Career Pathways from Furman University’s M.A.Ed. & MAT Graduate Programs

Are you a graduate student contemplating your career path in education? Furman University’s Graduate Studies offers an array of master’s degree programs, each tailored to specific areas of expertise. In a recent episode of Furman University’s Go Further podcast, Associate Director for Graduate Studies in Education, Kay Goodwin, sheds light on the wealth of opportunities awaiting graduate students in the MAT and MA.Ed. programs. Furman’s offerings serve a diverse range of ambitions, including Teaching, Literacy, School Leadership, Special Education, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages/Multilingual Learners.

The Master of Arts in Teaching program is relatively new in Furman’s academic graduate studies options, inviting individuals who majored in primary subjects like history or mathematics. This program equips them with the knowledge and skills required to earn a master’s degree and teaching certificate simultaneously. In essence, it’s the gateway to a rewarding journey in education in just 12 months. 

What sets Furman’s Master of Arts in Education apart is its focus on more specific areas of interest. In the realm of Literacy, for instance, students are nurtured to help children learn how to read and write. Moreover, there are exciting opportunities in literacy, including coaching other literacy educators with the tools they need, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded educators equipped to make a profound impact in the classroom. 

The School Leadership program takes a distinct approach by fostering transformative leaders rather than administrators. Leadership in education demands a comprehensive understanding of curriculum, strategic thinking, and community building. The curriculum underscores the need for strategic thinking to facilitate change effectively.

One of the remarkable aspects of Furman’s graduate programs is the diverse range of career paths they open up. Graduates have gone on to become principals and superintendents and even attained doctoral degrees from esteemed institutions from regional colleges and universities like Clemson to Ivy League institutions like Harvard.

Furman’s graduate programs also cater to those looking to expand their horizons and credentials. Many students come here to add new certifications to their repertoire. For instance, elementary school teachers return to pursue advanced degrees in special education. Similarly, educators seeking a broader reach with students can become literacy coaches or school principals. Furman supports these career transitions, bridging the gap between ambition and achievement. 

Kay Goodwin, in her discussion, highlights the pressing need for support in the teaching profession, which has been grappling with challenges such as certain federal and state guidelines, low pay, and managing student behavior. The Master of Arts in Teaching program was specifically crafted to attract more teachers into the classroom, addressing the growing demand in South Carolina and other states. Moreover, it rewards teachers with higher pay through advanced degrees.

Furman’s collaborative efforts further enhance job opportunities. The Educational Specialist Degree offers an Educational Leadership Track that leads to a certification as a district-level superintendent. This is designed for experienced educators who have a master’s degree in another area but would like to certify as school administrators. Collaborations with institutions like Clemson and USC enable students to pursue doctoral degrees after completing their master’s programs. 

For more information about career paths and opportunities through Furman’s Master of Arts in Teaching, click HERE to listen to the full episode of Go Further with Associate Director for Graduate Studies in Education, Kay Goodwin. 

To learn more about the diverse and enriching education graduate programs offered at Furman University and take the first step toward your promising career in education, visit the official website by clicking HERE. There, you’ll find comprehensive information about each program, admission requirements, and the application process. Take advantage of this opportunity to join a dynamic community of educators, broaden your horizons, and make a positive impact in the field of education.