Tips for Getting a Master’s Degree While Teaching
Is it possible to teach school and go to school yourself? Absolutely! Check out these tips for getting a master’s degree while teaching.
Benefits of Getting a Master’s Degree
Have you considered getting a master’s degree? Here are the benefits.
Increased Pay
Teaching is a noble profession, but it is not the highest paying.
You can boost your earning potential by getting a master’s degree.
Most school districts pay teachers with a master’s degree significantly more money.
Expanded Job Opportunities
A master’s degree can open doors to job opportunities such as administration, curriculum development, specialized teaching, and educational consultancy.
Obtaining a master’s degree in a subject area can also qualify you for jobs at community colleges.
Professional Development
A master’s degree in education will expose you to the latest teaching techniques and research-based practices.
You will advance your teaching skills.
If you obtain a master’s degree in your subject area, you will strengthen your knowledge and have mastery (I couldn’t avoid the pun) over your material.
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Paying for a Master’s Program
Let’s jump in with what is often the most significant obstacle: the money.
Depending on the program’s cost and the salary increase you’ll get with a master’s, your degree will likely pay for itself in two to three years.
There are also various cost-saving options available, such as tuition reimbursement, educational assistance, and local partnerships, which can significantly reduce your financial burden.
Investigate cost-saving options that may be available to you.
Tuition Reimbursement
Some schools or districts will reimburse you for obtaining your master’s degree.
Once you complete and pass a course (or program), the school may reimburse you for some (or all) of your tuition and expenses.
Educational Assistance
Unlike tuition reimbursement, educational assistance helps you pay for your classes upfront. Some schools or districts offer you this option.
Typically, you qualify for these after working at a school for at least one year.
Local Partnerships
Inquire whether your school or district partners with local or online colleges.
These colleges may offer you classes at a reduced rate.
Financial Aid
Talk to the financial aid office at the colleges you are considering. You may qualify for need-based grants or merit scholarships.
Choosing the Right Program
Although money is a significant consideration when selecting the right master’s program, it is not the only factor to consider.
Mode of Learning
Decide whether you want in-person classes, hybrid classes (a mix of online and on-site), or a fully online program.
If you want an online program, consider whether you want recorded lessons or live sessions.
Location
If you choose an in-person or hybrid option, you will want to attend a school near your home.
Consider when you will be attending classes. Will you be driving during rush hour? Factor that into your schedule.
Even if you choose an online program, you may want a school in driving distance if attending an in-person graduation is important to you.
Type of Degree
What type of master’s degree do you want? Consider these options:
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
A versatile degree for teachers who want to improve their teaching skills, move into administrative roles, or conduct educational research.
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
This degree is typically for teachers who do not have an undergraduate degree in teaching but have a bachelor’s in another subject.
This program includes teacher certification.
Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.)
This degree focuses on research and research-based practice. You can specialize in educational psychology, literacy, or technology.
Subject-Specific Master of Arts or Science (M.S. or M.A.)
You can pursue a master’s degree in a subject field like chemistry, English, and psychology.
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership (MAEL)
Are you interested in moving into administration? The MAEL is the degree for principals, superintendents, and district-level administrators.
Master of Library Science or Master of Library Information Science (MLS or MLIS)
Both of these degrees are suitable for school librarians or media specialists.
Master of Special Education (M.S.Ed. in Special Education)
If you enjoy working with students who have exceptionalities, this degree is for you.
Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC)
This degree for school counselors focuses on counseling techniques and guidance.
Tips for Getting Your Master’s Degree While Teaching
Once you’ve picked your program, follow these tips to be successful (and still find time to sleep).
Find Your Time and Use a Timer
You will need devoted time to work on your master’s degree. You need to be both intentional and consistent about this time.
Is it the first hour of the day? Is it right after dinner? Is it right after the bell rings at the end of the school day?
Find the time that works for you and stick with it. Don’t let anyone or anything crowd it out. Consistency is vital!
To that end, don’t just study, study, study. Stick to a schedule with a start and end time. Use a timer if you have to.
Do the best you can in the time you have (see the next point).
Learn But Don’t Overlearn
You are juggling a career and school, which is a lot. You need to be efficient with your study time.
Although it’s ideal to learn until you have a thorough understanding, you must also be realistic.
Can you skim a reading and still identify the key points?
Can you listen to an online lecture at 1.5 speed and still understand the content?
Word hard within your allotted time, but also experiment with making the best use of your study time. Your time is your most precious resource.
Be on the Lookout for Time Pockets
Sometimes, during the school day, you have times when your students are quietly working.
Use that time to quietly work yourself!
Do you have online lectures or sources you can listen to? Multitask during drive time, dinner prep, or waiting in line at Starbucks.
Keep your school materials with you at all times to take advantage of any pockets of time you can find during the day.
Take Time Off
You must make the most of every minute, leaving you with little time for self-care. And self-care for teachers is so important.
Since you are living by your schedule, schedule in time for yourself. Carve out a day or half a day when you don’t do any work or study.
This will allow you to go the distance without stretching at the seams.
Establish Your Support Network
Work is a full-time job. School is a full-time job. The math is daunting.
You will need a support network to make this work.
Ask your co-teachers for help. Can you share lesson planning duties?
You may also need support at home, especially if you have family obligations.
Ask for understanding and assistance, and give yourself permission to let some things slide.
If your house isn’t super clean or you eat spaghetti three times in one week, that is perfectly okay.
Getting Your Master’s Degree While Teaching
Is it possible to get your master’s degree while teaching? Yes, it is.
It will take effort and dedication, but you can achieve your goal by following these tips.
