Are you ready to pursue the college education you've always wanted to get? Are you nervous about committing yourself to a full 4 years of college to get a full-blown teaching degree? You should look into taking a shorter path that will still give you a college degree in education but not require 4 years of full-time study. You can get your education associate's degree in just 2 years with full-time study. An associate's degree is an accepted college degree but takes less time than a bachelor's degree that requires at least 4 years of full-time study.
Also, if you're feeling overwhelmed by getting a 4 year degree then an associate's degree is a great short term goal. Many college students who complete their associate's degree go on to finish a 4 year degree. Another positive to obtaining an associate's degree is that it costs a lot less than a bachelor's degree, because it requires less time. And employers love hiring people with college degrees because it means you can set a goal and get it accomplished.
Coursework for Education Associate's
The coursework for obtaining an associate's degree in education is focused on learning and teaching practices. Possible courses include historical concepts in contemporary education, diversity in the classroom, exceptional learners, classroom materials and instruction preparation, childhood development, and proper classroom and student teaching techniques. If you want to continue on to obtain a bachelor's degree in education, it's also a good idea to look for education associate's degree programs that allow students to transition directly into a bachelor's of science in education program.
Common Professions for Graduates with Education Associate's Degree
The most common professions for those graduating with an associate's degree in education are teacher aides, teaching interns, preschool teachers, and early childhood daycare providers. These professions are all critical to the lives of children throughout our nation. According to the United States Department of Labor Statistics, teacher assistants are expected to see job growth of around ten percent through 2018. Schools receiving Title 1 funding are beginning to be required to only hire teacher assistants who have an associate's degree, 2 years of college, or teacher assistants must pass a rigorous federally mandated test to become hired.
Earning Potential for Education Associate's Degree
With your associate's degree in education, you could work as a teacher assistant. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, in 2008 teacher assistants had average salaries around $22,000 annually. Over 40 percent of teacher assistant work part-time. Those working as preschool teachers had average salaries around almost $24,000 annually.
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