MasterDegreesOnline.oWhat Jobs Can You Apply for With a Master of Education?
A Master of Education degree, or M.Ed. differs from a master's in teaching in that students in these programs focus on educational theory and its application within a larger educational context instead of focusing directly on classroom teaching methods and specific subjects of instruction. Adult learners seeking their Master of Education degree are almost always already employed in the educational world and are pursuing their degree to seek a promotion within the same educational institution, or to try their luck in a different school. A Master of Education (or a school district leadership degree of some kind) is the industry standard for educational professionals seeking leadership positions with a school or school district.
Principal or School Building Administrator
One of the main positions that teachers shoot for when going back to school for their Master of Education degree is vice principal or principal. Educators who have been in the system for a long time (10+ years) have a wealth of knowledge and experience about the way things are done and have probably formed their own ideas about how the system could work differently (and maybe just better).
By combining their in-class experience with theory and instruction from seasoned administrators, teachers can climb their ways up the leadership ladder at their school or seek out a new school in which to start a new phase of their career as an administrator.
Online degree programs are a great option for teachers looking to pursue their Master of Education degree. Their busy schedules can oftentimes preclude them from attending regular classroom instruction at a college or university. With tests and papers to score, lesson plans to update, and possibly extracurricular activities to help out with, teachers are busy for way more hours than the typical school day would seem to dictate (though it doesn't get any easier once they become administrators!).The flexibility of an online degree program helps them take care of their day to day obligations while still pursuing their career aspirations. Remember: Just because the school day ends at 2:30, doesn't mean that a teacher's work is done.
School District Administrator
Moving further up the education food chain, we find the school district administrative team. This group of higher-level school leaders usually includes a mix personnel with degrees ranging from Master of Education, to Doctor of Education (E.D.D. or Ph.D. in education), or school district leadership certifications of various kinds. Those choosing to specialize in school finance are most likely to have a School District Business Leader (SDBL) certificate, while those working the curriculum department are likely to have at least a Master of Education, possibly a doctorate.
There are a variety of assistant superintendent positions (like assistant superintendent for curriculum) that are especially appropriate for educational professionals with a Master of Education degree. Their advanced knowledge of educational theory combined with classroom time makes them uniquely qualified to analyze and evaluate curricula generated on the school/year level. They are in charge of making sure that the district/school's curricula align with the state/federal guidelines. This helps ensure compliance, quality, and continued funding. Other assistant superintendents may be called upon to deal with administrative personnel issues, such as union negotiations and disciplinary action.