Research suggests that around 51% of the private and public school teachers in the US have a master’s degree in education.
According to Certification Map, people who already hold a bachelor’s degree and teaching certification and want to improve their jobs or income frequently pursue a master’s degree in education as their next step. However, some people choose to pursue a master’s degree in education to obtain a teaching license, even when they already hold a degree in a particular discipline, like mathematics. A M.Ed. in Teaching provides specialties intended to improve the many facets of professional educators since there are several reasons to get one.
Why Should Teachers Get A Master’s Degree?
Teachers are motivated to obtain master’s degrees for a variety of causes and advantages.
These consist of:
- The ambition to improve as a teacher
- Having a bigger influence on your pupils’ lives
- Rekindling your enthusiasm for your work
- Gaining a better comprehension of educational theories and practices
- Laying the groundwork for possibilities in educational leadership
- Setting yourself up for a potential wage raise
- Enhancing your standing in the cutthroat employment market
Top 8 Master’s Degree Options For Teachers
Some of the best master’s degree programs for educators include the following:
1. Master Of Arts In Education
A Master of Arts (MA) in teaching differs from an MEd in that it emphasizes a theoretical approach to teaching. Instead of emphasizing the technical implementation of educational ideas, this kind of degree program concentrates on the philosophical, social, psychological, and even historical underpinnings of teaching.
For those who wish to work in educational reform, diversity, and inclusion in schools, educational research, or terminal education, an MA in Education is a great choice. An MA degree may also emphasize teaching the humanities and liberal arts, depending on the university.
2. Master Of Arts In Teaching
A Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), like the MS in Education, is intended to provide aspiring and practicing educators with the hands-on, practical skills they need to succeed in the classroom. Similar to the MEd, it may also be a fantastic method to acquire more subject-specific knowledge and techniques in areas like gifted and talented education, special education, elementary and secondary education, and more.
The MAT can help you become ready for your state’s basic licensing requirements if you want to change occupations and become a teacher. A mandatory student teaching component is usually included in MAT programs, allowing you to experience and practice in a real classroom.
3. Master Of Arts In Education With Special Education
The desire to offer specialized teaching created to satisfy the particular learning requirements of kids with a variety of difficulties or impairments drives special education instructors.
Special education advanced degree programs, which are frequently offered as a specialization within an M.Ed. program, usually concentrate on effective teaching methods and strategies for establishing meaningful learning experiences for these kids as well as creating lesson plans that take into account each student’s unique disability.
4. Master Of Arts In Education With Curriculum And Instructional Design
When choosing a focus choice for a Master of Education degree program, a curriculum and instruction specialty is frequently seen as one of the more flexible possibilities.
It is frequently selected by educators who want to work as curriculum developers or instructional coordinators since it covers a wide variety of subjects, such as educational theory, student data assessment, and much more.
5. Master Of Arts In Education With Early Childhood Studies
Are you interested in the relationship between early children’s behavior and their cognitive capacities, learning preferences, and academic and emotional development? In this field of study, master’s degree programs emphasize integrating strong analytical and observational abilities to create learning methodologies for students.
Teachers who choose to concentrate their graduate studies on early childhood education frequently become academic academics, public policy activists, and experts in addition to teaching in the classroom.
6. Master Of Arts In Education Leadership And Administration
Those who want to serve as principals, superintendents, or in other administrative positions often pursue a master’s degree with a focus on educational or school leadership.
Among the topics of emphasis include data-driven decision-making, educational justice, instructional leadership, professional and ethical standards, and meaningful interaction with families and communities. The focus on leadership has applications outside of school as well.
7. Master Of Arts In Education With TESOL
ESL (English as a Second Language), ELL (English Language Learners), and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are some of the names for the practice of teaching English to non-native speakers.
It is a highly sought-after specialty that can be applied to both young and adult learners. For pupils from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds to thrive in school and in life, bilingual education is essential. For educators who are interested in teaching English abroad, specializing in this area can potentially open up prospects.
8. Master Of Arts In Education With Teaching Technology
A master’s degree with a focus on teaching technology offers a thorough grasp of how the most rewarding educational experience is connected to continuous technological advancements.
Additionally, it aids educators in preparing pupils for success in our increasingly technologically advanced society. These courses address the theoretical underpinnings of integrating technology into the classroom as well as the myriad of new technological resources available to educators to improve student learning.
What You Can Do After A Master’s Degree?
Teachers who want to position themselves for a variety of other options outside of the public school classroom may find that master’s degrees are a wise investment. For instance:
- Administrators in K-12 schools, colleges and universities
- Curriculum developers
- Post-secondary professors and instructors
- Corporate trainers
- Technology and media specialists
- Private tutors
- Educational coordinators
- Child care directors
Bottom Line
Despite the constant need for excellent instructors, there is a greater need than ever for driven educators to enter the industry or advance their present skill set. Now is the ideal moment to get an advanced Master of Education Degree because of this and the potential for salary premiums for individuals with graduate degrees.
