Graduate school doesn’t just make you more qualified on paper, it can completely transform the way you teach, how you connect with students, and how you see yourself as an educator. It’s a direct investment in becoming a stronger, more effective educator.

If you’re thinking about heading back to school, or you’re already in the process, here’s a look at how a graduate degree can genuinely elevate your teaching practice in ways you might not expect.

You’ll Have Deeper Content Knowledge

When you’re in the daily grind of lesson plans, grading, and classroom management, staying focused on what’s happening this week, this quarter, or this school year is easy. Graduate school shifts your perspective. You start digging into research, theory, and trends that stretch far beyond your building or even your school district.

You’ll begin to understand why certain practices work, not just how to do them. You’ll see where education is headed, and you’ll start asking deeper questions about your role in helping students prepare for a changing world.

That kind of thinking has a powerful ripple effect, it changes the way you design lessons, approach challenges, and advocate for your students. This deeper knowledge and advanced coursework help build expertise in your subject area and allow you to create richer, more meaningful lessons for your students.

You’ll Sharpen Skills and Learn New Instructional Strategies

Think about all the skills you use every day in your classroom: communication, leadership, critical thinking, flexibility, and creativity. Graduate school puts a spotlight on all of them. You’re not just reading textbooks and writing papers (although there’s definitely plenty of that).

You’re being exposed to new, research-based teaching methods and learning how to analyze research, lead discussions, collaborate with colleagues across different specialties, and push your own thinking further than you ever thought possible.

The habits you build in grad school —stronger organization, sharper writing, reflective problem-solving,  directly translate to your teaching practice. These tools can be immediately applied to improve classroom learning.

Before you know it, you’re more confident leading professional development, mentoring new teachers, trying new strategies, and managing your time in a way that actually feels maintainable.

You’ll Build a Toolkit You Didn’t Know You Needed

One of the biggest surprises for many teachers is just how many new strategies, frameworks, and approaches you pick up during grad school. You don’t just get better at what you’re already doing, you discover new tools that you can bring right into your classroom.

You may learn about trauma-informed practices that help you better support struggling students. You may dive deep into technological integration and find ways to make your lessons more dynamic and interactive.

You may even discover new ways to differentiate instruction or design assessments that actually show real learning. Nevertheless, you will walk away with a toolkit that’s wider, deeper, more flexible, and ready to meet the needs of your students in ways you couldn’t before.

You’ll Expand Your Professional Network

One of the best-kept secrets about being in graduate school is the people that you’ll meet. Your connections with professors, classmates, and mentors can turn into some of your best friends, trusted collaborators, and professional lifelines.

They are the people who will give you advice, feedback, and ideas when you need them. These relationships don’t just help you survive grad school, but they shape your career and keep you connected to a bigger community of educators who get it.

You’ll Improve Your Critical Thinking and Reflective Skills

Graduate school pushes you to take a look at the strategies you’re already using in the classroom. Through activities like action research projects, reflective journals, and peer discussions, you’ll start questioning your own methods and beliefs in ways you probably haven’t since your first year of teaching. It’s not always easy to self-reflect and ask yourself why you do things a certain way.

But that’s where growth happens. Being a reflective teacher who thinks critically and analyzes their practice makes teaching more intentional, thoughtful, and ultimately more impactful. Instead of just moving from one lesson to the next, you’re constantly fine-tuning your approach to meet your students where they are and help them get where they need to be.

You’ll Boost Your Confidence and Credibility

Another shift you’ll notice is in your confidence, not just in what you know, but in how you carry yourself as a teacher. Earning a graduate degree strengthens your expertise and gives you that extra layer of assurance when you’re making decisions, leading conversations, or trying something new in your classroom.

It’s not just something you’ll feel, but your students, parents, and administrators will pick up on it too. Having a graduate degree can build your credibility in ways that open doors, earn trust, and position you as a leader in your school community.

You’ll Position Yourself for New Opportunities

Even if you’re not sure whether you want to eventually move into a leadership role, curriculum design, instructional coaching, or higher education, having a graduate degree keeps those doors open.

While you may be perfectly happy in the classroom for now. Years down the line, you might want a change, and you’ll be glad you took the initiative to go to graduate school. A graduate degree isn’t just about getting a new job title; it’s about ensuring you have options when you want them.

If you’re considering graduate school, know that it is a big investment and a challenge. But it’s also one of the most powerful gifts you can give yourself as an educator. You’re not just getting a degree, you’re stepping into a new chapter of growth, connection, and opportunity.

