Teaching Degrees

If you feel called to a teaching career, a degree from Grand Canyon University can help equip you with the skills and experience needed to pursue it. Teaching education programs from GCU combine knowledgeable faculty with practical experiences from a variety of disciplines specific to your interests that can help you work toward a valuable education. 

Unlock Your Potential With GCU’s Education Programs

Our College of Education engages a diverse and global community of learners with purpose and passion through advanced curriculum and instruction techniques by promoting servant leadership in educational communities. Many of our degrees in teaching are offered as licensure programs that can prepare you to start pursuing your teaching career and non-licensure programs that can help you position yourself for potential growth within your teaching career — so you can find the one that is right for your unique path. 

84,787

Students who graduated from GCU's College of Education since 20091

868,000

New educational instruction and library openings expected in the U.S. from 2023 to 20332

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GCU offers 43 total teacher licensure and educational academic programs (as of September 2022).  Apply now for a teaching degree to start achieving your goals as an educator.

Make an Impact on Students and Develop Teaching Skills

A bachelor's degree is typically a prerequisite for teaching, although specific requirements can vary depending on your state of residence. If you’re aiming to become a teacher who leaves a lasting impression, GCU’s education degree programs can: 

  • Build strong relationships
  • Demonstrate effective communication
  • Lead by example
  • Instill confidence

Our faculty focuses on teaching future educators how to strengthen the bond between students and teachers through One Foundation, rooted in a Christian worldview. 

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Accredited Online Teaching Degrees From GCU

Teacher Stands in Front of Class Smiling

GCU has been preparing knowledgeable educators who continue to demonstrate a commitment to quality education since 1968. The College of Education aligns its curriculum with the standards set by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) as well as national accreditors and professional affiliates. These standards help us work toward producing credible, qualified teachers and professionals through our education and teaching degrees both online and on campus.

Flexible Online or On-Campus Degrees

Fit learning into your active life with GCU’s online or on-campus education degrees designed for maximum flexibility. Earn your degree on campus or in an online teaching program with classes that can fit into your busy schedule, creating a sensible work–life balance.3

GCU’s Commitment to Affordable Education

When you choose GCU for your teaching program, you can trust in our dedication to offering accessible private education. Investing in your education is a significant step toward your future and GCU is here to support you with the tools and resources needed to navigate the costs of college.

Nearly $140 million

In scholarships for online students in 2023

Nearly $180 million

In scholarships received by campus students in 2023

Online Students Smiles Because of GCU's Affordable Education Prices

GCU’s mission is to make private, Christian education affordable to everyone, which is why GCU has not increased campus tuition since 2009. Our campus is a welcoming community for everyone — built upon a set of values based on educational opportunities.

Available Teaching Degrees

With a focus on adult learning techniques and innovative leadership, GCU has many teaching degrees that can prepare you for a career in education while keeping class sizes small. 

Bachelor’s Education Degrees

A bachelor's degree in education offers a comprehensive foundation to help you kickstart your teaching career. GCU offers a variety of teaching pathways, allowing you to select the one that aligns best with your aspirations.

Bachelor's teaching degree student working with young student in garden

Master’s Degrees in Teaching Degrees

Earning a master’s degree in education can help broaden your horizons in the teaching profession. You can develop key skills that can enhance your practice while exploring contemporary educational methods.

Male master's teaching degree graduate sits in classroom at desk smiling

Doctoral Education Degrees

GCU offers a range of doctoral programs in education designed for those looking to potentially advance their careers in teaching and leadership. These programs focus on innovative practices, research and the development of effective educational strategies.

Doctoral teaching degree graduate from GCU smiling and holding Lopes Up in classroom

Teaching Certificates

GCU offers a variety of teaching certificate programs designed for different specialties. Enhance your skills and knowledge by earning a certificate in your area of focus.

Teacher Pursues Teaching Certificate from GCU

Take the Next Steps in Your Career With a Teaching Degree

Some of our education degrees utilize a cross-disciplinary approach with other colleges at GCU, helping you gain a deeper understanding of your chosen area of study. Equip yourself for a teaching career by specializing in one of the many subjects offered, such as mathematics, English, curriculum and instruction, secondary education, administration or any of our other specialized degrees.

