Get Your Master's Degree in EducationEverything you need to know about getting your master's degree in education Guide to Education Degrees | All Education Articles & Resources | Find Education Schools Getting your master's degree in education will add a depth of understanding to the broader liberal arts education you received with your bachelor's degree. Sometimes the difference between a certificate and master's program is only 15 credits, but some master's programs take an additional year or more to complete, depending on your previous degree. There are many different routes you can take to earn a master's degree in education and a number of different types of master's degrees you can earn as well. Read on to discover what they are and determine which option is best for you. If you don't know which degree you need to get, see our article, "How to Become a Teacher." Master's Degree in Education Program ChoicesWhether you are a newly graduated, bachelor's degree-holding hopeful or a teaching veteran looking to advance your career, there are Master's in Education programs you can complete in as little as one year. One of the biggest benefits of holding a master's degree in teaching is the ability to become a National Board Certified Teacher, whose certification will follow them throughout the country. Higher salaries, more advancement opportunities and the option of transitioning into school leadership positions such as educational administration or leadership roles are other common perks. Fifth Year Master's Degree in EducationFifth year master's degree programs allow college graduates to take another year of coursework and intensive student teaching to qualify for a teaching credential and a master's in education. Additional state requirements may have to be completed to complete teacher certification; however, almost all master's programs meet state requirements. Many secondary teachers opt for this degree because it allows them to focus on their subject area as an undergraduate, then learn pedagogy, the art of teaching, as part of their graduate education. Master's Degree in Education (MEd)Of all of your educational master's degree options, the MEd tends to be the most general degree you can get. Teachers interested in entering educational administration, leadership or research and policy do well with this degree as it provides a nice base for further educational opportunities, such as an educational specialist degree or doctorate. It is often a requirement for guidance counselors and other counseling staff professions. Master's in Teaching (MAT)If you are currently studying to become a teacher and are looking to increase your skill level and earn a higher starting salary, a master's in teaching degree may be your quickest ticket to career growth. Master's in Teaching degrees are specialized in a particular area of study, with common degree titles such as Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction, or Master of Arts in Special Education. They offer the most hands-on, classroom-centric classes of your master's choices. It usually takes a minimum of 30 semester credit hours and includes a semester of student teaching. It is a common candidate for fifth year programs (see above), as well as night and evening classes. Online Master's Degree in EducationIn states where a master's degree isn't required to start teaching, students with a bachelor's degree may be able to continue teaching while earning their master's degree at night or online. An online degree in education is a great option if you work full-time or cannot commute to classes, giving you the flexibility to fit continuing education into your busy schedule. See Online Teaching Degrees for more online degree information. Related Article:
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