You’re becoming the kind of teacher your students need and the kind of professional who can navigate whatever changes the future of education brings.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post How Graduate School Can Enhance Your Teaching Practice appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Enhanced Teaching Skills and Knowledge

Deeper Content Knowledge

Graduate programs provide teachers with a deeper understanding of their subject matter, allowing them to teach with greater expertise and clarity.

Improved Pedagogical Skills

Teachers learn advanced teaching methods, classroom management strategies, and techniques for differentiating instruction to meet the diverse needs of students.

Specialization

Graduate programs often allow teachers to specialize in a particular area of education, such as special education, early childhood education, or curriculum and instruction. This specialized knowledge can make teachers more valuable to school districts and better equipped to support specific student populations.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Increased Earning Potential

Teachers with a master’s degree often earn higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s degree.

Leadership Roles

A graduate degree can open doors to leadership positions such as school administrator, instructional coach, or department head.

Expanded Career Options

A master’s degree can qualify teachers for roles outside the traditional classroom if you want to follow that path, such as curriculum developer, educational consultant, or higher education instructor.

Personal and Professional Growth

Intellectual Stimulation

Graduate study provides an opportunity for teachers to engage in rigorous intellectual pursuits and expand their knowledge base.

Professional Networking

Graduate programs offer opportunities to connect with other educators, share best practices, and build a professional network.

Increased Confidence and Authority

Earning a graduate degree can boost a teacher’s confidence and authority in the classroom, leading to improved student outcomes.

Additional Benefits

Continuing Education Credits

Many graduate programs offer continuing education credits that can help teachers maintain their teaching licenses.

Tuition Reimbursement

Some school districts offer tuition reimbursement programs to encourage teachers to pursue advanced degrees.

Personal Satisfaction

For many teachers, the pursuit of a graduate degree is a rewarding personal and professional goal.

In conclusion, a graduate degree in education can offer numerous benefits for teachers, including enhanced teaching skills, increased earning potential, career advancement opportunities, and personal and professional growth. Teachers who are passionate about their profession and committed to improving student outcomes should consider pursuing a graduate degree.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post What are the Benefits of a Graduate Degree for Teachers? appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

What Does a Graduate School Application Consist Of? 

The requirements for a graduate school application differ from school to school, and even sometimes from program to program. Some schools will require a much more intensive application process than others, so it’s important that you research the school ahead of time, so you know what to expect.

Most graduate school applications have at least a few common requirements. They are:

Personal Statement

This is a great way to demonstrate your professional personality. Discuss your background, your goals for the program as well as for the future, and why you think you are a good candidate. A personal statement shouldn’t be a novel, so just stick to the main points, but try to include aspects of your personality such as your interests and non-academic hobbies.

Letters of Recommendation/References

You’ll want to choose recommenders who know you well, but who aren’t related to you. I’ll list more tips for this section below!

Resume

Most schools will ask you to submit a resume along with your graduate school application so they can get to know more about your professional employment background.

Official Transcripts

Just as a resume helps explain your employment background, your official transcripts will tell the story of your academic background. More tips on this below!

Essay/Writing Sample

This is different from your personal statement although the content may be similar. Some schools will give you a prompt to follow. Make sure you pay attention to the specific guidelines they request, such as length and subject matter. And of course, choose your BEST work. There should be no typos or grammatical errors.

Tips for a Graduate School Application

Start Your Application Early

Don’t wait until the last minute to complete your graduate school application! Most graduate school applications require more than just filling out a few forms (see the heading above). You want to give yourself enough time to address each requirement thoroughly so you can demonstrate why you’re a good candidate for the program. Applicants who procrastinate often make mistakes, and their applications appear hurried and sloppy. This will not impress your admissions committee who may then make the inference that if you procrastinate on your application, you’re likely to do so in your classes as well.

Check Deadlines

Many graduate schools have deadlines to apply, as well as for payment plans and to request/receive financial aid. You don’t want to miss out on an important aspect of the application process because you didn’t do your research ahead of time.

Request Your Transcripts First

Transcripts can take a long time to arrive at your college or university, and they’re one of the most essential documents. Schools generally will not accept you into a grad school program without them, so don’t delay in ordering them. This is the first thing you should do after you put in your application; some schools take as long as six to eight weeks to send them out. Others will allow you to request them electronically, but it still takes time for the university to receive and process them.

