Online Distance Education Degree Programs

Distance learning has revolutionized higher education, making college degrees accessible to a broader population than ever before. The convenience of self-paced learning from a home office allows adults to find time for college coursework while still fulfilling family and work obligations. Advances in educational technology have driven this phenomenon. Today's distance learning programs utilize online and multimedia technology to deliver a digital learning experience.

As online education becomes a fixture at postsecondary schools, demand is increasing for teachers specially trained to develop and coordinate distance learning programs. Distance educators may teach courses, design teaching strategies and online curricula, research program effectiveness, or manage a school's online programs. Given the rapid evolution of online education technology, distance educators must also stay abreast of new developments in distance learning, including the latest applications, approaches, and breakthrough methodologies.

A Degree in Distance Education

If you want to become a certified e-learning instructor, the most cost-effective way is to pursue an online degree in distance education and e-learning. You'll master all of the crucial skills needed to teach an online course through the very medium that you will use to teach a class. And you'll take advantage of all the benefits that have made the online classroom such a popular medium. Working almost exclusively from home or your office, you can progress toward your degree at whatever pace your schedule allows.

Distance educators typically hold a graduate-level degree in education. Distance education programs are available at the master's or doctoral-degree level. Typical programs include:

• Master of Science in Distance Education
• Master of Education with a concentration in e-Learning
• Master of Education in Instructional Design for Online Learning
• Master of Distance Education Leadership
• Master of Science in Instructional Systems Technology

In addition, many education programs offer specialized courses in online teaching methods, using educational technology, and applying distance learning in a specific context, such as corporate training.

Career Outlook for e-Learning Instructors

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, opportunities for postsecondary teachers promise to be "excellent" in the coming decade. The report cites an increased emphasis on career and technical education to explain the rising demand for teachers in this field. The department projects job growth of 23 percent from 2006 through 2016. Overall, postsecondary teachers made a median salary of $56,120 in 2006; instructors earned $42,609.

In addition to teaching online courses, graduates of distance education programs are qualified to work in curriculum design, in educational technology development, or distance education policy and management. Sample job titles include:

• Coordinator of Online Instruction
• Distance Learning Project Management Assistant
• Distance Learning Librarian
• Technical Director
• Online Course Support Specialist
• Production Manager

Administrative jobs should see moderate growth in the coming years, with 12 percent growth projected between 2006 and 2016. The average salary for all postsecondary administrators was $85,870 in 2007. Salary.com cites a $67,222 average for program director positions.

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