Individuals who earn a Master of Education (MEd) pursue a variety of careers, ranging from teaching and counseling to working as an administrator or policymaker.
Master of Education programs are typically designed for educators who want to focus on a specialty like counseling, school administration or instruction. Each of those specialties might be further broken down by educational level.
Though there is a specialized master’s program for professionals wishing to become school administrators or counselors, many people who earn an MEd in Instruction — focused on the theory and practice of teaching — go on to become administrators.
A Master of Education is a graduate-level degree in education. It is designed for both teachers who want to move outside of the classroom to pursue a career in leadership and those who want to stay in the classroom and expand on their skill set. For career teachers, earning an MEd can be a valuable step in gaining certifications, meeting student performance standards and qualifying for career advancement.
The types of classes offered in an MEd program vary from program to program and by degree focus. But students can typically expect to have coursework that teaches them how to put teaching theory into practice. Classes on diversity in education and educational research are also often offered.
What you can do with a Master of Education will depend on what concentration and degree program you choose. Here are some of the common professional roles in which Master of Education graduates work:
Curriculum developers design and create educational programs, courses and materials that support student learning and achievement. Curriculum developers use research and analysis, curriculum design best practices and technology to create and implement instructional programs that are aligned with the educational standards and goals of a school or school district.
The median salary for curriculum developers is $63,740 per year, as of May 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
A curriculum specialist is responsible for developing assessment tools and strategies to measure student progress and ensure that educational programs are effective, engaging, and aligned with educational standards. They collaborate with school leaders and other stakeholders to establish goals and adjust an educational institution’s curriculum to reach those objectives. They use their expertise in curriculum design to create instructional strategies and provide guidance to teachers and other instructional staff on how to implement these strategies effectively.
The median annual salary for curriculum specialists is around $63,000, as of January 2023, according to the compensation website Payscale.
Education program directors help design, implement, and evaluate educational programs to meet the needs of students and teachers. They work with teachers, administrators, and other education professionals to identify program goals, support student success, and develop plans and strategies for reaching goals — which includes creating courses, revising existing curriculum, and developing new educational materials.
The median annual salary for education program directors is around $66,600, as of March 2023, according to Payscale.
School counselors work in K-12 school settings and play a critical role in helping students succeed in school and beyond by supporting the academic, career, and personal and social development of students. They work closely with teachers, administrators and parents to ensure that students receive the support and resources they need.
The median salary for school counselors is $60,510 per year, as of May 2021, according to the BLS.
Principals serve as the head administrator of a school. They are educational leaders who work closely with teachers, staff, students, parents and the community to create and maintain a positive learning environment.
The median salary for principals is $98,420 per year, as of May 2021, according to the BLS.
Instructional coordinators design and implement instructional programs and initiatives within a school, school district or educational organization. They play a key role in promoting student achievement and teacher effectiveness by providing support, resources and training to teachers. They often provide teachers with professional development and are in charge of training teachers on using new technologies in the classroom.
The median salary for instructional coordinators is $63,740 per year, as of May 2021, according to the BLS.
Adjunct professors typically work part-time for a university or college. They have specific expertise in a particular subject and bring real-world experience to the classroom, creating a unique learning experience for their students. Adjunct professors are contract employees and may teach a few introductory or general courses per semester.
The median salary for adjunct professors is $79,640 per year, as of May 2021, according to the BLS.
Pursuing a Master of Education provides ample opportunities for individuals to develop a diverse and versatile set of professional skills, along with in-depth knowledge of educational theory and classroom practices. Developing these key skills expands what you can do with an MEd.
Classroom management is an integral skill for all teachers and even administrators. Effective classroom management skills enable school faculty to set clear expectations for student behavior and anticipate problems, thus creating a positive learning environment and preventing disruptions.
Though their audiences are different, teachers and administrators spend a lot of time talking in front of large groups of people. That means developing a clear, concise and confident speaking style is crucial for success.
Lesson planning is a core part of being an educator. When educators create effective lesson plans, they are able to enter each class with confidence, manage their class time wisely and prepare their students for success.
Both teachers and administrators face many time-intensive tasks, so both can benefit from having strong organizational skills. By developing these skills, they can manage projects, meet deadlines and solve problems more effectively.
There are a lot of things you can do with a Master of Education. Earning a master’s degree not only opens doors to more advanced teaching positions and higher pay. It also helps individuals cultivate a broad set of classroom and professional skills that can be applied to any variety of career pathways in the education field.
The Master of Education in Instruction program at Augusta University Online is aligned with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Our program prepares students to meet the needs of modern classrooms and learn how to make meaningful connections with their students. Learn more about how an MEd in Instruction degree from Augusta University Online can transform your career.
Sources:
Indeed, “10 Jobs You Can Get With a Master’s Degree in Education”
Indeed, “FAQ: Why Should I Pursue an Education Degree?”
Indeed, Master of Arts in Teaching vs. Master of Education: What’s the Difference?
Payscale, Average Curriculum Specialist Salary
Payscale, Education Program Director Salary
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Instructional Coordinators
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Postsecondary Teachers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, School and Career Counselors and Advisors
Zippa, Master’s in Education Jobs
