Home 2023 Most Affordable Teacher Certification Bachelor’s Degrees in Education in the Pacific Region

2023 Most Affordable Teacher Certification Bachelor’s Degrees in Education in the Pacific Region

There are few things left in America that are as local as teaching is. Community involvement with education is one of the bright shining stars of American civic engagement, supporting neighbors and their children through local school systems that each offer a unique source of community pride… sports teams, bake sales, and lists in the local paper for every student in the community awarded a scholarship or enrolled in college.

Your vision of teaching probably embraces that kind of local pride and engagement, and if you are someone who wants to teach close to home, then you probably want to learn how to teach close to home, too. And if becoming a hometown hero in the teaching community is your goal, then it only makes sense to get the most out of every education dollar you spend by finding the most affordable program in your area. Teachers don’t make big bucks; economizing on college is just a reality for most professional educators. You’re not alone, and we’re here to help.

Tuition costs aside, regional colleges have always been one of the best options when it comes to earning a bachelor’s in preparation for becoming a teacher. By studying with professors who probably also taught previous generations of teachers already working in school districts nearby, you’re part of a longer line of educational professionals, sharing experiences, a community culture, and teaching philosophy that will make getting traction in your first job that much easier. And when you’re already part of the community you’ll be teaching in, you’ll find that students naturally relate to you, which helps the whole teaching and classroom management process gel.

And for that reason, we believe in a regional approach to shopping for college degrees. That’s exactly why we put together this list of the most affordable initial teacher prep bachelor’s programs available out here on the West Coast, Hawaii and Alaska.

How We Identified The Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees for Teachers in the Pacific Region

Our process for finding the most affordable programs is very simple and straightforward:

First we split the colleges into two groups, one for public schools, and the other for private. Each of these two categories has their own funding mechanisms and operating expenses, as well as different objectives. State schools have the obvious advantage in a side-by-side comparison of tuition rates since they’re able to offer steeply discounted residential rates to in-state students. But for international students and those coming in from outside the state, private universities can often beat the non-residential rates offered by public schools. 

The differences in public and private college tuition rates and all the factors that go into setting those rates really places them in two completely different categories, making it impossible to do a fair price comparisons between the two. So what you’ll find on this list are the most affordable for each category in each state in the Pacific Region.

Then, we took the average per-credit rate for public and private colleges separately, and included all programs from each category that come in lower than the respective averages.

Also, as you are probably well aware if you are a local, we do things a little differently out here on the Best Coast… many of our colleges work on the quarter system, not the semester system that most of the rest of the country uses. But we also have many that operate on semesters now too. That complicates the math a bit when it comes to making comparisons—semester credits count for a bit more than a quarter credit, with the average four-year degree at a school on the quarter system coming up to 180 total credits versus 120 credits for a semester system school.

Don’t worry, though, we did the math to even these out, sticking with the standard conversion most schools use when transferring in credits from schools using the other system: 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits.

By simply multiplying the quarter credit rate by 1.5 we end up with a common unit for a solid apples-to-apples comparison of the per-credit cost at each school. We note all schools that required the tuition rate conversion, and show both the actual cost and the conversion. 

And finally, it’s worth noting that while we list both in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, our comparisons to the averages are made on the basis of the in-state rates, not the higher out-of-state costs.

We also tell you exactly how much lower than the average each program clocks in at, so you can see exactly how much you will be saving at each school.

Useful Information You Need Besides the Tuition Rates

Although the total cost of a bachelor’s degree is probably a significant consideration for you, it’s certainly not the only thing you are going to look at when you are picking out the right school to prepare you for your teaching career. There are dozens of personal preferences and other factors that you will want to weigh before you make your final decision, so although this list is here to showcase programs with the best tuition rates, we also took the opportunity to present you with some of the other info that will surely factor into that decision. After all, nobody can make an informed decision about the right school based on a rundown of tuition rates alone.

Here’s some of the other valuable information we provide besides just the cost comparison:

  • Curriculum concentrations, so you can find a school that supports your plans to teach a certain subject at the secondary level
  • Whether the program is available only in a traditional on-campus format or if you can take advantage of hybrid or entirely online classes
  • Program extras, like a special focus on urban teaching, bilingual programs, or partnerships with noted community programs
  • Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP) accreditation (current TEAC and NCATE accreditation noted, though all three organizations are now consolidated under CAEP)
  • Special awards like those from the Carnegie Foundation and other respected organizations
  • Unique or brand new facilities for students to study and attend class in
  • Low faculty-to-student ratios for additional one-on-one attention from instructors

All that data didn’t factor into our decision to include programs on this list, but it probably will factor into your decision as you start putting together your applications, so we wanted to give it to you all right here in one place.

2023 Guide to the Most Affordable Teaching Certificate Bachelor’s in Education Programs in the Pacific Region

From the Last Frontier to the Pacific Northwest to those golden beaches of Hawaii and the Golden State, there are some world class teacher’s colleges available in every state in the Pacific Region offering initial teacher licensure programs.

Each of the degrees we feature have all the right curriculum components built in for you to earn your teaching license and hit the ground running after graduation. And they deliver it all at a price that comes in below the average for their state.

So here you have it, the complete state-by-state rundown of the most affordable teaching certificate bachelor’s in education programs in the Pacific Region for 2023.

Most Affordable Teaching Certificate Bachelor’s in Education Programs in Alaska

University of Alaska Fairbanks (PU)
School of Education
Fairbanks, AK
Website

BA in Education (on-campus, online)

  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education 7-12
    • Art
    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Earth Science
    • English
    • French
    • German
    • History
    • Mathematics
    • Physics
    • Spanish
    • Art (K-12)
  • Special Education

Estimated cost per credit: $258 (in-state), $824  (out-of-state)

$29 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • CAEP/NCATE accredited
  • Taught by experienced educators who understand the unique needs of Alaska’s diverse communities
  • Outstanding convenience and flexibility: programs offered either on-campus or online

The University of Alaska Fairbanks’ undergraduate teacher preparation programs pack a one-two punch that’s hard to beat—they’re both affordable and highly focused on the needs of Alaska’s diverse communities. Thanks to strong educational collaborations with Alaska’s schools and communities, students here learn how to respond to the unique needs and interests of Alaska’s youth, their families, and the communities in which they live and work. With programs available at the Fairbanks and Anchorage campuses or through an online delivery model that features highly interactive online classes, UAF provides a convenient and easily accessible path to your initial teacher credential, regardless of your work-life responsibilities.

