Lifelong learning is important in many professions, but teachers know that continuing to learn is particularly critical for those working in education. A study published in the International Journal of Contemporary Educational Research in 2024 found that teachers believe lifelong learning plays a key role in sustaining their ability to:
One of the best ways for teachers to continue learning is to pursue a Master of Education (MEd) degree. But earning a graduate degree can be a big undertaking, and some may wonder if a master’s in education is worth it. For those who have been considering enrolling in a graduate degree program such as an MEd in Instruction program, it can be helpful to explore why getting a master’s degree is worthwhile for many educators.
Master of Education programs are graduate-level degree programs designed to provide individuals with expertise in a specific area of education, such as teaching, administration or curriculum, that enables them to strengthen educational systems.
One of the main reasons many educators believe MEd programs are valuable is that the advanced knowledge and skills they gain in these programs can immediately be put to use in their careers. For example, educators in MEd programs that focus on teaching and learning strategies can acquire advanced expertise in areas such as:
Typically requiring individuals to complete 30 credit hours to graduate, a Master of Education degree program offers core courses in subjects such as:
MEd students also can pursue a concentration that allows them to take courses that focus on their area of interest. For example:
There are a number of reasons why earning a master’s in education is worthwhile for many educators. For example, earning an MEd can offer an individual the following benefits.
Looking at specific potential job options can help demonstrate the value of an MEd. The examples below highlight just a few roles that are available to individuals who earn an MEd.
Educators who teach special education work with students who face physical, mental, learning or emotional disabilities. These teachers are skilled at assessing students and adapting their educational approaches to meet the needs of students who are challenged by disabilities.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that, as of May 2024, special education teachers have a median annual salary of $64,270. While the BLS projects that the total number of positions for special education teachers will not grow through 2033, it estimates that schools will have openings for 35,900 special education teachers each year through 2033 due to factors such as teacher resignations and retirements.
Instructional coordinators focus on aspects of education related to instruction, such as a school’s teaching standards, teacher training or curriculum implementation. For example, instructional coordinators can be responsible for creating educational materials and helping teachers incorporate those materials into their instruction.
Instructional coordinators have a median annual salary of $74,720 as of May 2024, according to the BLS. The BLS projects 2 percent growth in the number of instructional coordinator positions from 2023 to 2033.
Educational consultants offer their expertise to students and their families who are seeking advice and assistance in making decisions related to students’ education. For example, educational consultants can work with teachers and schools to offer advice on how to improve and strengthen their educational programs.
As of July 2025, Payscale reports that educational consultants have a median annual salary of about $73,700. The BLS projects the following job growth for professionals in occupations related to that of educational consultants from 2023 through 2033:
Curriculum developers craft, assess or improve educational curricula in a school or district. This entails responsibilities such as evaluating textbooks or course content and identifying modifications to improve students’ education.
According to the BLS, all instructional coordinators, including curriculum specialists, have a median annual salary of $74,720 as of May 2024. The BLS expects they will see 2 percent job growth from 2023 to 2033.
For many educators, the value of an MEd degree is evident in the advanced expertise it offers them and the career opportunities it makes available to them. MEd graduates are positioned to become better educators who are well equipped to strengthen educational systems.
Individuals who have an interest in advancing their knowledge and skills in education can explore Augusta University Online’s Master of Education in Instruction degree program to learn how it can help them reach their career goals. Offering six concentrations — in general education, elementary education, middle grades education, secondary education, P-12 education and special education — the program allows educators to focus their graduate education on their area of interest.
Start working to achieve your ambitions in education today with AU Online.
Recommended Readings
7 Types of Education Degrees You Can Pursue to Advance Your Career
Tips for Supporting a Positive Learning Environment
What Is Pedagogy in Education?
Sources:
Idealist, “What’s That Degree For? An Overview of Common Graduate Degree Programs”
Indeed, “How to Become a Curriculum Developer (With Tips)”
Indeed, “How to Become an Educational Consultant (Plus Salary Info)”
International Journal of Contemporary Educational Research, “Teachers’ Views on Lifelong Learning”
Payscale, Average Education Consultant Salary
Payscale, Bachelor of Education (BEd) Degree
Payscale, Master of Education (MEd) Degree
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Instructional Coordinators
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Management Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, School and Career Counselors and Advisors
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Special Education Teachers