Choose Strong References

Make sure you choose someone very familiar with your skill set, and who can speak strongly regarding your professional background. Give them plenty of time to write the reference and make yourself accessible in case they have questions. It’s also better to choose someone with whom you’ve worked closely with recently, as opposed to way in the past.

Address Any Weaknesses

Weaknesses in your application, such as a poor GPA or a gap in your education or employment history, don’t necessarily mean you’ll be rejected. But it’s much better to address these weaknesses in your personal statement or writing sample (or in an interview, if one is required) as opposed to ignoring them. Explain to the committee why they exist, what you’ve learned from them, and how you’ve grown. No one is perfect and you’ll be respected a lot more for addressing what could potentially be an uncomfortable topic.

Show Your Passion and Personality in a Professional Manner

What makes you stand out? Graduate schools receive hundreds, if not thousands, of applications a year. Why should they choose you over someone else? You may have excellent grades, or be a talented writer, but that doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily be successful in a graduate program. Make sure you convey your passion for the subject matter. Show the committee how excited you are, and how committed you are to learning more about your chosen field.

Proofread Your Application

Proofread, proofread, proofread. There is no excuse for errors in spelling or grammar, or for forgetting about any sections of the application. You can avoid all of these issues by making sure you give yourself plenty of time to complete the app and review it thoroughly prior to submitting it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend or colleague; a second set of eyes never hurts, especially if you feel like writing isn’t one of your strongest qualities.

Ask For Feedback if You’re Rejected

Even if you follow all these tips, acceptance is never a guarantee. If you’re rejected, don’t be afraid to reach out to the admissions director to ask why. Use their feedback to make improvements on any future applications. You’ll be accepted into a program before you know it, and the fact that you didn’t give up after a rejection will show your passion and tenacity.

Teachers never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post Preparing Your Graduate School Application appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

During my third year in the classroom, teaching as an official educator with a teaching degree, I can recall trying to consider if I wanted to do something other than teaching. I was completely burnt out, struggling through an M.Ed. program, and feeling stuck.  

I loved what I did, I loved working with the kids, I loved sharing literature, and I loved collaborating with parents. However, I detested grading papers, annoyed with the inequities of discipline, and I couldn’t figure out how to find a work-life balance without feeling guilty. Ultimately, the sky is the limit for a professional with a degree in education/teaching degree. And that’s not just a metaphor. Education is not just the key for students to open the doors to their future; education is also a master key that will allow access to all the other doors as well.

School Counselor/School Librarian 

A couple of options to consider are a school counselor or a media assistant (school librarian.) This would require acquiring an additional certification/degree to hold these positions permanently, however it is something one could transition to seamlessly from the classroom.

Instructional Coaches/Educational Consultants 

Another viable option to consider is the idea of teacher support. Instructional coaches and educational consultants offer supports through experience, curriculum building, observation, and data tracking. These positions, however, don’t get the opportunity to work with students as closely. They also require the skill set of working with adults at various career stages who may not always want support. This can be a challenge, especially for an educator that had a strong grasp of classroom management. Although, when considering the big picture, any endeavor or individual that supports classroom teachers, supports students. 

Administrators 

For some educators, it is also worth contemplating going into administration and leadership. As a building manager, an administrator could find solutions to the issues that are ailing teachers. Further, administrators work with all stakeholders, students, teachers, parents, custodians, paraprofessionals, office and cafeteria staff, community partners, etc. Going into administration requires a master’s degree; Georgia assistant principals have a Tier I certification and principals have Tier II certification.  

Principals

Principals don’t grade papers, but they do complete a lot of paperwork and spend a lot of time in school buildings. They work more hours and days than the average teacher and have additional duties that deal with sports, field trips, and any other type of support that keeps a building running.

Paraprofessional/Substitute Teacher 

The final and probably less popular option to consider with a teaching degree would be to be a paraprofessional or a substitute. These are options that some educators with degrees choose for a variety of reasons. They may need a lighter load, job, and time flexibility or want to spend more time with their children.  

They may be retired and want to return to the classroom, but not full-time or may be new to the area and don’t want too much responsibility. They may just want to make a little extra money. These reasons are much more varied but mostly centered around having job flexibility while still being able to work with children. 

Jobs Outside of Education Utilizing a Teaching Degree? 

The pandemic was the catalyst for many educators. Suddenly the always lingering questions of what to do with a teaching degree outside of the classroom were answered. Educators went into ed tech, they opened and contracted with tutoring businesses, or worked at centers like the Boys and Girls Club of America. They also went back to school and earned degrees in nursing, certifications to become therapists and life coaches, and supported and started small businesses of every kind.  

