4 Types of Education Degrees: Which One is Right for You?
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Published on: 06/22/2025
Last Updated: 06/22/2025
10 minute read
A career in education offers a unique opportunity to inspire, support, and guide learners through all stages of life. For those interested in becoming educators, choosing the right academic path is one of the most important early decisions to make.
Whether your goal is to teach in a classroom, lead educational programs, or shape policy, there are multiple types of education degrees that can help you build a rewarding, lasting career.
From entry-level programs to advanced doctoral study, each degree for teachers serves a unique purpose. This guide explores the most common education degrees available and how each one aligns with specific career goals. If you are considering a future in education, but are unsure which path best suits your aspirations, Alliant International University will help you navigate your options with clarity and confidence.
What Are the Main Types of Education Degrees?
What degree do you need to be a teacher? Aspiring educators have several academic paths to choose from, each designed to support different long-term goals. To that end, the teaching degree you pursue will play a key role in shaping your future impact.
Education degrees are typically structured across four main levels:
- Associate’s
- Bachelor’s
- Master’s
- Doctoral
Each level reflects a different stage of professional development, preparing future educators for roles that vary in scope.
Associate’s degrees offer access to foundational roles in educational support, while bachelor’s degrees are typically required to become a licensed teacher. Do you need a master's degree to be a teacher? Not always, but there are various Master of Education subjects that can offer valuable specialization. Master’s degrees expand professional opportunities to include specialized instruction and leadership roles, and doctoral degrees prepare students for advanced roles in research, higher education, or educational policy.
Understanding the structure (and purpose) of each degree is essential when mapping out your path toward your future career.
#1 Associate’s Degrees in Education
For those eager to begin working in the field of education, an associate's degree can provide both a practical foundation and a valuable head start. An associate's degree in education is typically a two-year program that introduces core concepts in:
- Child development
- Learning theory
- Instructional practices
Although this degree does not lead directly to licensure as a classroom teacher, it is an excellent entry point for individuals seeking to make a difference in educational settings without committing to a four-year degree.
Graduates with an associate’s degree may qualify for roles such as teacher assistant, daycare center director, or instructional assistant in K–12 schools. This degree also functions as a stepping stone toward continued education. Graduates who wish to build their knowledge often transfer credits into a bachelor degree program. If you are wondering, “What can you do with an education degree?”, starting with an associate's degree offers multiple options to grow.
#2 Bachelor’s Degrees in Education
Recognized as the most common degree for teachers, a bachelor's degree in education is required in most states for public school licensure.1 This four-year program combines a broad academic foundation with in-depth coursework focused on:
- Educational theory
- Classroom management
- Curriculum design
- Student assessment
Additionally, many programs include specializations that allow students to tailor their training to their interests or career goals. Common concentrations include:
- Early childhood education
- Elementary education
- Secondary education
- Special education
In most cases, bachelor’s degree programs also feature a student teaching component. This provides students with hands-on classroom experience under the mentorship of licensed school teachers to put their learning into practice and meet teacher certification standards.
If you wish to grow beyond initial licensure, graduate-level study may offer the next opportunity for growth.
#3 Master’s Degrees in Education
A master’s in education is a graduate-level program that deepens an educator’s expertise and expands potential career opportunities in both teaching and leadership. Depending on the focus, a master’s degree may prepare graduates to work as:
- Educational consultants
- School administrators
- Academic advisors or college readiness coordinators
- Advanced classroom teachers
There are several types of master’s degrees in the education field. The most common are Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and the Master of Education (M.Ed.).2 While the MAT is typically designed for individuals who want to enhance their teaching credentials or transition into the classroom from another field, the M.Ed. often focuses on educational leadership, policy, or curriculum design.
Educators who pursue a master’s degree often go on to refine their practice to specialized roles that influence how education is delivered and experienced across communities. Wondering how long it takes to get a master’s in education? Most programs take about 1–2 years post-bachelor's to complete.
Specialized Master’s Programs
Within the broader scope of master’s degrees, many institutions offer programs that allow students to focus on areas of particular interest or emerging needs within the educational landscape. These include concentrations such as:3
- Special education
- Instructional design
- Education leadership
- Literacy education
These specialized programs are ideal for professionals who wish to develop experience in a specific area or take on new roles beyond classroom instruction. For example, a master’s degree in special education prepares educators to design individualized support plans, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and create inclusive learning environments. Meanwhile, an EdD in educational leadership is geared toward those interested in becoming principals, deans, or district-level administrators.
Alliant International University offers several pathways, including the MAE with Teaching Credential, MAE with Single-Subject Credential, and MAE with Education Specialists (Special Education), each designed to help educators advance their impact through focused, credential-based programs. These offerings are part of our California School of Education, which is known for preparing future leaders in diverse educational settings.
#4 Doctoral Degrees in Education
Doctoral degrees in education represent the highest level of academic achievement in the field. They are designed for individuals who aspire to lead transformational change and influence how education evolves. Doctoral degrees in education prepare individuals for advanced roles in:
- Research
- Policymaking
- Postsecondary instruction
- Organizational leadership
There are two primary types of doctoral degrees in education: the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Education (EdD).
A PhD in education is often pursued by those interested in contributing to academic scholarship or teaching at the university level. The EdD, on the other hand, focuses more on the practical application of research and is typically chosen by professionals who want to lead schools, non-profits, or educational agencies.
Both degrees support professionals in becoming thought leaders—those who are prepared to drive progress in education through evidence-based innovation and long-term vision.
