8 Jobs for Education Majors Besides Teaching

Education degrees are highly adaptable to careers in a variety of fields. For those who want to step out of the classroom, there are several career options for education majors that go beyond teaching.

Below, we explore some of the most in-demand jobs you can get with an education degree that isn’t teaching.

There are a variety of jobs for education majors outside the classroom. From human resources to academic advising, career counseling, and school administration, many careers utilize would-be teachers’ skills.

Many jobs outside education benefit from skills learned from pursuing an education degree.

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.

When it comes to a writing career, there are many options for those with great writing skills and a love for their craft. There are several niches writers can tap into, from writing advertising copy to collaborating with nonprofits as a grant writer. 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.

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, almost every company needs an HR specialist.

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

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.

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

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 managers can work in a variety of industries, 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.

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.

Career counselors help people choose a career path that best fits their needs. They primarily work within colleges and universities, although some work in career centers, private practices, or even remotely.

If you’re interested in career counseling, you should have a bachelor’s degree in an applicable field. Many employers also require candidates to have a master’s degree in counseling or a related field. You’ll also need to be professionally certified, as well as obtain a state license if required.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed March 1, 2024.