Master’s in Education in Chicago

Why Earn a Masters in Education?

Master’s in education degree programs are designed for experienced educators. They may improve your ability to assist students in your current classroom. They may also open doors to new career opportunities for you.

Many students choose to pursue a master’s in a focused degree area. Possible concentrations include curriculum, instruction, administration, and leadership. Other concentrations focus on special education or higher education.

Are you ready to take on more education? Teachers often tell their students that it’s essential always to keep learning. How could you keep learning yourself? A master’s program could be one way to do it!

Why Pursue a Master’s in Education Degree?

A master’s in education degree offers a gateway to a wide range of career prospects. If you are already an accomplished teacher seeking to enrich and enhance your school’s curriculum, earning a master’s in education degree could empower you to leverage your teaching skills more effectively. Additionally, if your interest lies in educating employees within a corporate environment, an education master’s could qualify you for a variety of professional paths.

In addition to opening the door to new opportunities, earning a master’s degree could increase your salary potential. Across many fields, master’s degree holders have a higher median annual salary than those with a bachelor’s degree—in 2022, the median annual salary was $65,120 higher.¹

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Types of Master’s Degrees in Education

Master’s degree programs in education are not all alike. Schools may offer a variety of degrees, and it could be important for you to understand what they are and the kinds of career outcomes they might prepare you for. Here are some of the common types of master’s degrees in education.

Master of Education (M.Ed.)

This degree is typically suited for those who want to work in mid- to upper-level areas of school professional practice—for example, school psychology, educational psychology, special education, or leadership. Coursework may vary depending on a student’s desired focus.

Possible career paths:

• Principal or other administrative role
• Special education teacher
• Educational researcher/analyst
• School counselor
• Curriculum developer
• Instructional coordinator

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

This degree program is designed for current teachers who wish to move into higher-level or leadership positions. Students in an M.S.Ed. program may take courses in areas such as curriculum design, leadership strategies, and assessment methods.

Possible career paths:

• Special education
• Curriculum studies
• Gifted and talented education
• Principal
• District leader

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

An M.A.Ed. tends to be considered an academic degree. M.A. degree programs focus more on the theoretical study of education than other education master’s programs. They are geared toward people who want to further their careers in education but are not necessarily interested in becoming licensed teachers. This degree program typically includes courses in educational theory, leadership, and administration.

Possible career paths:

• Educational researcher
• Postsecondary education teacher
• Curriculum designer
• Leadership positions

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

A Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree focuses on educating current teachers who want to change concentrations. This degree program typically includes courses in teaching methods, curriculum design, and classroom management and includes a primary focus within a given grade level (e.g., elementary vs. middle school education) and academic subject area (e.g., biology or music).

Possible career paths:

• Elementary school teacher
• Middle school teacher
• High school teacher
• Teacher in specific discipline, such as math or art

Master of Teaching (M.I.T.)

An M.I.T. degree could be advantageous for individuals who have a bachelor’s in a field other than education and wish to become licensed teachers. The degree program focuses on fundamental knowledge such as teaching theories, lesson planning, and specific instructional tools and skills. Like a bachelor’s in education, you may need to participate in student teaching or a similar practical internship.

Possible career paths:

• Elementary school teacher
• Middle school teacher
• High school teacher

Popular graduate schools with master's programs in education

Concentrations and Curriculum

Master’s in education programs come in a wide variety of concentrations, even within programs designed for specific degree outcomes. Some of the more common concentrations include:

• Adult Education/Adult Learning Master Programs
• Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction
• Early Childhood Education Master’s Programs
• Educational Leadership & Administration
• Education Technology & Online Learning Programs
• Educational and School Psychology Programs
• Master’s in Environmental Education
• Master’s in ESL | TESOL
• General Education Master’s Programs
• Higher Ed Master’s Programs
• International Education Master’s Programs
• K-12 Education Master’s Programs
• Special & Gifted Education Master’s Programs
• Master’s of Teacher Education Programs

Master’s in Education Requirements

While requirements for admission to a master’s in education degree program may vary by school, unless you are entering an accelerated bachelor’s/master’s program, you will need to have earned a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for admission. Other requirements might include a teaching license, minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, transcripts, or a current resume.

Master’s programs typically take 2 to 3 years to complete, although some universities offer 1 year M.Ed. programs online.

Choosing a Master’s Degree Program in Education

Sifting through the myriad master’s in education degree programs may seem daunting. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a program.

Accreditation and program quality

Start by ensuring the program is from an accredited institution—accreditation is recognition from a third-party accrediting organization that an institution maintains a particular level of educational standards. Reassurance of program quality isn’t necessarily the only reason to choose an accredited school, however. Many schools do not accept transfer credits from institutions that aren’t accredited. And federal financial aid may only be granted to you if you attend an accredited school.

You could also investigate the quality of the program itself by looking at program rankings, speaking with alumni, and examining retention rates.

Curriculum and concentrations

At this point you might have a general idea of the specific type of degree you want to pursue. However, keep in mind that there is a fair amount of overlap among some of the degree types, and schools might vary with regard to the emphasis of their program. Thus, you might want to keep an open mind about degree type when researching master’s programs.

Regardless of degree type, take time to examine the curriculum and understand the concentrations a school offers. Consider your career goals and determine whether a program could help you meet them.

Faculty and mentorship

Dedicated and experienced faculty members may contribute significantly to the quality of a master’s program. Look for programs that emphasize a strong faculty-student relationship and offer mentorship opportunities. Engaging with knowledgeable mentors could provide invaluable guidance, support, and networking connections throughout your academic and professional journey.

Cost and financial aid

Take time to evaluate the overall expenses of degree programs you are interested in, including tuition, fees, textbooks, and potential living costs. Research financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and assistantships, to determine the availability of financial support. Additionally, consider the return on investment of the program by researching post-graduation employment rates and average salaries.