Most Affordable Teaching Certificate Bachelor’s in Education Programs in California

Public Colleges in California

San Francisco State University (PU)
Graduate College of Education
San Francisco, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus), Elementary Teacher Preparation Pathway

BA in Child and Adolescent Development (on-campus), Elementary Teacher Preparation Pathway

Estimated cost per credit: $248 (in-state), $644 (out-of-state)

$3 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MAEd in 1) Adult Education, Equity and Social Justice in Education, 2) Educational Administration, 3) Instructional Technologies
  • Optional Bilingual Authorization available
  • Small class sizes with an average of just 30 students ensure a personalized course of education

San Francisco State University offers two pathways to becoming an elementary school teacher, both of which come with a price tag that’s sure to impress. Choose either program as a path to earning the multiple subject teaching credential and then decide if earning a bilingual authorization is right for you. Outstanding student support here is front and center, ensuring that aspiring teachers like you have everything you need for success. The Education Advising Community Hub (TEACH) is one such source of support and is where you’ll devise your academic plan for earning your teaching credentials. And with an average class size of just 30 students, you’ll never be just a number at San Francisco State.

California State University-East Bay (PU)
College of Education and Allied Studies
Hayward, CA
Website

Bachelors (on-campus)

  • Single subject
  • Multiple subject

Estimated cost per credit: $233 (in-state), $629 (out-of-state)

$18 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MS in 1) Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Technology, Reading and Literacy, 2) Educational Leadership, E-learning
  • Programs built upon the school’s 50+ history of producing California educators
  • Superb support provided by the Credential Student Service Center

For more than 50 years, California State University’s East Bay campus has been providing the next generation of California’s educators with unmatched educational experiences that feature some of the best tuition rates in the state. Its undergraduate teacher preparation program comes with everything you need to become a credentialed elementary or secondary school teacher, including a strong support system courtesy of the Credential Student Service Center (CSSC). The CSSC offers something you won’t find in many other colleges, a hub for advice and guidance that ensures someone will be with you every step of the way, until that final verification of your teaching credential. It’s a system that offers the kind of support you need to feel confident you’re making all the right moves as you prepare for your teaching career.

California State University-Dominguez Hills (PU)
College of Education
Carson, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus)

  • Preliminary Single Subject Credential program
  • Preliminary Multiple Subject Credential program (K-8)

Estimated cost per credit: $231 (in-state), $627 (out-of-state)

$20 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MAEd in Curriculum and Instruction, Dual Language Learning, School Leadership
  • Optional bilingual authorization
  • Outstanding student guidance and personalized academic advising

California State University – Dominguez Hills knows what it takes to produce the next generation of top California educators, and its College of Education is where it all begins. Along with a tuition price that ranks it among one of the most affordable in the state, the College of Education offers two paths to a California teacher credential and the option of adding a bilingual authorization. Just some of the benefits of choosing CSU Dominguez Hills for your teacher preparation education include individual academic advising and personalized guidance, low student-to-faculty ratios, and a dedicated faculty that includes experienced practitioners that serve as mentors throughout your educational journey. Choose CSU Dominguez Hills and you’ll be part of one of the most diverse and ethnically balanced campuses in the CSU system.

California State University-Los Angeles (PU)
Charter College of Education
Los Angeles, CA
Website

BA in Urban Learning (on-campus, online, hybrid)

  • Single subject (secondary)
  • Multiple subject (elementary)
  • Education Specialist
    • Mild/moderate disabilities
    • Moderate/severe disabilities
    • Physical and health impairments
    • Visual impairments and blindness

Estimated cost per credit: $226 (in-state), $622 (out-of-state)

$25 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MAED in Bilingual/Multicultural Education in the Urban Classroom, Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Foundations; MA in Educational Administration, TESOL, Visual Impairment & Blindness: O&M 3) Educational Technology (E-Learning and New Media Design, Educational Technology Leadership)
  • Optional bilingual authorization available
  • Optional authorizations in orthopedic impairments and other health impairments available
  • Recognized as the only public school of education in the nation to hold the “charter” title, which allows the college to provide a focus on the transformation of the urban public educational system

California State University Los Angeles provides one of the most affordable pathways to single subject, multiple subject, and education specialist teaching credentials in California through its BA in Urban Learning. This degree program features a distinct focus on transforming public schools and related community services agencies, which is achieved through its close ties with public schools and various educational agencies throughout the greater Los Angeles region. The Charter College of Education at CSU Los Angeles holds the unique distinction as being the first and only public school of education in the nation to hold the “charter” title, which allows the college to provide a focus on the transformation of the urban public education system. With groundbreaking programs like this, it’s no wonder that CSU Los Angeles has been ranked first in the nation for the upward mobility of its students.

California State University-Fresno (PU)
Kremen School of Education & Human Development
Fresno, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus)

  • Multiple Subject
  • Single Subject

Estimated cost per credit: $221 (in-state), $617 (out-of-state)

$30 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • NCATE-accredited
  • Also offers: MAEd in Curriculum and Instruction, Multilingual Multicultural Education; MA in Educational Leadership and Administration, Higher Education Administration and Leadership
  • Optional bilingual authorization available
  • Recipient of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching award because of its outstanding partnership with Central California

Along with a tuition rate that ranks it among the most affordable public schools in the state, California State University – Fresno offers both elementary and secondary pathways to initial teacher credentialing in California and exciting cohort classes in Liberal Studies through the Strategic Teacher Education Partnership (STEP). Through a STEP cohort (joined in your junior year), students move throughout the program with the same set of peers – a recipe for outstanding collaboration and support. Engaged professors, plenty of interdisciplinary projects, and a singular focus on teacher preparation among all students provide a truly dynamic communal learning experience for aspiring educators. Choose CSU Fresno and you’ll study in the university’s state-of-the-art Education Building, which is home to outstanding clinical areas and micro-teaching laboratories.

