An online master’s degree in adult education may provide individuals with the skills and training needed to teach adults how to effectively learn and communicate. In this one to two-year program, students may learn how to teach literacy skills, provide adults with technology training, and develop curriculum based for the adult student. Program coursework may integrate specialized electives and major-specific education classes including processes and methods, instructional design, and adult teaching and learning.

Upon successful completion of the program, students may either seek upper-level employment or further their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in human resources, adult literacy programs, corporate training, distance education, and community education.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Upper-Level Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 15% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level adult education degree programs may include both core special education classes and specialized electives in the student’s chosen area of study. These courses may teach students how to design learning programs geared towards adult students, implement specific adult education models and theories, and teach adults how to communicate and think critically. Core adult education classes may include the following:

• Adult Education
• Processes and Methods
• Adult Teaching and Learning
• Instructional Design
• Teaching and Learning at a Distance
• Multicultural and Special Populations
• Introduction to Research Methods

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may explore opportunities at universities, vocational schools, general equivalency diploma programs, foreign-language programs, and community centers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in adult education are projected to increase by 15% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Adult Literacy Instructor
• English as a Second Language Teacher
• Corporate Trainer
• General Equivalency Diploma Instructor
• Post Secondary Instructor

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s degree program may have the opportunity to further their studies by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral degree in adult education may provide students with advanced professional training in adult education leadership and theory development.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook