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By on January 16, 2017 in In the Workplace

Image by StockUnlimited.com

You’ve decided that you want to be a teacher and finally graduated with your degree. One major consideration to make is whether you want to seek employment in a public or private school. One type of school is not necessarily better than the other, but there are certain advantages that you get working in a private school when compared to the public education system. Keep these factors in mind when you start your job search and have job offers to consider.

Upper Management
Private schools are not part of the large public school system and don’t have as large of a bureaucracy to deal with. When there are issues, it is much easier to handle them without jumping through multiple hoops of management. Communication is clearer and issues are addressed in a quicker, more efficient manner with Catholic Education Services than dealing with the public system.

Class Sizes
Smaller class size is one of the leading reasons that parents send their children to private schools. A smaller class gives teachers an opportunity to interact with students on a more individual basis. Private schools are selective about who they admit and tend to have from 15-18 students in each class, while some public schools have as many as 30 or more students in one classroom. The students are also closer to each other academically, making it easier for everyone to relate and be on the same page during lessons.

Curriculum and Government Influence
Private schools are not funded by tax dollars and federal funding like public schools. They are supported by tuition, fundraisers, and donations. This means that teachers have more freedom to experiment with the curriculum and utilize personal teaching methods without being required to adhere to a rigid, standardized way of educating students.

Discipline
Discipline issues exist in both public and private schools, but private schools have a bit more control in handling the issues. Parents have to pay tuition for private school, which means they are more likely to be involved and contribute to handling issues with behavior for their children. A private school has the right to expel a student that refuses to adhere to the code of conduct. Discipline issues can create distractions that hamper the learning process.

Being a teacher is a selfless career choice, but the environment that you teach in contributes to your experience. Keep these factors in mind when you start applying for jobs and the offers begin to roll in.

This article was contributed by guest author Lizzie Weakley.

By on November 11, 2015 in Programs
Image by Joe Flintham, Flickr

Image by Joe Flintham, Flickr

Ever since you were young, you’ve wanted to teach others. You couldn’t wait to stand up in front of the classroom and tell everyone about your area of expertise.

But did you know that you don’t have to stick to the usual English, Math, and Science degrees to pursue a teaching career? Check out the following unique degrees and see how they help you further your education skills.

Movement Therapy

Can’t decide between dance and psychology? Why not do both? Movement therapy encourages participants to express emotions and feelings through movement. With a movement therapy degree, you’ll learn how to help individuals of all ages improve their self-esteem and body image, enhance their communication skills, and gain insights into behavior patterns. Movement therapy will also give you a powerful tool for managing stress and preventing physical and mental health problems.

Forensic Archaeology

Can’t seem to pull your students away from their favorite crime shows and murder mystery soaps? Give them a hands-on approach to science through forensic archaeology. Forensic archeologists and anthropologists use geological and geophysical surveying techniques to investigate crime scenes. With your degree, you’ll be able to explain how experts can date items in grave sites and preserve vital evidence, such as paint flakes, hair, and clothing. You’ll also have in-depth knowledge of how certain materials degrade or decompose over time in given circumstances, such as clothing buried in loose soil.

Military History

As a history teacher, you likely know your dates and facts for important wars and revolutions. But when you earn a degree in military history, you take that knowledge one step further. As a military historian, you’ll study both ancient and modern warfare and their effects on various cultures. You’ll also discover strategies and techniques military tacticians and theoreticians relied on throughout history. With a degree in a military history graduate program, you’ll be able to give your students a deeper, more engaging lesson on history and provide intriguing historical viewpoints that will leave them excited rather than bored.

Puppetry

You probably grew up watching Sesame Street and other Jim Henson creations — and many of your students will likely do the same. So how can you use that shared background to your advantage? A degree in puppetry will teach you how to craft your own puppets and perform with them. You’ll also discover tried-and-true techniques for writing scripts and shows that will appeal to audiences of all ages. With your own puppet on hand (so to speak), you can help your students feel more comfortable in the classroom, whether they need help making new friends or studying for a test.

These are just a few degrees that will supplement your courses in teaching education. Feel free to branch out and try something creative to round out your knowledge and skill set.

This article was contributed by guest author Rachelle Wilber.

By on May 11, 2015 in Search Strategies
Image by Jeremy Wilburn, Flickr

Image by Jeremy Wilburn, Flickr

While many do not think that a career in higher education can lead to a high income, it is possible if you choose to pursue the right titles. If you are looking for the top-paying jobs in higher education that are also in high demand, do your research before you choose to enroll in an advanced graduate program so you can specialize your degree. Here are the five top careers to consider as you compare specialties and concentrations.

Professors Who Teach Health Education

The need for health professionals has never been greater, and the majority of professionals who are entering the industry need a college degree. There is a growing demand for health educators within post-secondary establishments and also a growing shortage of specialized professors who can teach this subject area. If you would like to enter a high-paying field where the top earners make $187,199 per year, teaching health specialties could be a great choice.

College Professors Who Specialize in Economics

Another great teaching position that has flourished is economics. All business majors, many students who earn a Bachelor of Arts, and future economists must all take one or more classes in economics. Not only will you get to teach economics, you can also participate in research while you stay up-to-date with the most recent field developments. The average economics professor earns $101,806 per year.

Program Director of Undergraduate or Graduate Studies

You do not necessarily need to be in front of a classroom teaching to play a part in the success of students as they pursue a degree. As a program director, you will manage and implement the university’s vision and strategy for overall education as you establish goals and improve and innovate programs. This is an important role and requires expertise in higher education.

Director of Student Affairs

A director of student affairs plays a crucial role in keeping students involved in their community while still urging them to strive for a successful future. When you hold this title, you will manage all student activities, oversee the clubs, refer students to counseling, recommend scholarship opportunities, and advise students of community services they may be eligible for.

To hold this title, you need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. While a BA is required, most schools prefer to hire candidates who hold a master’s in higher education that teaches content on student development, conflict resolution and approaches to student affairs. If you have already begun a career after obtaining a bachelor’s degree, an online higher education degree at the master level could be a great way to balance the present with the future.

Academic Advising
In both public and private higher education institutions, there is a need for academic advisors who help students map out the path they will take to meet their educational and professional goals. Many students enroll in school without a clue as to what they would like to do. You will be there to help students make decisions, set academic plans and stay on track. You are an advisor, a coach, a motivator and more.

There is a long list of positions you can pursue as an educator or an administrative professional. Be sure to educate yourself on the requirements to hold a specific title, and only then can you prepare for your career in higher education.

This article was contributed by guest author Anica Oaks.