Education Degree Types: Requirements, Tuition & FAQs

Pursuing a degree in education will prepare you to inspire and shape future generations. Whether you're just starting your educational journey or looking to advance your career, understanding the different types of education degrees available is crucial.

This article will explain the various education degree types, their requirements, potential tuition costs, and frequently asked questions to help you learn more about earning a degree in education.

What Is an Education Degree?

An education degree prepares you for working in various educational settings, primarily as a teacher, administrator, or educational specialist. These degrees cover various topics, including:

• pedagogy
• curriculum development
• classroom management
• educational psychology
• specific subject matter expertise.

Colleges offer education degrees at multiple levels, from associate to doctoral degrees, each catering to different career goals and professional requirements. In addition to theoretical knowledge, education degree programs often include practical experiences, such as student teaching or internships, which are crucial for developing the skills needed to succeed in the field.

Levels of an Education Degree

Below, we outline each level of an education degree that you can pursue, focusing on what you would learn.

Associate Degree

An associate degree in education is typically a two-year program that provides foundational knowledge in teaching and education. This degree often serves as an entry point for those who want to work in educational settings as paraprofessionals or teacher assistants or who plan to transfer to a four-year bachelor's program.

Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree in education is a four-year program that prepares students for a career in teaching or other educational roles. It covers essential topics like:

• educational theory
• instructional strategies
• classroom management

Students also gain hands-on experience through student teaching, which is critical for meeting licensure requirements.

Learn more: What Are the Best Colleges for a Bachelor's in Education?

Master's Degree

A master's degree in education, such as an MEd or MAT, is an advanced program that allows educators to specialize in specific areas, such as:

• curriculum design
• special education
• educational leadership

These programs usually take one to two years to complete and are designed for those seeking career advancement or specialization within the field.

Doctoral Degree

Doctoral degrees in education, including the EdD and PhD, are the highest level of academic achievement in the field. These programs focus on:

• advanced research
• leadership
• policy-making in education

They typically require several years of study and culminate in a dissertation or significant research project.

Certification Programs

Certification programs in education are short, focused courses that provide additional credentials or specialization in specific areas, such as:

• ESL
• special education
• literacy

These programs are often pursued by educators who already hold a degree and want to enhance their qualifications or meet state licensure requirements for teaching in specialized areas.

Types of Education Degrees

Education degrees come in various forms, each tailored to different career goals and educational settings. Below is a comprehensive list of the different types of education degrees available, along with brief descriptions of each.

Undergraduate Degrees

Both associate and bachelor's degrees are qualified as undergraduate degrees. An Associate of Arts/Science (AA/AS) in education is a two-year degree that provides foundational knowledge in teaching and educational theory, often serving as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree.

A Bachelor of Education (BEd) is four-year degree that prepares students for teaching roles in elementary, middle, or secondary schools, covering pedagogy, curriculum design, and classroom management. You can choose one of the following fields to focus on in an undergraduate degree.

• Early childhood education: focuses on teaching children from birth through age eight, emphasizing child development, early literacy, and creating supportive learning environments
• Early childhood administration: prepares students for managing early childhood programs, focusing on leadership, education policy, and child development
• Elementary education: prepares students to teach kindergarten through sixth grade, covering subjects such as literacy, math, science, and social studies, along with classroom management techniques
• English education: equips students with foundational teaching skills and subject knowledge to instruct English in secondary schools
• Secondary education: designed for those who want to teach seventh through twelfth grade and includes subject-specific training (e.g., math, science) and pedagogy for adolescent learners
• Special education: equips students to work with children who have special needs, focusing on individualized education plans (IEPs), inclusive teaching strategies, and special education law
• Bilingual education/English as a Second Language (ESL): prepares educators to teach English language learners, focusing on language acquisition, cultural competency, and bilingual teaching methods
• STEM education: emphasizes teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics at the elementary or secondary level, integrating hands-on learning and problem-solving techniques
• Student affairs: provides foundational knowledge in higher education, focusing on student development, support services, and campus involvement
• Math education: focuses on teaching mathematics at various educational levels, covering topics from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus, along with effective teaching strategies
• Science education: prepares students to teach science subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, with a strong emphasis on laboratory work and scientific inquiry
• Social studies education: prepares educators to teach history, geography, civics, and other social sciences, integrating critical thinking and analysis of historical events and societal issues
• Art education: focuses on teaching visual arts, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and art history, fostering creativity and artistic expression in students
• Music education: prepares students to teach music theory, instrumental and vocal performance, and music history, often involving participation in school bands, choirs, or orchestras
• Physical education: focuses on teaching physical fitness, sports, and health education, promoting lifelong wellness and physical activity among students
• Literacy/reading specialist education: trains educators to support students' reading development, diagnose reading difficulties, and implement effective literacy interventions
• Gifted and talented education: prepares educators to work with gifted students, focusing on advanced curriculum development, differentiated instruction, and the social-emotional needs of gifted learners
• Multicultural education: emphasizes teaching in diverse classrooms, promoting cultural awareness, inclusivity, and equity in education
• Technology integration: prepares educators to incorporate technology into the classroom effectively, covering digital tools, e-learning platforms, and technology-driven instructional strategies
• Counseling and guidance: focuses on preparing students to become school counselors, covering child psychology, counseling techniques, and student support services
• Environmental education: equips educators to teach about environmental issues, sustainability, and conservation, often incorporating outdoor and experiential learning
• Urban education: prepares educators to teach in urban settings, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in these environments, including issues of diversity, equity, and access
• Inclusive education: focuses on strategies for teaching diverse learners, including those with disabilities, in mainstream classrooms, promoting inclusivity and equal educational opportunities

