Master’s in Education Jobs That Are Not in the Classroom: Know Your Options Through Auburn University’s 6 Online MEd Programs

Earning a Master of Education (MEd) opens possibilities beyond the traditional classroom. While teaching is a noble and fulfilling profession, an MEd also equips graduates with specialized skills that they can apply to leadership, technology, special education and more. Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) offers six online MEd programs to give students the tools they need to succeed in diverse educational careers. Below is a discussion of six job opportunities outside the classroom for MEd graduates, with salary insights where available.

1. Instructional Coordinator

An instructional coordinator is pivotal in improving schools’ or academic organizations’ educational curriculum and teaching standards. These professionals work behind the scenes to develop curriculum, analyze student data and train teachers on the latest instructional techniques. Graduates of AUM’s MEd in Instructional Leadership online program graduates are well prepared for this role, as the program focuses on leadership skills, curriculum design and teacher mentorship.

According to the current figures, the median annual salary for instructional coordinators in Alabama is approximately $78,270. Instructional coordinators work in K-12 schools, colleges and other educational institutions, making this an excellent option for those who wish to influence education policy and practice without being directly in the classroom.

2. E-Learning Specialist

As digital education becomes more widespread, e-learning specialists are in high demand. These professionals design and implement online learning programs for schools, universities and corporate settings. AUM’s MEd in Instructional Technology online program prepares graduates to excel in this field by teaching them how to use cutting-edge technology to enhance learning outcomes.

E-learning specialists work in various sectors, including higher education, corporate training and government agencies. According to reports, e-learning specialists can make as much as $85,793 annually, making this a lucrative option for tech-savvy educators.

3. Curriculum Specialist

Zippia notes that a curriculum specialist is someone “… who develops, assesses, and improves curricula and instruction. They guide teachers on teaching methods, conduct research, and recommend improvements for curricula … [They] also evaluate existing curricula alongside teachers and administrators, create and revise instructional materials, analyze student data, and evaluate classroom materials to improve learning outcomes.”

With an average salary of $57,384 a year, per ZipRecruiter, curriculum specialists are integral to building instructional materials and curriculum strategies for students. Graduates of AUM’s MEd in Secondary Education online program are prepared to step into curriculum-focused roles in secondary education. Through courses like Curriculum and Teaching in Areas of Specialization and the Advanced Instructional Strategies or Seminar, students learn critical skills for the curriculum specialist role.