You have always wanted to be a teacher, spending long hours in the classroom to shape young minds for future success. However, you might not have always known that to maintain a position as the head of a classroom, you must continue returning to school as a student.
Most teachers pursue at least one master’s degree to unlock a higher tier of earning potential along their career track, and some teachers return for additional master’s degrees or perhaps a PhD to qualify for some of the most prestigious and highest-paying teaching positions available. If you are just now considering participating in continued education to boost your career, you might consider the following fields, which offer some of the best opportunities for teachers:
Master Of Education
A general education degree is among the most common master-level credentials pursued by educators. Education master’s programs will offer teachers advanced knowledge and skill in essential areas for general education classrooms, such as learning theory and pedagogy, curriculum development, child development and psychology, classroom management, assessment and measurement, educational technology and more.
You will need to decide between a Master of Arts and a Master of Science in this field; the former tends to center theoretical approaches while the latter often focuses on practical skills. However, both will be useful in giving you access to the next stage of your teaching career, whatever and wherever that might be.
Master’s In Special Education
If you want to do the most good with your teaching knowledge and skill, you might get a special education degree and specialize in special education. American schools are in desperate need of qualified special educators, who have training in managing classrooms filled with students with disabilities and other unique needs. A Master’s in Special Education will provide you with various tools and techniques essential for working in special education, to include a network of like minded professionals to commiserate with.
Master’s In English Education
English is the primary language of communication around the world, yet many students struggle to grasp fundamental English vocabulary and grammar. A Master’s in English Education qualifies you to teach English concepts to English-speaking students, offering you and your students the best resources for gaining advanced English language skill.
Master’s In Mathematics Education
Math teachers are consistently among the highest-paid educators — because math can be so difficult to understand, let alone teach. If you have any proclivity for mathematics, you might consider pursuing a higher degree in this field. Schools around the country are consistently demanding more qualified math instructors, and with a Master’s in Mathematics Education, you can fill that need while commanding among the highest earning potential in education.
Master’s In Early Childhood Education
How children experience education in their earliest years can influence how they learn and develop for the rest of their lives. Thus, early childhood educators have some of the greatest authority in molding the next generation of students and professionals.
If you enjoy working with the littlest pupils — roughly ages 3 to 8 — you can pursue a Master’s in Early Childhood Education to access specialized knowledge and training to improve your ability to facilitate learning in the youngest minds.
Master’s In Curriculum And Instruction
The first step in achieving excellent student outcomes is in developing an excellent curriculum. The second step is executing that curriculum with excellent instruction. A Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction will improve your ability to manage your classroom, adhere to requirements set by your state and local school systems and ensure students have the information and tools available to gain the skills they need to succeed inside and outside academic environments.
Master’s In Educational Leadership
Not all teachers expect to be in the classroom for the rest of their lives. If you plan to pivot your teaching career into education administration, you might pursue a Master’s in Educational Leadership. This degree program will prepare you with leadership skills to improve your ability to lead in the classroom, and it will help you navigate administrative opportunities as they arise over the course of your career.
If you have only just begun your teaching career, you might be loath to return to school for more education. However, by pursuing an advanced degree right away, you can provide a significant boost to your career and ensure satisfaction in your position for years to come.
