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Earn More Salary with a Master's in Education
Master's in teaching programs help current and aspiring teachers obtain state licensure and hone their specializations and classroom skills. Graduates with a master's in teaching can begin or advance their careers with a strong foundation.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects education, training, and library occupations to increase by 5% from 2019-2029, faster than the national projected growth rate for all jobs. An uptick in student enrollment should lead to a growing demand for kindergarten, elementary, and high school teachers across the United States. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that teachers with master's degrees earn 26% more per year than those with just bachelor's degrees.
What Is Teaching?
Teaching in classroom settings dates back to the fifth century BC, most notably documented in Greece and India. Expanding into more formalized schools and institutions has led to a robust field of study that we all have benefited from in our lifetimes.
Teachers are vital to our society because they help shape future leaders.
The teaching field includes elementary, middle, and high school teachers; private tutors; museum educators; and textbook authors. A master's in teaching degree can also lead to administrative career opportunities, such as principalship, teacher coaching and training, and curriculum writing. Teachers may work in schools and nontraditional settings, such as international military bases and volunteer programs, prisons, and corporations as talent developers.
Teachers are vital to our society because they help shape future leaders. They use finely tuned skills to impart their knowledge to students, inspiring a love of learning and ambition. Many are drawn to teaching through a love of children or a desire to help others. Those with creative backgrounds or conflict resolution abilities enter teaching with skills that support a teaching career.
A teaching career requires multiple steps, and a master's in teaching gives you the credentials to solidify your strengths in the field.
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Why Get a Master's Degree in Teaching?
A master's in teaching degree offers many benefits. It opens the door to an increase in skills and credentials, a higher salary, and advancement opportunities. Teaching skills such as curriculum development and student engagement can apply in various career sectors, making this degree more than worthwhile.
- Specializations: Specializing in a specific area of expertise allows teachers to sharpen their skills in a content or subject area, such as math or art. Teachers can also specialize in distinct grade levels, focusing on developmental strategies for particular age groups.
- Increased Earnings: Higher salaries are common for teachers with a master's in teaching. The average base salary for teachers with master's degrees increases by 26%, compared to those holding only a bachelor's.
- Career Advancement: Leadership positions are more accessible with a master's degree in teaching. Positions such as principal and superintendent require candidates to hold at least a master's degree.
What to Expect From Master's in Teaching Programs
Master's in teaching programs focus on teacher preparation for classroom instruction. Pedagogical foundations, classroom management, and curriculum development are often pillars of a master's in teaching program.
Most master's in teaching programs take two years to complete. For part-time students, these programs typically take 3-4 years. Learners can often complete accelerated programs in as little as one year.
Typically, a master's in teaching degree requires 36 credits. Optional teaching concentrations, such as special education, may impact the number of required credits.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for master's in teaching programs vary for each institution. Like most graduate programs, master's in teaching programs require a bachelor's degree. Some schools may prefer a bachelor's in an education-related field. Prior teaching experience can impact admission as well.
Most master's in teaching programs require a personal statement, multiple letters of recommendation, a resume, and an application fee.
Skipping core courses based on previous bachelor's curricula is not typically an option for master's in teaching students. However, this may be possible at certain institutions if students attended the same school for their bachelor's and master's degrees.
Concentration Options
Specializations for master's in teaching programs focus on particular areas of expertise. Students may concentrate their studies on specific content areas, grade levels, or special learners. Specializations include student teaching opportunities, also called field seminars or practicums, in which students can practice their skills in a given area and gain valuable experience.
Most master's in teaching programs require students to concentrate in elementary, middle, or secondary education. Subject matter concentrations allow students to gain expertise in a specific content area. Some concentrations include:
- Mathematics
- Science
- Art
- Music
- Social studies
- Language learning (Spanish, French, German, etc.)
- English
- Special education
Acquiring specialized skills in one subject area increases the likelihood of gaining employment in the desired field. It also provides aspiring teachers with the skills to teach specific subjects.
Special education and English as a second language (ESL) are also common specializations in master's in teaching programs. Teaching ESL and special education students requires additional state certification.
Popular Teaching Courses
The master's in teaching degree prepares students to earn licensure and teach in their desired fields. Coursework varies among institutions. Most programs feature core courses, electives, or specialty courses and a practicum to provide hands-on experience.
The core curriculum includes classes that cover teaching strategies in elementary, middle, or high school classrooms.
Understanding the foundations of education helps aspiring teachers build their individual teaching styles. Students learn the history of teaching and how to develop a teaching philosophy that supports classroom learning.
Students create semester- and year-long curricula that connect daily lesson plans with grade-level goals. Developing interactive and cohesive curricula allows teachers to bring creativity and structure into the classroom.
The practicum allows aspiring teachers to practice their newly acquired skills in a supervised classroom setting. Students receive daily feedback to hone their teaching skills.
How Much Will a Master's Degree in Teaching Cost?
Annual tuition rates for a master's degree in teaching can range from $12,000 to over $60,000. Some factors influencing the cost of tuition include school prestige, public or private status, and eligibility as an in-state or out-of-state student. Online master's in teaching degrees tend to come with lower price tags, while in-person programs at private institutions often charge higher tuition rates.
Annual tuition rates for a master's degree in teaching can range from $12,000 to over $60,000.
