Many teachers pursue advanced education for a variety of reasons, including professional requirements, salary advancement and personal growth.
In fact, 51% of all U.S. public and private school teachers1 report having a master’s degree, and 8.4% report having an education specialist degree.
For the many who have earned their teaching master’s degree — and the many more who aspire to do so — a passion for knowledge and the desire to be an even better teacher are among the key motivators.
Whether it’s a Master of Education (MEd), a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) or one of the many degree programs that focus on a specific subject area, there is a wide range of master’s degrees to choose from.
If you are among the many educators who are considering earning a graduate degree, read on to explore the best master’s degrees for teachers depending upon your goals, interests and more.
Key Takeaways
The best master’s degree for teachers depends on each individual’s long-term goals. Choose Curriculum and Instruction to strengthen classroom practice. Pursue a credential-aligned pathway if you need licensure. Select School Leadership to prepare for administrative roles. Focus on Inclusive Learning if you want to better support diverse learners. The right degree advances both your impact and your career trajectory.
- The strongest degree choice aligns with your long-term professional goals.
- Instructional growth, leadership advancement and licensure require different preparation paths.
- State credential requirements must be verified before enrolling.
- District lane-change policies determine how graduate credits affect salary.
- Strategic planning prevents misalignment between your degree and your goals
Why Should Teachers Get a Master’s Degree?
There are many reasons and benefits that motivate teachers to earn a master’s degree, including:
- Advancing skills and knowledge in line with the latest research and best practices
- Making a greater impact in the lives of students
- Reinvigorating a passion for the profession
- Developing a deeper understanding of educational theories and strategies
- Building a foundation for educational leadership opportunities
- Positioning oneself for a possible pay increase
District Lane-Change Verification Checklist
Before you enroll, make sure your degree counts for pay advancement. Ask your district about the following:
- Accreditation requirements: Does your district accept any regionally accredited program, or do they require a specific type of degree?
- Salary schedule rules: Does your lane change require MA, MA+15, MA+30 (or similar)? Clarify exactly what counts as “+15” or “+30” credits.
- Credit type: Do they only accept graduate-level courses or will professional development certificates qualify?
- Degree field: Does your degree need to be in education or are related fields eligible for lane changes?
- Proof of completion: What documentation is required — an official transcript, a completion letter or a detailed course list?
Master’s Degree Options for Teachers
The following are some of the top masters degree options for teachers. Keep in mind that each program serves different purposes, from classroom growth to licensure, leadership and specialized support roles.
Master of Education
Possibly the most common master’s degree among teachers, a Master of Education (MEd) degree has long been a favored option for educators who wish to expand their understanding of teaching theories, pedagogy, strategies and more. This degree is ideal for teachers seeking new ways to make a greater impact in the lives of their students, as well as those with aspirations of expanding their career beyond the classroom — for example, becoming a school principal, designing curriculum, working in a college or university setting or positioning for business roles such as a corporate trainer.
Master of Arts in Education
While it sounds similar to an MEd, a Master of Arts (MA) in Education is known for its theoretical approach to education. This type of degree program focuses on the philosophical, social, psychological and even historical foundations of teaching, as opposed to the technical application of educational principles. An MA in Education is an ideal option for someone who wants to work in educational reform, promote inclusivity and excellence in schools, conduct educational research or pursue a terminal degree. Depending on the college or university, an MA program may also focus on teaching the liberal arts and humanities.
Master of Science in Education
A Master of Science (MS) in Education prioritizes the technical application of educational methods. Due to the practical nature of the program, an MS in Education may be the best degree option for educators who want to teach in the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
Master of Arts in Teaching
Like the MS in Education, a Master of Arts in Teaching is designed to equip current and prospective teachers with the practical, hands-on skills needed to be effective in the classroom. And similar to the MEd, it can also be a great way to gain additional subject-specific skills and strategies in such areas as Elementary and secondary education, special education, gifted and talented education and more. If you are looking to change careers to become a teacher, the MAT can help prepare you for initial licensure in your state. MAT programs typically include a required student teaching component, which will enable you to practice in and experience an actual classroom.
Master’s in English Education
A master’s degree in English Education (offered as a specialization at some institutions) is typically focused on helping teachers develop a deeper understanding of how students learn the English language and communicate through reading and writing. This is especially helpful for those seeking to teach English to non-native speakers, including in English as a Second Language (ESL) and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) programs. Curriculum focus may include emphasis on language-learning theory, as well as insights, activities and techniques to use in the classroom.
Master’s in Mathematics Education
This graduate degree program (or master’s specialization) is designed to help teachers strengthen their ability to teach middle and high school students the mathematical skills needed for academic success, career readiness and everyday life.Programs focused on teaching secondary students are likely to highlight strategies for helping pupils understand such disciplines as algebra, geometry, calculus and trigonometry.