A variety of undergraduate and master’s teaching programs can help you work toward finding the right fit for your needs. Whether you want to become an English or history teacher by earning your bachelor’s degree or pursue a master’s degree focused on educational leadership, GCU has an in-person or online teaching program for you. 

FAQs for Aspiring Education Students

Earning a degree in teaching doesn't have to be confusing. Find answers to your most frequently asked questions regarding GCU's teaching education programs.

To become a teacher, you generally start by earning a bachelor's degree in education or a related field, followed by a teacher preparation program that includes student teaching opportunities.4 Afterward, you’ll need to obtain state certification or licensure, which often involves passing exams.4 Requirements can vary based on the grade level you wish to teach, as well as by state, so it's important to research specific guidelines. Ongoing professional development, such as workshops or additional certifications can further enhance your skills and opportunities.

The time it takes to become a teacher can vary based on several factors, including your educational pathway and the level you wish to teach. Additional certifications or advanced degrees can also influence the timeline. Furthermore, transferring credits from previous coursework may help expedite the process of completing your degree. One thing to consider, online teaching programs allow learners to complete their master’s degree at a speed that respects students’ needs to balance work and life responsibilities. Fill out the form on this page to speak to a university counselor to better understand how long it may take to earn your degree.

An education degree can prepare you with the tools and skills to work with young learners or adult students, whether inside the classroom, in an administrative role or other education-related fields.5 As you complete your degree in education, you may find many aspects of education that interest you. An education degree can teach you communication and management skills to work toward pursuing opportunities in education, learning and development or training opportunities.   

As of Oct. 3, 2022, Arizona allows those without a bachelor’s degree to start training as a teacher if they are enrolled in college and are supervised by a licensed teacher.6 This provides future educators an opportunity to complete their training while also finishing their degree. It’s important to remember this opportunity may vary by state. Be sure to check the state laws where you plan to teach. To become a fully certified teacher in Arizona, you will need a bachelor’s degree, a passing score on a standardized test and complete (or be enrolled in) a teacher preparation program.7

Depending on your state’s requirements and the certification programs they offer, some schools may hire you without a formal teaching degree, especially if you have a degree in the subject you will be teaching.7 Furthermore, you may be able to earn an alternative teaching certification if you already have a bachelor’s degree in any subject. If you live in Arizona, you may qualify for the Canyon L.E.A.P. pathway.

For state-specific information, be sure to check your state’s teacher certification requirements.

A doctorate in education (EdD or PhD) is an advanced degree designed to equip educators and administrators with the skills needed to lead, innovate and conduct research in diverse educational settings. The EdD programs at GCU emphasize practical applications for leadership roles, while PhD programs typically focus more on research and theory for academic positions. Both require coursework, exams and a dissertation to help you enhance your educational practices. 

Male Teaching Degree Student Smiling On Campus

If seeking licensure or certification, applicants to the program are responsible for contacting their state department of education for licensure requirements and program approval. In addition, fingerprint and background clearance is required.

1 Alumni from 2009 to March 21, 2024. Includes students who have graduated or completed their program. This does not include students in Bridge Programs, High School Dual Enrollment, NonDegree Studies or Continuing Education. Alumni count is based on count of unique graduates. If a student completed more than one program within the timeframe stated, they are only counted as one graduate.

2 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective Aug. 29, 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Educational Instruction and Library Occupations, retrieved on Oct. 4, 2024. 

3 Excluding observational and practice-based experiences, and student teaching.

4 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). How to Become a Kindergarten or Elementary School Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Oct. 3, 2024. 

5 Sartore, M. and Webb, H. (2024, June 24). What Is an Education Degree. The Best Schools. Retrieved July 10, 2024. 

6 Arizona Department of Education (2022, Oct. 3). Frequently Asked Questions About Educator Certification. Retrieved September 2023. 

7 Wilfong, S. (2023, March 22). How to Become a Teacher in Arizona. Best Colleges. Retrieved Aug. 16, 2023. 

GCU’s teaching education programs provide flexibility and a rigorous curriculum, empowering you to achieve your career goals.