California State University-Long Beach (PU)
College of Education
Long Beach, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus)

  • Elementary Education Integrated Teacher Education Program

Estimated cost per credit: $191 (in-state), $587 (out-of-state)

$60 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MAEd in Curriculum and Instruction, Social and Cultural Analysis of Education, Dual Language Development, Educational Technology and Media Leadership; MA in Educational Administration
  • College serves about 3,000 students and ranks among the top schools in the California State University system for the number of teaching credentials granted
  • Boasts a faculty-to-student ratio of just 1:21

The California State University Long Beach BA in Liberal Studies in Elementary Education is the affordable and convenient path to an initial teaching credential in California you’ve been looking for. Priced right at just $191 a credit, this program is all about affordability, and as part of the Integrated Teacher Education Program, it’s designed to get you teaching in the classroom in just four, short years – a year sooner than a traditional teacher preparation program! Proudly offered through the university’s esteemed College of Education, home to a faculty comprised of top-notch scholars and practitioners, a number of student advising centers that offer outstanding support and guidance throughout your academic journey, and strong partnerships with close to 100 school districts throughout the region.

California State University-San Marcos (PU)
School of Education
San Marcos, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus), Integrated Teacher Education Program

  • K-8

Estimated cost per credit: $191 (in-state), $587 (out-of-state)

$60 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MA in 1) Multilingual and Multicultural Education, Curriculum and Instruction, 2) Reading, Language and Literacy, 3) Educational Administration
  • Superb academic environment includes a student body of more than 16,000, more than 100 student clubs and organizations, and excellent student career services
  • Outstanding career services include career assessments, job search services, and personalized counseling

California State University San Marcos has provided an affordable and convenient path to an initial California teaching credential in elementary or middle school teaching by incorporating the Integrated Teacher Education Program into its BA in Liberal Studies program – an accelerated course of study that can be completed in just four years. Built on a history of academic excellence that goes back 30 years, CSU San Marcos features a student body of more than 16,000, an ideal location in beautiful northern San Diego County, more than 100 student clubs and organizations, and outstanding career support services that include personalized counseling, career assessments, job search strategies, and more.

California State University-Stanislaus (PU)
College of Education, Kinesiology, & Social Work
Turlock, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus)

  • Integrated Teaching Credential Option (ITCO)
    • Multiple Subject (Elementary)
    • Multiple Subject (Elementary with a Spanish Bilingual Authorization)
    • Education Specialist (Mild/Moderate)

Estimated cost per credit: $191 (in-state), $587 (out-of-state)

$60 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MAEd in School Administration, Curriculum and Instruction
  • Named a “Best Bang for the Buck” college in the West by Washington Monthly
  • Ranked among the Top 30 Colleges in the West by U.S. News & World Report

California State University Stanislaus offers the outstanding tuition you’d expect from the CSU system and a convenient, accelerated path to an initial teaching credential through the Integrated Teacher Credential option. Designed within the school’s BA in Liberal Studies, the ITCO allows you to earn a bachelor’s degree and an initial teaching credential in California in just four years – that’s one year sooner than a traditional teacher preparation program! Long respected for its esteemed faculty and high-quality academic programs, CSU Stanislaus boasts a spot among Washington Monthly’s “Best Bang for the Buck,” a ranking among the Top 30 Colleges in the West by U.S. News & World Report, and a spot among the “Most Transformative” universities in the nation by MONEY Magazine.

San Diego State University (PU)
College of Education
San Diego, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus)

  • Traditional Credential Programs
    • Elementary School Teaching
    • Middle/High School Teaching
    • Special Education
  • Integrated Teacher Education Program (multiple subjects, elementary)
  • Integrated Teacher Education Program (single subject)
    • Math
    • Chemistry
    • Social Science

Estimated program cost per credit: $191 (in-state), $587 (out-of-state)

$60 less per credit than public state average

  • Also offers: MA in Postsecondary Educational Leadership with a Specialization in Student Affairs; Educational Leadership PK-12, Autism Specialization; Teacher Leadership, Reading and Literacy Education; MAEd in Critical Literacy and Social Justice
  • SDSU’s College of Education was ranked first among all CSUs in U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 ratings
  • Teacher preparation programs offered as both traditional, five-year programs and as accelerated, Integrated Teacher Education Programs that can be completed in four

San Diego State University offers the finest selection of undergraduate teacher preparation programs and some of the best tuition rates in the state and in the nation. Offered as either a five-year traditional teacher preparation program or as an Integrated Teacher Education Program, an accelerated course of study that’s designed to take just four years to complete, the path to an initial California teaching credential has never been more accessible. Housed within the university’s esteemed College of Education, which is consistently ranked among the best schools of education in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, San Diego State teacher preparation programs are some of the most dynamic in the CSU system. In fact, SDSU’s College of Education was ranked first among all CSUs in U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 ratings.

San Jose State University (PU)
Connie L. Lurie College of Education
San Jose, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus) – Integrated Teacher Education Program

  • Multiple Subject Teacher Credential (optional Spanish bilingual authorization)
  • Single Subject Teacher Credential
    • Art
    • English
    • Foreign language: French, Japanese, Mandarin, Spanish
    • Kinesiology (Physical Education)
    • Math
    • Music
    • Science: Biology, Chemistry, Foundation Level Science, Geoscience, Physics
    • Social Science
  • Special Education

Estimated cost per credit: $130 (in-state), $526 (out-of-state)

$121 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MA in Emancipatory School Leadership
  • Ranked second in the CSU system among the Best Graduate Schools in Education in 2021 by U.S. News & World Report

At just $130 per credit, San Jose State University holds a distinction as the most affordable undergraduate teacher prep program in California. In addition to a huge selection of subject credentialing tracks offered as Integrated Teacher Education Programs – accelerated, four-year programs leading to an initial California teaching credential – San Jose State University has also earned a reputation as a leading institution within the CSU system. In fact, U.S. News & World Report ranked it second in the CSU system among the Best Graduate Schools in Education in 2021. Better known as Silicon Valley’s Public University, San Jose State University continues to make a positive and lasting mark on the economic, cultural, and social development of the Silicon Valley and California.