Master’s in Special Education
Many special education teachers are motivated by a desire to provide specialized instruction designed to meet the unique learning needs of students with a range of challenges or disabilities. Advanced degree programs in special education, often taught as a specialization with an M.Ed. program, typically focus on effective teaching techniques and strategies for creating meaningful learning experiences for these children, as well as developing lesson plans that address students’ specific disabilities.
[RELATED] Top 11 Reasons to get Your Master of Education Degree >>
Pick The Right Degree In 5 Minutes
Whether you want to deepen your classroom expertise, earn your teaching credential, step into leadership or support diverse learners, the University of San Diego has a path designed for your goals. Use this quick, five-minute guide to see which program fits your next step.
Do you want to stay in the classroom and sharpen your instructional skills?
→ MEd with Curriculum & Instruction specialization
Deepen your expertise, elevate student outcomes and refine the strategies you use every day in the classroom.
Are you seeking initial teacher licensure or considering a career change into teaching?
→ Explore USD’s credential pathways and MEd options
USD doesn’t offer a traditional Master of Arts in Teaching , but programs can lead to state-approved licensure. Connect with admissions to chart the right path for you.
Do you aspire to lead at the school or district level?
→ MEd with School Leadership specialization
Prepare for leadership roles, from instructional coach to principal, while understanding the requirements for administrative credentials.
Do you want to specialize in supporting diverse learners?
→ MEd with Inclusive Learning specialization
Focus on special education, universal design and strategies that empower every student to succeed.
Are you interested in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages or English as a Second Language expertise?
→ TESOL Certificate through USD Professional & Continuing Education
Develop practical skills to teach English learners. Note: This certificate enhances your teaching toolkit but is not a full graduate degree pathway to licensure.
Is your main goal salary lane advancement?
→ Check your district’s “lane change” rules before enrolling in any program.
Graduate credits and degrees are valued differently across districts.
Master of Education Degree Concentrations and Specializations
MEd in Curriculum and Instruction
A specialization in curriculum and instruction is often considered one of the most flexible options when it comes to choosing a concentration in a Master of Education degree program. This program focuses on topics such as educational theory and student data analysis, and it is often chosen by educators who aspire to become a curriculum developer or instructional coordinator.
MEd in Early Childhood Education
Are you curious about how the actions of young children connect to their cognitive capabilities, learning styles and academic and emotional growth? Master’s degree programs in this area include a focus on combining strong observational and analytical skills to develop strategies to help students learn. In addition to classroom teaching, educators who focus their graduate studies on early childhood education may also become academic scholars or public policy advocates and specialists.
MEd in Higher Education
This field of study explores the unique needs of post-secondary students and offers guidance on how to help them achieve both academic excellence and personal development. Such programs typically focus on various aspects of educational leadership and are often selected by educators who are interested in the college or university administration track or in working for nonprofits or agencies that help shape higher education policy.
MEd in Educational Leadership
Earning a master’s degree with a specialization in educational or school leadership is a common pathway for those interested in working as principals, superintendents or in other administrative roles. Areas of focus include instructional leadership, ethical and professional norms, educational equity, meaningful engagement with families and communities, data-driven decision-making and more. The emphasis on leadership is also valuable in fields outside of education.
[RELATED] 10 Traits of Successful School Leaders >>
MEd in Teaching English Language Learners
The practice of teaching English to non-native speakers goes by a number of different names — ESL, ELL (English Language Learners), TESOL — and is a sought-after specialty that applies to young students as well as adult learners. Bilingual education is vitally important when it comes to helping students of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds succeed in school and life. Specializing in this field can also create opportunities for educators who are interested in working as English teachers in other countries.
MEd in School Counseling
School counselors are often in demand and are an important presence and resource in schools of all levels. Areas of focus include working with K-12 students who are experiencing challenges inside or outside of the school environment or exhibiting problematic behaviors. This role also typically includes helping secondary students with academic achievement, career development and college admissions. In all scenarios, counselors need to be good listeners while providing valuable guidance for educational achievement and overall success.
MEd in Educational Technology
A master’s degree specializing in educational technology provides a comprehensive understanding of how ongoing technological breakthroughs connect to providing the most enriching educational experience. It also helps teachers prepare students for success in this increasingly digital world. Such programs cover both theoretical aspects of incorporating technology into the educational experience, as well as the countless new tech tools teachers can now use to enhance student learning.