Graduate Degrees

Graduate degrees, also called master's degrees, make students eligible for career advancement or changing their role. A Master of Arts/Science in education deepens a student's knowledge in educational theory and practice, often allowing for specialization in areas such as curriculum development, educational leadership, or a specific subject area.

A Master of Education (MEd) is a professional degree designed for educators seeking to advance their careers, focusing on leadership, curriculum design, and educational policy.

A Master of Arts/Science in teaching (MAT/MST) focuses on enhancing teaching skills and knowledge, often pursued by those seeking initial teacher certification or transitioning into the teaching profession.

You can further specify what type of master's in education degree you want by pursuing one of the following specializations.

• Early childhood education: advanced study in teaching young children, emphasizing research-based practices in early literacy, child development, and family engagement
• Early childhood administration: deepens expertise in early childhood program management, emphasizing advanced leadership, policy analysis, and organizational development
• English education: enhances expertise in curriculum development, and advanced teaching strategies, and prepares educators for leadership roles.
• Special education: provides advanced training in working with students with disabilities, focusing on inclusive practices, special education law, and behavior management
• Student affairs: prepares students for leadership roles in higher education, emphasizing student services, counseling, and administration within college settings
• Bilingual education/English as a Second Language (ESL): graduate-level study in teaching English language learners, emphasizing advanced language acquisition theories and bilingual education strategies
• STEM education: prepares educators to lead STEM initiatives, integrating advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts into classroom teaching
• Math education: advanced study in teaching mathematics, focusing on curriculum development, instructional strategies, and research in math education
• Science education: provides in-depth knowledge in teaching science subjects, including advanced laboratory techniques, scientific research, and curriculum design
• Social studies education: focuses on advanced methods for teaching social studies, including curriculum development, critical analysis of social issues, and interdisciplinary approaches
• Art education: graduate-level study in visual arts education, focusing on advanced techniques in art instruction, curriculum design, and art history
• Music education: prepares students for advanced roles in music education, including curriculum development, music theory, and conducting
• Physical education: advanced study in teaching physical education, focusing on curriculum development, fitness assessment, and health education strategies
• Literacy/reading specialist education: prepares educators to become experts in literacy instruction, focusing on advanced assessment techniques, reading interventions, and literacy research
• Gifted and talented education: advanced training in working with gifted students, focusing on curriculum design, differentiation, and addressing the unique needs of gifted learners
• Multicultural education: focuses on advanced strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion in educational settings, addressing cultural competency, equity, and social justice
• Technology integration: graduate study in the use of technology in education, focusing on digital tools, e-learning strategies, and the impact of technology on student learning
• Counseling and guidance: prepares students for advanced roles in school counseling, focusing on child and adolescent development, counseling techniques, and student support
• Curriculum and instruction: focuses on advanced study in curriculum design, instructional strategies, and educational assessment, often preparing educators for leadership roles
• Environmental education: graduate-level study in teaching environmental science and sustainability, focusing on research-based practices and experiential learning
• Urban education: prepares educators for leadership roles in urban schools, focusing on issues such as equity, access, and culturally responsive teaching
• Inclusive education: advanced study in strategies for teaching diverse learners, including those with disabilities, in inclusive classrooms, promoting equitable educational practices
• Educational leadership: prepares educators for leadership roles in schools or districts, focusing on administration, policy, and organizational management
• Educational technology: focuses on the integration of technology in education, including instructional design, e-learning, and the use of digital tools to enhance learning
• Higher education administration: prepares students for leadership roles in colleges and universities, focusing on administration, policy, and student affairs
• Educational psychology: advanced study in the psychological principles underlying learning and teaching, focusing on research, assessment, and developmental psychology

