Career Path Options for Education Majors

Individuals with education degrees often encounter certain assumptions—mainly, that teaching is their destined career path. However, there might be circumstances where you have already ventured into teaching, only to realize it’s not for you, or perhaps you’re finding the job opportunities scarce. Regardless of the scenario, holding an education degree doesn’t confine you to a single profession. Quite the contrary, it can open doors to a multitude of careers. With an array of alternative career options at your disposal, consider leveraging your education degree as a launchpad for your career advancement.

Librarian

Love literature and promoting your passion for reading? Consider becoming a librarian. Librarians are tasked with picking materials for business, public, and law libraries, as well as the more commonly thought of school media centers. Librarians provide guidance on using resources; in today’s world, this means print and online media resources. Generally, librarians must pursue a Master’s Degree in Library science.

Writer or Publisher

If you have a passion for writing, pursuing a career as a writer or publisher could be the right professional fit. With an education major, you’re poised for success in textbook publishing. You may also find you’re interested in content writing for online outlets, or looking for writing opportunities in local news outlets, whether that be a newspaper or television program. So long as you have excellent writing skills and can alter your communication styles with ease, you generally won’t need further licensing or education to pursue a career in writing or publishing.

GED teacher

Maybe in your years spent as a teacher you discovered you don’t want to work with children. That doesn’t mean you can’t still be an educator. GED teachers help adults learn basic reading, math, and writing skills in their efforts to pass the GED. Depending on the state in which you reside, the requirements for becoming a GED teacher can vary. In some states, you may be able to begin immediately with just your bachelor’s degree, whereas in others you may be required to pursue a master’s degree.

Museum Educator

Are you a fan of museums? Do you adore the idea of teaching children and adults alike the wonders of history, science, or art? Consider becoming a museum educator or museum activities director. These jobs generally involve hosting workshops, putting together activities, and leading tours. Your degree in education sets you up nicely for teaching guests about the exhibitions and objects contained within the museum. If you’re passionate about a topic, you can likely find a museum or institution that places emphasis on the learnings of that medium.

Guidance Counselor

Are you always willing to lend a listening ear? Do you have a true passion for helping others? Have you been called compassionate? Consider a career as a guidance counselor. A bachelor’s degree in education is a wonderful basis for the skills and learning needed to fill this type of position. Children and young adults face a bevy of challenges both in and out of school and require guidance on both personal and school-related issues. An education degree is an excellent jumping-off point for a career as a guidance counselor, but you’ll often need to acquire a master’s degree or additional training. This can be done in a school setting or online.

Human Resources

If you’re looking to make the transition to the business world, consider a career in human resources. Companies generally need an individual who can host employee education and training seminars. Your degree in education can leave you well-poised to fill this position. You may also consider recruiting, as your ability to understand communications can help you hire excellent employees.

Financing Your Continued Education

If you find yourself wanting to pursue a career that requires further education, you may be concerned about financing. Higher education can be extremely expensive. Looking for grad student loans? Consider Ascent Loans and find the money you need to make your career dreams come true.

If you have an education degree or are currently in pursuit of one, don’t fall into the trap of thinking your only option is teaching. While an honorable and rewarding profession for many, not everyone is cut out to teach children. Consider these options—the sky is the limit when it comes to career opportunities for education majors.

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