The best online graduate programs for education
January 13, 2012
Teaching is a profession that is popular among mothers who want a fulfilling career that allows them to be off when their children are home, such as on holidays and during the summer.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia require public school teachers to be licensed. Licensing criteria varies by state but often requires a bachelor's degree.
In addition, "a number of states require that teachers obtain a master's degree in education within a specified period after they begin teaching," according to the BLS.
Having a master's degree in education also increases one's opportunities for advancement and salary.
The BLS reports that in 2008 the median annual wages of kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers ranged from $47,100 to $51,180 per year.
In general, BLS data shows that those with a master's degree made an average weekly salary of $1,272 in 2010 compared to $1,038 per week with a bachelor's degree.
Individuals who are considering pursuing a master's degree in education can do so through a traditional or online university with the help of grants for parents, single mother scholarships, scholarships for mothers and other financial aid.
Many people are now choosing online colleges to obtain a master's degree. In fact, a recent survey conducted by Babson Survey Research Group and the College Board found that the number of students taking at least one online course has surpassed 6 million. Now nearly one-third of all students in higher education are taking at least one online course.
Choosing the right online program for a master's in education can be challenging. However, US News and World Report recently released a list of top-ranking Online Education Programs for a master's in education.
The publication looked at several factors to determine the top online education degree programs, including admissions, faculty credentials, accreditation and student engagement, and student services and technological outlets.
For admissions selectivity, Penn State University-University Park ranked first, followed by the University of Florida and University of Houston.
For faculty credentials, Northern Illinois University, Wright State University and Graceland University-Lamoni ranked highest.
University of Northern Colorado, University of Scranton and Central Michigan University topped the list for student engagement and accreditation.
And, Syracuse University, University of Southern California (Rossier) and University of Houston ranked as the best online colleges for student services and technology.