Private Colleges in California

California Baptist University (PR)
Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education
Riverside, CA
Website

BS in Elementary Education (on-campus)

Estimated cost per credit: $1,163

$4 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MSEd Educational Leadership for Faith-Based Institutions, TESOL; MS in Higher Education Leadership and Student Development
  • Named a Best Regional University by U.S. News & World Report in 2018
  • Ranked among the top Christian colleges and universities in Southern California

California Baptist University is proof-positive that a private education can be affordable! Offering the BS in Elementary Education, this school not only provides a convenient and price-conscious path to an initial teaching credential in California, but it also offers outstanding opportunities for exceptional practical training. You’ll feel good earning your bachelor’s and initial teaching credential from one of the top-ranked private Christian colleges and universities in Southern California that’s backed by a 100% Christian faculty and staff and more than 70 years of academic excellence.

William Jessup University (PR)
School of Education
San Jose, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus)

  • Multiple Subject (K-8)
  • Specific Subject concentration
    • ASL
    • Child Development
    • English
    • History
    • Psychology

Estimated cost per credit: $1,125

$42 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MAED in Leadership and Research
  • Consistently ranked as a Best Value School in the West by U.S. News & World Report
  • Outstanding support and guidance through the Office of Career & Life Planning

William Jessup University’s BA in Liberal Studies is everything you’d want in an undergraduate teacher prep program: comprehensive, affordable, and proven. Thanks to a tuition rate that falls below the state’s average for private schools, William Jessup has been consistently ranked as a Best Value School in the West by U.S. News & World Report. And in the last three years, the college has more than doubled in size, reflecting its commitment to growth and innovation. But you’ll still benefit from the personal attention and values-based mission of a private university, which includes outstanding support and guidance through the Office of Career & Life Planning.

Fresno Pacific University (PR)
Fresno, CA
Website

BA/BS (on-campus)

  • Secondary Teaching Emphasis
    • English
    • Mathematics
    • Biology
    • Music
    • Physical Education

Estimated cost per credit: $1,098

$69 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MAEd in Administrative Services; MA in Reading and Language
  • Ranked as a Best Regional University in the West by U.S. News & World Report
  • Outstanding student-faculty relationships supported by a low, 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio

Fresno Pacific University comes in strong with one of the lowest tuition rates among private schools in California and a distinction as the Valley’s only accredited Christian University. Choose Fresno Pacific as your path to a bachelor’s degree and initial California teaching credential and you’ll be part of top-ranked university that’s been providing unmatched private education since 1944. In fact, it’s long been included in U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Best Regional Universities in the West. Just some of the features of Fresno Pacific include an esteemed faculty (80% of whom hold doctorates)…outstanding personalized attention through strong student-faculty relationships and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio…and a Christian learning environment where values, ethics, and character development are always emphasized.

Vanguard University of Southern California (PR)
Costa Mesa, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus), Integrated Teacher Education Program (ITEP)

  • Single Subject Matter (secondary)
    • English
    • Math
    • Music
  • Multiple Subject Matter (elementary)

Estimated cost per credit: $1,031

$136 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MAEd in Christian Education Leadership, Teacher Development
  • Exceptional practical learning opportunities that include working with children from culturally diverse communities
  • Ranked among the Best Colleges in the West by U.S. News & World Report since 2010

The Vanguard University of Southern California BA in Liberal Studies is where affordability meets convenience. In addition to one of the lowest private tuition rates among private undergraduate teacher prep programs in California, Vanguard University of Southern California offers an accelerated path to a bachelor’s degree and initial California teaching credential through the Integrated Teacher Education Program, which takes just four years to complete instead of the five years standard in traditional teacher preparation programs. Just some of the perks of completing your program here include plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning and working with children from culturally diverse communities… a personalized, Christian-based course of study in the Pentecostal tradition…and a record of academic excellence, which includes a ranking among the Best Colleges in the West by U.S. News & World Report since 2010.

Academy of Art University (PR)
School of Art Education
San Francisco, CA
Website

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) (on-campus, online)

  • Track 1

Estimated cost per credit: $1,011

$156 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Outstanding course of study offered as both an on-campus and online program
  • Dynamic online learning environment features real-time streaming and live discussions and activities

Priced well below the state average among private undergraduate teacher preparation programs in California, the Academy of Art University’s BFA is the affordable path to earning a bachelor’s degree and an initial California teaching credential you’ve been looking for. This blended program, which takes five years to complete, prepares you for an exciting career as an art educator through a dynamic, hands-on learning environment that’s delivered either in-person or through an engaging, online platform that boasts real-time streaming and live discussions and activities. Thanks to beautifully produced videos, narrated slideshows, interviews with experts, and livestreams, the online learning experience has never looked so good. Some of the top-notch features of the school’s online platform include custom content, innovative curricula, and dedicated support.

The Master’s University and Seminary (PR)
Santa Clarita, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus)

  • Single-Subject Credential
  • Multiple-Subject Credential

Estimated cost per credit: $931

$236 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in Teaching
  • Exciting opportunities to study abroad at TMU’s Israel campus
  • Outstanding record of student success includes a 100% employment rate among graduates

The Master’s University and Seminary BA in Liberal Studies provides you with the comprehensive education that prepares you for an initial California teaching credential at a tuition rate that’s hard to beat. Priced well below the state average among private undergraduate teacher prep programs in California, TMU is proof positive that a private school tuition can be both top-notch and affordable. This program is offered as an accelerated course of study that takes just four years to complete and is delivered in a Christian learning environment that boasts a world-class faculty, strong partnerships with local school districts, and a 100% employment rate among graduates.

La Sierra University (PR)
School of Education
Riverside, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies (on-campus), Elementary Education

Estimated cost per credit: $738 ($1,107 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$60 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MA in Administration & Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction
  • Superb communication and collaboration between students and faculty
  • Outstanding support and guidance offered through your own personal program advisor

La Sierra University’s BA in Liberal Studies is your affordable path to an initial California teaching credential in elementary education. This is where you’ll also find a values-based curriculum that includes a faculty of experienced practitioners that foster an outstanding sense of community and frequent collaboration between instructors and students. That communal feeling is also the result of small class sizes that ensure individual attention from instructors, and your own personal program advisor who will provide you with trusted support and guidance throughout your academic journey.

