Education Abstract Background

Education

Begin a rewarding career in a growing field. Over 792 annual job openings in Education & Training are expected in the next ten years.

Wondering what else is out there? Take our Career Interest Quiz if you’re not sure which pathway is for you.

A Passion for Teaching

Caitlin Hortert has a passion for teaching and always knew she wanted to become a high school English teacher. After learning about Montana Western’s renowned education program and Experience One, Caitlin made the move from Portland, Oregon, to southwest Montana to start her degree in Secondary Education.
Caitlin Hortent Portrait
I don’t think I would be as knowledgeable in my field if it wasn’t for the opportunity to have small class discussion. I’ve learned not only from my professors, but my peers as well. You get a lot of peer interaction that you wouldn’t get in a traditional lecture hall.
Caitlin Hortert
The University of Montana Western
Caitlin credits Montana Western’s small class sizes, experiential learning model and exceptional faculty for the knowledge and hands-on experiences that will allow her to excel in her professional field.

Associate Degree

With a two-year Associate Degree you can enjoy a career as a teacher's aide.
Teacher's Aide

Teacher Aide

  • Average Salary: $26,600
  • Job Growth (10 yr): Slower than average

Bachelor's Degree

These careers are available with a Bachelor's Degree.
Grade School Teacher

Elementary School Teacher

  • Average Salary: $48,940
  • Job Growth (10 yr): Declining
Women Studying around a table

High School Teacher

  • Average Salary: $50,720 - $59,360
  • Job Growth (10 yr): Declining
  • Annual Openings:  Very few

Master’s/Doctoral Degree

Six+ years of study.
Education Administrator

Education Administrator

  • Average Salary: $46,330 - $86,970
  • Job Growth (10 yr): Slower than average
  • Annual Openings:  Few
Counselor Speaking with Students

School Counselor

  • Average Salary: $47,470
  • Job Growth (10 yr): Slower than average
  • Annual Openings:  Very few

Make Your Way Into the Education Field

Whether you’re just exploring in high school, still undecided as a college student, or an adult who is wondering if this field is right for you, you can take steps today to enter the education field. Find out what you can do no matter where you are.

You can start exploring education careers as early as high school. What are you taking for electives? Consider some of the following:

  • Child/Human Development
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Occupational Child Care
  • Senior Year Math
  • Communications/Public Speaking
  • Psychology
  • Chemistry or Physics
  • Biology

All of our 16 MUS schools offer some type of degree in education. Depending on what your goals are — maybe it’s staying close to home, maybe it’s going to get a four-year degree, or maybe it’s to get a certificate — you can find the best fit for you. Here are just a few programs that might suit you. Use our Program Finder to explore in more detail.

  • Elementary/Secondary Education
  • School Counseling
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Health and Physical Science
  • Special Education
  • Early Childhood Education

Work-based learning provides opportunities for you to get in the field and see what it’s like working in your chosen profession. See what opportunities are available in the education field.

  • Shadow a Teacher
  • Camp Counselor
  • Coach
  • Peer Mentor
  • Peer Tutor
  • Childcare
  • Teacher's Aide

Explore Dual Enrollment Options