Request Information

Step 1 of 3

Get Started >< Back Next >Submit

In submitting my contact information, I understand that I will receive phone calls, text messages and email about attending Franklin University. I may opt out of these communications at any time.

Your privacy is important to us. Privacy Policy

What Kind of Master’s Degree Should a Teacher Get?

Master's Degree Education Education Programs Master of Education

Educators play a critical role in society – and as the population grows, the demand for teachers will continue to rise. Nevertheless, the path to a financially and personally rewarding career can be confusing for many educators. With a number of different qualifications, degrees and roles available, it’s essential to understand your options as you map out your future.

What Master’s Degree Programs Exist for Teachers?

Teachers who are ready to pursue graduate study can choose from several different types of master’s programs – and from a number of specializations within those degrees. At a high level, master’s degrees for teachers include the following:

Master of Education (M.Ed.)

A Master of Education is a versatile degree for teachers, administrators and teacher leaders. While specifics vary by school, this degree typically applies educational theory, law and ethics concepts to real-world challenges. Often, M.Ed. programs also include coursework around instructional design, education research and evaluation, and education policy. Some schools offer degree focus areas to help students move toward specific career goals. For example, Franklin’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership has focus areas in K-12 Building-Level Leadership and Higher Education Leadership.

Master of Arts in Education (M.A. Ed.)

The M.A. Ed. degree is very similar to an M.Ed, though the M.Ed. is more widely recognized, according to Dr. Bennett. While MA. Ed. programs vary by school, they are often more theoretical. Some schools offer areas of specialization, which may include curricular focus areas such as arts or humanities, as well as educational leadership.

Master of Science in Education (M.S. Ed.)

M.S. Ed. programs vary significantly between schools. However, they typically take a more quantitative, research-focused approach than M.A. programs. Many M.S. Ed. programs offer curricular focus areas, often in more technical fields like science or technology instruction. Some also offer a focus on educational leadership or educational research and policy.

Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)

M.A.T. programs typically focus on classroom instruction and pedagogy and often include a significant hands-on component. This degree is best for teachers who wish to hone their skills and do not plan on leaving the classroom. Depending on the school, you may be able to focus your M.A.T. degree on a particular subject area.

Get a FREE education career action plan filled with resources and recommendations from those who are already there.

Which Education Master’s Degree is Right for You?

Since different types of master’s degrees in education are oriented toward different types of roles, it’s important to understand your goals and explore how each degree can help you achieve them before you apply.

“If you are seeking to be a leader or increase your leadership with a focus on education, the M.Ed. is the gold standard,” says Dr. Patrick Bennett, vice president of academic quality and dean of Franklin’s School of Education. “Other degrees, such as the M.A.T., are focused on teaching. All of these degrees are worthy of consideration, but if you are seeking to lead, the M.Ed. is the best choice.”

You should also take the time to dig into individual schools’ programs and curricula as you prepare to apply. Key factors to consider include cost, time to completion, availability of career support and availability of coursework related to your specific interests.

What Can You Do with a Master’s in Education?

A master’s degree in education – especially a versatile degree like an M.Ed. – can offer pathways into numerous roles inside and outside of the classroom. Potential roles can be broken down into four main categories.

Jobs inside the classroom

Many M.Ed. recipients continue to work as front-line classroom teachers, special education teachers or in closely aligned supporting roles. Graduates may work with any age group, from preschool to postsecondary, and in public or private institutions.

Jobs in administration

School administrator roles include principals, superintendents, deans and others in leadership positions at the school or district level or in higher education institutions. Many classroom teachers use an M.Ed. to transition into administrative roles, often alongside licensure programs when required.

Jobs as a teacher-leader

An M.Ed. degree also prepares graduates to work in roles that are outside the classroom yet closely tied to teaching. Positions include instructional coordinators and specialists and curriculum directors.

Jobs outside the school system

For some teachers, an M.Ed. offers a bridge between the classroom and roles outside the formal education system. Examples include instructional designers and training and development specialists for corporations.

Explore What a Master’s in Education Can Do for You

Whether you plan to stay in the classroom, move into administration or apply your skills to a different setting, an M.Ed. can help prepare you for your next step. In Franklin’s M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, you’ll learn from experienced educators, explore cutting-edge educational research and apply it to real-world situations to hone your teaching and leadership abilities.

Franklin’s M.Ed. program is offered 100% online with the flexibility to fit around your work in the classroom. Choose from three start dates each year and graduate in as few as 12 months.

Learn how Franklin can help you take your next steps with a master of education.