Pacific Union College (PR)
Education Department
Angwin, CA
Website

BS in Liberal Studies (on-campus), multiple subjects

Estimated cost per credit: $691 ($1,037 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$130 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd
  • Named among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Regional Colleges in the West and its Best Value Schools in 2020
  • Excellent student support and guidance through the PUC Career and Counseling Center

For more than 130 years, Pacific Union College has offered students a Seventh-day Adventist Christian education that’s backed by a strong academic reputation, an esteemed faculty, and the personalized support and attention you’d expect from a private institution. Ideally situated in the beautiful Napa Valley region, PUC comes with a truly affordable tuition that falls well below the state average for private undergraduate teacher preparation programs and a ranking as one of the region’s top colleges. In fact, U.S. News & World Report named it among its Best Regional Colleges in the West and among its Best Value Schools in 2020.

Westcliff University (PR)
Irvine, CA
Website

BAEd in Education (on-campus, online)

  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education

Estimated cost per credit: $450

$717 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MA in TESOL, TESOL – Educational Technology
  • Personalized learning achieved through a low, student-to-faculty ratio of just 10:1
  • Choose from a 100% online or on-campus delivery

Whether it’s on-campus or online course delivery that you want, Westcliff University has an undergraduate teacher preparation program that’s priced right and designed to ensure the success of their students. The BAEd in Education comes with one of the most affordable private school tuition rates in the state. A low, student-to-faculty ratio of just 10:1 and a faculty of esteemed and dedicated educators ensure a dynamic student experience that’s unmatched for its comprehensive curriculum, which features a wide range of contemporary topics. Choose this path to your initial teaching credential in California and you’ll have the option of completing the coursework either 100% online or at one of its campuses in Southern California.

University of Phoenix-California (PR)
Multiple campuses throughout CA
Website

BSEd in Education, Elementary Education (online)

Estimated cost per credit: $398

$769 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MAEd in Administration and Supervision, Adult Education and Training, Curriculum and Instruction
  • Fully online program features five-week courses that are delivered one at a time
  • Outstanding support and guidance provided through your own dedicated program support specialist

Convenience and affordability don’t get any better than through the University of Phoenix BSEd in Elementary Education. With a tuition rate that’s hard to beat and a fully online delivery that’s designed with your busy schedule in mind, the University of Phoenix stands out as a clear winner for students who value both their time and their money. Choose the University of Phoenix for your path to an initial California teaching credential and you’ll have the backing of dedicated support specialists who help you understand and navigate clinical placements and credentialing requirements. This course of study is focused and convenient, featuring five-week courses that are offered one at a time. Study whenever and wherever you like – online classes here are offered all the time!

National University (PR)
Sanford College of Education
La Jolla, CA
Website

BA with Single Subject Matter Preparation and Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Single Subject Credential

  • English (hybrid)
  • Social Science (online)

BA in Interdisciplinary Studies with an Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (online)

Estimated cost per credit: $370 ($555 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$612 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • National accreditation: NCATE
  • Also offers: MAEd; MS in Educational and Instructional Technology, Educational Administration, Higher Education Administration; Applied School Leadership
  • Outstanding record of student success includes an expansive alumni network of more than 175,000 worldwide

National University’s route to an initial teaching credential in California has never been more affordable or convenient. Along with a tuition rate that places it among the most affordable private universities in the state, National University boasts undergraduate teacher preparation programs that feature four-week classes delivered one at a time, either as on-campus evening or weekend courses or fully online. Choose to attend class at one of the university’s 20-plus locations in California and Nevada or complete your courses from the comfort of your home – the choice is yours!

United States University (PR)
College of Education
San Diego, CA
Website

BA in Liberal Studies with optional bilingual authorization (hybrid)

  • Multiple subject preliminary credential
  • Single subject preliminary credential

Estimated cost per credit: $213

$954 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in K-12 Administration and Leadership, Higher Education Administration
  • Blend of online study and in-person class sessions offers the best in flexibility and convenience

Affordability is front and center at United States University, where a BA in Liberal Studies that includes an initial California teaching credential is priced well below the average rate for private university teacher preparation programs in California. The learning environment here is academically rich, diverse, and student-centered, with small class sizes, outstanding support and guidance, and a supportive atmosphere providing students with everything they need for success. Through a blend of in-person classroom sessions and online learning, students here are afforded the best in flexibility and convenience.

Most Affordable Teaching Certificate Bachelor’s in Education Programs in Hawaii

Public Colleges in Hawaii

University of Hawaii-West Oahu (PU)
Education Division
Kapolei, HI
Website

Bachelor in Education (hybrid)

  • Elementary
  • Middle-Level (English, Social Studies, General Science and/or Mathematics)
  • Secondary (English, Social Studies, Biology, and/or Mathematics)
  • Special Education (Elementary, Middle Level, Secondary)

Estimated cost per credit: $244 (in-state), $676 (out-of-state)

$66 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • CAEP-accredited
  • Also offers:
  • Ranked among the top 25 Best Regional Colleges in the West by U.S. News & World Report
  • Outstanding individual attention through an average class size of just 20

The University of Hawaii – West Oahu’s educational pathways leading to initial teaching credentials are both affordable and rigorous, providing aspiring educators like you with a top-notch education designed to prepare you for the exciting field of education, whether in elementary, middle-level, secondary, or special education. In addition to dynamic classroom experiences, which are delivered both online and in-person for the best in convenience and flexibility, students here benefit from the program’s many hands-on learning experiences, which include early field experiences, field-based coursework, service learning, and practicums, all of which culminate in a student teaching experience that puts in a classroom to learn by doing while getting the guidance you need to succeed.

Private Colleges in Hawaii

Brigham Young University-Hawaii (PR)
Faculty of Education and Social Work
Laie, HI
Website

BS in Elementary Education (on-campus)

BA/BS in Secondary Education (on-campus)

  • Art
  • Biology
  • Business
  • Chemistry
  • English
  • Exercise and Sport Science
  • History
  • Math
  • Physical Science
  • Physics
  • Social Science
  • TESOL

Estimated cost per credit: $508; LDS members: $254

$183 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • TEAC-accredited
  • Part of the LDS Church Educational System, which serves more than half a million people worldwide
  • Outstanding private education supports spiritual growth, faith, and charity

Brigham Young University – Hawaii’s undergraduate teacher preparation programs are affordable, faith-based pathways leading to your initial teacher credentials. Recognized as a leading international center of learning in the Pacific, BYU Hawaii features a diverse student body, a small campus environment, and an expert faculty whose credentials are only surpassed by their commitment to student success. BYU Hawaii’s private educational experience is like no other, providing students with outstanding opportunities to develop their faith and charity and nurture their spiritual growth.

