Rather than jumping right into a four-year program, individuals can first obtain an Associate's Degree in Education. By opting for the two-year associate's degree, students will have lower tuition costs which, in turn, means lower debt after their career in education begins. Additionally, earning a degree from an accredited online program allows students to further their education while continuing to work a full-time job. Students can work toward a specific type of associate's degree including Elementary Education, Paraprofessional Education or Early Childhood Education. Graduates who have attained an associate's degree and choose not to pursue further education will have a variety of career options including paraprofessional, preschool teacher or childcare worker.
Obtaining a bachelor's degree in education puts graduates on track to becoming a certified teacher in the state of their choice. Online four-year degree programs offer students a flexible schedule so they can learn at their own pace and continue to work full-time or part-time, if necessary. Students can enter a bachelor's program directly out of high school or after obtaining a GED or associate's degree. In some cases, individuals obtain a degree in another field, and then return for a Bachelor's in Education, which allows them to teach in their field of expertise. A variety of bachelor's degrees are available in specific fields of study within education including Secondary Education, Elementary Education, Child Studies, Special Education, Mathematics and English.
In many states, teachers must obtain a Master's Degree in Education before they are able to begin teaching classes. Other states allow teachers to begin teaching but they must secure the degree within a specific time period from the date of hire. Online master's programs are especially convenient for teachers in the latter scenario as the time spent on coursework is flexible. Students can pursue a master's degree in a variety of educational fields, including adult education, teacher education, teaching, early childhood, higher education, special education or specific subjects such as reading, mathematics, science or history.
Educators who wish to obtain the highest degree within the field will pursue a doctorate degree in education. Continuing education courses are also available online for teachers who need to take classes to meet their certification requirements.