Suddenly major companies were noticing that educators have a valuable skill set. They work well with various people, are quick learners, and aren’t afraid to ask a question while paying attention to detail. Further, teachers have excellent organizational skills, the ability to multi-task, and many are better than average writers.

Educational Technology 

A job that many teachers found attractive is anything in ed tech. Any online learning platform needed teachers. So often, these positions were traditionally filled by well-meaning and educated folks who had never actually been in education. Now so many popular sites have the support of seasoned classroom educators to refine their work. Teachers also earned certification in various online educational programs and then developed programs to deliver to counties on the parts of the program that would best benefit students and teachers.

Professional Writing 

Some English teachers turn into writers. They write grants, tests, articles, and more. Grants make a significant difference when businesses or even schools have a special project they are attempting. Grant writing is challenging because attention to detail is paramount; the need must be clearly outlined and met to obtain and maintain the funds.  

If the funds are used irresponsibly, it’s possible that the receiver could have to return the money. So, grant writing requires the eye of someone who doesn’t mind looking back over something multiple times, which is a practice that English teachers do regularly. 

 Managerial Positions 

Many of those with a teaching degree and experience turned to the private sector and took on managerial positions. Truthfully, managing anywhere from 15-150 students a day has prepared most teachers to be able to work in positions where they facilitate and oversee many people at a time. They have an eye for efficiency, so once they learn the culture of a place, they not only have the skill to measure and monitor growth, but they also know how to encourage employees towards improvement without berating them and putting them down. Most teachers have incredible patience and empathy and can ascertain that fine line between giving someone another chance or letting them get away with something that deserves criticism or discipline. 

Then there are those educators who have completely re-arranged their lives and decided to stay home and school their own children. They have created homeschool networks where they can work with other home school parents to be compensated for their time and experience.  

Psychology/Mentoring 

Some educators took to heart all that their colleagues across the world had endured for the past two years. They acquired licensing so that they could become therapists and began practicing and supporting teachers as they try to work through what the pandemic has revealed about education as a whole.  

Teachers have endured unimaginable abuse, heightened expectations, and so much loss, all while attempting to support our future. Therapists who have an educational background can provide insight and attention to the specific needs of those that work in school buildings.

Are you interested in pursuing your education graduate degree? Check out our 190+ available masters, doctorates, endorsements, and certifications to advance your career today! 

The post What Can I Do with a Teaching Degree Outside of Teaching? appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Because of the potentially long-lasting negative impacts of trauma on physical and mental health, graduate programs teaching ways to address students’ history of trauma are drawing more and more attention from educational leaders and institutions.

What is a Trauma and Resilience Degree?

Because of the uptick in student traumatic experiences, colleges and universities’ teacher preparation programs are offering new training in trauma and resilience. By definition, resilience is the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties, or toughness. Teacher educational programs have become quick to add new training because students who have experienced trauma can and are benefitting from emerging best practices in trauma-informed care.

Recently, colleges and universities have created different degree programs for trauma and resilience and trauma-informed care. For some postsecondary programs, this can be done through a master’s-level program or an add-on certification program. These programs in trauma-informed teaching and education can help prepare educators for what has become a central concern and focus for schools and communities. Students need effective responses to their trauma and need ways to build resilience and capacity to thrive in the classroom. Schools and/or districts with trained teachers in trauma and resiliency are more effective, and communities are better equipped to deal with the challenges being faced today.

Benefits of a Trauma and Resilience Degree

Benefits of a trauma and resilience degree are prevalent for both students and teachers. In studies conducted, most recently by the CDC, 64% of children have experienced adverse childhood experiences—commonly referred to as ACEs. These experiences can include abuse, neglect, and challenging household circumstances like military deployment, divorce, and others.

Unfortunately, children facing more ACEs than others are more likely to be labeled with behavioral problems and often develop anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. As students experience trauma, their brain functions are altered. Teachers are not equipped in standard teacher education programs to appropriately handle, recognize, and help students overcome these obstacles.

The growing field of trauma-informed and resilient education recognizes that children who experience trauma need school to be a safe place, one filled with love and trust. A trauma and resilience degree can provide educators with the tools to face these challenges both in and out of the classroom setting. As a trauma-informed educator myself, my entire pedagogical and philosophical approach to education changed as I was awakened to the real need that exists with students coming from broken homes, neglectful and abusive relationships, and so many other adverse life experiences that I did not personally experience.

