A master’s in education can be a stepping-stone to a new and fulfilling career, or a rewarding continuation of a current career in education. Most colleges offer master’s classes in education in the evening, so that working teachers can take the classes they need while still maintaining a full time teaching schedule.

There are many reasons behind pursuing a master’s in education, but the following are the most common:

• To fulfill professional development hours. All teachers are required to have a certain number of professional development hours, or continuing education, in order to stay educated and current in their fields. In most cases, master’s level courses fulfill this requirement. Many teachers find that instead of just taking unconnected classes, it’s more helpful to take related classes that are connected through a degree program. At the end of the program, they will have a comprehensive knowledge of the field, in addition to having achieved a highly desired credential.

• To become qualified for more and better jobs. In most cases, in order for teachers to advance in the educational system, they have to have advanced degrees. Administrators, state officials, and department heads typically all have masters’ degrees—many even have doctorates. In addition, a master’s degree in education provides flexibility, as it may open access to positions outside the academic setting.

• To obtain pay increases. As qualifications increase, so does pay. It’s a fact of teaching life that the more credentials a teacher has, the higher her or his pay will likely be. Many teachers who start out with fairly low pay, are eager to obtain the credentials that will increase their salaries. A master’s degree in education may bring financial stability.

• To become certified to teach. People who don’t have undergraduate degrees in education, but who do have them in other areas often choose to transition into teaching by earning a master’s in education. An education master’s degree will give a non-certified student the basic courses needed to learn how to teach, to pass the Praxis or other exam, and to become certified in their area of interest. Many people find it a preferable path to getting another bachelor’s degree or taking classes that aren’t connected in a program.

In order to enter a master’s program in education, an applicant usually needs a degree from an accredit bachelor’s program. The degree can be in any subject; it doesn’t have to be in education. In addition, masters’ programs usually require letters of recommendation from teachers, administrators, colleagues, or others who can speak to the applicant’s character and ability to do master’s level work.

Whether it’s online or in a traditional classroom, a master’s in education is an excellent way to begin a teaching career or further one that’s already begun.