Different Types of Teaching Degrees and Their Salaries in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The demand for skilled professionals in the teaching field continues to rise as education remains a cornerstone of societal development. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of teachers is projected to grow steadily over the next decade, reflecting expanding student populations and evolving educational needs.

Choosing the right educational path is crucial for those seeking to enter this dynamic profession with strong career prospects. This article provides a detailed guide to the various types of teaching degrees available and explores the salary expectations tied to each, equipping readers with essential knowledge to make informed decisions about their future in education.

Key Points About Different Types of Teaching Degrees and Their Salaries

Individuals with an associate degree in teaching often find entry-level positions such as teaching assistants or preschool educators, earning median salaries around $30,000 to $35,000 annually, but this degree generally offers limited advancement opportunities in K-12 education.
A bachelor's degree in teaching significantly enhances career prospects, enabling graduates to become licensed teachers with an average salary near $60,000 per year, reflecting nationwide data that suggests this degree is the minimum requirement for most public school teaching roles.
Master's degrees in teaching or education administration boost earning potential and job stability, with median salaries climbing to approximately $75,000, and enable advancement into specialized roles like curriculum coordinator or school administrator, which are expected to grow steadily in demand.

What Are the Different Types of Teaching Degrees Available?

Understanding the different teaching degree types and levels is crucial for prospective students to make informed decisions that align with their educational backgrounds and career objectives.

To clarify these options, below is an overview of the main types of teaching degrees and what distinguishes each one.

Associate Degree in Education: Provides foundational knowledge in educational theory and practice. Coursework centers on child development, introductory teaching methods, and general education, preparing students for entry-level roles or further study.
Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education: Focuses on teaching strategies and curriculum development for preschool and early elementary students. Coursework emphasizes child development, language acquisition, and foundational literacy and math skills.
Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education: Prepares students to teach core academic subjects in kindergarten through sixth grade. Core courses explore classroom management, subject-specific pedagogy, curriculum planning, and assessment techniques.
Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education: Centers on preparing future teachers for middle and high school classrooms, often in a specific subject area. Coursework includes adolescent development, classroom management, and methods for teaching specialized subjects.
Bachelor's Degree in Special Education: Equips students to support learners with diverse abilities and needs. Courses cover individualized instruction, adaptive teaching strategies, and legal and ethical aspects of special education.
Master's Degree in Curriculum Design: Explores advanced curriculum development, instructional theory, and educational research. Students learn to design, implement, and evaluate school curricula across grade levels.
Master's Degree in Reading: Specializes in reading instruction and literacy development. Coursework focuses on assessment of reading skills, intervention strategies, and fostering reading comprehension.
Master's Degree in Instructional Design: Emphasizes the creation of effective learning experiences, both in-person and online. Curriculum includes research in learning theory, technology integration, and development of educational materials.

Students interested in these pathways can also explore accelerated bachelor programs online that offer more flexible options to complete a teaching degree efficiently.

What Specializations Are Available in Teaching Degrees?

Choosing a specialization within a teaching degree is a crucial step that helps students tailor their education to specific career goals and student populations.

Specializations provide targeted skills and knowledge that align closely with desired roles, making graduates more competitive and effective in their chosen fields. This alignment between educational focus and career aspirations is essential for long-term success and job satisfaction.

Below are some common teaching specializations, each designed to develop distinct competencies and prepare graduates for specific career paths:

