According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), about 50% of American teachers eventually receive graduate degrees. K-12 education is growing increasingly competitive, and graduate training is beneficial for achieving a job or pay raise in this field.
Earning a Master of Education in Elementary Education can help you land a well-paying position. Earning an education-focused master’s degree typically results in pay bumps for licensed educators. It can also open up new career paths for those who are not licensed or would like to move beyond the classroom.
Become a More Competitive Candidate for Teaching Positions
Teaching at the elementary level involves a deep understanding of how children learn. Master’s programs in education train teachers in specialized techniques to educate students with diverse learning styles, cultural backgrounds, and individual needs.
Not surprisingly, schools seek well-educated teacher-leaders who excel in their roles. While this program does not lead to initial licensure, with an initial license in Massachusetts, you may use this degree to self-petition for professional licensure in Massachusetts.
Make More Money as a Teacher
An M.Ed. is considered a huge asset when considering promotions to more specialized positions in the school or district, such as instructional specialist or curriculum coordinator. According to the National Council on Teacher Quality, over 88% of larger school districts offer pay raises to teachers who earn a graduate degree. On average, teachers who earn a master’s degree in an education-related area earn about $2,760 more per year more than teachers with only a bachelor’s degree.
In fact, schools and districts often use monetary incentives to encourage their teachers to receive more specialized training and education.
Move Beyond the Classroom
Teachers with an M.Ed. in Elementary Education receive training in educational theories and practices applicable to several settings. The training they receive in educational technology, curriculum development, and instructional practices opens the door for a position in not only K-12 settings but also nonprofit and higher education sectors.
For instance, graduates may work with schools and nonprofit organizations to promote and expand access to educational technology. The majority of teachers feel they are underprepared to utilize educational technology to its maximum potential. An M.Ed. in Elementary Education can offer hands-on, specialized training in teaching technologies that can enhance the 1-6 classroom experience. Graduates interested in educational technology can opt to concentrate on this area for their seminar work, making them eligible to become instructional specialists with an emphasis on instructional technology.
Also, some graduates receive extensive training that prepares them to become education researchers. Education researchers are highly sought after in many settings, including postsecondary institutions, nonprofit and for-profit research firms, education boards, and government agencies.
There is no limit to what you can do with an advanced degree in elementary education, and the job demand for these professionals is only growing.
Learn more about Worcester State University’s online Master of Education in Elementary Education program.
Sources:
National Center for Educational Statistics: Teacher Characteristics and Trends
PayScale:
Teacher Certification Degrees: Educational Technology Specialist Career Guide
