Elementary Education
Education is the study of how human beings teach, learn, and develop values, skills, and character qualities. A few of the major specializations are preschool, elementary, secondary, higher, continuing and special education; educational administration and supervision; guidance and counseling; testing and evaluation; business, industrial arts, and vocational/technical training.
Sample Occupations
- Education
- Elementary, Middle, or Secondary Teacher
- Literacy Coordinator
- Vocational Educator
- Physical Education Teacher
- Athletic Coach
- ESL Instructor
- School Social Worker
- School Administrator
- Instructional Coordinator
- College Administrator
- Media Specialist
- Children’s/Youth Librarian
- Private Tutor
- Social Services/Nonprofit
- Early Intervention Specialist
- Case Manager
- Counselor
- Behavioral Specialist
- Child Welfare Case Worker
- Child Advocate
- Nonprofit Director
- Youth Minister
Types of Employers
- Schools/School Districts
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Daycares & Preschools
- Tutoring/Learning Centers
- Faith-based Organizations
- Colleges & Universities
- Children’s Camps
- Government
- International Language Schools
Preparing for your career in
Education: Acquire appropriate certification for teaching in public schools; learn to work well with different types of people; gain experience working with a target population through mentoring, tutoring, or volunteering; join student chapters of national teaching organizations; obtain graduate degree for student affairs and administrative positions; research licensure requirements in other states; develop strong oral and written communication skills; gain familiarity with working with exceptional children and youth
Social Services: Volunteer with an organization that provides counseling or social services to children and families; become familiar with the operational structures of government and nonprofit social service agencies; develop strong communication skills; supplement curriculum with courses in social work, sociology, or psychology; learn to work well with people from differing socioeconomic, racial, ethic and religious backgrounds; pursue graduate work and licensure in counseling or social work to become a therapist; develop a wide range of skills such as presenting, grant writing, and fundraising for nonprofit positions; participate in campus “alternative break” trips; work as a camp counselor during summers
How do I know if its right for me?
ASSESS: Take a career assessment, such as PathwayU, to see how your interests, values, and personality fit with majors and careers.
RESEARCH: Research the careers on this WCIDWAMI and thousands of other careers using O*Net Online, The Occupational Outlook Handbook or FirstHand.
EXPLORE: Learn more about a career field of interest by job shadowing, attending a career panel, or participating in a Career Trek. Further your exploration while gaining valuable skills by completing an internship, co-op, volunteer, or research experience.