Elementary Education: Focuses on teaching multiple subjects to young children in grades K-6. Key skills include lesson planning, classroom management, and foundational literacy and numeracy instruction. Careers include elementary classroom teacher and, with experience, curriculum specialist.
Secondary Education: Prepares graduates to teach a specific subject, such as math, science, or English, in middle or high schools. It emphasizes subject expertise, adolescent development, and classroom management. Typical roles are middle or high school subject teachers.
Special Education: Equips teachers to work with students who have a broad range of learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities. Skills include individualized instruction, behavioral support, and the development of individualized education programs (IEPs). Graduates often become special education teachers or intervention specialists.
Curriculum and Instruction: Focuses on designing and evaluating educational programs and materials. Skills include research-based curriculum design and instructional coaching. Career paths often include curriculum developer or instructional coordinator, with salaries that can exceed those of classroom teachers.
Educational Leadership: Prepares educators for administrative roles such as principal or superintendent. Emphasizes leadership, strategic planning, and educational law. These roles offer some of the highest salaries in education, with median pay for principals exceeding $100,000.
Early Childhood Education: Specializes in teaching children from birth to age eight. It emphasizes developmental psychology, play-based learning, and family engagement. Graduates may work in preschools, early intervention programs, or child advocacy.
Teaching English Language Learners (ESL/ELL): Focuses on helping non-native English speakers acquire English language skills. Requires knowledge of language acquisition and multicultural education. Common careers include ESL teacher in K-12 schools or adult education settings.
Educational Technology: Prepares teachers to integrate technology within classrooms and develop digital learning resources. Skills include instructional design and technology implementation. Graduates pursue careers as educational technologists or technology integration specialists.

Understanding these specializations can guide students in making informed decisions about their future teaching careers. For those considering further study options, exploring easiest masters degrees can also provide pathways to enhance skills and expand opportunities in education.

How Long Does It Take to Complete Each Type of Teaching Degree?

Understanding how long it takes to complete different teaching degrees is crucial for students planning their education and career timelines. Knowing the typical duration helps in making informed decisions about enrollment, financial planning, and achieving career goals.

Here is an overview of the main teaching degree types and their typical completion times:

Associate Degree in Teaching: This degree usually takes about two years to complete when attending full-time. Part-time students or those balancing work may take longer, while some programs offer accelerated tracks or online courses to shorten the timeline.
Bachelor's Degree in Teaching: Typically requiring four years of full-time study, this is the standard preparation for most teaching careers. Transfer credits and summer classes can reduce the time, and many institutions provide online or hybrid options to accommodate different schedules.
Master's in Teaching: This graduate degree generally takes one to two years beyond the bachelor's degree, depending on the program structure and student enrollment status. Accelerated programs and online formats are common, offering flexibility to working professionals seeking advanced qualifications.
Doctorate in Teaching or Education: Doctoral programs usually require three to six years to complete, including research and dissertation phases. Part-time study options extend the timeline, while some accelerated or cohort-based models may allow faster completion for highly motivated candidates.

Are There Accelerated Teaching Degree Programs?

Accelerated teaching degree programs are available in the United States, designed to help students start their teaching careers more quickly than through traditional routes.

These programs reduce the typical length of study-four years for a bachelor's or two years for a master's-down to as little as 12 to 24 months, depending on prior credits and the program's design.

This speed is often possible by offering condensed courses that run in shorter, intensive sessions, sometimes lasting only 7 to 8 weeks each. Additionally, many programs support year-round enrollment, allowing students to take classes during summer and winter breaks rather than adhering to the typical academic calendar with long pauses.

Transfer credits from previous college coursework or degrees are also frequently accepted, enabling students to bypass general education requirements and concentrate on teaching-specific subjects more quickly.

Online and hybrid course formats further add flexibility, accommodating working adults or career changers who need adaptable schedules.

However, while these formats make accelerated teaching degrees faster, they also result in increased workload intensity. Compressing the same curriculum into a shorter timeframe demands strong time management and resilience to balance coursework, field experiences, and often ongoing employment.

Eligibility criteria usually require prior college credits, a completed bachelor's degree, or specific prerequisites, which narrows access to motivated students prepared to handle the challenge.

Accelerated programs suit recent graduates, career changers, or emergency-licensed teachers eager to enter the workforce sooner, often translating into earlier salary earnings despite median teaching salaries remaining aligned with traditional paths.

I recently spoke with a graduate of an accelerated teaching degree program who shared his experience candidly. He recounted how the program's pace was "relentless but rewarding," noting that every week felt packed with lectures, assignments, and observation hours.

