout. Tuition is middle of the road for Florida programs at $7,200 in state, so cost neither helps nor hurts its standing.
- 25
Daytona State College
45score- 43%Grad rate
- $3,072/yrIn-state tuition
- $11,960/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 12,820Undergrads
- 21Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education K-6
- On-campus
About the programDaytona State College in Daytona Beach, FL offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education K-6, a state-approved program built for teacher certification in Florida. Students complete coursework in classroom management and instructional strategies alongside hands-on field experience in local schools, working directly with children from kindergarten through sixth grade. Graduates are prepared to earn a five-year Florida Professional Educator's Certificate, with the program also including Reading and ESOL endorsements. This elementary education pathway combines practical classroom time with a curriculum aligned to Florida teacher licensure requirements. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 43% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Cost only helps its case: at $3,072 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 26
Florida College
44score- 54%Grad rate
- $19,175/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 70%Admit rate
- 728Undergrads
- 5Grads/yr
- 1075SAT mid
- Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programFlorida College offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education through its Education Department, delivered on campus in a cohort model. The program frames teaching within a Christian worldview and biblically grounded perspective, and its clinically based courses give candidates substantial classroom time along with a supervised internship. Upon finishing the degree, graduates are prepared to apply for Florida certification and begin teaching at the elementary level. This bachelor's-level elementary education program prepares graduates for work as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. Start with the outcome that matters most, 54% of students graduate, top 43% among Florida programs, which is the biggest reason it sits where it does. A 70% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $19,175 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 27
Seminole State College of Florida
44score- 41%Grad rate
- $2,393/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 15,390Undergrads
- 6Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-6)
- Hybrid
About the programSeminole State College of Florida offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-6) in Sanford, FL, built as a 2+2 program for students who already hold an Associate of Arts degree. The 120 credit hour curriculum leads to Florida teacher certification in Elementary Education K-6, along with ESOL and Reading Endorsements, preparing graduates to teach kindergarten through sixth grade. Coursework includes extensive field experience in Seminole County Public Schools classrooms and a 12 week, full time student teaching internship. Most courses are offered both in person and online. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts rank is built from three numbers: graduation rate, admission rate, and in-state tuition, in that order of weight. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 41% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Cost only helps its case: at $2,393 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 28
Flagler College
43score- 56%Grad rate
- $28,800/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 81%Admit rate
- 2,409Undergrads
- 32Grads/yr
- 1075SAT mid
- Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programFlagler College builds its Bachelor's in Elementary Education around early, sustained time in real classrooms, sending candidates into school practicum placements well before the culminating full-time internship. The degree leads to Florida K-6 certification and folds in endorsements in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and Reading, so graduates leave prepared for the mixed-need classrooms they will actually face. Coursework runs on campus in historic Saint Augustine, and the college pairs it with a two-year live-on-campus requirement that keeps the cohort close. Housed in the Department of Education, the program earned a first-place ranking among five Florida institutions in the state's 2021 annual performance report for its Elementary, Exceptional Student Education, ESOL, and Reading preparation. For students who want a hands-on, community-centered route into elementary teaching, it offers a clear and well-supported path. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts place on the list comes down to outcomes, selectivity, and price, weighted in that order. Start with the outcome that matters most, 56% of students graduate, top 33% among Florida programs, which is the biggest reason it sits where it does. A 81% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $28,800 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 29
Northwest Florida State College
42score- 39%Grad rate
- $2,151/yrIn-state tuition
- $8,604/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 4,752Undergrads
- 18Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- Hybrid
About the programStructured as a 2+2 degree, Northwest Florida State College's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education picks up where an associate degree leaves off, welcoming students who arrive with 60 or more transferable credits into a 120-credit path toward K-6 licensure. What sets the program apart is how early and how often it puts candidates in front of students, with classroom placements every semester that build toward a full-time, 15-week student teaching internship guided by a certified mentor. ESOL and Reading endorsements come embedded at no extra cost, broadening what graduates are prepared to teach. Delivery flexes across traditional, hybrid, and online formats, typically asking students on campus in Niceville just one or two days a week. It leads to Florida Department of Education K-6 teacher certification. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 39% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Cost only helps its case: at $2,151 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 30
St Petersburg College
41score- 38%Grad rate
- $1,943/yrIn-state tuition
- $7,774/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 23,936Undergrads
- 49Grads/yr
- Elementary Education (K-6) with Infused ESOL & Reading Endorsements Bachelor of Science
- Hybrid
