One of the upsides of earning a master’s in education is the possibility of enhancing job security. Various factors are involved in evaluating the value of an employee to the educational institution, and academic achievement along with other credentials are always among the top considerations. A master’s degree demonstrates commitment and dedication to developing expertise in this field. An advanced degree shows that candidates have invested time, effort and resources to expand their knowledge base and enhance their skill sets.
Related resource: 20 Best Online Schools for an Education (Graduate) Degree
Earning a Master’s Degree
Graduate school is not for the faint-hearted. It is an intensive program that requires focus and passion for the required coursework. Getting into graduate school is a major hurdle by itself because admission is very competitive. One needs to demonstrate a deep-seated interest in issues related to education, including classroom management strategies across all ages, critical thinking, child development, and pedagogy.
Some master’s programs may accept students who have just completed their bachelor’s, but most encourage candidates to pursue actual experience in the academic environment as a teacher, administrator or other support positions. This will help candidates relate to the courses better while giving them an opportunity to adapt the knowledge gained in graduate school to real-life situations. Many graduate programs are geared to candidates who have some experience in the field.
Advantages of Being a Master’s Degree Holder
The academe offers premium pay to those who hold advanced degrees. This is true for teaching positions in elementary, middle and high schools. This is also true in post-secondary schools for non-adjunct positions and especially for staff seeking tenure track opportunities. In general, teaching careers at all levels will get a boost with every advance credential earned. A master’s degree in education will certainly boost one’s chances of advancement in a teaching position. Earning a master’s may also serve as a pivot point for those who wish to transition to administrative and management positions in the field of education.
In terms of pay scale, those with more credentials are rewarded with bonuses or moved up to a higher grade upon completion of a master’s degree. The position may not change, but a master’s degree may be enough to boost one’s pay grade.
How to Find the Time for Graduate School
Some people attend graduate school immediately after earning their bachelor’s degrees. It may take up to two years of full-time attendance to complete a master’s in education. This career track is not for everyone especially for those who want to make sure that they are on the right path for a lifelong career. It is important to examine one’s motivation before signing up for graduate school according to Forbes.com.
Graduate school is a huge commitment in time and resources, and those who choose to work full time while completing a master’s in education may take up to four years and more to complete the degree. Employers may contribute to tuition and other expenses for employees who choose this route. Online classes may also ease scheduling conflicts for those who choose to work and study at the same time.
Earning a master’s in education has an immediate impact on one’s standing and pay grade for those who are already employed in educational institutions. It may also be a pathway to a different career as the knowledge earned in graduate school translate to valuable skills in fields such as business, community development, communication, advocacy, and similar fields. A master’s in education may make your job more secure while also expanding career options.