The condensed nature meant there was no downtime between modules, making it vital to develop strong routines early on. "Time management wasn't just a skill; it was survival," he said, reflecting on balancing his studies with part-time work.

Despite the intensity, he appreciated the program's structure, especially the opportunity to apply classroom theories quickly during frequent practicum sessions.

He described a sense of accomplishment in earning his certification in under two years, which allowed him to begin teaching and earning sooner than his peers in traditional programs. His journey highlighted how accelerated teaching degrees are demanding but provide a unique pathway for those ready to commit fully to their goals.

Are Online Teaching Degrees as Credible as Traditional Ones?

Traditional teaching degrees focus on in-person interaction, offering real-time feedback from faculty and hands-on experiences such as supervised classroom placements. These elements help students develop essential soft skills and gain direct mentorship. The structured environment with fixed schedules can motivate and support learners.

Online teaching degrees, when provided by accredited institutions, offer comparable academic rigor and licensure pathways. They emphasize flexibility and access to digital resources, which benefits students balancing work or family commitments.

Recent research, including a meta-analysis referenced by Georgetown University, shows that online students often perform as well or better than their traditional counterparts on assessments. Additionally, online programs frequently use regular, data-driven evaluations to closely monitor student progress, enhancing learning outcomes.

Employer acceptance of online teaching degrees has increased significantly. According to a CNN survey, 83% of executives now consider online degrees as credible as traditional ones.

Research supports that learning outcomes for online education degrees are comparable to those from campus-based programs, with online courses sometimes achieving retention rates up to 60%, versus 8-10% for traditional classes.

Despite this progress, some employers still prefer traditional degrees, especially from well-known universities, and remain cautious about non-accredited or for-profit online programs.

Ultimately, the credibility of a teaching degree is more closely linked to the institution's reputation and accreditation than whether the degree is earned online or on campus. For students concerned about salary and job prospects, degree type and institutional quality have a stronger influence than the learning format.

How Much Does Each Type of Teaching Degree Typically Cost?

Understanding the tuition differences across various teaching degree levels is essential for budgeting effectively and planning long-term finances. Because costs can vary significantly based on degree type, institution, and delivery format, students should consider these factors carefully before making decisions.

Below is an outline of typical tuition ranges for each type of Teaching degree to help prospective students navigate their options.

Associate Degree in Teaching: Tuition for an associate degree typically averages around $3,300 per year at public community colleges, making it the most affordable entry point into the teaching profession.
Bachelor's in Teaching: The average annual tuition for a bachelor's degree ranges from about $9,594 at public universities to more than $38,000 at private institutions. Online programs can offer lower per-credit costs and more flexibility, with students frequently using federal scholarships and work-study opportunities to manage costs.
Master's in Teaching: Master's programs usually cost between $7,900 and $12,400 per year at public schools, with private nonprofit universities charging up to $28,430 annually. Factors such as program length, prestige, and whether the program is online or on-campus influence total expenses.
Doctorate in Teaching/Education (Ed.D./Ph.D.): Doctoral tuition averages about $9,856 per year at public universities, with private institutions often significantly more expensive. Candidates often secure research grants, stipends, or tuition waivers to manage their financial commitments.

When speaking with a graduate of a teaching degree program about the cost of her education, she reflected on how careful financial planning made a substantial difference. "I chose a hybrid online program partly because it fit my budget and allowed me to keep working," she shared.

Despite initial concerns about balancing expenses, she was able to access employer tuition reimbursement and a state grant, which lightened her out-of-pocket spending.

Looking back, she emphasized that while the sticker price seemed daunting at first, the combination of financial aid and flexible scheduling enabled her to earn her degree without excessive debt.

She also noted that investing time in researching aid options upfront helped her access resources she might have otherwise missed. This strategic approach not only made the education affordable but also paved the way for career advancement and personal fulfillment in her teaching journey.