Career Opportunities

With any add-on degree or certification, there comes the opportunity to advance in the field of education or work with students in different avenues. At all levels, schools are realizing the importance and benefits of trauma-informed teaching and leadership programs. For those with advanced degrees in trauma and resilience, opportunities exist outside of the traditional classroom setting.

First, schools can utilize a trauma-informed coach, one who works collaboratively with schools throughout districts to implement comprehensive trauma-informed approaches in schools, implement and facilitate professional development that supports trauma-sensitive practices, and provide coaching to teachers, administrators, and other staff that encourages a shift in the mindset regarding trauma.

Additionally, school counseling opportunities can arise from being trauma and resilience-trained, allowing staff the ability to work with small groups of students, providing education on specific trauma and/or topics like bullying, drug abuse, and even career planning. From the community perspective, trauma-informed-trained employees can provide valuable and vital social work and care coordinator opportunities, where large scale change can impact the communities surrounding local schools, thus providing wholesale opportunities for societal change with our communities and neighborhoods.

Additional Advantages

In addition to the multiple career paths and professional opportunities available to teachers trained in trauma and resilience, there are personal advantages to this type of training as well. As educators, we have faced trauma continuing to provide education during a global pandemic. Whether it has been virtual instruction, hybrid, or face-to-face, educators across the world have continued to deliver expert instruction in the midst of epic challenges. As we face trauma and struggle with resiliency ourselves, burnout and teacher trauma are real factors, and when combined with elevated stress levels, feelings of inadequacy, and teacher attrition, teachers need coping strategies too. Coursework and experiences in trauma and resilience help teachers strengthen their own ability to identify and adapt to their own trauma, whether it be direct or secondary, and, in turn, build our resilience through mindfulness and self-care.

As an educational community, we must recognize and address the increasingly common rate of trauma our students experience, and understand the long-term negative consequences that are a serious educational crisis. Early adverse life experiences in children have a direct impact on their learning and can lead to unhealthy coping behaviors and/or depression, anxiety, and other challenges. By adopting and being trained in trauma and resilience, educators can work together to mitigate these risks, and improve educational outcomes for children and even adults who have experienced trauma. Through the work of educators trained in trauma and resilience degree programs, we are slowly emerging with better plans, strategies, and guides on how to provide better education for our students.

Are you interested in exploring a Trauma and Resilience program? Explore our available programs to get started today!

The post Advantages of a Trauma and Resilience Degree appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Career transitions are a very normal part of life. The average person changes careers between five and seven times throughout his/her life. Teacher burnout is a real phenomenon. There are so many stressors in being a teacher that they can become too overwhelming. Overcrowded classrooms, financial worries, standardized testing, and long hours are just a few issues that can turn a person away from teaching. However, the best part about being a teacher is that there are many other paths that you can pursue in the education world if you have decided that teaching is not for you.

Why Do You Need a Graduate Degree?

Pursuing a graduate degree is often needed when making the transition to a new career in education or any other field. Additional schooling may be required to obtain an add-on to your teaching license or to work in a non-teaching educational career. You want to make sure that before you decide to enter into a degree program that it meets all of the requirements for the new job that you hope to pursue.

Additionally, there are many school districts that offer payment for tuition for teachers who are returning to school for another degree. It would be extremely worthwhile to speak with the human resource department of your school district to see if they have any programs like this or partnerships with local universities.

Choosing to continue your education is going to keep you up to date on all of the newest strategies, best practices, and information in education. Coursework and research that you undertake during your graduate degree will help you become an expert in a new area. Graduate degrees are often much more specialized than bachelor’s degrees. A graduate degree allows you to study highly specific areas or fields, such as trauma and resilience or reading and literacy specialization.

Furthermore, graduate degrees will often help you obtain higher-level positions within your current department. You will be able to share the newest educational theories with your fellow teachers and administrators. Completing a graduate degree in education will open up so many different opportunities for a teacher.

Graduate Degrees vs. Certificates

An important detail to learn prior to enrolling in any program is what exactly does the new career you might transition to require as far as coursework, degree completion, or certifications. There are a variety of jobs in the education field besides teaching. Some of them require a graduate degree and some just a certification.

You may be an elementary school teacher and have realized that you love teaching reading especially to the struggling readers in your class. As a career transition, you want to become a reading specialist or interventionist. This change in careers will require you to take to a certain number of courses to obtain your reading specialist certificate. On the other hand, if you want to become a curriculum director in a school district or a curriculum designer for an educational resource or textbook company, you may have to get a graduate degree in curriculum and instruction.