About the programSt. Petersburg College designs its Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education around the reality that K-6 classrooms span very different stages of learning, sending students into practicums and a final internship across both primary and intermediate grades under the guidance of veteran educators. ESOL and Reading endorsements are infused into the degree rather than bolted on, preparing candidates to support English learners and developing readers. Flexibility is a hallmark here, with classes offered face to face, online, or blended, and a fully online option for students balancing other commitments. Everything points toward Florida teacher certification for grades K-6, awarded through the state Department of Education. It is a hands-on program that keeps future teachers close to actual classrooms throughout their studies. It carries the lowest in-state tuition among Florida's 45 ranked bachelor's-level programs, at $1,943. Earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education is a common route toward becoming one of Florida's elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 38% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Cost only helps its case: at $1,943 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 31
Florida SouthWestern State College
40score- 39%Grad rate
- $2,436/yrIn-state tuition
- $9,750/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 14,301Undergrads
- 58Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- Hybrid
About the programFlorida SouthWestern State College's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education spans the full range of an elementary teacher's work, with instruction in subjects such as math, science, and language arts sitting alongside coursework on teaching English Language Learners and students with exceptionalities. The 120-credit-hour degree is approved by the Florida Department of Education for K-6 certification and folds in ESOL and Reading endorsements. Practice builds in stages, moving students from classroom observation through practicum teaching to a full-time internship in their final semester. Scheduling bends to fit adult learners, offering full-time and part-time tracks with blended and online options where available. For students in Fort Myers who already hold an Associate in Arts degree, it is an accessible route into elementary teaching. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts place on the list comes down to outcomes, selectivity, and price, weighted in that order. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 39% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Cost only helps its case: at $2,436 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 32
Jacksonville University
39score- 51%Grad rate
- $46,963/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 57%Admit rate
- 2,946Undergrads
- 3Grads/yr
- 1190SAT mid
- Education for Instruction (B.A./B.S.)
About the programJacksonville University's Education for Instruction major, available as a B.A. or B.S., is housed in the Department of Education within the Linda Berry Stein College of Arts and Sciences. Students choose among concentrations in literacy education, TESOL education, and community education. The program describes internships, independent studies, and community service opportunities, with small classes at this private university in Jacksonville, Florida. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 51%, solid without being a standout. A 57% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $46,963 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 33
Warner University
39score- 42%Grad rate
- $28,832/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 43%Admit rate
- 803Undergrads
- 13Grads/yr
- 930SAT mid
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education: Grades K-6
- On-campus
About the programWarner University in Lake Wales, FL offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education: Grades K-6 that meets the requirements for Florida teacher certification. Students in this on campus elementary education program complete a hands on internship at a local school during their junior or senior year, gaining classroom management and teaching experience before graduation. The program culminates in a senior education seminar where students showcase what they have learned. With an average class size of thirteen students, Warner University offers close faculty support throughout the elementary education teacher licensure pathway. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts place on the list comes down to outcomes, selectivity, and price, weighted in that order. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 42% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. A 43% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $28,832 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 34
State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota
39score- 38%Grad rate
- $2,365/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 8,750Undergrads
- 5Grads/yr
- On-campus
About the programState College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota in Bradenton, FL offers an Elementary Education program that prepares graduates for K-6 teacher certification. The curriculum covers core elementary subjects such as reading, writing, mathematics, social sciences, and natural science, along with child development, classroom management, and communication skills. The program culminates in elementary education and reading internships that provide the clinical hours needed to enter the field. Courses are offered across SCF's Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice campuses. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWe rank on the things that actually shape a teaching degree: whether students finish, how hard it is to get in, and the price of admission. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 38% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Cost only helps its case: at $2,365 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 35
Polk State College
39score- 35%Grad rate
- $1,987/yrIn-state tuition
- $7,947/yrOut-of-state tuition
- 10,318Undergrads
- 19Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programPolk State College in Winter Haven, FL offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a 60 credit hour program designed for students who have completed an Associate in Arts degree. The program leads to Florida Professional Teacher Certification for kindergarten through sixth grade, with students also earning ESOL and Reading endorsements along the way. Teacher candidates gain field experience throughout the curriculum in local classrooms before completing a 12 week culminating internship, working as a full time classroom teacher in a Polk County school. This structure gives future elementary teachers hands on preparation for teacher licensure close to home. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 35% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Cost only helps its case: at $1,987 in state, tuition runs below the Florida median, so students are not paying a premium for those results.
