Top 4 reasons to earn an MSEd online in 2018
As a current or aspiring educator, why should you consider earning a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) online? Like similar graduate degrees in the field, the MSEd provides a combination of research, experience and certification that opens the door to a more rewarding career, with higher average compensation and access to a wider range of job options than someone with only a bachelor’s degree.
An MSEd can boost much more than your earning potential, though. Here are four reasons to think seriously about this program track in 2018 and beyond:
1. It will eventually help in renewing or advancing your teaching license
New teachers can typically begin working as long as they have undergraduate degrees and have satisfied their respective states’ requirements for licensure and preparation. In some states, a master’s degree is also helpful when renewing or advancing an initial teaching certification.
In Massachusetts, having a master’s or doctorate degree will simplify the required attainment of a Professional License after a teacher has used up the one available renewal of the Initial License. Otherwise, completion of a lengthier program is necessary. Other states including South Carolina and Maryland place similar value on a master’s degree.
2. It will most likely increase your salary
In a research review for The Houston Chronicle, Aurelio Locsin revealed that a master’s degree can provide as much as a 49 percent boost in compensation over a bachelor’s degree, depending on the field of study. The difference was greatest in the sciences and information technology subjects.
Beyond the increase in compensation, a MSEd may also prepare you for additional jobs. For example, it may be combined with your classroom experience in establishing your credentials for an administrator position, such as principal or instructional coordinator, both of which require a graduate degree. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected healthy growth for both professions until 2024, along with median salaries that are well above the national median.
A MSEd can help advance your teaching career.3. It keeps you up to speed on research trends in the field
When earning an MSEd, you are exposed to the latest educational research, which you can incorporate into your curriculum planning and teaching practices. Plus, this knowledge helps you keep pace with other teachers, many of whom already have at least a master’s degree.
“When earning an MSEd, you are exposed to the latest educational research.”
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 56 percent of full-time equivalent teachers in public K-12 schools had a master’s degree or higher during the 2011-12 school year. In private schools, the corresponding figure was 43 percent. A MSEd ensures that you have a level of expertise comparable or beyond that of your peers.
4. It is more convenient than ever to attain
Some students may feel discouraged from earning a master’s degree because of the perceived logistical difficulties in traveling to and from campus. However, an online completion option greatly simplifies the process. You can take classes from the comfort of your home, with the flexibility to complete coursework on your own schedule.
“What I like about being a Gwynedd Mercy University student is the flexibility of the online courses, and all the amenities that are offered,” explained MSEd student Kristen Pope. “I love that when I need help or have questions there is someone available to help me.”
The online MSEd from GMercyU can be paired with numerous specialized certifications to prepare you for teaching in a variety of subjects and grade levels. Learn more about how to get started by visiting the program page today.
