If you’re thinking about continuing your education as an educator but are unsure how to determine the right time to go back to school, you’re not alone. Going back to school can seem like an extra burden that may seem difficult to fit on your plate. However, investing time in yourself and your career can prove meaningful and be worthwhile.
Why Teachers Should Consider Going Back to School
Continuing your education is important even if your school district doesn’t require it. Some of the benefits include:
Sharpen Teaching Skills
To stay relevant in education you need to be a lifelong learner. Keeping your skills fresh will help you adapt to anything that may come your way. For example, when the pandemic hit, relying on traditional teaching methods was out the door because everything went from in-person to online. The knowledge and skills of digital learning activities helped many teachers during this time.
Increased Salary
Going back to school to continue your education can mean an increase in salary or a higher starting salary in a new position. Reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2021, an advanced degree of any kind can increase your income by approximately $1,500.
Chances for a Promotion
If you invest in the time to improve your skills through graduate programs, many employers will acknowledge your hard work and effort with a promotion. Oftentimes, continuing your education qualifies you to take on more responsibilities that an employer may be looking for. So, the more education you have, the more likely you’ll stand out among other candidates.
Ability to Transition Jobs
If you feel like it’s time for a career change, returning to school to continue your education will help qualify you for this new transition. If the education field is being considered, continuing your education will give you the specific skills you need to get the job.
Determining the Right Time for You
If you’re convinced that you want to return to school to continue your education, the next step is to determine if now is the right time for you. Here are a few signs that you’re ready to take the leap:
You Can Afford It
If you are in a good financial situation, it’s probably a good time to consider investing in your career. Think about it as a return on your investment. Once you get your degree, you have the potential to make more money. While you may not see that return immediately, your degree will pay off in the long run.
You Want a Change
If you have teacher burnout or have been thinking about applying for another position but can only apply if you have the certification or skills required, you can take that as a sign that you’re ready to move forward.
You’re Able to Balance Work, School, Life
Often people drop out of college because they have a hard time balancing work, school, and general life. If you now lead a less hectic life and think that you can easily balance it all, then maybe now is the time to go back to school.
You’re More Self-Aware
An advantage of being an adult is that you’re more self-aware. For example, if you went to college when you were eighteen you may have found it hard to ask for help and probably didn’t always use the available resources at your disposal. As an adult learner, you are more mature and self-aware and can recognize when you need help.
Committing to a program is a huge decision that takes a considerable amount of time and consideration. If you feel excited about the idea of going back to school, then now might be the time to start looking into programs that will suit your needs.
How Did COVID Impact Education Graduate Programs?
The Education Advisory Board (EAB) states that the pandemic’s impact on education plans varied among students. For some, the pandemic accelerated their plans to return to school because it created opportunities for them to research and apply to graduate programs, and brought more awareness to online master’s programs, doctoral programs, etc.
For some, the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic created barriers to continuing their education. The pandemic changed and derailed their back-to-school plans entirely because of financial circumstances, responsibilities at home, or dealing with a sick loved one who had the COVID-19 virus.
For others, it offered some students a chance to reflect on their career goals and gave them a moment to decide if they wanted to change or advance in their careers.
If you are considering continuing your education, check out our 190+ master’s programs, doctoral programs, licensure programs, and more for you to take your next step!
