Educational research is one of the main goals of a graduate program in education. Students who enroll in a Masters of Education (MEd) program will participate in a variety of research studies, which will be used to bring about change in the education field. Graduate students must develop their own thesis, allowing them to conduct their own research on topics they are interested in and then get their work published.
Many teachers who pursue a MEd are looking for ways to break out of the normal routine and make changes that will benefit their students. Teachers in graduate programs may be looking to earn a spot on a school board or an administrative position that may enable them to make changes within their school system. They may simply want to learn more information, which they can bring into their classrooms and effect change that way.
Some teachers may feel they do not have enough background about how to make students from all different cultures, backgrounds and social circles feel comfortable in their classrooms. They may struggle to provide a learning environment that is conducive to the diverse needs of each student in a multicultural classroom. Students who are pursing an MEd may take courses to give them the necessary information to provide this environment to their students.
People who earn an MEd typically have a higher earning potential than those who only earned a bachelor or associate degree. Many teachers who go back to school to earn an MEd are looking to increase their earning potential. Because of the increased knowledge they have about education, they become more valuable to their employers. Those with an MEd can also pursue careers outside of teaching, such as professorships or school administrative positions.