Other professions in the education field that may only require a certification, although many graduate programs for them exist, are math interventionists or ESL teachers. These two areas would require you to add a certification onto your already existing teacher license. Be sure to check your state for the requirements because they vary from state to state.

On the other hand, graduate degrees may be necessary for a career change from being a teacher to being a principal, vice principal, or superintendent. These careers often require a certain number of years of teaching and then a graduate degree. Becoming a superintendent also requires a certain amount of administrative experience as a principal or curriculum director. Degrees are also needed to be a school counselor, school psychologist, speech language pathologist, and many others. Research is key in knowing the requirements for the different educational positions.

Even if you want to transition out of the school building completely, there are still other educational careers that you can pursue if you are passionate about education. There are companies who hire educators to be standardized test developers. You can become an educational consultant helping families find the right educational fit for their children. You can enter the world of sales and sell textbooks to schools and universities.

There are so many opportunities for teachers to make a career transition. Teacher burnout is real, but there is no need to completely leave the education field. Realizing that you still have a passion for education but knowing you need a change from the daily routine as a teacher is very normal. This could be the right time to do your research and find a new degree or certification that interests you. Taking inventory of all of the different staff in your school district might open up your mind to new and exciting job opportunities.

The post How a Graduate Degree can Help You Make a Career Transition appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

What Should I Consider?

When thinking about the answer to the question, “What should I consider when comparing graduate programs,” think about the things that are important to you. What do you want and need in a graduate program? List your “must haves” along with things that you consider to be very enticing perks. I suggest creating a spreadsheet or table to list those important, enticing components you want in a graduate program.

You may find that your list is extensive so you doubt if you’ll find a program that meets all wishes on your list. In this case, begin to prioritize. You may want to place numbers beside the items on your list or rewrite your list in a different order with your highest priorities at the top. Look for programs that meet your top priorities or top desires and needs. Examples one might find on my prioritized list are:

1. Affordable
2. Accredited
3. Available online
4. Timeframe for completion is less than two years
5. Accessible faculty and support personnel

Cost and Financial Aid

Most people will want to consider cost and financial aid options when comparing graduate programs. Basically, there is an option for everyone who needs support; options include scholarships, fellowships, grants, and loans and may be federal, personal, institutional, or from other agencies or sources. For specifics, contact the educational institution’s financial aid department, search the web, or search the institution’s website.

As you consider costs and applying for financial support, include both tuition and non-tuition costs. You may have residential costs, meal plans, books, lab supplies, or other costs specific to your area of study. Any cost, if not considered from the start, can cause a financial impact on individuals and/or families.

If you decide to apply for financial assistance, you will want to be mindful about deadlines for any required applications or assessments. You may also want to prepare a resume and purpose statement in advance, as they will be helpful throughout application processes and interviews.

Program Reputation

The graduate program you are considering has a reputation. The question is, “What is its reputation?” Start by finding out if the program of study and the institution are accredited. Being accredited means the program or institution meets standards of excellence in areas such as academics, integrity, ethics, student experiences, etc.

Additional information about programs’ and institutions’ reputations can be gained from campus visits, conversations with alumni, conversations with current students, and reviews found on the institution’s website. As you talk with former and current students, ask for honest reflections on the things that are important to you like accessibility of faculty, responsiveness of department leaders, friendliness of other staff and students, location, facilities, communications, support services, and any other factors you may hold in high regard as being crucial to your program.

Research, Practicum, and Other Educational Opportunities

Experience is one of the best teachers. In other words, you learn from real-life scenarios and opportunities in your chosen field. You learn to solve problems and to apply theory and knowledge from your coursework. Thus, practicum, internships, research opportunities, and other fieldwork are important and should be considered when you are comparing graduate programs. If the program you’re considering offers real-life opportunities, consider the amount of travel required, additional costs, additional time requirements, the ability to hold a full- or part-time job simultaneously (if this applies), and the like.

Career Opportunities

Determine which career paths are attractive to you and will be available to you upon the completion of your program. Will available career paths lead to security, stability, and lend themselves to family life or other lifestyles that are important to you? Many institutions assist alumni in locating job opportunities. Is the institution you are considering equipped to support you in your efforts to find a job or career in your chosen field of study? This type of institutional assistance may or may not be a priority on your list, but it’s worth considering.

