Careers With a Master’s in Education

Teaching Jobs

Teaching is consistently ranked as one of the most sought-after jobs in education. Classroom educators, curriculum specialists and education consultants inspire learners and shape the future of education. Teachers are in high demand as the teacher shortage continues to grow in Pennsylvania and across the United States.

Classroom Educator

As a classroom educator, you have the opportunity to inspire and guide students on their academic journey. With a master’s in education that includes a certification track, you can specialize in a particular subject area or age group, such as elementary education, secondary education or special education. In this teaching job, you’ll create engaging lesson plans, facilitate meaningful discussions and assess student progress. Additionally, you can apply your advanced knowledge of educational theory to implement effective teaching strategies and address the diverse needs of students in your classroom.

Curriculum Specialist

Curriculum specialists play a vital role in designing, developing and evaluating educational curricula. A master’s in education provides expertise in curriculum design and assessment to create engaging and rigorous instructional materials that align with educational standards and meet the needs of diverse learners. With this job in education, you’ll work closely with teachers, administrators and various stakeholders to improve the quality of education and ensure students receive a comprehensive learning experience.

Education Consultant

As an education consultant, you can utilize your expertise to provide guidance and support to schools, districts and educational organizations. You’ll work closely with teachers and administrators to improve teaching practices, enhance curriculum design and implement effective educational policies. A master’s degree provides hands-on experience for this key job in education. You’ll learn how to conduct research, analyze data and make evidence-based recommendations to promote student success.

Leadership and Administrative Roles

With a master’s in education that includes an administrative certification, you can embark on a rewarding path of leadership and administration. Pursue crucial jobs in education such as school administrator or policy analyst, driving positive change and shaping the future of learning.

School Administrator

With a master’s degree in education that includes an administrative certification, you’ll be well-prepared for leadership positions such as school administrator. As a principal or assistant principal, you will be responsible for the overall management and operations of a school. Your role will involve creating a positive learning environment, supervising teachers and staff, implementing educational policies and fostering strong relationships with students, parents and the community. Among the most influential jobs in education, administrators shape the direction and culture of schools while ensuring the success and well-being of all students.

Education Policy Analyst

Education policy analysts play a crucial role in shaping educational systems and policies at the local, state and national levels. With expertise in instruction and research gained from a master’s in education, you can assess the impact of existing policies, identify areas for improvement and propose evidence-based recommendations for educational reforms. Education policy analysts collaborate with government agencies, educational institutions and advocacy organizations to promote equitable and effective educational practices.

Specialized Education Roles

Transform lives through specialized learning as a special education teacher, instructional coach or online course designer/instructor with a master’s in education that includes a skill set in autism spectrum disorder, online instruction or instructional coaching. Through these fulfilling jobs in education, you can make a profound impact on students with diverse learning needs.

Special Education Teacher

A master’s degree in education with a PK–12 special education certification equips you with the essential training and skills needed to excel in special education teaching jobs. Special education teachers make a significant impact on the lives of students who require individualized attention and unique learning strategies. With this career in education, you’ll collaborate with parents and colleagues to develop individualized education plans and create inclusive learning environments that promote academic and social growth.

Instructional Coach

Instructional coaches play a vital role in supporting teachers in using data to improve teaching and learning, applying current research strategies to engage students, and create transformative school environments. A master’s in education with an instructional coach track provides teachers with the advanced knowledge to offer guidance and resources to assist teachers in overcoming challenges, setting goals and making well-informed decisions.

Online Course Designers/Instructors

PK–12 teachers interested in blended and online course design, online teaching and program development, and assessment and evaluation practices in online and blended environments are needed within school communities to help create an environment that is accommodating and engaging for all learners. With a master’s in education with a focus in online instruction/course design, you can work closely with teachers, administrators and families to provide an engaging, high-quality online blended learning option that offers flexibility and removes educational barriers.

Research and Development Jobs

With a master’s in education, you can explore the frontiers of education through research and development. Influence practices and innovations as an education researcher, program evaluator or education technology specialist.

Education Researcher

Researchers contribute to the advancement of educational practices and policies by conducting rigorous research studies. With a master’s degree in education, you can pursue a job in education as a researcher and investigate various aspects of teaching and learning. Research generates valuable insights, contributes to the existing knowledge base and informs evidence-based practices in education.

Program Evaluator

Program evaluators assess the effectiveness of educational programs and initiatives. With a master’s in education, you can utilize research and analytical skills to assess the influence of policies and initiatives on student outcomes. Work closely with organizations and policymakers to collect and analyze data, provide evidence-based recommendations and ensure accountability and continuous improvement in educational practices.

Education Technology Specialist

In an increasingly digital world, technology specialist is a vital and increasingly sought-after job in education. With a master’s in education, you can become an education technology specialist and help teachers and students leverage technology to enhance learning experiences. Technology specialists provide training and support on the effective use of educational technology tools, such as online learning platforms and educational software.

Higher Education Careers

A master’s in education opens doors to rewarding higher education careers such as a college professor, academic advisor or education administrator. In these roles, you can mentor and guide the next generation of educators and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in your field.

College Professor

A master’s degree in education paves the way for a higher education career as a college professor. Professors teach and mentor aspiring educators, while also contributing to research in the field. You can specialize in a specific area of education, such as curriculum and instruction, educational psychology or educational leadership. Professors also engage in research, publish scholarly articles and participate in academic conferences.

Academic Advisor

Academic advisors play a crucial role in guiding and supporting students throughout their educational journey. In this higher education career, you can help college students navigate their academic requirements, develop personalized education plans and make informed decisions regarding their own career paths. You’ll also provide guidance on course selection, internships and other opportunities that align with students’ interests and goals.

Education Administrator

Education administrators ensure the smooth functioning of academic departments, programs and initiatives. With a master’s in education, you can pursue administrative roles such as department chair or program director. Administrators oversee curriculum development, faculty recruitment and evaluation, student affairs and other administrative responsibilities. This higher education career values leadership and strategic decision-making skills that contribute to the overall success of institutions.

Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations

Want to make an impact in education beyond traditional settings? With a master’s degree, you can become an education advocate, nonprofit program director or education policy advisor. These jobs in education drive positive change in collaboration with nonprofits and advocacy organizations.

Education Advocate

Education advocates work tirelessly to promote equitable and quality education for all students. With a master’s in education, you can become an education advocate and champion the rights and needs of students, families and communities. Advocacy work may involve engaging in policy development, raising awareness of key issues and collaborating with stakeholders to improve education.

Nonprofit Program Director

Nonprofit organizations dedicated to education rely on skilled professionals to lead their programs and initiatives. A master’s degree in education provides the foundation to become a program director in a nonprofit organization focused on education. These directors develop and implement educational programs, manage resources and collaborate with community partners to address challenges and provide opportunities for underserved populations.

Education Policy Advisor

Education policy advisors play a crucial role in shaping educational policies and regulations. Equipped with the in-depth knowledge of systems and policies gained from a master’s in education, you can work as a policy advisor for government agencies, educational institutions or advocacy organizations. This job in education allows you to analyze educational policies, propose reforms and provide expert advice on educational initiatives to ensure equitable access to quality education.