Online vs. On-Campus Master's Programs in Education

Today many master’s programs are offered either partially or wholly online. When considering online education, it could be helpful to evaluate personal learning preferences, lifestyle, and goals to determine if this mode of learning might align with your individual needs. Recognizing the advantages and disadvantages could help you make an informed decision and maximize your chances of success in an online learning environment.

Potential advantages of online programs

• Flexibility and convenience: One of the primary advantages of attending an online university is the flexibility it offers. Online programs allow students to access coursework and lectures from anywhere with an internet connection, providing the freedom to study at their own pace and accommodate personal or professional obligations. This flexibility may be particularly beneficial for working professionals or individuals with family responsibilities who might find it challenging to attend classes on a fixed schedule.
• Accessibility: Online education opens doors for individuals who may not have easy access to traditional educational institutions. Students living in remote areas, individuals with physical disabilities, or those with limited transportation options could pursue higher education without the constraints of geographical limitations. Online universities provide an inclusive environment that reaches a diverse student population.
• Enhanced self-discipline and time management: Successfully completing an online degree requires self-discipline and strong time management skills. Students in online programs must take responsibility for organizing their study schedules, meeting deadlines, and staying motivated. These skills are highly valuable in today's fast-paced professional world, where self-direction and time management are essential.

Potential disadvantages of online programs

• Limited interaction: Traditional classroom settings offer opportunities for in-person discussions, networking, and immediate feedback. While online universities strive to create virtual communities and foster interaction through discussion boards and video conferences, some students may miss the in-person engagement and collaborative learning experiences. In addition, some students might miss out on the social aspect of education.
• Self-motivation and accountability: While online education offers flexibility, it also demands a high level of self-motivation and accountability. Without regular in-person classes and face-to-face interactions with instructors, students must stay motivated to keep up with coursework and manage their time effectively. Procrastination and lack of discipline often pose significant challenges for individuals who might struggle with self-motivation.
• Technology requirements: Online programs require reliable internet access and may require you to have certain technology, such as a computer or webcam.

Career Paths and Job Outlook for Master’s Graduates in Education

Earning a master’s degree in education could open up a wide range of opportunities—both in and out of the classroom. Here are some common options.

Teaching and Instructional Leadership

Many master's graduates in education go on to become teachers or instructional leaders in K-12 schools or higher education institutions. These roles may involve designing and implementing curriculum, mentoring, coaching other educators, and helping to develop policies and procedures for educational organizations.

Kindergarten Teachers

Median annual salary (2022): $60,490²
Projected job growth, 2022–32: 1%²
Projected employment, 2032: 1,548,400²

Elementary School Teachers

Median annual salary (2022): $61,690²
Projected job growth, 2022–32 1%²
Projected employment, 2032: 1,425,000²

Middle School Teachers

Median annual salary (2022): $61,810³
Projected job growth, 2022–32: 1%³
Projected employment, 2032: 625,500³

Secondary Teachers

Median annual salary (2022): $62,360⁴
Projected job growth, 2022–32: 1%⁴
Projected employment, 2032: 1,072,300⁴

Postsecondary Teachers

Median annual salary (2022): $80,840⁵
Projected job growth, 2022–32: 1%⁵
Projected employment, 2032: 1,333,900⁵

Special Education Teachers

Median annual salary (2022): $62,950⁶
Projected job growth, 2022–32: Show little or no change⁶
Projected employment, 2032: 498,400⁶

Administration and Leadership

Another common career path for master's graduates in education is administration and leadership. This may involve serving as a school principal or superintendent, working as a program director for a nonprofit organization, or serving in other leadership roles in the field of education.

Is a leadership position an option for you? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following skills may be important for leaders.

• Communication skills
• Critical-thinking skills
• Decision-making skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Organizational skills
• Leadership skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Computer skills

Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals

Median annual salary (2021): $101,320⁷
Projected job growth, 2022–32: 1%⁷
Projected employment, 2032: 300,400⁷

Median annual salary (2022): $115,180⁸

Top employment paying metropolitan areas for Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary, 2022⁸

Metropolitan areas with the highest employment level in Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary, 2022⁸

Postsecondary Education Administrator

Median annual salary (2022): $99,940⁹
Projected job growth, 2022–32: 4%⁹
Projected employment, 2032: 218,200⁹

Curriculum development and instructional design

Master's graduates in education may also pursue careers in curriculum development and instructional design. These roles involve designing and developing educational materials and resources, such as textbooks, online courses, and instructional videos.

Instructional coordinator

Median annual salary (2022): $66,490¹⁰
Projected job growth, 2022–32: 2%¹⁰
Projected employment, 2032: 216,600¹⁰

Educational Research and Policy

Finally, some master's graduates in education may pursue careers in educational research and policy. These roles may involve conducting research studies to improve educational practices and policies and developing policies and regulations that govern educational organizations.

GradSchools.com offers 19 Graduate Schools with Master’s in Education Degree Programs in Chicago

Sources:

¹ https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252012.htm
² https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/kindergarten-and-elementary-school-teachers.htm
³ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/middle-school-teachers.htm
⁴ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm
⁵ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm
⁶ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm
⁷ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/elementary-middle-and-high-school-principals.htm
⁸ https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes119032.htm
⁹ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm
¹⁰ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/instructional-coordinators.htm

This is an offer for educational opportunities that may lead to employment and not an offer or guarantee of employment and that may help prepare students to meet the licensing or certification requirements of the field they choose to study. Students should check with the appropriate licensing or certifying body to make sure the program they apply to will help meet any licensing or certification requirements. Students should also consult with a representative from the school they select to learn more about career opportunities in that field. Program outcomes vary according to each institution's specific program curriculum.