You may think that a earning a master’s degree in education is only for educators in K-12 classrooms or administrative leadership positions. However, earning an online Master of Science in Education — Instruction can mean promotions or new careers even for people without a teaching certificate.
Advancement for the K-12 Classroom Teacher
Experienced teachers in K-12 classrooms often aspire to positions of educational leadership. A master’s degree in education is almost always necessary for principal or assistant principal positions — as well as director or coordinator of instruction positions at the district level. A Master of Science in Education — Instruction opens doors to new opportunities and new responsibilities.
In-Depth Training for the K-12 Classroom Teacher
This degree also provides preparation and training for adaptive instruction and collaboration. Many teachers desire additional training in adapting teaching practices and general education curriculum for students with special needs. Although exceptional students may spend time in small groups or individualized instruction with specialized teachers, general education teachers must also know how to meet the needs of students who are gifted — and those who may be struggling.
Since special education teachers manage heavy caseloads and multiple classrooms, they must keep current regarding legal requirements and teaching practices. As more and more exceptional students join general education classrooms, collaboration between teachers and families becomes increasingly important.
A Master of Science in Education can provide insights into these practices, as well as in-depth training in social justice, diversity, conflict resolution and the rights of students and teachers. Assistant principals and deans often handle disciplinary issues and other student needs at the K-12 levels. However, teachers with advanced degrees in these areas can better mitigate behavioral problems and conflicts in the classroom before they escalate to an office referral.
Preparation for Community-Based Programs
Community-based organizations may not require a license or certificate, but when they provide services to the public, it is critical that they hire well-trained administrators and leaders.
Programs like Big Brother/Big Sister and Head Start, for example, depend heavily on the time and commitment of volunteers. However, program leaders must be highly qualified as both administrators and teachers. They must lead, train and coordinate the volunteers as their organizations deliver programs to the public. A Master of Science in Education — Instruction offers the perfect combination of knowledge and skills to fit the needs of these community-based programs.
Preparation for Adult Education
Those who complete the Master of Science in Education — Instruction program may gain opportunities to teach at the college level. Many schools require a master’s degree in instructors’ content areas, but they do not require a teaching certificate. As long as you have experience or specialty training, you may qualify for positions as an adjunct instructor or assistant at a technical school, college or university.
One of the benefits of working as an adjunct college instructor is that the position is commonly a part-time commitment that follows the school year calendar. Because classes occur during specific times of day, adjunct teaching may be a perfect second job for professionals with a flexible schedule. Professionals in these part-time positions earn, on average, $36.00 per hour or about $30,000 per year.
Corporate trainers must also know how to meet the needs of adult learners. If you have already earned a bachelor’s degree in your area of interest, a master’s degree in education will prepare you to teach professionals and tradesmen as well as line workers and executives. Consulting firms also hire trainers who match the needs of their clients.
Experienced corporate trainers have reported several unique benefits to the job. Some of them travel on a regular basis. They work with a variety of people and enjoy helping them improve their skills. Corporate trainers in the United States make an average of $54,000 per year, with some earning as much as $77,000 per year.
Earning an online Master of Science in Education — Instruction from the University of Wisconsin-Superior opens up a variety of opportunities for people with or without teaching certificates. Given the flexible scheduling of online courses, this program may be the best choice you can make to secure a promotion in your current setting or move on to a new role elsewhere.
Learn more about the UW-Superior online MSE Instruction program.
Sources:
The Houston Chronical — Jobs for a Master’s Degree in Curriculum & Instruction
Teacher.Org — Teacher Salary: What to Expect?
