Online bachelor's degree programs in education

If you enjoy the laughter and fun of working with children or the intellectual challenge of mentoring adolescents and adults, a career in teaching might be right for you. Online bachelor's degree programs in education and teaching can allow you to achieve the goal of becoming an educator. When you make a choice to become a teacher, you are fulfilling one of the most important roles in American society today.

K-12 Education Degrees: What to Expect

If your preference is for teaching elementary school, which is defined as kindergarten through grade five, an accredited online bachelor's degree program in teaching or education is an appropriate first step. If your interest is in teaching grades seven through 12, you might consider completing an undergraduate degree in adolescent education or the specialization of your choice, and then pursue a minor in adolescent education.

Most online bachelor degree programs in teaching and education include the following major classes:

• Principles of teaching and learning for the age group
• Child, or adolescent, psychology and development
• Contemporary issues in education, including legislation
• Special education in context of the age group
• Teaching English Language Learners (ELLs)
• Reading and writing instruction for a given age group
• Multicultural teaching practices
• Student teaching

Education careers and salaries

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that education jobs are the second largest industry in the United States. The BLS projects that jobs in education grow by 12 percent from 2008 to 2018. As more students of all ages enroll in school, there will be a need for qualified professionals with K-12 education degrees and adult education degrees.

There are many different occupations in the education industry. However, the BLS reports that teachers make up 47 percent of education professionals. K-12 education degrees can help you prepare for most careers in education. Professional descriptions and mean annual salary statistics for 2009 are listed below:

• Elementary school teachers instruct students in grades K-5. They instruct students in most or all subjects. They often use fun tools such as art, computers and music to help teach students. Salary: $53,150


• Secondary school teachers work with students ages 12-18. They often specialize in a specific academic subject such as mathematics or science and a career specialty such as photography or computers. Salary: $55,150


• Special education teachers work with students who have learning and physical disabilities. They work with students of all ages who need extra support. Salaries ranged from $53,770 to $56,420 depending on grade level.


• Counselors provide students with career, personal, social and educational counseling. Salary: $55,030


• Education administrators manage day-to-day activities in schools, colleges and universities. They also supervise teachers, librarians, counselors and support staff at schools. Salaries ranged from $80,140 to $95,340 depending on grade level.

If you have a passion for working with students, but are unsure what area of education you want to pursue, explore WorldWideLearn.com to learn more. Browse the Guide to College Majors in Education to learn more about degrees in K-12 education, special education, adult education, educational leadership and educational technology.

• Degrees by Level