Online Education (General) Degree Programs

Education is the second largest industry in the United States today, comprising approximately 13.3 million jobs. A general degree in education offers a stepping stone to countless careers in this broad sector, from teaching to program development to administrative positions.

Online schools offer a range of education (general) programs. The most common degrees are the Bachelor of Science in Education and the Master of Education (MEd). Two-thirds of education employees have at least a bachelor's degree, and most postsecondary education administrators and teachers have at least a master's degree in education.

Bachelor's Degree in Education

A Bachelor of Science in Education is a common qualification for teaching positions at the K-12 level. The degree can also lead to entry-level positions in education administration or consulting, though employers in these areas typically prefer candidates with a graduate degree in the field.

An online bachelor's degree in education takes about four years to complete. The program combines general liberal arts and science courses with specialized education training courses. Core requirements cover:

• Mathematics
• Physical science
• Mathematics
• Social science
• Humanities, including music, art, history, and literature

The education curriculum, which usually makes up the second half of the bachelor's degree program, focuses on professional theory and career training. Courses include:

• Educational psychology
• Theory of learning and teaching
• Educational research
• School safety and health
• Teaching methods

Master of Education Degree

A Master of Education (MEd) degree allows teachers to delve more deeply into the theory and practice of teaching. With a Master of Education degree, you'll learn to incorporate technological tools into your teaching curriculums, and adapt teaching methodologies to suit your teaching style and position. Courses may include:

• Education research methodology
• Education policy issues
• Curriculum development
• Education administration

A Master of Education degree is ideal for those teaching distance education to adults, working in education administration, helping to design curriculum for educational institutions, or working as a corporate or military trainer. Many states require K-12 teachers to attain a master's degree in education within a certain timeframe.

Education Workers: Career Outlook and Earnings

The Department of Labor projects a long-term increase in demand for educational services workers as enrollments increase and a greater premium is placed on improving educational quality. Short-term growth--through 2016--is more modest, with 11 percent new jobs projected. Demand is higher for math and science teachers at the K-12 level and adult career educators and corporate trainers.

Salaries vary widely based on the position and level of education required. Education administrators reported average salaries ranging from $82,120 to $85,870 in 2007. K-12 teachers earned a mean annual wage of $50,040 during the same period. A master's degree in education can boost a teacher's salary considerably.

While no educational program can promise jobs or guarantee salary, the continuing demand for skilled teachers and administrators suggest that this is an excellent time to enroll in an online education degree program.

• Education Programs