Coronavirus: Here’s a guide to gaining an online Master’s Degree in Education in 2020

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, interest in online learning programs has skyrocketed, as people remain stuck at home due to lockdown procedures in place to combat the spread of the virus.

People have begun to look to universities to gain a bachelor or master’s degree online while practicing adequate proper social distancing.

In the US, universities have already deciding whether it would be better to cancel in-room teaching all together until 2021.

Oregon State University has, for instance, moved most of its summer instruction online. “Only the novel coronavirus will determine what happens. We can hope for a full return in fall 2020, but hope is not a strategy. So that is why we are going to prepare as best we can for every possible contingency,” OSU spokesman Steve Clark told The Oregonian.

Here’s everything you need to know about getting an online Master’s Degree in Education in 2020:

What is a master’s certification?

The master's degree certificate is a postgraduate qualification in a specialized subject that can be acquired after obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a broader field. Master’s programs provide an opportunity for students to improve their expertise in their chosen domain, wherein a student may choose a different discipline of study than that of their bachelor’s - level education in order to advance their knowledge and explore new career paths.

An online master’s degree

Online master’s programs have flourished because they offer unique advantages over traditional in-classroom study. Learning online is ideal for those that are unable to attend classes. When choosing an online master’s degree program, there are four factors of most importance:

1. Domain

Online master's degree programs are associated with a wide variety of fields. Therefore, no matter which area of expertise a student is interested in, there is likely find a program that fits.

These programs are mainly composed of research and taught material at a level that is more advanced in comparison to the material taught in bachelor's programs.

2. Total cost

The total cost of a master’s degree is an essential factor when choosing a master's program, as it depends on the overall ranking of the university, the type of program, and delivery method. However, online master's degree programs are often more affordable than traditional on - campus programs.

3. Duration

The total duration of a program varies from one to another. It can take up to two years to obtain an online master's degree certificate, depending on the field itself. Additionally, full-time programs are shorter in overall duration, while part-time programs are longer.

4. The university

It is important to choose the right institution for the degree of choice. There are numerous fraudulent and criminal enterprises specializing in releasing so-called degrees that are not recognized. This is especially pertinent in the Arabian Gulf, where only some institutions might be accepted. For instance, the UAE’s Ministry of Education publishes a list of foreign universities that it accepts on its digital portal.

Learning from home. (File photo: Green Chameleon/Unsplash)

Online Master of Education

There is a consistent need for educators all over the world. Lack of teachers in schools directly affects the education. Moreover, earning a Master of Education opens up new career paths and opportunities in public and private schools, community colleges, and other educational facilities. It can also add value to a resume and increase eligibility for a promotion.

The degree usually encompasses the following majors: curriculum and instruction, counseling, school psychology, and administration. Students will graduate to become skilled professionals in specialized fields of education.

How to obtain an online Master’s Degree in Education

Earning a master's degree in education online involves the following steps:
1. Research your preferred field
2. Choose an accredited university that offers online master’s degree programs
3. Send your complete application
4. Attend the online courses
5. Study and pass your exams

Read more:

Coronavirus: Exclusive Saudi Arabian university fellowship adapts to online training

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Coronavirus: UK’s Cambridge University moves lectures online until 2021