Some people feel that a Master’s in Teaching (MAT) isn’t always justified because K-12 classroom teachers can easily renew their teacher certification without ever completing a Master’s degree. That is, every state has on-going professional development standards that usually only require a teacher to complete a specific number of graduate-level college courses. However, there are many advantages to completing a graduate degree.
Program Outcomes
The program goals and expectations for most MAT programs are to develop exemplary educators and professional teachers for the classrooms of today and tomorrow. MAT programs are designed to integrate contemporary, research-based theories and practices together in order to teach how planning, instruction and assessment work together to enhance the classroom experience. MAT students will learn how to have a positive impact on student achievement, serve as role models in school based settings and demonstrate high ethical standards.
Graduates of MAT programs are trained how to incorporate knowledge of standards-based instructional approaches to the design and the execution of teaching. They will be prepared to conduct learner needs assessments in order to differentiate instruction for different groups. They will also receive additional training how to provide interdisciplinary learning experiences, effectively integrate technology into instruction and function as reflective practitioners. They will be able to better maintain respectful and collaborative relationships with students, families and communities that support growth and learning.
What are the Benefits?
Choosing whether or not to pursue an MAT degree is a tough decision. This commitment will take extra time, money and energy. However, teachers who have a master’s degree will earn from $2,000 to $8,000 more per year than teachers with only a bachelor’s degree. School districts across the country recognize the time and effort that teachers invest in graduate school, so they want these individuals to stay within the district to promote future growth of schools. Master’s degree holders are actually the best chance that schools have to improve student outcomes and drive positive curriculum changes.
An MAT degree will increase intellectual and professional development by deepening subject area knowledge and introducing students to innovative concepts and methodologies. Bachelor degree programs have to cover a lot of academic content, so they don’t give teachers enough background knowledge of how theory integrates into teaching practices. MAT programs help teachers cultivate strong critical thinking skills that help them customize curriculum to individual student needs.
Better Career Options
Most educators begin their career as classroom teachers, but many pursue an advanced degree in order to move to a different role. MAT program graduates will enjoy increased career advancement opportunities. A master’s degree will open doors to non-teaching careers and prestigious promotions. This includes school counselor, administrator, subject area specialist and testing and curriculum director. Additional career possibilities outside the traditional K-12 educational system include textbook author, corporate training, community college instructor and educational researcher and consultant.
It can be difficult to decide when to pursue a master’s degree. Recent college graduates may want to put off earning a master’s degree until they accumulate teaching experience. Working as a classroom teacher before returning will school can be very beneficial because these teachers will have a greater understanding of what is needed from their education experience. They will have specific academic goals and know what questions to ask and why they should be asked.
A Master’s in Teaching is highly recommended for working teachers in order to help them advance their careers and improve their pedagogical practices.
Recommended Resource: Top 10 Best Online Masters in Teaching Degree Programs
