Elementary Education Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Preparation for teaching children in grades K-6 across all subjects.
Starting Salary
$42K
median
Mid-Career
$55K
salary
ROI Payback
5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
2.5%
rate
Elementary Education Overview
Preparation for teaching children in grades K-6 across all subjects.
Category
Education
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
72%
Enrollment Trend
declining
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
8%
Lifetime Premium
$280K
Female Graduates
82%
Elementary Education Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$14,400
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$14,400
after scholarships
ROI Payback
2 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$265,600
Lifetime earnings premium ($280,000) minus net degree cost ($14,400)
Elementary Education Salary Progression
Common Elementary Education Careers
Elementary Teacher
Curriculum Developer
Instructional Coach
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Elementary Education
#1
Vanderbilt
#2
University of Michigan
#3
University of Wisconsin
#4
Boston College
#5
Columbia Teachers College
Related Majors
Elementary Education Degree FAQ
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