- 36
Palm Beach Atlantic University
38score- 55%Grad rate
- $39,400/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 82%Admit rate
- 3,312Undergrads
- 13Grads/yr
- 1085SAT mid
- Elementary Education, K-6/ESOL/Reading
- On-campus
About the programPalm Beach Atlantic University's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education prepares candidates to teach grades K-6 and folds Reading and ESOL endorsements into the same 120-credit, four-year track, so graduates leave with the Florida Elementary K-6 certificate plus both endorsements. Housed in the School of Education and Behavioral Studies, the program is notably experience-heavy, asking candidates to log more than 96 hours of fieldwork practicum before moving into two full semesters of teaching residencies. Students can further shape their preparation through concentrations in areas such as Exceptional Student Education, Early Childhood Education, and Children's Ministry. The on-campus program is anchored in a Christ-Focused Teaching approach that runs through the coursework. Elementary Education majors may also compete for support from the Bebe Warren Scholars Program, which offers scholarships toward the degree. Earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education is a common route toward becoming one of Florida's elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts rank is built from three numbers: graduation rate, admission rate, and in-state tuition, in that order of weight. Its strongest card is completion: a 55% graduation rate lands it in the top 36% of Florida programs, and since finishing counts for the most, that does much of the work. A 82% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $39,400 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 37
Southeastern University
35score- 43%Grad rate
- $31,650/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 53%Admit rate
- 10,172Undergrads
- 25Grads/yr
About the programSoutheastern University is a private nonprofit institution in Lakeland, Florida, offering an undergraduate program in elementary education and teaching. The program prepares students for classroom teaching at the elementary level, pairing general education coursework with professional teaching preparation for future elementary educators. Study takes place at the university's Lakeland campus. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 43% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. A 53% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $31,650 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 38
Lynn University
33score- 52%Grad rate
- $42,730/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 73%Admit rate
- 2,861Undergrads
- 3Grads/yr
- 1120SAT mid
- Elementary Education
About the programLynn University offers a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education through its College of Education, a state-approved program built to meet Florida certification requirements for teaching grades K through six. Coursework is paired with required onsite classroom experience near the student's location, and students may add an optional specialization covering preschool through third grade through focused electives. The degree prepares graduates to pursue a Florida teaching certificate. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageIts rank is built from three numbers: graduation rate, admission rate, and in-state tuition, in that order of weight. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 52%, solid without being a standout. A 73% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $42,730 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 39
Saint Leo University
28score- 45%Grad rate
- $27,880/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 78%Admit rate
- 7,516Undergrads
- 51Grads/yr
- Elementary Education (Grades K-6), B.A.
- Online
About the programSaint Leo University's Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education prepares students to teach grades K-6 and leads to Florida K-6 teacher certification with ESOL and Reading endorsements. The 120-credit degree requires more than 800 hours of clinical experience by the end of senior year, spanning at least four field placements plus a full-time senior-year internship. It is offered on campus at Saint Leo, at Saint Leo Education Centers, and fully online, and is available to students in Florida. More than 60 graduates have been named Teacher of the Year in the past decade. Graduates of this elementary education program at the bachelor's level often go on to work as elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThree things decide where a program lands on this list: how many students finish, how selective it is, and what it costs. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 45%, solid without being a standout. A 78% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $27,880 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 40
Trinity Baptist College
28score- 34%Grad rate
- $13,900/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 53%Admit rate
- 406Undergrads
- 3Grads/yr
- 893SAT mid
- Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programNow known as Trinity College of Jacksonville, Trinity Baptist College offers its Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education through the Division of Education, with a clear emphasis on supervised time in the classroom. Student teaching runs at least 160 clock hours of observation and teaching, jointly overseen by a cooperating classroom teacher and a college representative, and qualified students can add an internship at one of the largest Christian academies in Florida once they meet the prerequisites. Completing the program makes graduates eligible to pursue Florida state teaching certification. All coursework is delivered on campus, and the college holds institutional accreditation through TRACS, which applies to the institution as a whole rather than to this program specifically. This bachelor's-level elementary education program prepares graduates for work as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 34% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. A 53% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $13,900 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 41
Albizu University-Miami
26score- 40%Grad rate
- $12,960/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 76%Admit rate
- 287Undergrads
- 3Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
- Hybrid
