Online Options in Teacher Education

With continuing education and advanced degree requirements ever prevalent in the education industry, online programs are rising to meet the demand. Online teaching programs are offered at dozens of colleges and universities nationwide, providing teachers a convenient way to earn the degrees required of their positions.

Most online teaching degrees are at the master's and Ph.D. level and are designed for experienced teachers looking to advance their credentials. Master's degree programs include the master of science (MS) in education, master of arts (MA) in education, and master of education (MEd) in fields including administration and supervision, curriculum and instruction, early childhood education, elementary education, secondary education, special education, teaching and learning, educational leadership, music education, and school counseling.

Online doctoral programs include the doctor of education (EdD) and doctor of philosophy in education (PhD) in organizational leadership, educational leadership, exceptional student education, special education, technology management, post-secondary and adult education, K-12 studies, curriculum and instruction, training and performance improvement, elementary education, professional education studies, music education, and early childhood education.

While the majority of online teaching programs are aimed at post-graduate students, there are some designed for students seeking their first teaching degree and licensure. Such bachelor degree programs offer students specialization in early childhood, elementary, or secondary education. Students earning their first teaching degree online also must participate in student teaching exercises at schools in their local community. After completing the practical experience and degree requirements, online teaching students are eligible to become licensed in their state (though online students should check carefully before enrolling in an online program to ensure they will be eligible for teacher licensure).

Online teaching students are afforded a wealth of convenience in such a program; they are able to attend class whenever they want and can generally complete assignments at their own pace. Highly motivated students might be able to finish a program must faster than on-campus students, while students who like to take their time or who have pressing commitments can pace a degree that fits their lifestyle.