Education Specialist Degree
There are a number of degrees awarded to those individuals engaged in the field of education. Almost every educator in the country must possess at minimum a Bachelor’s degree. Many states and districts require certified teachers to earn a Master’s in Education. Professors and school administrators often obtain a Doctorate degree in the field of Education. Perhaps one of the lesser known degrees in Education is the Education Specialist Degree.
What is an Education Specialist degree? This degree is considered a terminal degree, meaning that the recipient holds the highest possible academic credential in a given field. While not a doctorate degree, this advanced degree is often obtained post-master’s degree and it is awarded to demonstrate competencies in areas of specialized education.
Why should I obtain an Education Specialist degree? For educators, this degree is often obtained by undergraduate college teachers, particularly by those individuals who will seek employment in community, junior, and small state and private colleges. Being awarded the Education Specialist degree is indicative of achieving teaching and professional proficiency.
How many credits are required to earn this degree? Most Education Specialist degree programs require completion of a minimum of 30 hours beyond the Master’s degree. When pursuing a Specialist degree after receiving a Master’s degree in the same field, the requirements may be lessened. These requirements vary from state to state, and from program to program. Therefore, it is advisable to check with both the Department of Education in your state and with the institution(s) in which you hope to become employed.
What jobs require an Education Specialist degree? Certainly, degree holders can be classroom teachers, but those who earn this degree often have aspirations that go beyond the typical classroom. Several colleges accept this degree in lieu of a doctorate degree when looking to hire professors. Additionally, school counselors, psychologists, and administrators often hold an Educational Specialist degree. Often, high-level school district personnel have earned an Education Specialist degree.
How can I earn an Educational Specialist degree? Understanding that candidates for this degree are almost certainly currently employed as educators, most colleges and universities offer this degree in a format attractive to working adults. Classes are often taught via an online delivery system or in a hybrid class in which classes are taught both by virtual means and by some measure of face-to-face instruction. For students attending traditional colleges, classes are often taught during night and weekend classes, or are broken up into segments that can be completed during summer breaks. Many students find that online classes are ideal for earning this degree. While allowing all the flexibility that most working adults require, the online classes still provide quality instruction from qualified professors.
What classes will I need to take? Classes will vary with different programs, but the student seeking an Education Specialist degree can expect to complete coursework that teaches the student about the latest trends in educational leadership. Courses are also included that provide insight into the latest technological advances in education. This can often be found in classes related to Foundations in Educational Leadership. Classes may also include courses in Educational Technology. Coursework related to School Policy and Law is often an integral part of the curriculum. The student should also be prepared to complete coursework relating to budgeting and financial resources.
How much money can I expect to make with this degree? This is not an easy question to answer. Salaries vary greatly within the field of education. Classroom teachers across the country earn an average of $45,000- $58,000 annually, depending on education, experience, and geographic location. School counselors, psychologists, and administrators report higher earnings. Professors holding an Education Specialist degree can earn around $80,000 to $100,000. School districts have varying salary ranges, and it is difficult to pinpoint a specific salary. It is safe to state that advanced degrees usually lead to increased salaries.
Earning an Education Specialist degree provides the teacher with additional education, tools, and qualifications. Armed with this degree, the prospective employee is qualified for a number of positions within the field of education, and also for many jobs in other careers.
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