Degree teaching is more than just a job. It’s a calling. And if you feel the calling to make a difference in the lives of students through every stage.
of their development, pursuing a degree in education is an excellent way to do so.
A degree in education helps prepare students for roles as teachers.
administrators, principals, and other rewarding careers in schools and universities. From K-8 to high school and postsecondary.
there are opportunities for teachers at every level of the public and private school system.
Education Degree
Because all states require at least a bachelors’ degree to become a public school teacher, earning a degree in education can give you a solid foundation in lesson planning and instruction, classroom management.
psychology, pedagogy, and other teaching best practices. Education degrees also offer a variety of concentrations, so you can shape your training around the career you want.
Although you can become a teacher with a degree in a subject other than education, pursing an education degree is the most straightforward and direct route into the profession.
This guide helps prospective educators explore a range of education careers, degrees, and work environments and will answer the question, “what can you do with an education degree?”
What Jobs Can You Get with a Degree in Education?
Teaching is a popular avenue to explore with an education degree, but this degree opens up a variety of non-teaching careers as well.
The table below illustrates just some of the career paths you can pursue with an education or related degree.
5 Non-Teaching Jobs You Can Get with an Education Degree
Although an education degree is often viewed as synonymous with a teaching career, there are other opportunities the degree opens doors to.
Here are just a few of the jobs you can get outside of the classroom with a degree in education.
Where Can You Work with a Degree in Education?
An education degree can open doors to a variety of teaching and administrative careers in several different settings. Let’s take a look at where you can work with an education degree.
Preschools
Preschool teachers and assistant teachers typically work with children between three and five years old.
Preschool teachers are not only responsible for students’ academic development, but social and emotional development, too.
A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and development can be helpful in catering to the specific developmental needs of this age group.
Preschool administrators may develop curricula, organize staff training, and manage their school’s operations.
Administrators typically need teaching experience and well-developed leadership skills.
which can be pursued through bachelor’s and master’s education programs.
Kindergartens & Elementary Schools
Elementary schools give educators the chance to work with a wide range of age groups.
Teachers have to teach multiple subjects and may work with students ranging from five to 12 years old.
Teacher assistants, special education teachers and aides.
school counselors, and administrators, like principals, can all be found in elementary schools.
Elementary education degrees can provide kindergarten and elementary educators with the skills.
knowledge, and pedagogy required for working with this age group.
Special education teachers typically need a degree in special education or an education degree with a special education track.
Specialty teachers, like elementary music and computer teachers, can benefit from an education degree as well as training or experience in their specialty.
Middle Schools
Middle school teachers typically need an education background and a specific content area they can teach, like math or a foreign language.
States have different education requirements, so research those before starting your degree.
It’s common for states to want teachers to major in their content area and complete a teacher education program.
but others prefer that teachers have a degree in education or elementary education.
A bachelor’s degree may be sufficient, but some areas may prefer or require a master’s degree.
Principals and deans generally need a master’s degree and teaching experience. Counselors can also find careers in middle schools.
These professionals are particularly important in the academic, emotional, and social transition between elementary and high school.
At minimum, a bachelor’s degree and certification are necessary.
High Schools
Teachers, assistants, counselors, and administrators all work together to help high school students prepare for college and adult life.
High school teachers often earn a bachelor’s degree in a subject they’d like to teach and then earn a master’s in education.
A bachelor’s degree coupled with a teacher training program may be sufficient, but many schools may prefer candidates with advanced degrees.
High school educators may help with college prep and facilitate student clubs as well, so the focused training in working with and understanding 14-18 year olds that can come from a degree in secondary education can be valuable whether you want to teach or take on other roles in high schools.
Colleges & Universities
Postsecondary educators work with both traditional and nontraditional college students.
often interacting with people from many different age groups and backgrounds.
Instructors typically need a master’s or doctoral degree in their subject area.
Earning a bachelor’s degree in a major subject and a master’s or doctorate in education is a popular route to consider.
Career counselors and academic advisors are also vital and require a solid understanding of education and how to help students navigate it.
Administrators like presidents, deans, and provosts may have less direct interaction with students.
but a background in education can help them lead their schools in a positive and useful direction.