Breakdown of All 2-Year Online Title IV Institutions

Source: U.S. Department of Education, 2023

What Jobs Can You Get with Each Type of Teaching Degree?

The level of teaching degree you earn greatly influences the career opportunities available to you, ranging from entry-level support roles to advanced leadership positions.

Each degree level qualifies graduates for specific types of jobs that align with their education and skill set. Below is an overview of common jobs associated with each type of teaching degree.

Consider the following breakdown of typical roles and responsibilities for graduates at different degree levels.

Associate Degree in Teaching: An associate degree often prepares graduates for positions such as preschool teacher, teacher assistant, or childcare provider. These roles generally involve supporting lead teachers, managing classroom activities, and providing basic instruction primarily in early childhood settings.
Bachelor's Degree in Teaching: The bachelor's degree is typically required for becoming a licensed classroom teacher in public elementary, middle, or high schools. Graduates may also work as special education teachers, reading specialists, or support service coordinators.
Master's Degree in Teaching: A master's degree enables specialization and career advancement into roles such as curriculum developer, instructional coordinator, or educational consultant. These jobs often focus on designing curricula, leading teacher training, or providing guidance on educational strategies.
Doctoral Degree in Teaching: Doctoral graduates frequently pursue leadership, policy, or academic careers such as school administrators, education policy analysts, or university professors.

For those interested in advancing their qualifications, several doctorate programs without dissertation offer streamlined pathways to doctoral credentials.

How Do Salaries Differ by Teaching Degree Type?

Degree level often plays a crucial role in determining a teacher's earning potential. Understanding these salary differences based on teaching degree types can help students make informed decisions about their educational paths and future careers.

The following points outline typical salary ranges for each degree type along with factors influencing their pay.

Associate Degree in Teaching: Graduates usually begin as paraprofessionals, teacher's aides, or work in early childhood settings with starting salaries typically between $25,000 and $35,000 annually.
Bachelor's Degree in Teaching: As the standard entry requirement for K-12 teachers, salaries vary widely by region. For the 2025-2026 school year, starting pay ranges from $40,000 to $69,000, with a national average around $74,200.
Master's Degree in Teaching/Education: Earning a master's generally increases annual pay by $5,000 to $15,000 compared to a bachelor's, with experienced teachers in large cities making $76,000 to $87,000 or more.
Doctoral Degree in Education (EdD/PhD): Doctorate holders typically work in higher education, research, or leadership positions, earning between $90,000 and $120,000 or higher. In K-12 education, a doctorate can qualify for top administrative or policy-making roles.

Students interested in pursuing teaching degrees may benefit from exploring options at online schools with financial aid to help manage education costs while maximizing long-term earning opportunities.

Is There High Demand for Teaching Degree Holders in the Job Market?

There is a notably high demand for teaching degree holders across the United States, driven by multiple factors shaping the current job market. Workforce needs continue to grow as student enrollment rises and a significant number of experienced teachers approach retirement.

This is especially pronounced in critical areas such as special education, STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), and English as a second language (ESL).

Emerging technologies also play a role in influencing demand; the rapid shift to online learning during the pandemic has created new opportunities for educators proficient in virtual instruction and digital classrooms, particularly within higher education and supplementary online programs.

Regional differences further affect job prospects, with teacher shortages more acute in large urban centers and remote rural areas. States have responded by introducing incentive measures like signing bonuses, improved benefits, and alternative certification pathways aimed at easing entry into the profession.

For students considering teaching degrees, understanding these dynamics is critical. The outlook remains positive with projected growth in teaching jobs, which is partly shortage-driven and supported by expanded roles in technology-enabled education environments.

Elementary school teachers alone have an estimated 120,300 job openings projected before 2031, while middle and high school positions also remain abundant. Graduates who pursue high-demand specialties or are willing to relocate to shortage areas will likely find robust opportunities.

Additionally, those exploring career paths may benefit from researching top paying trades, as this can provide context about how teaching salaries compare within the broader employment market. Reliable sources, including top paying trades, offer valuable insights to aid in making informed decisions about a career in teaching.