About the programAlbizu University's Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education is a 124-credit program that prepares students to teach in any elementary school and can be completed in three to five years. Coursework integrates the study of human behavior with respect for individuals from all backgrounds. Students complete a 10-credit student teaching internship conducted in a multicultural setting. Classes run day, evening, and hybrid formats across campus and online. The program accepts CLEP credit for scores of 50 or higher and prior learning credit, and students may join the Kappa Delta Psi International Honor Society. Graduates pursue Florida teacher licensure. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 40% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. A 76% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $12,960 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 42
St. Thomas University
22score- 48%Grad rate
- $33,580/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 98%Admit rate
- 4,486Undergrads
- 2Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programThe Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education at St. Thomas University is offered through the Biscayne College for Liberal Arts and Social Sciences and taught on campus in Miami Gardens, Florida. Students begin hands-on teaching experiences in their first semester, with experiential learning in local schools, and can apply for Florida certification as part of the program. The degree combines academic preparation with a values-based educational philosophy and is affiliated with Future Teachers of America. The program reports that 95% of graduates secure employment within one year and 80% pursue advanced degrees within five years. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. On completion, the heaviest factor, it lands mid-pack among Florida programs at 48%, solid without being a standout. Admission is close to open access at 98%, so this is a program that bets on teaching students well rather than screening them out. The one drag is price, $33,580 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 43
Webber International University
15score- 28%Grad rate
- $29,230/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 69%Admit rate
- 833Undergrads
- 2Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
- On-campus
About the programWebber International University's Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education is a 120-credit, in-person degree that leads to certification for teaching grades K-6 in public, private, or charter schools. At its center is a learner-centered philosophy, with attention to child development, effective teaching methods, and classroom management. Candidates study the core subjects they will one day teach, including literacy, math, science, and social studies, and learn to weave technology into instruction. Regular field placements and classroom observations let them test educational theory in real schools well before graduation. Added Reading and ESOL endorsements broaden what completers are prepared to teach, and small classes keep faculty close. A bachelor's-level path in elementary education, it builds toward a career among elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 28% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. A 69% admission rate makes it moderately selective, neither a gatekeeper nor open enrollment. The one drag is price, $29,230 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 44
Bethune-Cookman University
10score- 31%Grad rate
- $13,844/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 88%Admit rate
- 2,738Undergrads
- 7Grads/yr
- 910SAT mid
- Elementary Education (B.S.)
About the programBethune-Cookman University's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education prepares candidates to teach the K-6 grades, with a program that folds endorsement work in ESOL and reading directly into the elementary coursework rather than treating it as an add-on. Offered through the School of Education, the degree runs at least 121 credit hours, rising to 123 for the Elementary Education/ESOL K-6 specialization. Hands-on work builds year over year, from a reading practicum and other placements in the junior year to a 12-credit student-teaching term as a senior. That steady progression means students spend meaningful time in real classrooms before they lead one. Graduates of the school's programs qualify for teacher certification in Florida, part of a teaching tradition that dates to the university's first Elementary Education graduates in 1943. Earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education is a common route toward becoming one of Florida's elementary school teachers.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageWhere it lands is a story about completion first, then selectivity, then cost. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 31% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Admission is close to open access at 88%, so this is a program that bets on teaching students well rather than screening them out. The one drag is price, $13,844 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
- 45
Florida Memorial University
10score- 31%Grad rate
- $14,274/yrTuition (in or out of state)
- 85%Admit rate
- 1,206Undergrads
- 3Grads/yr
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education/ESOL K-6/Reading
About the programFlorida Memorial University's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education bundles three credentials into one K-6 program, joining the elementary focus with endorsements in ESOL, for English speakers of other languages, and reading. Offered through the School of Education and Social Sciences, the degree treats those specialties as part of the core professional preparation rather than optional extras. Classroom practice comes through field activities and an internship woven into the education coursework, giving candidates real experience before they are licensed. The program is shaped by Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation standards along with Florida State Board of Education rules. Completion leads to teacher licensure for the K-6 grades. As a bachelor's degree in elementary education, it is one of the programs that lead to careers as elementary school teachers in Florida.
Why it ranks hereProgram pageThe ranking rewards programs that graduate their students, stay at least somewhat selective, and keep tuition reasonable, so here is how this one measures up. The sticking point is completion, the factor we weigh most heavily: at 31% the graduation rate trails the Florida median, which caps how high it can climb. Admission is close to open access at 85%, so this is a program that bets on teaching students well rather than screening them out. The one drag is price, $14,274 in state, above the Florida median, so it earns its rank on outcomes rather than affordability.
Key facts about a bachelor's in Elementary Education in Florida
- Florida has 45 accredited bachelor's in elementary education programs in our 2026 ranking, all drawn from federal IPEDS data.
- University of Florida ranks first among elementary education bachelor's programs in Florida with a score of 89, on a 91 percent graduation rate.