University of Phoenix-Hawaii (PR)
College of Education
Kapolei, HI
Website

BA in Education, Elementary Education (online)

Estimated cost per credit: $398

$293 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • NCATE-accredited
  • Also offers: MAEd in Curriculum and Instruction, Adult Education and Training, Administration and Supervision
  • Fully online course of study provides unmatched convenience and flexibility

The University of Phoenix- Hawaii offers what few programs in the country can: a truly affordable tuition and a fully online course of study. In terms of convenience, flexibility, and affordability, the University of Phoenix – Hawaii simply can’t be beat. This unique pathway to your initial teacher credentials includes taking just one, five-week course at a time, with a  total of ten courses per year. Thanks to a fully online curriculum, you’ll be able to earn your degree and prepare for your local student teaching experience while still maintaining your personal and professional responsibilities. You’ll enjoy outstanding support through the College of Education, which includes finding an ideal match when it comes time to complete your student teaching experience.

Most Affordable Teaching Certificate Bachelor’s in Education Programs in Oregon

Public Colleges in Oregon</strong

Southern Oregon University (PU)
School of Education
Ashland, OR
Website

BA/BS in Education Studies (on-campus, hybrid)

Bachelor of Music in Music (on-campus, hybrid)

Estimated cost per credit: $196 (in-state), $580 (out-of-state) ($294 /$870 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$33 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MSEd in Adult Education, Curriculum and Instruction in STEM Education; MA/MS in Special Education: Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Partnerships with Klamath Community College and Southwestern Oregon Community program allow students to earn their degrees and teaching license at a distance
  • Program can be completed online, on-campus, or through a hybrid learning platform

Southern Oregon University’s undergraduate teacher preparation programs come with tuition rates that put them among the most affordable pathways in Oregon for preliminary teaching licensure. SOU has also developed partnerships with Klamath Community College and Southwestern Oregon Community program to create satellite programs that allow students to earn their degrees and teaching licenses at the location that’s most convenient for them. These programs allow students to take courses either on-site at these community colleges, online, or through a hybrid format that includes meeting at the main SOU campus just one Saturday a month. The success of SOU’s teacher licensing programs is clear: 81% of all graduates are employed in Oregon schools!

Western Oregon University (PU)
Division of Education & Leadership
Monmouth, OR
Website

BS (on-campus)

  • Early Childhood/Elementary Education
  • Elementary/Middle Education
    • Multiple subjects plus one of the following:
      • Language Arts
      • Mathematics
      • Science
      • Social Science
      • Spanish
    • Middle/High School Education
      • Biology
      • Chemistry
      • German
      • Integrated Science
      • Language Arts
      • Mathematics
      • School Health
      • Social Science
      • Spanish
      • Physical Education K-12

Estimated cost per credit: $184 (in-state), $602 (out-of-state) ($276/$903 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$51 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • NCATE-accredited
  • Optional ESL Endorsement for Elementary/Middle and Middle/High School
  • Also offers: MSEd in Educational Technology
  • Recognized as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution, the only four-year public university in Oregon to earn this designation

With an average class size of just 18, one of the lowest tuition rates in Oregon, and a broad range of concentrations to suit your professional goals, Western Oregon University’s broad and unique assortment of undergraduate teacher licensing programs are second to none for aspiring educators like you. WOU also offers plenty of perks for a dynamic educational experience, which include excellent student resources that help ensure academic and personal success, and a number of study abroad and international exchange programs sure to satisfy your global aspirations and desire to travel.

Eastern Oregon University (PU)
College of Education
La Grande, OR
Website

Bachelor’s in Elementary (on-campus, hybrid)

  • Elementary – Multiple Subjects and ESOL (two endorsements)

Estimated cost per credit: $172 (in-state), $464 (out-of-state) ($258/$696 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$69 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MSEd in Curriculum and Instruction, Dyslexia, English for Speakers of Other Languages, Literacy
  • Ranked among the Best Value Colleges in the Northwest for return on investment by The Economist
  • Degree program includes an ESOL endorsement

Eastern Oregon University’s teacher credentialing program in elementary education not only offers one of the lowest tuition rates in the state, but it also comes complete with an ESOL endorsement. Often known as “Oregon’s rural institution,” EOU is built on a nearly 100-year history of excellence in teacher education and today serves as a hub for education and scholarship throughout rural Oregon. Just some of the perks of getting the education you need to qualify you for your preliminary Oregon teaching license at EOU include excellent communication and collaboration thanks to a low student-to-faculty ratio of just 17:1…great opportunities to get involved and network with likeminded peers through more than 50 student organizations…and outstanding support services and academic advising through the Office of Regional Outreach and Innovation. For the best in convenience and flexibility, the undergraduate elementary education program is available at the La Grande and MHCC campuses, as well as through a hybrid format that delivers a large part of the curriculum online.

Private Colleges in Oregon

Corban University (PR)
School of Education
Salem, OR
Website

BS (on-campus)

  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education
    • Biology
    • Health
    • Mathematics
    • Language Arts
    • Music
    • Physical Education
    • Physical Education & Health
    • Social Studies

Estimated cost per credit: $1,106

$146 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MSEd in Curriculum and Instruction, ESOL, Literacy
  • Recognized as a College of Distinction, with special honors for the education program
  • Outstanding employment rate of 99% among graduates within one year of graduating

Corban University offers the perks of a private school education, an affordable tuition, and a reputation as one of the premier institutions for teacher preparation in the region. The expert faculty come to the classroom with an average of 14 years of K-12 teaching experience to draw from and the dynamic learning environment includes hands-on training through the entirety of your program. This globally-minded program even offers exceptional opportunities for international study in places like Indonesia, South Korea, Peru, Africa, and more to round out this comprehensive route to your preliminary Oregon teaching license in either elementary or secondary education.

