Available Degree Levels

• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

An online certificate in education provides an introduction to the methods and theories of education. These programs may not lead to a teaching license, but may provide individuals who plan to pursue a higher degree in education a comprehensive view and solid foundation in the field. Coursework may include research methods, developmental psychology, and sociology in education.

An associate degree in education may serve as a stepping stone to a higher degree in education, which may in turn provide students with the opportunity to obtain a teaching license. These programs study current education trends and methods needed to become a qualified educator. Coursework may include English composition, communication, and computer application.

A bachelor’s online degree program in education may allow individuals to pursue a course of study which will prepare them for state licensing. These programs may provide the skills needed to teach children using the latest and most innovative teaching methods. Coursework may include curriculum and instruction, literacy methods, and classroom management.

A master’s degree in education is geared towards the teacher who wants to either advance to an administrative career or specialize in their current teaching field. These programs provide the opportunity to specialize in many fields, including special education, educational leadership, and curriculum and instruction. Coursework may include teaching and learning in diverse classrooms, educational research and curriculum, and instructional theories and trends.

A doctoral-level degree in the field utilizes intense research to study and develop educational theory. These programs may arm students with the skills necessary to pursue employment at post-secondary institutions or at the state-level. Coursework may include educational policy studies, reform and transformation in education, and child-centered education.

Career Options

Online education programs may provide individuals the skills and training to work in schools, district education offices, and post-secondary institutions. Many educators choose to remain in the classroom while others pursue a higher degree in order to advance to an administrative role within the school system. Those who obtain an education certificate or degree may have the skills to properly educate children using current teaching methods, maintain classroom management, and create and implement classroom curriculum.

Possible career fields include:

• Classroom Teacher
• Principal
• Counselor
• School Administrator
• College Professor