Although teaching has historically been a stable career and thought of as a good “fallback” job, in this economy that is not necessarily the case. Even teachers who are currently employed spend their time worrying about the next budget cut. State and local governments are trimming expenses across the board and this includes education.
Many educators are going back to school online to bulk up their credentials in hopes that it will protect them from teacher lay-offs that are becoming increasingly more common. Also, because of the current administration’s focus on math and science education, many teachers that are trained in areas like art or history are enrolling in education degree programs that focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) subjects.
In response, many online colleges are expanding their offerings to cater to the needs of these busy professionals. In many states, educators are only required to hold a bachelors degree before they can enter a classroom even though a masters degree is preferred. This compromise on less education for teachers was an attempt to fill a teaching shortage that no longer exists and now amidst all the layoffs, many schools districts are much more selective.
As a result, many teachers are choosing to enroll in online teaching degree programs that enable them to complete lectures and homework around a busy schedule. In fact, many experienced and successful educators are leading by example and attending online colleges.
For example, officials from Walden University, an online college, recently announced that 47 state teacher of the year recipients have pursued graduate degrees at the school to date. Furthermore, enrollment in the university’s Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership has nearly doubled over the past eight months.
Also, since many school districts are beginning to adopt web-based learning methods, teachers who earn graduate teaching degree online may find that their unique virtual learning experience is opening up a whole new career path in teaching online.
July 29, 2010
So, I just go out of college and just go hired to teach 4th grade. I guess it would be a good idea to take some graduate courses online to help insure my employment?
August 1, 2010
It’s a shame teachers don’t get payed more in our country. In Japan, teaching is considered to be one of the most honorable professions available.
August 2, 2010
Are there many scholarship opportunities for those looking to enter the teaching proffession?
August 3, 2010
My mom just earned her teaching degree, though online classes probably would have been better to take the courses online.
August 4, 2010
Do these online classes require a textbook?
August 4, 2010
It’s good to see that even teachers are taking advantage of online college. Do most online colleges offer doctorates for teaching degrees?
August 7, 2010
This is such a good thing for teachers. To be able to go back ang get your masters degree online and not have to drive after working all day to an oncampus school. I am currently going to get my masters in elementary education and is is so much easier.
August 7, 2010
I have been wanting to go back to school to get a masters degree in child development, but the thought of working all day in school and then dfriving to night school just did not sound too good. Now I have started online classes and I find it so much easier.
August 16, 2010
Kind of ironic that teachers won’t be spending their time learning in the classroom, but whatever works I suppose!
September 1, 2010
I have been teaching for 20 years and am earning a good paycheck. I have been considering going back to school online to learn how to teach new technology. Will that be a field of study in the future?
September 15, 2010
It’s a great path in order to survive cutbacks. Teachers with bolstered degrees will definitely be kept onboard. How long does it take for to complete these programs?
October 8, 2010
Online degree programs are based on your own pace in the program, whether it is a faster or slower program that can meet the needs or your lifestyle.
November 4, 2010
I have been encouraging my daughter to become a teacher. How hard is it to get a teaching degree online.
December 13, 2010
I am already a teacher. If I go to online classes and continuallyt imporve my education, should it help with insuring I keep my job?
December 24, 2010
I have been teaching 5th grade for the last 22 years. Now I would like to take some more credits and improve my ability to keep up with the younger teachers. Would I be able to take those classes online?
December 24, 2010
I just completed my masters degree online for special education. I have gotten a promotion and the class I wanted after 15 years of trying. Thanks for online school!
December 24, 2010
I am in my senior year of college and have been offered a job as a teachers aid in a great school. Can I switch to online classes so that I can take the job and still keep my college funding?
January 10, 2011
I have been working as a teacher for the last 12 years in a school for underpriveledged children. I want to apply in an upscale community. Would it be advisable to go back to school for some computer courses to bring my skills in this are up to date?
January 10, 2011
What types of courses are suggested int improve employability?
January 10, 2011
Is it possible to get financial aid to go back to school if you are already teaching?
February 20, 2011
I have been teaching for the last 15 years and I am considered a very good teacher. If I decide to go back to school and take some additional education in technology, would that help insure my employment?
February 20, 2011
I graduated from college with qualifications as a teacher 22 years ago. I did work as a teacher for three years until I had my first child and then stayed home for the next 22 years. Now I want to go back to teaching. What types of courses should I take to update myself and be ready to teach again?
February 20, 2011
I am interested in going back to school for my masters degree in education. Can I apply for financial aid, even though I am already working?
February 21, 2011
Hi James. Online courses often require the use of a textbook, however your required reading may be found in the form on an eBook as well.
February 21, 2011
Hi Pamela. Taking the initiative to enroll back into school can be a great way to show your employer that your interest in learning more and dedication to your career.
February 21, 2011
Hey Jacob. Go here to get more info about doctorate programs in education.
March 2, 2011
Even with hard times for teachers, they’re always going to be needed and there’s various opportunities for them. I have a friend who started out teaching English abroad, teaching at inner city schools, and private schools.
March 8, 2011
I have been teaching for the last 20 years at an inner city school. Recently I decided to take some online courses to improve my position. It really was worth it.
March 8, 2011
I am currently enrolled in an elementary education degree program. I want to go into guidance for kids. Can I take the additional courses online?
March 8, 2011
I am already teach and am interested in taking some additional courses to improve my abilities. Can I apply for financial aid to these programs.
March 10, 2011
Hey Nino. Yes you can still apply for financial aid even if you are working.
March 11, 2011
Hi Carle. Yes, you can enroll in an online degree program for counseling children.
March 17, 2011
Hi Charlene. You’ll probably want to consider a continuing teacher education program to get you ready for re certification. Before enrolling speak with an advisor to see what courses you can take to get you on track to teaching again. Good luck!
March 28, 2011
This is a great way for teachers to learn new techniques and keep tenure, I’d recommend it to anyone!
March 29, 2011
Hello John. Yes, financial aid is available to those who need for school. Try filing your FAFSA first and then searching for qualifying grants and scholarships. You can also turn to student loans to offset the costs of your education.
April 18, 2011
Hey Gail. If you’re referring to your financial aid this is a tricky question. Speak with a financial aid advisor to find out how transferring your aid over to another school or program works.
June 14, 2011
Hey Holly. Continuing teach education programs reeducate teachers for re-certification and may increase your marketability as a teacher.
June 14, 2011
Hi Theadore, if you’re interested in going back to school to increase your chances at a job speak with an advisor about your goals and future. They will better help you decide which path to take. Good luck!
June 14, 2011
Hi Sammy. There are many education degree programs available online, including continuing education programs. Contact an advisor to learn more what programs are available and which one is right for you.
June 14, 2011
Hi Jane. If you’re interested in learning more about the advantages of a continuing education go here.
July 20, 2011
Hi Theresa. Teachers will always be needed, and as new technology emerges every day most people will look for a way to learn it.
February 1, 2012
Hello Marlene. Online degree programs and on-campus degree programs often follow the same curriculum, it’s really up to your daughter to decide if online learning or on-campus courses would be an easier learning method.