Education

The field of education offers teachers a wide variety of career opportunities. A vast array of educational levels, subjects and academic specialties make education an intriguing field. Continue reading to learn about some of the training and career opportunities for teachers.

Inside Education

The field of education includes teachers who work in kindergarten through high school (K-12), colleges and universities (postsecondary), special education and adult education. Teachers educate students in academic subjects, provide guidance for their social development and participate in extracurricular activities. Those who are interested in motivating others, have excellent communication skills and are drawn to intellectually stimulating environments may enjoy pursuing occupations in education.

A K-12 teacher may work in a private or public school. Private school teachers usually need at least a bachelor's degree, but may not require state licensing, depending on the school. Public school teachers are required to be licensed by the state after completing an approved teacher education program and passing a basic skills competency test. Additional licensing requirements vary by state. Coursework in education degree programs often include philosophy of education, teaching methods and the psychology of learning.

Postsecondary teachers typically work in private and public colleges and universities and postsecondary vocational and career programs. They can cover a wide range of academic and vocational subjects. Master's degrees are typically the minimum requirement to teach at this level; although doctorates may be required for certain disciplines. Special education teaching typically requires additional training specifically in a special education area and may require additional licensing or certification.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted a 13% growth in the employment of K-12 teachers between the years of 2008 and 2018, which is about as fast as average (www.bls.gov). As of May 2010, the average salary of kindergarten teachers was $51,550, elementary teachers earned $54,330, middle school teachers made $54,880 and high school teachers averaged $55,990 a year. Employment opportunities for elementary and secondary school teachers are expected to be highest in bilingual education, math and science.

For post-secondary teachers, a 15% employment increase was expected during the 2008 and 2018 time period, which is a faster than average employment growth rate. The overall average salary for teachers at the post-secondary level was $58,830 in 2008. Employment opportunities for postsecondary teachers are expected to be best for those who have obtained a doctorate, as well as for part-time or non-tenure track positions.

Special education teachers earned an average salary of $55,220 at the elementary level in 2010, while those at the high school level averaged $58,080 a year. Special education teachers could see an employment increase of around 17% between 2008 and 2018. Vocational teachers would experience a slower employment growth rate of nine percent during this same time period. Those working at the high school level earned an average salary of $56,010 in 2010, according to the BLS.

Learn More About Education

Degree programs for occupations in education can range from bachelor's degrees to doctorates. Whatever level of education you are interested in teaching, Education-Portal.com offers information that you'll need to make training choices within this career field.

Degree Options

Degree requirements vary depending upon the position, state requirements and employer. The articles below offer specific information about degree programs in education.

Career Options

There is a wide array of career options in education, from administrative and research positions to teaching options.

Distance Learning Options

Many education degree programs are also offered online. Distance learning is a convenient way to earn a degree while juggling a busy life.

Specialization Options

The field of education provides many opportunities for specialization. See the articles below for examples of specialization areas.

Certification Requirements

You will need to check with your state for specific certification requirements. See the articles below for more information about the certification options for teachers.