Starting on the journey of getting a doctorate degree in education is an essential move for teachers aspiring to make a lasting impact on their students and advance their careers. It can be difficult to choose between the MSEd, the MAT, and the highly desired PhD in Education. It’s a decision that requires careful consideration due to its complexity. Let’s explore the differences between these degrees to help you make an informed decision.
1. Specialties: Tailoring Your Expertise
When delving into advanced education degrees, it’s essential to understand the focus of each program. The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) enhances fundamental teaching skills, making you a well-rounded educator. A bachelor’s degree is the prerequisite for MAT, and it doesn’t have to be in education. During the program, you may specialize in a subject like history, English, biology, or math, allowing you to become proficient in a specific area.
On the other hand, the Master of Science in Education (MSEd) takes specialization a step further, moving beyond the classroom. This program opens avenues for administration, child and adolescent development, and education in various settings. MSEd not only improves teaching skills but also allows for a broader focus, enabling educators to work in the private sector, museums, research institutions, or healthcare. A relevant bachelor’s degree is required to enrol in an MSEd program.
A PhD in Education, the pinnacle of education degrees, comes after completing an MSEd or MAT. This terminal degree involves further specialization and is ideal for those aiming at high-ranking administrative roles or engaging in extensive research.
2. Credibility: Elevating Your Career Prospects
All three degrees – MAT, MSEd, and PhD – contribute significantly to your credibility as an educator. The choice depends on the career path you envision. If administrative roles or research interest you, pursuing a doctorate in education (EdD or PhD) may be the logical next step after obtaining a master’s degree.
Both MAT and MSEd degrees enhance your resume, but MSEd is more comprehensive, signalling advanced teaching skills, curriculum design expertise, and administrative knowledge to potential employers.
3. Accreditation: Ensuring Quality Education
Regardless of the chosen degree, accreditation is crucial. Opting for an accredited school is vital, as degrees from non-accredited institutions may hold less value and could pose challenges in credit transfer.
4. Certifications: Shaping Your Career Path
A graduate degree provides an opportunity to tailor your education to align with your career goals. In an MSEd program, you can choose specializations like administration or leadership, emphasizing skills beyond the classroom. It’s important to note that MSEd programs don’t necessarily lead to teaching certification; instead, they focus on broader aspects of education.
MAT programs, on the other hand, concentrate on teaching fundamentals and often offer certifications in specific subjects, leading to state certification as a teacher.
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): Nurturing Classroom Excellence
A MAT degree is a valuable asset for those aiming to excel in day-to-day classroom teaching. Specializations in subjects like mathematics can enhance your teaching skills and contribute to your career advancement.
The curriculum of an MAT Degree
The MAT curriculum focuses on pedagogical theory, and methodology, and may include hands-on classroom training as a student teacher. Key coursework might include Theoretical Foundations of Education and Literacy, Reading in the Content Area, and Design of Technology-Based Learning.
Education Requirements
While specific requirements vary, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is generally the minimum prerequisite, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be in education or a related field.
Master of Science in Education (MSEd): Expanding Horizons Beyond the Classroom
For educators aspiring to move beyond the classroom, the Master of science in Education degree (MSEd) is an ideal choice. This program provides a deeper understanding of teaching practices, curriculum development, and management of classrooms and education systems.
The curriculum of an MSEd Degree
MSEd courses cover diverse topics such as Affirming Diversity, Education Governance, Motivation, Ethical Decision Making, and Psychological Basis of Education. Specializations like Teaching & Learning, Leadership, Instructional Design & Technology, and Allied Health Teaching and Leadership offer a comprehensive educational experience.
Education Requirements
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in education or a related subject from an accredited school is required. Even if you already possess an MAT, pursuing an MSEd can provide the administrative skills necessary to move beyond the classroom.
PhD in Education: The Pinnacle of Educational Achievement
A PhD in Education is the highest degree attainable in education, qualifying individuals for high-level administrative roles and teaching in higher education. This degree is tailored for those with a passion for research or aspiring to become intellectual leaders in the field.
Curriculum of a PhD in Education
PhD programs vary, with courses like Educating Future Teachers and Qualitative Analysis. Specializations such as Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, and Instructional Design & Technology offer a focused academic journey.
Education Requirements
Entrance into a PhD program usually requires a master’s degree, preferably in education. However, meeting specific GPA requirements is essential. The exact entry criteria may differ, so reviewing program-specific requirements is crucial.
Doctor of Education / Education Specialist (EdD/EdS): Practical
Approaches to Education
Similar to a PhD, the Doctor of Education (EdD) is a terminal degree, while the Education Specialist (EdS) is a post-graduate certificate offering a more expedited route. These degrees focus on practical, practitioner-based programs directly impacting institutions and classrooms.
Curriculum of EdD/EdS
Curricula for EdD and EdS programs cover topics like Ethical & Legal Issues in Education/Leadership and Advanced Theory and Research in Curriculum. Specializations can range from Educational Leadership to Instruction Design & Technology.
Education Requirements
A graduate degree is a prerequisite for both EdD and EdS. While a PhD often requires a dissertation or thesis, EdD programs typically favour practical projects. EdS may only require coursework without a substantial final project.
Which Degree Program Is Right for You?
Deciding on the most suitable education degree depends on your career priorities. If staying in the classroom or lacking a degree in education is your situation, an MAT exam preparation may be the best fit. This program hones classroom skills and allows for subject matter specialization.
If you already hold a degree in education or a related field, or if you possess an MAT, pursuing an MSEd program can elevate your expertise, especially if aiming for roles beyond the classroom. The MSEd program offers six specializations, including Teaching & Learning, Technology, and Leadership. As the best MBA admission consultant and provider of direct MBA admission, Step Up Career is dedicated to helping you achieve your educational and professional goals. Offering master’s, specialist, doctoral, and certificate programs in various fields, including education, Step Up Career prioritizes small class sizes with personalized instruction. If you’re ready to advance your education, consider the offerings at Step Up Career and make informed choices for your future. Request information today to explore the right program for you!
