What Can You Do with a Masters in Elementary Education?

Choosing from the diverse career paths with a master’s in elementary education can be challenging, especially with the evolving demands in the education sector. If you’ve ever wondered about what you can do with a master’s in elementary education, you’re about to explore the various career opportunities this degree can unlock.

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What Can You Do with a Master’s in Elementary Education?

From elementary school teachers and school principals to educational consultants, there’s a wide range of career paths students can choose from after getting a master’s in elementary education.

Elementary School Teacher

Students can become elementary school teachers with a master’s in elementary education. In this role, students instruct kids from kindergarten to fifth or sixth grade in basic subjects such as reading and math to prepare them for middle school.

Elementary school teachers are responsible for helping students learn and use vital concepts. Often, they use a hands-on approach to explain tricky concepts, solve problems, and improve critical thinking.

Some additional job duties include running the class, setting up meetings with parents, and attending conferences and workshops. If you choose this career path, you can earn an average salary of $63,670 per year.

• Median salary: $63,670 per year
• Work experience: 1-2 years
• Number of jobs that will open (2022-2032): 10,700

Middle School Teacher

A middle school teacher teaches students in grades six through eight, helping them build on what they learned in elementary school and get ready for high school. They may also collaborate with special education teachers to adjust lessons or even teach together.

Middle school teachers often develop creative lesson plans that engage students and make learning more interactive.

Additionally, some middle school teachers coach sports teams and advise student clubs, which often meet outside regular school hours. As a middle school teacher, you can make around  $53,363 per year. Plus, the expected growth rate for these jobs from 2018 to 2028 is 4%.

• Median salary: $53,363 per year
• Work experience: 2 years
• Number of jobs that will open (2018-2028): 25,000

Elementary School Principal

If you want to lead in education while still working closely with students, a career as a school principal might be a perfect fit.

They handle everything from daily activities and coordinating curriculums to managing staff and ensuring the school is a safe place to learn.

To become a principal, you usually need a master’s degree in education and teaching experience. The pay is typically good, with elementary school principals making around $92,372 per year and there are over 14,000 new job opportunities expected to open between 2018 and 2028.

• Median salary: $92,372
• Work experience: 3-5 years
• Number of jobs that will open (2018-2028): 14,200

Instructional Coordinators

Want to make a difference in education without being in the classroom? Consider becoming an instructional coordinator! Also called curriculum developers, they help create teaching materials, track learning outcomes, and set standards for teaching quality.

Instructional coordinators work in different sectors like schools, businesses, government, and the military. They create lesson plans that work for different kinds of students.

To be an instructional designer, knowing how to use online learning platforms or expertise in a specific subject can be beneficial. While a master’s degree can help for some jobs, it’s not necessary for corporate positions.

• Median salary: $74,620 per year
• Work experience: 5 years
• Number of jobs that will open (2022-2032): 5,300

Education Consultant

Students with a master’s in elementary education can also become educational consultants. They provide training to teachers and other staff on the latest technologies, curriculum plans, and teaching methods.

They may also analyze student test scores, suggest improvements, and run workshops. To become an educational consultant, learners typically need a graduate degree, such as a master’s in elementary education.

Education consultants can earn an average salary of $79,608.

• Median salary: $79,608
• Work experience: 3-5 years
• Number of jobs that will open (2018-2028): 32,400

What Is a Master’s in Elementary Education Exactly?

A master’s in elementary education is a graduate degree program that prepares professionals to teach kids from kindergarten to eighth grade.

Usually lasting 1.5 to 2 years, it involves completing around 30 to 60 credits. However, this can vary depending on the institution and whether students are studying full-time or part-time.

Students will explore practical, evidence-based, and inclusive teaching approaches to meet the needs of different kinds of learners. Some course topics that students may learn include:

• Child & adolescent development
• Curriculum design
• Classroom management & engagement
• Special education
• Content & techniques for teaching literacy, language, mathematics, social studies, and science
• Assessment

Is a Master’s in Elementary Education Worth It?

A master’s in elementary education can offer several tangible benefits to educators. For instance, it can deepen their expertise, open new career opportunities, and increase income potential. Let’s explore each separately:

• Higher pay: Teachers or educators who have a master’s in elementary education often earn more money. On average, they make 27% more than those who only have a bachelor’s degree in education. This increase in income motivates many to pursue further education.
• Better credentials: Getting a master’s degree can really improve a teacher’s qualifications. With more knowledge and skills, teachers can better meet the different needs of their students and use innovative teaching methods.
• Leadership opportunities: Having a master’s degree opens up chances to take on leadership roles in education. These roles could include being a headteacher or instructional coordinator. These positions allow educators to shape and influence the future of elementary education.

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s in Elementary Education?

To get into a master’s program in elementary education, students usually need to meet certain requirements. Here’s a list of what you will typically need:

• Bachelor’s degree: Learners must have a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from a recognized college or university. It doesn’t have to be in education, but related fields are accepted.
• Official transcript: Students need to send an official transcript to show their undergraduate coursework and grades. Make sure it comes directly from your college to the graduate admissions office.
• Admission essay: Candidates often have to write an essay explaining why they want to pursue a master’s in elementary education, their beliefs about teaching, and their career goals.
• Letters of recommendation: You’ll usually need two to three letters from people who can vouch for your academic abilities, character, and potential as a teacher.
• Writing sample: Some programs may request a sample of your writing to show how well you can communicate on paper, which is important for teachers.
• Resume or CV: Students will need to provide a detailed resume or curriculum vitae that highlights their academic and professional experiences related to education.

Best Accredited Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Programs

If you’re thinking about getting a master’s in elementary education, it’s important to choose a top-quality, accredited program that aligns with your career aspirations. Selecting the right course can significantly impact your professional growth and opportunities.

We’ve rounded up a list of the top 4 accredited schools in education that provide students with a master’s in elementary education or a similar program:

Related Questions

What Is the Best Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Program?

The best master’s in elementary education program varies based on school type, accreditation, and personal circumstances. Some of the top schools offering these programs include Harvard University, Stanford University, and the University of Pennsylvania. Choosing a program from a reputable institution can enhance your career prospects and ensure you receive a high-quality education

How Much Does a Master’s in Elementary Education Degree Cost?

Although the program cost depends on various factors such as credits required, type of program (in-person or online), or location (in-state or out-of-state), students should be ready to pay anywhere from $12,392 to $26.621 to get this degree.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in Elementary Education Degree?

Typically, a master’s in elementary education can take two years to complete. However, there are accelerated programs students can join to finish their degrees within a year.

Conclusion

Whether you aim to become an elementary school teacher, a curriculum designer, or an educational consultant - pursuing a master’s in elementary education can open up a wide range of career opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. By selecting a program from an accredited institution, you can get a high-quality education that will equip you with the skills you need to thrive in this field.