Information on Master of Arts (MA) Degree Program in Computer Education
Majors Overview July 24, 2015This article talks about Master of Arts (M.A.) degree programs in Computer Education and their education requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Master of Arts (M.A.) Programs in Computer Education
Students enrolled in these master’s degree programs are trained to become teachers, media specialists, technology coordinators, and corporate trainers. Coursework commonly includes topic areas such as eLearning, immersive education, multimedia and human performance. The methods used in evaluating and recommending computer hardware and software are available to students enrolled in the program. They may learn ways of building websites and creating multimedia, apart from the process to use in delivering eLearning training programs. A final research project may mark the culmination of many programs, and coursework may include field experiences as well.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in any major. They must also submit an official transcript of all postsecondary education, as well as evidence of meeting a specific grade point average (GPA) on completed coursework.
Coursework
Students take about two years to complete a master’s degree in computer education; the focus of coursework may be on computer education, media design, research, and software applications. A senior project or thesis is usually completed by students before they graduate. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•Educational research evaluation
•Educational practice and design
•Technology and social issues
•Computers and Cognition
•Technology and cognitive issues
•Object-oriented theory and programming
•Video technology in education
•Distance learning
•Instructional graphics design
Career Choices
Program graduates may seek careers in the fields of media development, eLearning, schools, or corporate training. State licensure is mandatory for teachers in all states. They may choose from possible job titles such as:
•Web developer
•Media development specialist
•Educational video producer
•Teachers at the PK-12 school level
•Technology Trainer
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, respective job growth rates of twelve and six percent have been predicted for elementary and middle school teachers and high school teachers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, elementary school teachers brought in an average annual wage of $53,090; the comparative wage figures for middle school teachers and high school teachers were $53,430 and $55,050, respectively. Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, instructional coordinators are expected to see a 13% job growth. In 2012, these professionals earned $60,050 per annum, on average (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Licensure is mandatory in all states for teachers of K-12 students. National certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) (recognized by all states), while not compulsory, may be sought by program graduates. Program graduates who seek continuing education may opt for a doctoral degree in computer education. School teachers are expected to participate in professional development programs where each state has its set standards. Many continuing education courses are available in online formats.
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