Bushnell University (formerly Northwest Christian University) (PR)
Eugene, OR
Website

BA/BS (on-campus, hybrid)

  • Elementary (ESOL, Multiple Subjects)
  • Secondary
    • Basic Mathematics
    • Advanced Mathematics
    • English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
    • Integrated Science
    • Language Arts
    • Multiple Subject Elementary
    • Social Studies
    • Physical Education
    • Special Education
    • World Languages: Spanish
  • Special Education

Estimated cost per credit: $1,070

$182 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in ESOL
  • Outstanding individualized learning environment includes a low, 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
  • Hybrid learning opportunities for the best in convenience and flexibility

Bushell University’s undergraduate teacher preparation program offers one of the lowest prices among private universities in Oregon, a Christ-centered learning environment, and a 125-year history of preparing the next generation of Oregon’s innovators and leaders. With an average class size of just 14 and a student-to-faculty of just 12:1, you’ll enjoy a personalized learning experience and the exceptional guidance, advice, and resources you’d expect from a small, private institution.

Warner Pacific University (PR)
Teacher Education
Portland, OR
Website

Bachelor’s (on-campus)

  • Early Childhood/Elementary Education (Ages 3 – grade 4)
  • Elementary Education (Grades 3-8)

Estimated cost per credit: $630

$622 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in ESOL, Reading Interventionist
  • Named a Best Value School and ranked among the top schools in the West by U.S. News & World Report
  • BA/MAT program allows students to earn an undergraduate degree, preliminary teaching license, and master’s degree in just four and a half years

The Warner Pacific University bachelor’s degrees leading to a preliminary Oregon teaching license are second to none in terms of value. In fact, Warner Pacific has the lowest priced tuition of any private school in Oregon offering undergraduate teacher licensure programs! But don’t mistake the low price here for anything less than the best. This school has been consistently ranked among the best colleges and universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report. You can also get a jump start on your master’s degree here while earning your bachelor’s and teaching license by choosing the university’s BA/MAT 4.5 program – your opportunity to earn both your bachelor’s and your master’s in just four and a half years! The built-in integrated Learning Communities program provides experiential learning opportunities that allow students to learn more about Portland’s neighborhoods and culture and better understand how they can make a difference in those communities.

Most Affordable Teaching Certificate Bachelor’s in Education Programs in Washington

Public Colleges in Washington

Centralia College (PU)
Education & Social Services Pathway
Centralia, WA
Website

BAS in Teaching– K-8 (hybrid)

Estimated cost per credit: $150 (in-state), $160 (out-of-state) ($225/$240) after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$43 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Option to add a special education endorsement
  • Designed for students with an associate’s degree or higher
  • Convenient hybrid design features twice-weekly on-campus courses that are supplemented with online study

The Centralia College BAS in Teaching offers an affordable path to an initial teaching certification that’s designed to build upon your previous education. Start the program with an associate’s degree or higher or 90-plus credits of applicable coursework from an accredited college or university and you’ll have everything you need to begin working toward your bachelor’s degree and an initial Washington teaching certification in K-8. Along with its attractive price tag, Centralia’s BAS in Teaching features a hybrid design that includes evening courses supplemented with online coursework. In just two years, you’ll have the education you need to become certified in Washington. Choose Centralia and you’ll be part of the oldest two-year public college in Washington that’s long been heralded for its outstanding transfer, workforce, and basic skills programs.

Grays Harbor College (PU)
Aberdeen, WA
Website

BAS in Teaching – K-8 (on-campus)

Estimated cost per credit: $150 (in-state), $417 (out-of-state) ($225/$626 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$43 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Focus of “Grow Our Own Teachers”
  • Designed for students with an associate’s degree or higher
  • Convenient and flexible program design features evening  and some hybrid classes
  • Extra focus on cultural responsiveness teaching

Grays Harbor College comes in strong with one of the most affordable tuition rates in Washington, delivering a comprehensive program leading to a BAS in Teaching, along with a K-8 certificate and elementary education and English Language Learners endorsements. Students may qualify for one of the four (4) alternative routes for teacher certification.  Designed as a cohort program that features evening courses (T, W, and TH evenings) and some hybrid courses, the BAS in Teaching here helps foster a sense of comradery through student collaboration and communication for a truly dynamic and communal student experience. Enter with an associate’s degree from an accredited college or university and at least 30 hours of experience in a K-8 classroom setting and you’ll be able to earn your degree and eligibility for state licensure in just two years.   This degree is designed with academic rigor enabling graduates to apply directly to Master level programs throughout the state.  As a student of Grays Harbor College, you’ll enjoy the college’s outstanding support services and resources, including academic advising, career counseling, and personal counseling services. 

Highline College (PU)
Des Moines, WA
Website

BAS in Teaching (on-campus)

  • Elementary Education
    • Additional endorsements in:
      • Special Education
      • English Language Learner
      • Bilingual

Estimated cost per credit: $150 (in-state), $417 (out-of-state) ($225/$626 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$43 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Designed for paraeducators, preschool teachers and childcare providers who hold an associate’s degree
  • Outstanding opportunities for practical learning experiences thanks to strong partnerships with area school districts

The Highline College BAS in Teaching is your ticket to your initial WA state teacher certification at a truly affordable price! Designed for paraeducators, preschool teachers, and childcare providers with an AAS or AAS-T in Education, this program offers a convenient and affordable path to a BAS in Teaching. You’ll love Highline not only for its affordability, but also for its strong partnerships with local school districts – your source for excellent internship opportunities. This college ranks as the most diverse institution in Washington, so you’ll feel good knowing you’re part of a college that’s committed to global citizenship and achieving a better understanding of cultural diversity.

Eastern Washington University (PU)
Department of Education
Cheney, WA
Website

Bachelor of Education (on-campus)

  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education
  • Special Education
  • Elementary Education/Special Education
  • Literacy, Reading and Writing

Estimated cost per credit: $149 (in-state), $548 (out-of-state) ($224/$822 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$44 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in Curriculum and Instruction, Literacy, Adult Education, Educational Foundations/Interdisciplinary, Education Leadership
  • Outstanding history of student success dates back to its origins as a teacher’s academy in 1882

The Eastern Washington University Bachelor of Education proves that you don’t need to sacrifice academic quality for affordability! Priced as one of the most affordable teacher certification programs in the state and built on a history of academic excellence that dates back to its founding as a teacher’s academy in 1882, EWU offers a dynamic course of education that combines theory and practice for a comprehensive course of education leading to an initial teaching endorsement in Washington. EWU offers a number of pathways for its Bachelor of Education program, so you can be sure you’ll find a program that best meets your professional and personal goals.

