8 Jobs You Can Get With an Education Degree That Aren’t Teaching

• Teachers across the country are expressing high levels of dissatisfaction with their jobs.
• This may sound like bad news for those currently pursuing an education degree.
• But there are careers outside of education that can utilize would-be teachers' talents.
• We explore jobs you can get with an education degree that aren't teaching.

Lack of fair wages and adequate healthcare. Burnout. Concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic. The uptick in mass shootings. These factors and more are driving teachers out of the profession.

In June of 2022, 79% of teachers surveyed by the American Federation of Teachers reported dissatisfaction with their jobs.

This might sound like bad news for students currently completing education degrees. However, you can still consider many education jobs beyond teaching.

Education degrees are highly adaptable to careers in a variety of fields. From edtech jobs to jobs in higher education, an education degree can still be a pathway to a fulfilling career. Below, we explore some of the most in-demand jobs you can get with an education degree that isn't a teacher.

Instructional Coordinator

Instructional coordinators are in charge of designing and implementing the curriculum for a school. This career path is ideal for those interested in education who don't see themselves in the classroom.

Instructional coordinators collaborate with teachers in their areas of expertise to create educational programs for students. They might also have a hand in evaluating teachers and educational materials to ensure that teachers implement the curriculum properly.

This career path typically requires a bachelor's degree in a specific subject area like English, math, or science. Teaching experience, a master's degree in curriculum design, and a teaching license may also be required.

Technical Writer

When it comes to a writing career, there are many options for those with great writing skills and a love for their craft. From writing advertising copy to collaborating with nonprofits as a grant writer, there are several niches writers can tap into. Technical writing, however, is one of the most lucrative, sought-after paths for a writer.

Technical writers translate complicated technical information into accessible writing for everyday consumers. They create documents like instructional manuals, product descriptions, tutorials, and reference guides.

HR Specialist

Teachers manage their students. An HR specialist helps companies manage employees. People skills are a must, as HR specialists assist employees at different stages of their time with a company. From recruitment and screening potential hires to acclimating new hires, an HR specialist is essential.

As companies recalibrate post-pandemic, the need for HR specialists continues to grow. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) cites an 8% expected growth from 2021-2031, which is almost double the national average.

Prospective HR specialists should have a bachelor's degree, solid communication skills, and a desire to help others.

Academic Advisor

Sometimes, the classroom isn't the best environment for educators who want to work closely with students. Typically, teachers must simultaneously divide their attention between a group of students. Academic advisors, on the other hand, have the opportunity to work one-on-one with students.

Every educational institution hires academic advisors, from colleges to private high schools. They work with students individually to provide mentorship, career and academic planning, and address social issues.

Students need support now more than ever, which might be why the BLS cites this career path as one of the most in-demand for educators. The BLS projects a whopping 10% growth rate for this career over the next decade.

Postsecondary Administrator

Much like HR specialists, administrators working in higher education help manage students and academics.

Typically, postsecondary administrators work for a specific department or program within the university. They are in charge of the day-to-day operations that help a department or program run. Everything from managing a department's course offerings to making sure the front desk is properly staffed falls under the purview of administrators.

Many administrator positions require at least a bachelor's degree. Depending on the role, a master's degree may be required. Experience in higher education is also a plus.

Project Manager

Project managers work for a variety of companies, from tech to marketing. They oversee a project's details, ensuring that a team can deliver on time and within budget. Project managers keep track of deadlines, budgets, staff, and deliverables.

Those with an educational background may be well-suited to project management. Their ability to organize and lead a group will translate well to this line of work. If organization and leadership are your strengths and you have an interest in business, this may be the ideal path.

Educational Technologist

Schools are integrating digital technologies into classrooms across the country. With the widespread implementation of remote learning during the pandemic and advances in technological innovation, education technology is now a booming industry.

Jobs in edtech can range from software development to educators working in media literacy. Educational technologists are the bridge between schools, students, and new technology. They ensure new technologies are accessible and implemented correctly in educational settings.

If you have a knack for technology and a passion for the possibilities of tech in education, consider becoming an educational technologist.

Real Estate Agent

If jobs in higher education, edtech jobs, or education consulting jobs are not appealing, there are still plenty of career paths for educators to consider outside the industry. Pursuing a real estate agent career is ideal if you're looking to break away from a typical 9-to-5 structure.

Real estate agents are often self-employed or at least self-directed. They are the mediators between clients and the real estate market. And there are plenty of niches to work in, including rentals, homes, and luxury real estate.

A bachelor's degree isn't required to become a real estate agent. However, each state does have its own rules and regulations around licensing for real estate agents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jobs in Education

What is the highest-paying job in education?

The highest-paying jobs in education are in higher education and administration. College presidents, deans, and provosts all boast six-figure salary ranges, according to a 2022 report by ZipRecruiter. Postsecondary administrators top our list, with the BLS reporting an average salary of $96,910.

Jobs in higher education are increasingly competitive. They also often require more than just a bachelor's degree. But if you find yourself working in this education sector, you might land one of these high-paying positions.

Is education a good field to go into?

Education is an ever-evolving field. The ongoing teacher shortage, coupled with factors like technological advancement, means that there will always be a demand for good educators.

Teaching may not be the right fit for everyone. But the variety and opportunity of an ever-growing, ever-evolving field make education a career path worth pursuing.

What teaching jobs are most in demand?

Due to the ongoing teacher shortage, the most in-demand teaching jobs are for elementary, middle, and high school teachers. Principles and administrators, as well as teaching assistants, are also in high demand.