Faculty

People need people. As a graduate student, you will need various degrees of support from others. Consider the accessibility of faculty when you are comparing graduate programs and institutions. Faculty support is helpful for answering questions, guiding you in your assignments and requirements, providing you with feedback, and more.

Ask others about the friendliness, knowledge, and accessibility of faculty. Reach out to faculty and determine how quickly they respond and the degree to which their responses help. Also, inquire about office hours and preferred means of communication. Do they match your hours and preferred means of communication? If not, are you willing to be flexible?

Now that you’ve read the tips, advice, and questions above, you may be thinking, “That’s seems like a lot of work prior to choosing a graduate program.” You are worth it…you are worth the effort it takes to make the best choice for you! Your future hinges on your decisions, which is why comparing graduate programs is warranted and should serve you well.

Start your journey to find the right degree for you by exploring and comparing our available programs here!

The post How to Evaluate and Compare Schools’ Graduate Programs appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Naturally, program offerings for graduate programs are extremely broad and offered by countless colleges and universities, so it is important for educators considering an advanced degree or certification to develop a solid understanding of what type of program will best assist them in accomplishing their career goals.

Pros and Cons of Graduate Degree Programs

The most traditional course taken by most practicing teachers is the pursuit of a master’s or doctoral degree in an education-related field. Beyond the increased knowledge base that accompanies a graduate degree, these programs are broader in scope and expose candidates to areas that may be outside their present areas of interest and experience, which allows them to develop a deeper understanding of concepts they may not have considered otherwise.

From a purely financial standpoint, many school districts offer significant salary incentives for teachers that hold a master’s or doctoral degree. Beyond this, many districts also offer tuition reimbursement (at least in part) for graduate level courses as they are taken. Most school districts have a pro-rated schedule for tuition reimbursement related to the letter grade teachers earn in their course(s).

The idea that school districts in many cases are willing to pay for a portion of graduate coursework and compensate teachers more for completing a master’s or doctorate is a significant motivating factor, especially for those who are newer to the field and have earnings at the lower end of the salary schedule. Beyond the financial incentives, however, is the fact that earning a graduate degree assists teachers in becoming more effective in the classroom by expanding their content knowledge and pedagogical abilities.

Although it seems as though a master’s or doctoral program is the most logical choice for teachers to pursue, there are some drawbacks. One concern that some teachers have is the amount of time that it takes to complete a master’s program. This is especially true for individuals who have young families at home or those who do not wish to pursue additional education beyond the need to satisfy their continuing education requirements.

Additionally, given the credits required for a master’s degree (usually 30-36 credits), these programs cost more to the student initially even though many school districts offer reimbursement. Some master’s degree programs also require candidates to compose a master’s thesis, which is a significant written document that is undesirable for some individuals. It is important to note, however, that a number of master’s programs, especially the master of education (M.Ed.) do not require a thesis.

Pros and Cons of Graduate Certificate Programs

Graduate certificate programs differ from graduate degree programs in a variety of ways. Graduate certificate programs require fewer credit hours for completion, ranging anywhere from 6 to 18 credits depending upon the nature of the program. Certificate programs offer practicing teachers effective ways to gain useful skills within specialized concentration areas.

Several examples of graduate certificate programs include: instructional technology, online instruction, literacy instruction, and instructional coaching. Thus, graduate certificate programs offer teachers an expedient way to gain expertise within a particular area without the time commitment required by a master’s or doctoral program. Another benefit of graduate certificate programs is that, depending upon the institution at which they are earned, the credits can be applied to a master’s program at a later time.

One of the drawbacks of graduate certificate programs is that they do not provide the opportunity for exploration of other relevant areas of study offered by master’s and doctoral programs. Additionally, the salary incentive for graduate certifications is not as readily available as it is for graduate degree completion. Some school districts may offer a smaller incentive for a bachelor’s degree plus 18 credits; however, this is somewhat rare, so those interested in pursuing a graduate certificate should do so as a result of their interest within a particular area of study and to assist them in fulfilling their continuing education requirements.

Which is Right for Me?

Selecting the type of graduate program that is best for you can be a challenging process. Ultimately, the decision is solely yours, and you should make it based upon your specific interests, needs, and career goals.

For example, if in the short-term you plan to continue within your present role and would like to expand your knowledge within a specific area of instruction, then a graduate certificate program certainly would meet your needs while providing you with the option of applying your accumulated credits to a master’s degree program in the future. If your long-term goal is also to remain in your current role, then both you and your students will benefit from your acquired knowledge for years to come.

