Careers in Education: Teaching, Leadership, and Beyond

The education sector is one of the most impactful and diverse career fields available today. While many people immediately think of classroom teaching, the truth is that education includes a wide range of roles—from curriculum design to student counseling to school administration.

Whether you're drawn to early childhood classrooms, higher education institutions, or behind-the-scenes policy work, there’s a place for you in education. With the right training and credentials, you can build a career that shapes the future while aligning with your interests and strengths.

Teaching Careers in Education

Teaching is a foundational part of the education system. Educators inspire, guide, and empower students across all age groups. There are multiple entry points into the teaching profession depending on your goals and educational background.

Associate degree in education

• Serves as a practical and affordable introduction to the field
• Qualifies you for roles like preschool teacher or teaching assistant
• Programs include courses in child development, classroom planning, and learning strategies
• Offered both on campus and online

Many students begin with an associate degree and later transfer credits into a bachelor’s program to advance their qualifications.

Bachelor’s degree in education

• Required for teaching at the elementary or secondary (K-12) level
• Typically a four-year program, or two additional years if you already hold an associate degree
• Includes coursework in teaching methods, classroom management, subject-specific instruction, and student assessment
• Often paired with supervised teaching internships for real classroom experience

To teach in public schools, you’ll also need to earn a state teaching license, which usually requires passing certification exams and completing a teacher preparation program.

Advanced Careers in Education

As you progress in your career, additional education can unlock leadership and specialized opportunities. These roles often have a broader impact, influencing educational systems, policy, and academic research.

Master’s degree in education

• Required for roles in college-level teaching, school administration, and educational leadership
• Offers specialization in fields like curriculum design, literacy development, or instructional technology
• Common positions include school principal, instructional coach, and education consultant

Doctorate or Ph.D. in education

• Focuses on educational research, theory, and policy development
• Ideal for those interested in university-level teaching, curriculum reform, or shaping national education standards
• May lead to positions in government, higher education, or nonprofit education policy organizations

Non-Teaching Roles in Education

The education sector needs professionals beyond the classroom. These roles ensure schools operate efficiently and that students receive comprehensive support throughout their learning journeys.

Alternative career paths include:

• Educational administration - Manage schools, districts, or education departments
• Student counseling - Guide learners through academic, personal, and career decisions
• Instructional design - Develop learning materials and curriculum for schools or training programs
• Education policy or advocacy - Influence legislation and reforms affecting students and educators
• School finance and operations - Oversee budgeting, scheduling, and infrastructure planning

If you're passionate about education but don’t see yourself in front of a class, these areas offer meaningful and fulfilling alternatives.

What Can You Study in the Field of Education?

As you explore your options, you’ll find a wide range of education-related degrees and certifications to match your interests and long-term goals.

Fields of study include:

• Adult Education and Training
• Advanced Educational Administration
• Early Childhood Development
• Early Childhood Education
• Education
• Education in Instructional Technology
• Educational Administration
• Educational Leadership
• Educational Paraprofessional (Teacher’s Aide)
• Higher and Postsecondary Education
• Higher Education
• Initial Educational Administration
• Instructional Leadership
• Liberal Arts
• Literacy and Language
• Literacy and Language Teaching (K)
• Mathematics Teaching
• Teaching and Learning

Each program emphasizes a different area of expertise, whether it’s teaching methods, leadership strategies, or educational technology.

Building a Career That Shapes Lives

Education is more than a job - it’s a lifelong mission to empower others. Whether you’re working directly with students, designing impactful curricula, or leading a school district, you are contributing to the development of individuals and communities.

The field offers opportunities for people with all types of backgrounds and ambitions. As you explore online and campus-based degree options, consider what roles best align with your skills, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

Now is the perfect time to take the next step toward a career that makes a difference every single day.