P-12 teachers: how to make graduate school work for you

By: The Capella University Editorial Team

Reading time: 3 minutes

Teachers are never short on things to do, which is why it can seem daunting to add a master’s degree program to an already overflowing plate.

But advanced education can boost your teaching career and further your professional goals beyond the classroom.

Here are five common concerns P-12 teachers may have about graduate school – and why they shouldn’t hold you back.

1. I don’t have time

Between lesson plans, grading and parent emails, your days are full. Capella’s online MS in Education is available in the GuidedPath learning format, which gives you a clear structure to work within. You’ll have weekly deadlines, regular check-ins with instructors and 24/7 access to the courseroom, so you can study after the last bell or on the weekend. You can take up to three courses each quarter, with guidance from your academic coach.

2. Graduate school is expensive

Cost is a real concern, and Capella offers several ways to save. The Capella Tuition Cap sets a limit on the tuition you pay for your degree. You may also save time and money by transferring credits from an accredited university or earning credit for prior learning. You may be eligible for scholarships and employer assistance, too.

3. I won’t be able to use what I learn right away

Capella’s competency-based coursework asks you to show specific skills in your assessments. The practical skills you develop may be useful in your current role as you progress through the program – not only after graduation. Capella faculty also bring real-world experience from P-12 schools and districts, helping keep the coursework connected to current educational settings.

If you want to deepen your classroom practice, you can choose a specialization such as:

• Curriculum and Instruction
• Early Childhood Education Studies
• English Language Learning and Teaching
• Reading and Literacy
• Special Education Teaching

4. A graduate degree won’t help if I want to leave the classroom

If your goals extend beyond classroom teaching, a master’s degree could help you build knowledge for other areas of education. Capella’s MS in Education offers specializations such as:

• Adult Education
• Higher Education Leadership and Administration
• Instructional Design and Educational Technology
• Leadership in Educational Administration

Depending on your experience and goals, this type of coursework may be relevant to positions such as an educational consultant, curriculum development specialist, instructional designer, administrator or teacher on special assignment (TOSA). These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions require previous experience, state licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Many factors determine what position an individual may attain, so it is important to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

5. I’m not ready to commit to a graduate program. What are my options?

Education is a rapidly changing field, and graduate school isn’t the only way to continue learning. Capella’s online individual education courses can help you build skills for your current role, meet certain continuing education requirements and try a Capella course before committing to a degree program. You may also be able to apply up to three eligible courses toward a MS in Education at Capella. Course eligibility and fees vary, so review transfer credit details before enrolling.

Whether you’re ready to pursue a degree or want to start with an individual course, there are flexible ways to continue growing as an educator.