“We are change makers, and that is something to be proud of. Long live teaching, still the best job in the world!” writes long-time educator Paul Moss in “Why Teaching Is Still the Best Job in the World.” If you are a professional in the public sector and want to pursue a position in the life-changing field of education — whether or not you have a teaching background — consider a doctoral degree in education.
How to Apply for the Doctoral Degree in Education
If you have a master’s degree in any discipline, consider applying to the Doctor of Education, Curriculum & Instruction online program offered by the University of Louisiana Monroe. Because of the comprehensive coursework in this degree, you do not need to have a teaching certificate or teaching experience.
With a master’s degree, acceptable scores on graduate examinations, and a strong grade-point average, you can enter this prestigious program and start on a path toward new career possibilities.
How to Earn the Doctoral Degree in Education
The coursework for this program is offered in a convenient, all-online format. No matter what your current work or travel schedule is, you will have full-time access to lectures, materials and message boards. In addition, there are multiple start dates throughout the year, giving you the option of when you begin the program.
The program’s core courses (24 credit hours) include an introduction to the concepts of effective research practices, best practices in teaching and learning, and diversity in the schools.
The 36 hours of concentration courses deal specifically with problem solving, curriculum design, law and policy, the evaluation process, and school improvement.
In addition, two particularly appealing aspects of the nationally recognized program offered by the University of Louisiana Monroe are:
- All coursework can be completed in as few as 24 months.
- All courses are taught by a faculty of accomplished researchers.
How to Make the Most of the Doctoral Degree in Education
Professional positions available to graduates with a doctor of education degree include school administrator, instructional coordinator, superintendent and university professor.
Instructional Coordinator – Administrative positions are available at the district level as well. For example, as an instructional coordinator, you will oversee the curriculum chosen by the district and monitor teaching standards. In addition, you will ensure that educators follow the curriculum with rigor and fidelity, as well as provide appropriate teacher training when necessary.
Superintendent – As a school superintendent, you will have significant districtwide responsibilities, including:
- Maintaining high academic standards for all students
- Providing safe and secure facilities
- Representing the district in a variety of venues and events
- Encouraging open communication between the schools and the community
- Reporting as required to the appropriate governing bodies and stakeholders
Professor – With a doctoral degree in education, you can also begin the tenure track as a professor at many colleges and universities.
The online Doctor of Education, Curriculum & Instruction program available through the University of Louisiana Monroe provides the necessary training, skills and tools you need to enter the field of educational leadership. In as few as 24 months, you can find yourself in a new position at the building or district level, or even in a post-secondary setting at a nearby college or university.
Learn more about ULM’s online Doctor of Education, Curriculum & Instruction program.
Sources:
TeachThought: Why Teaching Is Still the Best Job in the World