As the world continues to constantly change and evolve, be it shifts in culture or technological revolutions, so do the new generations of children. Today’s youth need passionate educators who strive to nurture and inspire the next generation of change-makers and drive progress—both in and out of the classroom.

Whether you're an emerging teacher or veteran leader in the field of education, getting a master's degree in education will enhance your ability to lead with purpose.

To help you decide which graduate education program is right for you, we put together a guide that will bring clarity to the choice ahead of you.

Master's degree in education Online or In Person

When considering going back to school for a graduate education program, it’s important to choose the program that best aligns with your career goals and personal obligations.

For those who thrive on direct interaction and immersive learning experiences, in-person master's programs in education offer unparalleled benefits. These programs provide opportunities for face-to-face collaboration with peers and faculty, fostering a sense of community. Access to on-campus resources such as libraries, research facilities, and more can enhance your learning experience.

Online education master's programs, however, are designed to be flexible and accessible, catering to diverse needs. For many who have familial responsibilities, are balancing full-time work, or are not able to relocate temporarily, online degree programs are a feasible and accomplishable option. Online programs offer the benefit of learning from the comfort of your home, office, or local establishment, usually with the option of both asynchronous and synchronous classes. This feature allows students to complete coursework at their own pace while also creatively providing avenues for interactive elements to foster a collaborative learning environment.

MA vs MS Education Degrees

When it comes to getting a master’s in education, other than the format in which you’re learning, the largest factor to consider is whether you’d like to earn a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS). Both offer valuable pathways for educators, the main difference lying in the skills, aspirations, and knowledge you will be equipped with. 

• Master of Arts - programs focus on educational theories, humanities, and reflective teaching methods, preparing graduates for classroom roles, curriculum design, and community engagement. 
• Master of Science - programs emphasize research, data analysis, and evidence-based strategies, equipping educators for leadership roles in policy, administration, and systemic reform.

While the MA nurtures creativity and cultural responsiveness, the MS empowers graduates to drive innovation and tackle educational challenges with analytical expertise. The MS in education is particularly versatile, preparing leaders to shape the future of education with research-driven insights and strategic solutions.

Learn more: MS vs. MA in Education — What’s the Difference?

Employment Outlook for Teachers

The demand for highly qualified teachers remains strong nationwide as schools work to address shortages, especially in areas like STEM, special education, and foreign languages. According to recent data, the U.S. continues to face a significant teacher shortage, with thousands of positions unfilled each year. This need presents a promising opportunity for aspiring educators, especially those with advanced degrees that equip them to meet diverse student needs and address systemic challenges.

In the U.S., the teaching profession offers competitive compensation, with the median annual wage at around $63,680 and the Pennsylvania median at about $59,014. Many metropolitan areas, however, exceed these numbers for secondary school teacher salaries. Additionally, professionals holding advanced degrees, such as a master’s in education, benefit from significantly lower unemployment rates and increased job stability. Nationwide, 88% of large school districts offer higher salaries to teachers with master’s degrees, highlighting the value of advanced qualifications in both securing employment and boosting earning potential.

Achieve a master's degree in education at Neumann University!

Whether you are already a certified teacher, you are looking to enter the field of education, or you are aspiring for a leadership position, Neumann University offers several respected and flexible graduate education programs (in addition to certifications and endorsements) that will help you cultivate and enhance your skills across a variety of school environments.

At Neumann University, we understand that making the decision to pursue a master’s degree in education is a major investment. That said, armed with a respected graduate education degree, you will enter the education field with sought-after skills and the advanced knowledge needed to transform the lives of your students.

If you are ready to nurture the skills needed to be a fantastic educator, take the first step and connect with us to learn more!

Not sure if you're interested in a master's program? Explore our resource now to learn more about the education certification and endorsement programs we offer!

Thinking about obtaining a master's degree in education? Explore Neumann University's interactive education program resource!