Elementary Education Online FAQs

Get answers to frequently asked questions about the B.S. Elementary Education Online.

What are the benefits of doing this online program?

Take your classes online in the evenings and some Saturdays from the comfort of your home from anywhere within the United States.
You will have expert faculty teaching synchronously in a virtual classroom.
You will learn within a cohort that offers mutual support from other students who share similar needs, fostering a network of personal connections throughout the program.
Your field experience will be set in schools close to your home or even at the school where you work as a paraprofessional, with the support of mentor teachers and onsite supervisors.
You will only take two courses for eight weeks, allowing you to focus on manageable course work, completing asynchronous assignments with the flexibility of accommodating to your life and work schedules.

No. Once you have been accepted to one of the programs (either in-person or online), you are expected to remain in your cohort throughout the program until completion.

Minnesota State University, Mankato uses D2L Brightspace as the online platform for courses. Our Online Education site provides resources for students to prepare for online learning including a demonstration course in D2L. Technology tools, considerations for online learning, support resources and more are all available. We highly recommend that students interested in taking online courses review this website before starting.
Courses in our online program are taught in a synchronous format, which means you will be online at a specific time during live class sessions.
Students will gain knowledge through lessons and in-class activities facilitated by the professor, reading materials, online resources, discussion with peers, projects and assignments.
Courses have assignments to be completed during the week outside of class.
Students will apply knowledge and evidence-based practices learned through their course work during their field experiences in schools.

No. Campus visits are not required in the program.

You can complete most general education requirements online at Minnesota State Mankato. An advisor will assist you in developing a plan of study.

Online courses are administered through D2L Brightspace, which is a learning management system.
You will log into D2L Brightspace to access online courses https://mnsu.learn.minnstate.edu/.
You need your StarID and StarID password to access this site. You will get your StarID once you register for our program and become a Minnesota State University student.

Required textbooks can be found through the Maverick Shop Bookstore or by calling the bookstore directly at 507-389-1649.

Yes. You can take the program as a part-time student, but we have a limited number of spots available. Your advisor will help you plan your coursework based on your availability as a part-time student.

The university helps with finding a school placement close to you to complete field experience and student teaching.

Yes. All questions regarding financial aid should be referred to the Campus Hub at 507-389-1866 or Toll Free at 1-800-722-0544 Questions can also be emailed to campushub@mnsu.edu.
Minnesota State University, Mankato, offers various financial aid options including grants (Grow Your Own), loans and scholarships. To be considered for any grants or loans, students must first submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Learn More About These Options and Begin Your FAFSA Application

Yes. This program aligns with the Grow Your Own requirements and fits the schedule for individuals working while earning their degree and license.

We would love to hear from you and we are here to help! Please contact us at ele@mnsu.edu or 507-389-1516.