Master's in Teaching vs. Master's in Education: Which One Is Right for You?

What is the difference between a Master's in Teaching vs. a Master's in Education? This particular question is of significant interest to individuals seeking a career in this field. Whether a recent graduate or an experienced teacher, each degree offers distinct advantages and aligns with different professional goals. 

In this article, we'll look into the nuances of MAT and MEd programs, pointing out their differences and the roles they prepare graduates for. So, read on as we help you determine which one is right for you. 

Understanding the Basics

First, let's briefly get introduced to what a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Education program entails. 

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

A Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is an academic degree that aims to help you enhance your teaching skills and credentials and introduce innovative teaching strategies. Heavily focused on classroom management and pedagogy, the MAT programs provide aspiring individuals with the necessary skills to solidify themselves as experts in teaching.

Individuals with bachelor's degrees in a different field but aspiring to become teachers often find MAT programs appealing. These programs usually have an internship component, which allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world academic environments.

Master of Education (MEd)

A Master of Education (MEd) degree is a postgraduate program designed to advance your knowledge of education strategies. With an MEd, you better understand how students learn in a classroom setting. Its purpose is to also hone your skills in managing diverse student populations and prepare you for taking leadership or administrative roles. 

Depending on the specialization, an MEd takes anywhere from one to three years to complete. It is typically pursued by individuals who have obtained a bachelor's degree and have some experience in the field of education. 

Specialization Differences

Both degrees offer specialization paths, allowing you to choose a program that aligns best with your career goals.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

Specializations for a master's degree may vary depending on the program or institution. For example, a Master of Arts in Teaching at Our Lady of the Lake University enables you to select from four different specialization degrees, with an additional certification included. Here is an overview of what we offer:

Elementary with an additional Certification in Bilingual Education - tailored for students seeking to work with elementary children from early childhood through grade 6 (EC-6). Its priorities include second language acquisition development and biliteracy development. Proficiency in Spanish is required for the additional certification.

Elementary with an additional Certification in English as a Second Language (ESL) - designed for students interested in working with second language development for children up to the 6th grade whose primary language is not English. This specialization requires a minimum of 12 credit hours and incorporates the same core courses. 

Elementary with an additional Certification in Special Education - is also for students looking to work with elementary children. The additional certification prepares you to meet the needs of special education students. You will learn assessment theories, special education ethics, and more during this program.

Secondary or All-level Certification with an additional Certification in English as a Second Language (ESL) - designed for students who seek to teach content in grades 4-8, 7-12, or Early Childhood-12. Certification options can vary but mainly include mathematics, science, art, and others. 

Master of Education (MEd)

Similarly, a Master of Education degree at OLLU encompasses various specializations, combining foundational and concentration courses. Those specializations include:

Diverse Populations – catered towards classrooms where multiculturalism prevails, this specialization teaches you how to be a leader and an advocate, and it employs a variety of concentration courses such as Instructional Strategies for Diverse Population and Educational Policy and Improvement.

Reading and Literacy – focuses on developing reading skills and enhancing Literacy for elementary children through high school. Concentration courses include Literacy Programming and Professional Development Practicum,  Advanced Reading and Writing Assessment Practicum, and Educational Policy and Improvement.

Dual Language and Special Populations – this program invites you to investigate the implementation and maintenance of dual language. You will also learn about the assessment strategies for students with learning disabilities, developmental delays, and more.

Integrated Science Teaching – enables you to specialize in teaching science. In this program, you can choose four concentration courses from the following: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Geology.

Career Opportunities  

There is a lot you can do with either of these two degrees. Upon graduation, you will have the opportunity to explore the following career opportunities.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

An MAT degree provides you with the means necessary to seek various roles in the field of education. Here are some common career paths for individuals with an MAT:

Elementary school teacher 

As an elementary school teacher with an MAT degree, you will teach students various subjects and foster their fundamental reading and listening skills. In addition, you will create lesson plans, observe and assess student performance, and communicate with parents to ensure student success.

Annual median wage: $61,690

Middle school teacher

MAT graduates can also become middle school teachers, educating students from grades six to eight. Middle school teachers often specialize in specific subjects or teach a variety of subjects.

Annual median wage: $61,810

High school teacher

As a high school teacher, you are expected to specialize in one academic subject. At this level of education, teachers play a significant role in preparing students for university studies.

Annual median wage: $62,360

Special education teacher

This occupation calls for committed individuals who are prepared to work with students with diverse learning needs or disabilities. Special education teachers modify their teaching methods and curriculum to satisfy individual needs.