Learn more: Easiest Master's Degrees for Teachers

Doctoral Degrees

The highest degree in education that you can pursue is a doctoral degree, either a PhD or an EdD. A Doctor of Education (EdD) is a professional doctorate focused on applying research to practice, often pursued by educational leaders seeking to solve practical problems in education.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in education is an academic doctorate focused on original research in education, preparing individuals for careers in academia, research, or high-level policy work.

The types of EdD or PhD in education that you can earn are listed below.

• Educational leadership: advanced study in leadership theory and practice, preparing individuals for executive roles in educational organizations or districts
• Curriculum and instruction: focuses on advanced research and theory in curriculum design and instructional strategies, preparing individuals for leadership roles in curriculum development
• Higher education: focuses on research and leadership in higher education, preparing individuals for roles in university administration or policy
• Educational psychology: focuses on advanced research in the psychological principles of learning and development, preparing individuals for careers in research, academia, or applied educational psychology
• English education: focuses on research, advanced pedagogy, and prepares graduates for roles in academia, policy-making, and curriculum design
• Special education: focuses on research and leadership in special education, preparing individuals for roles in academia, policy, or high-level special education administration

Specialist Degrees

An Education Specialist (EdS) degree is a post-master's degree that provides advanced knowledge and skills in a specific area of education, often pursued by those seeking specialized roles in educational leadership, curriculum, or administration.

The different types of EdS degrees include:

• Educational leadership specialist: prepares individuals for advanced leadership roles in schools or districts, focusing on administration, policy, and organizational management
• Curriculum and instruction specialist: focuses on advanced study in curriculum design and instructional strategies, often pursued by educators seeking leadership roles in curriculum development
• School psychology specialist: prepares individuals for advanced roles in school psychology, focusing on assessment, intervention, and support services for students

Certification Programs

Certification programs are important since they validate your ability to teach at a certain level or in a certain field. You can also earn these if you are not wanting to commit to earning another degree. Certification program types include:

• Teaching certificate/license: required for teaching in public schools and validates that an individual has met the state-specific requirements to teach a particular subject or grade level
• Special education certification: provides specialized training and certification for teaching students with disabilities, focusing on inclusive practices and individualized education plans
• ESL/ELL certification: prepares educators to teach English language learners, focusing on language acquisition, cultural competency, and effective instructional strategies
• Reading specialist certification: prepares educators to support students' reading development, diagnose reading difficulties, and implement effective literacy interventions
• Gifted education certification: provides specialized training for teaching gifted students, focusing on advanced curriculum development and differentiated instruction

Education Degree Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements for education degree programs vary depending on the level of the degree you are pursuing—whether it's an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree. Below is an overview of the typical requirements for each level, but be sure to research each program's specific requirements.

Associate Degree in Education

The admission requirements for an associate degree program include:

• high school diploma or GED
• minimum GPA around 2.0 to 2.5
• SAT or ACT scores
• personal statement
• letters of recommendation

Bachelor's Degree in Education

A bachelor's degree program will have admission requirements that are bit more difficult.

• high school diploma or GED
• minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0
• competitive SAT or ACT scores
• personal statement
• letters of recommendation
• interview

Master's Degree in Education

Below are the master's program entrance requirements.

• bachelor's degree in education or a related field
• minimum GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate coursework
• GRE scores
• personal statement
• letters of recommendation
• resume/CV
• interview

Doctoral Degree in Education

A doctoral program usually has the following requirements:

• master's degree in education or a related field
• minimum GPA of 3.0 to 3.5 in graduate coursework
• GRE scores
• research proposal
• letters of recommendation
• resume/CV
• interview

Certification Programs

You will typically pursue a certification program once you have some experience and know a field you want to become specialized in. The admission requirements include:

• bachelor's degree
• teaching license
• teaching experience
• personal statement
• letters of recommendation
• resume/CV

How To Gain Your Teaching License After Graduation

Getting your teaching license after graduation is a critical step toward becoming a certified teacher. This process ensures that you are qualified to teach in public schools and meet the standards set by your state or country. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

• Complete an accredited education program.
• Pass certification exams, such as the Praxis series, to demonstrate your knowledge and teaching competency.
• Submit your application to your state's education department, including transcripts, exam results, and a background check.
• Complete a background check and fingerprinting to ensure you're eligible to work with children.
• Participate in an interview to assess your readiness and suitability for teaching.
• Once approved, receive your license, specifying the subjects and grades you're qualified to teach.
• Periodically renew your license by completing professional development courses and staying updated on educational practices.