What Factors Should You Consider When Picking a Type of Teaching Degree?

Choosing the right teaching degree level is a crucial decision that shapes your career path and personal satisfaction in education. The degree you pursue will directly impact your professional opportunities, earning potential, and how well your studies align with your life circumstances.

To help you make an informed choice, consider these key factors:

Career Goals: A bachelor's degree is essential for public K-12 teaching, whereas a master's or doctoral degree is often required for college-level positions. Higher degrees may also lead to specialized roles or leadership opportunities.
Salaries and Job Prospects: Teacher salaries vary by degree and grade level, with median wages increasing at higher education levels. Understanding how additional qualifications can boost your earning potential and job availability is important when choosing your degree.
Time Commitment and Cost: Earning advanced degrees requires more years of study and financial investment. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years, a master's an additional one to two years, and a doctorate may require four or more extra years, so weigh these commitments against your goals.
Licensure and Certification: State licensure generally requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree and completion of a teacher preparation program, especially for public schools. Requirements can vary for private schools or early childhood education roles, so verify what is needed for your desired career path.
Specialization and Interests: Teaching degrees often allow you to specialize by subject or student age group. Choose a program that matches your passions and intended teaching population to ensure professional fulfillment.
Work-Life Balance and Flexibility: Different degree levels and teaching roles come with varying demands. Reflect on how these fit your personal life, family commitments, and need for flexible scheduling when selecting your degree.

What Teaching Graduates Say About Their Degree and Salary

Carmen: "Completing my early childhood teaching degree was a transformative experience that deepened my passion for helping young learners develop essential skills. The program offered hands-on classroom experience that made me feel prepared and confident on my first day teaching. I love knowing that I can shape the foundation of a child's educational journey and make a positive impact on not only their academics but also their social growth. The job stability in this field has also been a huge relief as I've started my career. I feel proud to be part of a community dedicated to nurturing the next generation."

Darius: "After earning my secondary education degree, I quickly realized how versatile and rewarding this path could be. The professional development opportunities have been incredibly valuable, allowing me to continually refine my teaching strategies and incorporate technology effectively in my classroom. While managing the challenges of adolescent learners, I've grown both personally and professionally, learning patience and adaptability. Having a teaching degree tailored for high school education opened doors to leadership roles that I hadn't anticipated. It's exciting to know my influence extends beyond just subject matter to shaping lifelong skills in my students."

Tinashe: "Obtaining my special education teaching degree was a journey of both challenge and profound personal growth. The specialized training prepared me to meet diverse learners' needs with empathy and expertise, which has been incredibly rewarding. I cherish the unique opportunity to advocate for students who might otherwise be overlooked, helping them achieve their personal best. Witnessing their progress fuels my passion every day, and I constantly seek further education to enhance my skills. This career path requires dedication but offers unmatched fulfillment in making a difference."

Other Things You Should Know About Teaching Degree Programs & Salaries

What is the average starting salary for teachers with a bachelor's degree?

The average starting salary for teachers with a bachelor's degree is typically between $40,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on the state and district. Public school teachers tend to have standardized pay scales, while private schools may offer lower salaries.

Do master's degrees in teaching significantly increase salary potential?

Yes, teachers with master's degrees often earn higher salaries than those with bachelor's degrees. Many school districts provide salary increments or higher starting salaries for teachers with graduate-level education, increasing earning potential by 10-20% on average.

How does earning a doctoral degree impact a teaching career salary?

Doctoral degrees in teaching usually lead to roles in higher education or advanced administrative positions. Salaries for these positions often exceed $90,000, reflecting the advanced expertise and responsibilities involved.

Are there salary differences between public and private school teachers with similar degrees?

Yes, public school teachers generally have more structured and often higher salaries compared to private school teachers with the same degrees. Private schools may offer lower pay but sometimes provide additional benefits or flexibility.