MEd in STEM/STEAM
The STEAM master’s degree specialization takes STEM to the next level by adding arts (liberal, social, manual, physical and fine arts) to the framework for integrated instruction. STEAM empowers teachers to employ a project-based learning approach that crosses all of these disciplines in solving everyday problems. Emphasizing STEAM education supports the idea that it provides a foundation for innovation essential to personal achievement and societal advancement.
What You Can Do With a Master’s Degree for Teachers
Master’s degrees for teachers can also be a great investment when it comes to additional opportunities outside the public school classroom. For example, they can lead to:
- Administrative positions in K-12 schools, as well as at colleges and universities
- Post-secondary teaching, including instructor or professor positions
- Curriculum development
- Media and technology support in educational settings
- Corporate training
- Private tutoring
- Educational policy analysis
- Child care leadership
- Educational coordination roles in museums and cultural organizations
Career Outlook for Educators
There’s plenty of opportunity out there for educators — according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be roughly 857,600 annual job openings2 in the field from now until 2032. Though high-caliber teachers are always in demand, this means the need is greater than ever for motivated educators to enter the field or enhance their current skill set.
This, coupled with the possibility of wage premiums for those with graduate degrees, makes now the perfect time to pursue an advanced degree.
According to the National Education Association, teachers with a master’s degree can earn a starting salary that is 8.7% higher3 than someone with a bachelor’s degree in education. Compensation varies by grade level and specialization, but earning a master’s degree nets a higher starting salary across the board. Many schools will also sponsor teachers or subsidize their tuition to offset the cost of attending classes while working, and there are many graduate scholarships and grants available.
Online opportunities to earn a teaching master’s degree provide even more incentive to pursue your goal of returning to school. High-quality programs like the University of San Diego’s online Master of Education degree are designed to give you maximum flexibility to balance your studies with the demands of work and everyday life.
Sources
1 National Center for Education Statistics 2023, Fast Facts: Teacher Qualifications, https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=58
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics 2023, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Educational Instruction and Library Occupations, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/home.htm
3 National Education Association 2022, Teacher Salary Benchmarks, https://www.nea.org/resource-library/teacher-salary-benchmarks
See Where Each Degree Can Take You
This quick-reference guide shows what each degree prepares you for — and what to confirm before enrolling so your investment pays off.
| Degree/Certificate | Best For | Likely Next Roles | Watch Out For |
| MEd: Curriculum & Instruction | Classroom teachers wanting to deepen instruction | Lead teacher, instructional coach, curriculum specialist | Confirm district accepts degree for lane change |
| MEd: Inclusive Learning (Special Ed) | Teachers focused on diverse learners | Special Ed teacher, intervention specialist, inclusion coordinator | Practicum may be required; check district support and acceptance |
| MEd: School Leadership | Educators ready to step into leadership positions | Assistant principal, principal, instructional coach | Administrative credentials may require additional state approval; confirm district recognition |
| TESOL Certificate | Teachers or specialists working with English learners | ESL instructor, bilingual classroom support | Not a graduate degree; does not lead to licensure on its own |
| Credential Pathway via MEd | Career changers or first-time teachers | Classroom teacher | Verify state-approved route; program may have practicum requirements |
| Lane-Change Focused Grad Coursework | Teachers aiming for salary advancement | Same role, higher salary lane | Confirm your district’s rules for credits, field and documentation |
FAQs
What master’s degree is best for teachers?
The best master’s degree depends on your career goals and current certification. Classroom-focused educators often choose MEd in Curriculum & Instruction to refine teaching strategies and improve student outcomes. Aspiring school or district leaders typically select MEd in School Leadership. Teachers seeking licensure or career changes should explore credential-aligned programs to meet state requirements. Consider how the degree aligns with your long-term impact and advancement.
Which master’s degree increases a teacher’s salary the most?
Salary increases depend on your district’s lane-change policies. Many districts award higher pay for graduate degrees or credits, commonly MA, MA+15, or MA+30. Not all degrees or programs qualify, and some districts require specific fields of study or transcripted graduate credits. Always verify with HR to ensure your investment will translate to salary growth.
Is an MEd better than an MAT?
An MEd focuses on professional growth for licensed teachers and classroom expertise, while an MAT is often designed for those seeking initial teacher licensure. The structure and outcomes vary by program, so check whether the degree supports your specific career path, including state certification and district recognition.
Do you need a master’s degree to become a principal?
Most states require a master’s degree in educational leadership plus an administrative credential to serve as a principal. In addition to coursework, districts may require supervised practicum hours or leadership experience, so it’s important to confirm local licensure rules before enrolling.
Will professional development credits count toward a lane change?
Many districts only accept graduate-level coursework that appears on a transcript for lane changes. Professional development workshops or certificates often do not count. Before enrolling, confirm your district’s requirements for credit type, degree field and proof of completion to ensure your work contributes to pay advancement.