Career Paths with a Doctorate in Education
A doctoral degree can open up a wide range of career options that extend beyond traditional school settings. Graduates are uniquely positioned to shape educational systems at the local, national, or even global level.
As such, graduates may pursue roles like:4
- University faculty members who teach and mentor future educators
- Education researchers who contribute to new knowledge in the field
- Curriculum developers who design programs that support diverse learners
- Educational consultants who help schools implement strategic change
- Policy analysts who influence legislation and advocate for equity in education
Others may step into executive positions within school districts, educational foundations, or government organizations.
Doctoral programs are rigorous and time-intensive, often spanning several years of coursework, original dissertation research, and applied practice. However, for those with a passion for innovation, the investment offers deep personal growth and prepares them to drive change across several professional roles.
Key Differences at a Glance
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a quick comparison of the four main types of education degrees:
| Degree Level | Time to Complete | Common Roles | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate's | ~2 years | Teacher assistant, daycare staff | Entry-level support roles or a stepping stone to a bachelor’s |
| Bachelor's | ~4 years | Licensed teacher in public/private schools | Those pursuing classroom teaching careers |
| Master's | ~1–2 years post-bachelor | School administrator, specialist teacher | Licensed educators seeking advancement |
| Doctoral | 3–6 years post-master's | Researcher, professor, policy leader | Educators aiming to shape the field at a high level |
Online vs. On-Campus Education Degrees: What to Consider
When choosing an education degree, your learning format matters just as much as your specialization. Both online and on-campus programs offer valuable experiences, but they serve different needs.
Online degrees provide flexibility for working professionals, parents, and those living far from campus. They’re ideal if you need to balance your education with other responsibilities. Look for programs with strong virtual teaching tools and interactive support.
On-campus programs may appeal to those who thrive in face-to-face learning environments or want a traditional college experience. These programs often provide immediate access to campus resources, in-person networking, and hands-on support.
Some universities offer hybrid options, combining the best of both worlds. Ultimately, your choice depends on your learning preferences, schedule, and career goals.
Choosing the Right Education Degree for Your Career Goals
Determining which teaching degree to pursue is about aligning your academic path with the impact you hope to make.
So, what are your reasons to be a teacher? If your goal is to work in a support role or explore education without a long-term commitment, an associate's degree may be the most appropriate starting point. If you are committed to becoming a classroom teacher, a bachelor’s degree is likely the best fit.
For those who already hold a teaching license and are looking to transition into administrative roles or specialize in areas like special education, a master's degree offers both flexibility and depth. Meanwhile, individuals interested in shaping policy, conducting research, or teaching at the postsecondary level may find that a doctoral degree best aligns with their long-term goals.
Before choosing a path, take time to reflect on what drives you:
- Are you passionate about early childhood development?
- Do you hope to improve educational access or equity?
- Are you drawn to leadership roles or curriculum development?
- Do you want to create inclusive learning environments for diverse learners?
Understanding what motivates you can help ensure that the degree you pursue leads to both professional growth and personal satisfaction.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Program
To choose the right education degree and institution, consider asking yourself:
- Does this program offer the specialization or licensure path I need?
- How does the curriculum align with my career goals?
- What kind of real-world teaching experiences or mentorship does the program provide?
- Is the program accredited and recognized in my state or region?
- What kind of academic, career, or licensure support will I receive?
Taking time to ask the right questions can help ensure the degree you pursue is both meaningful and professionally valuable.
How to Get Started with Your Education Degree
Once you identify the teaching degree level that matches your goals, it is time to explore the practical steps that will help bring your vision to life. The admission process is designed to assess your readiness and support your potential.
Most education degree programs require:
- An application
- Transcripts
- A personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
For graduate programs, professional experience and test scores may also be considered.
In addition to classroom learning, many programs offer field experiences such as student teaching, internships, or practicums. These real-world opportunities help students apply theory to practice and build the confidence needed for future roles in education. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are also available at most institutions to help support students through their academic journey.
Faculty and mentors can also play a vital role in guiding students through a program.
Take the First Step Toward Your Education Career
Whether you are just beginning your path in education or preparing to make a broader impact in the field, there is a degree program designed to support your goals. When choosing where to begin your studies, look for programs that offer not only academic rigor but also personalized guidance to help you thrive both in and beyond the classroom. From associate to doctoral study, the types of education degrees available today make it possible to pursue a variety of rewarding careers in teaching, administration, and beyond.
If you are ready to advance your skills and leave a lasting impression on learners, consider how a degree for teachers from Alliant International University can help you turn your passion for education into a fulfilling career.
With expert faculty, flexible learning formats, and a focus on real-world preparation, Alliant is committed to developing leaders in the field. To get started, request more information from an admissions officer.
Sources:
- Sarah Edwards. “What do you learn in a bachelor's in education?” edX. February 11, 2025. https://www.edx.org/resources/what-do-you-learn-in-a-bachelors-in-educa…. Accessed May 18, 2025.
- Colleen Sullivan. “What Is an. M.Ed. Degree?” The K-12 Teachers Alliance. 2025. https://www.graduateprogram.org/blog/what-is-an-m-ed-degree/. Accessed May 18, 2025.
- Indeed Editorial Team. “What Can You Do With an Educational Leadership Degree?” Indeed. January 28, 2025. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/do-with-educational-…. Accessed May 18, 2025.
- Anubha Verma. “What Can You Do With an Education Doctorate? (With 10 Jobs).” Indeed. March 26, 2025. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-can-you-do-with…. Accessed May 18, 2025.