If your short-term goal consists of remaining in your current role but you desire greater financial compensation, then a master’s degree program is the most expedient option to consider. Additionally, if you have long-term aspirations of becoming a school administrator or potentially teaching at the collegiate level, a master’s or doctoral degree is without question the option you should pursue.

Further, you should gather information surrounding your school district’s offerings for tuition reimbursement and ensure that you take advantage of the resources available. Higher education can be expensive, so determining the most financially sensible approach to advancing your education is an important step in the decision-making process.

An important fact to remember is that there truly is no wrong decision to be made. If you find yourself at a point in life at which a graduate degree program requires more time than you have, or desire, to commit to continuing education, you always can accumulate credits through a graduate certificate program and then apply them to a graduate program at a later time in which your life circumstances are more conducive to such a pursuit. Either way, teachers should increase their knowledge bases through graduate studies for the combined benefit of themselves and their students.

Explore our graduate degree and certificate programs and begin your journey today!

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What is Educational Administration?

Typically, education administration deals with school district business and can have a wide range of duties. While teachers are typically in charge of classes of students, administrators in education are school leaders and oversee the operations of these classes.

Some administrators may be in charge of just a few things if they are employed in a large school district. Smaller districts require administrators to oversee many facets of the district they work for. There are middle management administrators that typically work with building-level issues. District-level personnel work on functions that are relevant to multiple buildings and often report to a board of education.

Versatility is beneficial to an administrator’s success in their position. Since they are likely to work with and supervise teachers, they are usually familiar with and experienced in teaching before making the move to administration. Time management, leadership skills, school law knowledge, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving abilities are all traits that benefit administrators in being successful.

While teachers’ work hours are during the day and are typically on school days, administrators are often found in their workplace early, while staying late, supervising evening activities, and working through the summer. Administrator compensation is significantly higher, but it requires them to work more days and hours. They also often deal with more stressful situations that include high-stakes decision making.

Career Opportunities Available with an Education Administration Degree

Depending on geographic location, there could be many options for a professional with a degree in education administration. In smaller schools or districts, positions will be more limited such as principal or superintendent. However, school districts that serve larger student populations have more facets to their administrative teams. Curriculum director, transportation director, director of buildings and grounds, assistant superintendent, chief financial or business official, assistant principal, dean of students, and special education coordinator are some of the options for career paths in these schools.

Many current administrators are in the last half of their careers which means many vacancies are a result of retirements. This, along with professionals that continue moving up the chain, provides opportunities for those that are looking to get into the field. With higher compensation in most of these administrative positions, mobility is possible for many professionals. Being mobile opens even more opportunities and a higher likelihood of landing a position.

Things to Consider before Pursuing an Educational Administration Degree

It is important to think about career goals before entering into a degree program. Finishing a master’s degree, which is required for almost all certified administrative positions, is a big commitment. Not only will it consume a lot of time and energy for educational professionals who are likely already taxed from a demanding teaching position, it is also requires a financial commitment as well. There are also prerequisites for being accepted into programs and requirements to complete them, which should be considered carefully.

Many graduate students may find themselves still paying on student loans from their undergraduate degree when they decide to pursue a master’s degree. While this shouldn’t deter someone, you should consider your financial options before committing to a program. How will you pay for your degree? There are several routes you can take, including loans, grants and scholarships, fellowships, and loan forgiveness programs, among others.

Most master’s level students also don’t have to pay for housing like many undergrad students, which offsets the cost of attending. Living on a budget is important for any household. This importance is magnified for a person that is starting an advanced degree. After all, budgeting will be a big part of the job as an administrator, particularly at the district level.

Many master’s programs in education are tailored to a teacher’s schedule so they will often offer evening and weekend classes during the school year. Summer classes are typically offered as well during the day or weekends. Many programs are blended, and some schools offer entirely online education administration degree programs. Often, universities offer cohort options for groups that wish to meet in areas closer to their home for convenience.

It’s also important to consider a school that is accredited, offers a degree program that will benefit your career aspirations, and has tuition prices that are reasonable.

There are a lot of factors to consider when determining if and when graduate school is appropriate and deciding where you want to attend. Acquiring a specialist or doctoral degree in education administration in order to be a superintendent is a consideration for those that want to take their career in administration even further. It may be necessary to get your feet wet in education for a few years in order to get a feel for the job. Education administration is a demanding and challenging career path, but one that is also very rewarding.

Looking to further your career in educational administration? Explore our available master’s and doctorate programs here.

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