Central Washington University (PU)
School of Education
Ellensburg, WA
Website

BA/BS (on-campus)

  • Elementary
  • Middle Level Humanities
  • Middle Level Science
  • Special Education P-12
  • Secondary

Estimated cost per credit: $143 (in-state), $501 (out-of-state) ($215/$752 after conversion to the semester credit rate for comparison)

$53 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at public colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in Literacy, School Administration, Higher Education
  • Consistently recognized for its affordability by publications like the Washington Monthly College Guide and MONEY Magazine
  • Teacher certification programs offered at its main Ellensburg campus and its Yakima, Wenatchee, Pierce, and Des Moines campuses

Central Washington University offers it all: one of the lowest tuition rates in the state, a reputation as one of the top teacher-producing universities in Washington, and the convenience and accessibility of being able to take classes at the university’s Ellensburg, Yakima, Wenatchee, Pierce, and Des Moines campuses. This university prides itself on its excellent selection of teacher preparation programs, its diverse student body, and its reputation as a top value in higher education. In fact, it’s been named among as one of the “Best Bang for the Buck” schools in the West by the Washington Monthly College Guide and as a Best Value University by MONEY Magazine.

Private Colleges in Washington

Heritage University (PR)
Toppenish, WA
Website

BA in Education

  • Elementary, K-8 (on-campus)
  • Elementary, K-8 – Innovate (ELL endorsement and emphasis in elementary STEM) (hybrid)
  • Middle Level, 4-9 (on-campus)
    • Humanities
    • Math
    • Science

Estimated cost per credit: $1,226

$68 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in 1) Inclusive Education: Dyslexia, ELL and Cultural Competence, 2) Educational Administration
  • Elementary Education program offered as part of the university’s Innovate program, which includes an ELL endorsement and emphasis in elementary STEM
  • Excellent course of personalized learning achieved through a low, student-to-faculty ratio of just 11:1

The Heritage University BAEd offers two affordable pathways to your initial teaching certificate in Washington. The BA in Elementary Education here is offered as part of the university’s Innovate program focused on two of the most critical teaching areas today, offering a comprehensive course of study with an emphasis in elementary STEM that also leads to an ELL endorsement. Just four semesters long, Heritage University’s Innovate program features eight-week sessions that take place in the evenings and online for the best in flexibility and convenience. Your private school education here includes excellent collaboration and communication and plenty of individualized support, both of which are facilitated by the school’s low, 11:1 student-to-teacher ratio.

Northwest University (PR)
College of Education
Kirkland, WA
Website

BA (on-campus, online)

  • Elementary Education
  • Complementary Endorsements available in:
  • Mid-level humanities
  • Mid-level mathematics
  • Mid-level science
  • English Language Learners
  • Secondary
    • Biology
    • English/Language Arts
    • Health and Fitness
    • Mathematics, Physics
    • Social Studies
    • Minor Subject area endorsements available in ELL or Theatre Arts

Estimated cost per credit: $1,116

$178 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in Teacher Leadership
  • Just one of five schools in Washington to earn the highest ratings by the National Council on Teacher Quality
  • Optional two-week intensive trip available for international study experiences

Northwest University offers affordability in private school education through its comprehensive teacher preparation programs that are supplemented with your choice of complementary endorsements. In addition to the Elementary Education certificate, you’ll choose from one of four complementary endorsements, while the Secondary Education certificate offers endorsements in a number of subjects, along with minor subject area endorsements in ELL or Theatre Arts. These unique programs allow you to custom tailor your education and provide you with more options when it comes time to land a job in education. You’ll love the small class sizes here, which encourage plenty of student-teacher collaboration and communication, while NU’s strong partnerships with local public and private schools ensure outstanding options for student teaching. It’s no wonder this university made  U.S. News & World Report’s Best Regional Universities list for 2021.

Walla Walla University (PR)
School of Education and Psychology
College Place, WA
Website

BS in Elementary (on-campus)

BEd in Secondary (on-campus)

  • Art
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • English
  • Health/Fitness
  • History
  • Mathematics
  • Music Education
  • Physics
  • Religion
  • Spanish

Estimated cost per credit: $963

$331 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd/MAT in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Literacy Instruction
  • Optional endorsement in special education available
  • Ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report in 2020

Walla Walla University offers a tremendous value, and it all starts with the kind of individualized attention to each student characteristic of a private college education, with a price tag that looks a lot more like what you would expect from a state school. As a Walla Walla student, you’ll get an educational experience grounded in Christian faith and delivered by an experienced faculty with years of classroom experience and the highest degrees in the field to back their expertise. You’re sure to enjoy the tight-knit community at WWU; it’s supported by volunteer ministries, group worship services, and plenty of opportunities to participate in service learning. Your education at WWU is also enhanced by the university’s exceptional programs, services, and resources designed to support your academic journey.

City University of Seattle (PR)
Seattle, WA
Website

BA (on-campus, online, hybrid)

  • Elementary Education (K-8)
  • Special Education (P-12)
  • English Language Learners (P-12)
  • Middle Level Mathematics (4-9)
  • Reading (P-12)

Estimated cost per credit: $630

$664 less per credit than the state average for similar programs at private colleges

  • Also offers: MEd in 1) Curriculum and Instruction, Adult Education and Instructional Design, 2) Educational Leadership
  • Your choice of fully online course delivery, Saturday only on-campus classes, or a hybrid of the two for the best in convenience and flexibility
  • Consistently recognized among the top educators of adults nationwide

The City University of Seattle’s exceptional tuition rate and its flexible program design make its pathway to a bachelor’s degree and initial teaching certification in Washington one of the best values anywhere in the Pacific region. Whether you complete your program at the university’s campus in Everett, Tacoma, or Vancouver, or whether you choose online courses, Saturday classes, or a blend of the two, you’ll receive the same exceptional educational experience. You also have the option of completing the BA on its own or combining it with an emphasis area to create a dual endorsement. Choose the City University of Seattle and you’ll be part of an institution that’s been consistently ranked as one of the top colleges in the nation for educating adults!