In the field of education, earning an advanced degree is essential for demonstrating a commitment to higher education that can take a person to the next level in their career. While it is common for teachers at all levels to pursue a master’s in education to refine their teaching skills, there are other careers that a person with this degree may pursue. Here are some of the career options that require a master’s in education before a person can be considered for the position.
Educational Consultant
Today, the field of education is constantly changing due to the influence of technology. However, software and curriculum designers must rely upon those with a background in education to develop their teaching materials. As an educational consultant, a person will provide research-based information to be used when designing classroom materials. Those who are interested in a career outside of the classroom can also discover lucrative opportunities to work as a consultant for businesses that are creating training programs for their employees.
School Principal
After teaching for several years, educators frequently decide to take their career to the next level by working as a school principal. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, those who hold a master’s degree and have one to five years of related experience can be eligible for a position that involves taking on a leadership role in schools. Those who are interested in a career as a school principal will want to focus on taking educational leadership courses while earning their master’s degree in education. With the current population growth, the demand for school principals is also expected to increase over the next ten years.
College Professor
Secondary school teachers often find that a master’s degree in education makes it possible for them to move on to teaching college-level courses. Whether they teach in a high school that offers blended courses or they prefer to work with adults in the evening, this career is ideal for anyone who wants to teach at a higher level. Additionally, experience as a college professor can enable a person to become eligible for working at the university level while enjoying the professional development that comes with working with adult students.
Mentor Teacher
In the educational system today, there is a focus on providing first-year teachers support through mentoring programs. In these programs, veteran teachers with a master’s degree are provided with an additional stipend for assisting new teachers through their first year. As a mentor, a person will observe and assess a first-year teacher’s techniques while creating a plan to help them refine their teaching skills. Additionally, mentor teachers are needed at all levels of the educational system. This can provide more flexibility for those who would like to work at a new level in the classroom.
After completing a master’s in education degree program, a person can find a wide range of job opportunities. From working as a school principal to moving out of the classroom and into a business setting, the opportunities abound for those who advance in their education. By earning a master’s degree in education, a person can begin to take on more leadership roles that can allow them to be a positive influence within any educational setting.