Once accepted into a program, students should apply for financial aid by completing and submitting the FAFSA application. This is a first step toward obtaining funding like federal loans and grants.
Most scholarships and grants apply directly to the cost of tuition or necessary supplies. Selecting and applying for scholarships can take time, so begin your search early. General tuition costs may not include expenses for transportation, books, and classroom materials for student teaching.
Choosing the Right College for Teaching
Choosing the right college for a master's in teaching degree requires careful consideration. Important factors to consider beyond school rankings include:
- Location
- Whether you are interested in staying close to home or traveling out of state, a school's location plays an important role. While online programs offer location flexibility, prospective students should also assess other program aspects.
- Admission Requirements
- Some schools require prior teaching experience for admission, which may hinder those seeking to change careers or acquire new skills.
- Tuition Costs
- Tuition plays a vital role in financing your educational choices. Depending on your ability to fund your education with loans, grants, or scholarships, tuition may present a roadblock at certain schools.
Keep in mind the importance of accreditation, which recognizes institutions for quality and consistency. Teaching programs hold regional accreditation. Accreditation status is updated regularly through the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Postsecondary Education.
Should You Get a Degree in Education Online?
Online degrees offer an excellent option for those seeking flexibility. Distance-learning programs offer flexible class times and the ability to take courses from any location. Many online master's in education degrees provide quality academic experiences with the adaptability many students need.
Online master's in teaching and master's in education degree programs especially suit professionals working in classroom settings or other careers. For those seeking stronger teaching skills or specializing in a subject area, online education can allow learners to take classes with little disruption to their work schedule.
Obtaining a degree in education online is a great alternative for current and aspiring educators to boost their credentials. Remote learning allows students to work at their own pace while acquiring new skills to advance their careers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Education Programs
What should I major in to become a teacher
Majoring in teaching or education offers a direct path to becoming a teacher. Majoring in a specific subject area, such as science or English, can help you become a specialized teacher after passing state licensure exams.
Is a master's in teaching worth it?
A master's in teaching strengthens classroom skills and increases the likelihood of earning a higher salary. Successful teachers increase their knowledge and credentials regularly.
How long are master's in teaching programs?
Master's in teaching programs typically take about two years to complete. Part-time programs take a bit longer. Some schools offer accelerated programs, allowing students to graduate in less than two years.
What can you do with a master's in education degree?
Individuals with master's in education degrees can pursue careers in educational administration and consulting. A master's in education covers the education system as a whole, whereas a master's in teaching focuses primarily on classroom teaching.
Do teachers with a master's degree get paid more?
Teachers with master's degrees earn $10,435 more on average than teachers with bachelor's degrees. Years of teaching experience also increase teachers' salaries. Base salaries vary for each state.
Best Master's in Education Program 2022
#1 Best Master’s In Teaching Degrees
University of California-Los Angeles
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of California Los Angeles offers 107 master's degrees, including a master of education that earns top marks. Students advance their training and increase their career opportunities in the master's degree in education program. Candidates benefit from flexible learning options, which make it easier to work while enrolling in graduate school.
Learners take advanced education classes that build a theoretical and practical understanding of the field. Students prepare for the workforce with internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Concentrations and electives let learners specialize their education around particular fields.
University of California Los Angeles at a Glance:
Location: Los Angeles, California
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 12%
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,442
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,544
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 61%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $18,613
Average Price After Aid: $15,718
Percent Online Enrollment
5%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Best Master’s In Teaching Degrees
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of education (M.Ed.) programs at the University of Florida, among its 126 total master's degrees, offer a rigorous education. The M.Ed. programs helps students grow their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. Flexible enrollment options help candidates balance graduate courses with work or other obligations.
The master's curriculum builds comprehensive knowledge, highlighting theoretical and practical approaches to various topics in education. Internships and hands-on learning opportunities strengthen classroom skills and help students expand their professional networks. Learners select electives and concentrations to specialize their education in a specific area.
University of Florida at a Glance:
Location: Gainesville, Florida
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 37%
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,335
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,673
Average Price After Aid: $10,457
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Master’s In Teaching Degrees
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students interested in advancing their teaching career can earn a master of education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The public university offers programs on its Champaign campus and online options designed for degree-seekers who require additional flexibility. In the master of education programs, learners take graduate-level courses to strengthen their understanding of the education field.
College resources and support services provide guidance to master's candidates throughout their degree. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors recommend grants and scholarships to pay for a master's degree. Graduates students also attend networking events and make use of library services.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 131
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Admission Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 85%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,997
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,404
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $52,300
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Master’s In Teaching Degrees
SUNY at Albany
- Albany, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
SUNY at Albany offers 91 master's programs, including many highly-ranked master's degrees in various education specialties. These education master's degrees strengthen subject-specific knowledge, allowing graduates to pursue advanced career opportunities. Candidates may be able to choose from campus and online enrollment options, adding flexibility for those who need to work full time while in school.
The education program curriculums blend theoretical and practical approaches to encourage a comprehensive understanding of the field. Students apply their training in internships and other hands-on learning opportunities, which strengthen career-ready skills. Participants can specialize their education by choosing electives and concentrations.
SUNY at Albany at a Glance:
Location: Albany, New York
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,310
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,100
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 85%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,137
Average Price After Aid: $16,769
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
