Landing a job in teaching or other educational roles can be quite a challenge. With a great number of candidates having earned bachelor’s degrees and other endorsements, it can be difficult to set yourself apart from the competition. However, if you are looking to further your own education and increase your chances of becoming more employable, you should consider the great selection of online programs for earning a master’s in education. With flexible schedules and a wide variety of courses, these programs are great options for those already teaching or looking to enhance their undergraduate degree.
One of the newest programs to hit the market for earning online master’s in education are the Adult Education programs. Once you have earned a degree from one of these programs, you will have the credentials to work as a professor at a university or local community college. You may also be able to find employment at educational institutions as a curriculum developer and instructor, teacher trainer, or administrative executive.
These programs provide you with the knowledge and skills to help other adults continue their education through college classes, workshops, and professional development trainings. Moreover, if you have already received a BA in Education and are presently working as an elementary or high school teacher, earning an online Master’s in Education can help you increase your salary and position at your current job.
If you are interested in earning a master’s in education through an online program, there are several factors you should keep in mind. One of the first components you should research is the accreditation status of the online program. When a school or program is accredited it proves the quality and merit of the courses as well as the credentials of the instructors. You should look for programs that are accredited by one of the following: American Society for Training and Development (ASTD), International Council for Adult Education (ICAE), Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), and UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL).
Earning your master’s in education through an online program is a great opportunity to boost your own credentials and knowledge while working at your own pace and on your own schedule. Once you have completed your program you can make a real difference in the lives of many adults, teachers, and other educational workers.
How does the Online Masters in Education degree work?
Online Masters Degrees in Education are designed for those individuals who have a valid teacher’s license and are currently working as teachers. These programs aim to develop a set of skills and knowledge in the field of education by allowing teachers to study various aspects of education such as instruction, theory, and leadership.
Most online master’s degree programs in education allow students to choose a specific area of specialization. The specific courses you end up taking will then depend upon the area of specialization that you choose. Some specializations which are offered in this program include:
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School counseling
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Reading and language
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Adult education
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Instruction and curriculum formation
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Educational leadership
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Administration
As part of the program requirements, each student must also assemble a portfolio, undertake a research project, and complete a thesis.
Admission Criteria for Online Masters in Education degree
In order to gain admission into an online master’s degree program in education, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Applicants must hold a valid teaching license
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Applicants must be working as a teacher at the time of application
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Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in education or a similar field
Admission requirements are subject to vary.
What will I learn in Online Masters in Education degree?
Online Master’s degree programs in education are designed to advance teachers’ knowledge and skills in order to improve the learning experience for students. Educators who enroll in this program can expect to learn how to:
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Apply their new knowledge in actual classroom settings
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Design curriculums and learning experiences based on their students strengths
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Help students achieve their potential and monitor their achievements
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Work with other educators, communities, professionals, and families in order to develop better teaching methods and create positive change
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Ensure that students are constantly excelling
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Foster critical thinking
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Use technology to assist in learning and teaching
How will I get benefit and assistance from Online Masters in Education degree?
By enrolling in an online master’s degree in education, students can expect to get the following benefits:
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Graduates will be in a position to pursue advanced positions in the field of education
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Learn at their own pace
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Choose a specialization in education, which suits their career goals and personal interests
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Get connected with experts, scholars, and researchers in the field
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Become strong educators
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Be able to adapt to various learning methods and styles
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Learn how to properly engage students to help them realize their full potential
Career Prospects and Salary Information
Career prospects for teachers with a master’s degree in education are much brighter and better than those with lesser qualifications. Having a master’s degree in education also qualifies individuals for higher salaries.
Statistics from the National Center for Education Information show that 96% of the 112 of the main school districts in the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) Teacher Contract Database paid those teachers who had a master’s degree more than those who just had a bachelor’s degree.
In addition to being paid more, teachers who have master’s degree in education can pursue a wide variety of administrative and senior positions in education as well. This shows that they have far better job prospects.