Top Careers for Education Degree Graduates

Graduates with education degrees have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, depending on their level of education, specialization, and personal interests. Below are some of the top careers for education degree graduates.

• Classroom teacher: teaches subjects like math, science, or English at various school levels, planning lessons and assessing student progress (requires a bachelor's degree and teaching license)
• Special education teacher: works with students with disabilities, creating individualized education plans (IEPs) to meet their needs (requires a bachelor's or master's degree in special education and a teaching license)
• School counselor: supports students' academic, career, and personal development through counseling and academic planning (requires a master's degree in school counseling and state certification)
• School principal/administrator: oversees school operations, manages staff, and sets policies to ensure the school meets its goals (requires a master's or doctoral degree in educational leadership and state certification)
• Curriculum developer: designs and implements educational programs and curricula, ensuring alignment with standards (requires a master's degree in curriculum and instruction and teaching experience)
• Educational consultant: advises on curriculum, teacher training, and educational technology, helping schools or parents make informed decisions (requires a bachelor's or master's degree and significant experience in education)
• Reading specialist/literacy coach: provides targeted reading interventions and collaborates with teachers to improve literacy (requires a master's degree in literacy education and certification)
• ESL teacher: teaches English to non-native speakers, focusing on reading, writing, and speaking skills (requires a bachelor's or master's degree in ESL or TESOL and state certification)
• Higher education administrator: manages college or university departments like admissions or student affairs, ensuring the institution meets its goals (requires a master's or doctoral degree in higher education administration)
• Educational technology specialist: integrates technology into education by developing courses and training teachers in tech tools (requires a bachelor's or master's degree in educational technology)
• Early childhood educator: works with young children in preschools or daycares, fostering cognitive and emotional development (requires an associate or bachelor's degree in early childhood education)
• Instructional coordinator: develops curriculum standards, trains teachers, and evaluates program effectiveness (requires a master's degree in education or curriculum and instruction)

Average Tuition Cost for an Education Degree

The tuition cost for an education degree can vary significantly depending on the type of degree, the institution, and whether you attend a public or private school. Below is an overview of the average tuition costs at the best education colleges.

Associate Degree in Education

Public community college costs approximately $3,000 to $5,000 per year for in-state students, while private community college costs around $10,000 to $15,000 per year.

Bachelor's Degree in Education

The three types of colleges that offer bachelor's degrees and their prices per year are listed below.

• public university (in-state): $9,000 to $12,000
• public university (out-of-state): $20,000 to $30,000
• private university: $30,000 to $50,000

Master's Degree in Education

The cost of a master's degree per year is as follows:

• public university (in-state): $10,000 to $20,000
• public university (out-of-state): $20,000 to $30,000
• private university: $25,000 to $40,000

Doctoral Degree in Education

A doctoral degree will cost the following amounts each year:

• public university (in-state): $12,000 to $25,000
• public university (out-of-state): $25,000 to $35,000
• private university: $30,000 to $45,000

Certification Programs

Certification programs at public universities cost around $5,000 to $10,000 for the entire program. Private universities charge around $10,000 to $20,000.

FAQs About Education Degree Programs

We've answered some frequently asked questions about education degrees below.

What Degree Do I Need To Become a Teacher?

To become a teacher, you typically need a bachelor's degree in education or a related field, along with a teaching license. Some states or districts may require a master's degree for certain teaching positions or advanced roles within the education system.

How Long Does It Take To Complete an Education Degree?

Completing an education degree varies by level: an associate degree takes about two years, a bachelor's degree takes four years, a master's degree takes one to two years, and a doctoral degree can take between three to seven years, depending on the program and study pace.

Can I Specialize in More Than One Area in Education?

Yes, many education programs offer the option to specialize in multiple areas, such as combining special education with elementary education. Additionally, educators can pursue extra certifications in areas like ESL or literacy, enhancing their qualifications and expanding their teaching opportunities.

Is a Master's Degree Required for Teaching?

A master's degree is not always required, but it can enhance your qualifications and career opportunities. Some states may mandate earning a master's degree within a certain timeframe after starting your teaching career, particularly for specialized roles or higher-level positions.

Earn Your Education Degree

If you are interested in working in education, research the available programs on Learn.org. Then reach out to the colleges and universities to learn more about earning your degree in education.