- St Petersburg College is the most affordable bachelor's in elementary education in Florida, at $1,943 a year in-state tuition.
- Elementary school teachers in Florida earn a median of $58,930 a year (BLS), ranking Florida 40 of 51 states and territories for the occupation.
- 5 of the bachelor's in elementary education programs in Florida offer an online or hybrid option.
- Florida requires the FTCE licensure exam, administered through Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Educator Certification, to earn a teaching license.
What a bachelor's in elementary education costs in Florida (2026)
Published in-state tuition for a bachelor's in elementary education in Florida runs from $1,943 to $60,720 a year across the 45 programs we rank, with a median of $7,200. The most affordable is St Petersburg College at $1,943 a year. These are published sticker rates from IPEDS; most future teachers bring the net figure down with the Pell Grant, the federal TEACH Grant, and state teacher-preparation aid, so weigh net price, not the sticker.
Cost only means something next to completion. The elementary education programs ranked here average a 54 percent graduation rate, and a lower-priced program where fewer students finish is not necessarily the cheaper path to a degree. Compare tuition and graduation rate together above.
Sources: IPEDS tuition data
What elementary school teachers earn in Florida
Elementary school teachers in Florida earn a median of $58,930 a year, per BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025), compared with a national median of $63,970. That ranks Florida 40 of 51 states and territories for elementary school teachers pay. Nationally, pay for this occupation spans roughly $47,960 at the 10th percentile to $104,340 at the 90th, with a master's degree, years in the classroom, and the local district salary schedule driving the climb.
The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook projects 2 percent decline in elementary school teachers employment nationally from 2024 to 2034, with about 103,800 openings a year as teachers retire or change careers. A bachelor's in elementary education in Florida is the entry point to that market, not the ceiling.
How to get a Florida teaching license
To teach in Florida you need a bachelor's in elementary education (or a bachelor's plus an approved preparation program), a supervised student-teaching placement, and a Florida teaching license issued by Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Educator Certification. Florida calls the initial credential the Professional Certificate, and earning it means passing FTCE (Florida Teacher Certification Examinations) plus a background check.
FTCE is administered by Evaluation Systems, Pearson; a three-year nonrenewable Temporary Certificate is available before the Professional Certificate. Confirm your program is currently state-approved before you enroll.
Sources: Florida educator certification, FTCE exam
Choosing an accredited elementary education program in Florida
Pick a bachelor's in elementary education in Florida that is regionally accredited and whose educator-preparation program is approved by the Florida Department of Education, ideally with CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) accreditation. State approval is what lets the degree count toward a Florida teaching license, and CAEP is the national standard for program quality, so confirm both before enrolling in any elementary education program in Florida.
Sources: CAEP accreditation
Online and hybrid elementary education programs in Florida
5 of the bachelor's in elementary education programs in Florida offer an online or hybrid option. Online teacher-preparation still requires in-person student teaching, so these formats suit working adults and career changers who can complete supervised classroom hours locally while taking coursework online. An online bachelor's in elementary education from a state-approved, CAEP-accredited program leads to the same Florida teaching license as an on-campus degree; the diploma does not distinguish the format.
Frequently asked questions about a bachelor's in Elementary Education in Florida
How many bachelor's in elementary education programs are in Florida?
There are 45 accredited bachelor's in elementary education programs in Florida in our 2026 ranking, all drawn from the federal IPEDS database.
What is the most affordable bachelor's in elementary education in Florida?
St Petersburg College is the most affordable bachelor's in elementary education in Florida, at $1,943 a year in in-state tuition.
How much do elementary school teachers make in Florida?
Elementary school teachers in Florida earn a median of $58,930 a year, according to <a href="https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252021.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics</a>, versus $63,970 nationally.
What exam do you need to teach in Florida?
Florida requires the FTCE (Florida Teacher Certification Examinations) licensure exam, administered for Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Educator Certification. See the <a href="https://www.fl.nesinc.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">official exam page</a> for current test requirements.
Is a bachelor's in elementary education worth it in Florida?
For most future teachers, yes. A bachelor's in elementary education in Florida is the standard credential for a Florida teaching license, and it leads to a median elementary school teachers salary of $58,930 a year in Florida. Compare graduation rate and net price above to find the best value in 2026.
These are the best bachelor's in elementary education programs in Florida for 2026, ranked on the outcomes that matter. Compare all 45 bachelor's in elementary education in Florida above by graduation rate, tuition, and selectivity, then open each program page to take the next step toward teaching in an elementary school classroom in Florida.