Annual median wage: $62,950

Master of Education (MEd)

An MEd prepares you to enter the labor market in areas of leadership and administration. Here is a list of what to look forward to:

Principal

An MEd prepares you to potentially become a school principal. As the principal, you are responsible for monitoring the administration of a school, such as managing the staff and developing policies that foster a positive working environment for all. 

Annual median wage: $101,320

Education administrator

MEd graduates may pursue roles as education administrators at various levels, such as district-level administrators or superintendents. These professionals work on policies, budgeting, and overall educational strategy.

Annual median wage: $99,940

Instructional coordinator

Instructional coordinators, also known as curriculum specialists, are tasked with evaluating the curriculum outcomes and teaching strategies employed in academic settings. 

Annual median wage: $66,490

Educational consultant

MEd holders may become educational consultants, offering expertise to schools, districts, or educational organizations. They typically provide guidelines on education tools and curriculum development.

Annual median wage: $55,955

Curriculum designer 

These individuals focus on creating and designing curriculums. They also make sure that these are implemented efficiently in public and private schools, adhering to the individual needs of diverse student populations.

Annual median wage: $83,969

Financial Considerations

In the grand scheme, an MAT or MEd graduate can expect a respectful annual pay that amounts to an average salary in the United States. 

Depending on the career path one seeks, the estimated average base salary for an individual with a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is $62,000. One of the highest-paying jobs for an MAT graduate is that of a Special Education Teacher, ranging from $42,000 to $78,000.

On the other hand, an MEd graduate's average pay is $64,000 per year. However, as per specific jobs, the role of the principal is one of the highest paid, with a $101,320 average. 

Future Outlook

The education field is constantly updating, resulting in the need for fresh minds and hard-working individuals whose primary goal is to educate appropriately. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that despite limited employment growth from 2022 to 2032, about 109,000 openings for elementary school teachers are projected each year in the following decade, 42,200 for middle school teachers, 67,100 annual openings for high school teachers, and about 33,500 openings for special education teachers.

On the other hand, employment for individuals with an MEd degree shows projected growth, with most jobs having an estimated growth rate of 2% to 4% for the following decade. Instructional coordinators can expect around 19,200 job openings annually, education administrators 15,300, and principals 20,200.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Degree

When deciding between a Master's in Teaching vs. a Master's of Education, there are many factors that you need to consider, including the format, focus, scholarships, and more.

Specialization and focus

Consider your interests and career goals. Education degrees offer various specializations, such as elementary and secondary education, special education, educational leadership, curriculum design, and more. Choose a program that aligns with your desired area of expertise.

Licensure and certification

If you are interested in becoming a licensed teacher or working in a particular educational field, it is crucial to make sure that the program you choose meets the certification or licensure requirements of the region where you intend to work. Some programs are specifically designed to lead to teaching certification.

Flexibility and format

Consider the format and flexibility of the program. Some programs may offer online or part-time options, which can benefit working professionals or those with other commitments. Meanwhile, on-campus programs may provide more opportunities for in-person networking and collaboration.

Scholarships

Be mindful of the tuition, fees, and potential additional expenses by evaluating the program's overall costs. Look for degrees that offer scholarship opportunities or discounts to help you manage the financial costs of the degree.

The Bottom Line

Although branches of the same tree, there are considerable differences between a Master's in Teaching vs. a Master's of Education. The main difference lies in the career opportunities they offer; while an MAT prepares you for various teacher roles, an MEd program prepares you for administrative roles within the field of education. 

Interested in contributing to the future of education? Get ready to unlock your potential with OLLU’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and Master of Education (MEd) programs. Your career starts here!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main differences between a Master's in Teaching and a Master's in Education?

The main differences between a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and a Master of Education (MEd) lie in their focus, objectives, and the types of roles they typically prepare graduates for.

What is an MAT degree?

An MAT is a postgraduate degree that prepares individuals to enter the labor market as teacher experts, allowing them to develop advanced skills in teaching and education.

Which degree is more suitable for someone aspiring to become a school administrator or educational leader?

A Master's of Education (MEd) is suited for those seeking to become school administrators, educational leaders, and other leadership roles in education.

Do both degrees typically require classroom teaching experience?

While neither degree requires prior experience in teaching, you must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution to enroll in an MAT or an MEd program.

Can I teach with a Master's in Education?

Yes, in general, earning a Master's in Education (MEd) qualifies individuals to teach, but the specific requirements can depend on the region or country in which you intend to teach.

Do you need a master's to be a teacher?

States have different requirements, but in many regions, a master's degree is not necessary to be a teacher; only a bachelor's degree is. However, a master's degree can lead to improved opportunities and higher salaries.