With so many master’s programs available, primarily Secondary Education programs, students often have difficulty determining their best choice.
Not only are they interested in furthering their education and taking the next step in their career as an educator, but they also need to ensure that they meet the prerequisites and that the Master’s degree in Secondary Education fits their needs and schedule.
Earning an advanced degree can be an outstanding professional and personal achievement and generally comes with many benefits like higher pay, a better position, and recognition.
In today’s blog, we’ll address several factors when selecting a school to complete a Master of Science (MS) in Secondary Education.
What is a Master’s in Secondary Education Degree?
If you are interested and passionate about instructing students in grades seven through twelve, a Master’s in Secondary Education is the degree and pathway for you.
Teachers earn this degree to teach one subject, and each secondary certification focuses on that subject with standards and requirements determined by each state’s education department.
For example, at University of Bridgeport, we offer students the option to pursue secondary education certifications in:
- Business
- History and Social Studies
- English
- Mathematics
- Music
- Science, including Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, General Science, and Physics
- Remedial Reading
- Remedial Language Arts
In addition to the Master’s in Secondary Education classes in these areas, candidates also gain experience in the field, complete a student teaching residency, and write a thesis.
Learn more about how University of Bridgeport can help you nurture the next generation of learners!
How to Choose the Right Master’s in Secondary Education Program?
Choosing the right program for your degree in secondary education can be simple, especially if you know what to search for. You just need to ask and discover the answers to the following questions:
1. What Are Your Goals?
Defining your career and learning goals will narrow your program search because you will only need to look at programs that specialize in achieving those goals.
For example, if you want to specialize in English or computer science, you must pick a program offering that certification and specialty. Master’s in Secondary Education can be degrees focused on one area of study. Choose a university with a strong academic focus in the area you are passionate about.
Additionally, asking yourself why you want to pursue this degree keeps your educational goals aligned with your career goals. Do you want to increase your knowledge and pay? Or specialize in a new subject?
2. Are You Looking to Learn Online, In-Person, or Both?
Pursuing an advanced degree will take time and demand your attention and focus. You may divide your time between your job, family, personal responsibilities, and secondary education degree program.
For this reason, many colleges and universities offer flexible online, in-person, and hybrid options that allow students to complete their coursework while juggling their other obligations.
Online programs especially provide students with more flexible time frames for graduation and make it easier to attend part-time. Don’t worry. You’ll still receive the same strong content knowledge from expert faculty and staff as many of the same faculty members teach in-person and online classes.
Attending in-person classes may be a better option if you benefit from asking questions in real time and seeking to advance your career through in-person networking opportunities.
3. What is the Cost of the Secondary Programs You’re Considering?
All graduate degrees come with a price tag, meaning you must weigh the pros and cons to determine if the degree is worth your time and money.
One tip? Create a budget spreadsheet to compare the cost of your top five programs and schools with the project income and job growth rate for the careers you want to pursue with your new degree.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, education, training, and library occupations are projected to grow by seven percent by 2031, and they receive a median annual wage of $57,220.
Roles and the median annual salaries achievable with a Master’s in Secondary Education include:
- High school teacher – $61,820
- High school principal – $98,420
- Instructional coordinator – $63,740
- Special education teacher – $61,820
Furthermore, many Secondary Education programs will offer financial aid and even tuition-paid internship options to offset the cost for graduate students, which only require students to pay fees.
Students should note, however, these programs are accelerated, and students must complete their degree in a year by taking classes at least two to three nights a week.
4. Do You Have All the Required Prerequisites?
Like undergraduate programs, students enrolling in graduate programs must meet certain requirements and prerequisites. If you cannot meet all the prerequisites, you may need to take additional classes to start a master’s degree program officially.
Every school and program will have unique needs, so students should research to ensure they meet all the requirements.
At University of Bridgeport, admission into our Master’s in Secondary Education program requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a G.P.A. of 2.67 or higher and a submitted application, official transcripts, one letter of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume.
5. What Are Your Learning Goals?
Lastly, candidates want to ensure the curriculum matches their learning goals. Courses should be mentally stimulating, offer current information and new advances or learnings, and be challenging and exciting. Even more importantly, the curriculum must be thought-provoking and stimulating to prepare you for your future job.
Look for programs with coursework that includes theory, hands-on work, practical applications, and real-life situations.
There are a plethora of Masters’ in Secondary Education programs available, but not every program will be right for you. By asking yourself these questions and talking to mentors and academic advisors, you can make the best choice for you and your career goals.
Need more help? Reach out to us at University of Bridgeport to learn more about our Master’s in Secondary Education degree and all the resources, including financial aid, available to you.
We’re ready to help and guide you through college and into a great career!