Adult and continuing education teachers play a vital role in helping adults develop skills and knowledge.
From obtaining a degree to gaining experience, becoming an adult and continuing education teacher requires a comprehensive understanding of the job responsibilities and qualifications.
This guide provides an overview of the job, from job descriptions and degree programs to salary and job outlook.
Get started today and learn how to become an adult and continuing education teacher.
Job Description
The Adult and Continuing Education Teacher Job Description includes instructing adult learners in various subjects and teaching academic courses for GED or college preparation. This role may involve leading courses for personal development or enjoyment, such as cooking, art, or photography.
Adult and Continuing Education Teachers may be employed in adult education enrichment programs, night schools, healthcare facilities, or even prisons. Interpersonal skills and an approachable attitude are essential for this role, and teachers must have a thorough knowledge of the subject matter and the ability to teach others.
They must also be able to prepare lectures, assignments, and lesson materials, and have a flexible schedule, as many courses are held after hours.
Degrees and Programs
In addition to the necessary qualifications, adult and continuing education teachers typically need a degree in education or the specialized field, and may even require a master’s or doctoral degree for teaching at the post-secondary level.
Degrees and programs in adult and continuing education offer a wide range of career possibilities, including:
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Math:
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GED or college preparation
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Professional development
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Foreign language:
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Personal development
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Enjoyment courses
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Visual arts:
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Night schools
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Healthcare facilities
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Time management:
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Online platforms
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Prisons
Requirements & Common Tasks
Educators teaching in adult and continuing education roles must possess the necessary interpersonal skills, approachability, and knowledge of the subject in order to effectively instruct adult learners. They must also be prepared to lead courses for personal development or enjoyment such as cooking, art, and photography.
Adult and continuing education teachers must also be flexible with their schedule, as many courses are held after hours. They must be comfortable with preparing lectures, assignments, and lesson materials, and must also be able to administer course budgets and develop curricula based on community needs.
To become an adult and continuing education teacher, a bachelor’s degree in the desired career field is required, and experience in the field after graduation is helpful. Some positions may require a master’s or doctoral degree.
How to Become an Adult and Continuing Education Teacher
Completing a teacher preparation program or earning a master’s degree may be required, and working professionals may pursue their degree through online classes or evening courses to become an adult and continuing education teacher.
The steps to becoming an adult and continuing education teacher include:
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Earning a Bachelor’s Degree: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in the desired field of study.
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Gain experience: Gain experience in the field after graduation.
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Additional Education:
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Teacher Preparation Program: Complete a teacher preparation program or earn a master’s degree.
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Doctoral Degree: Consider earning a doctoral degree for teaching at the post-secondary level.
Salary & Job Outlook
Salaries for Adult and Continuing Education Teachers vary widely based on the subject taught, education, and experience. Adult literacy and high school equivalency teachers earn a median annual salary of $59,720, while postsecondary teachers earn a median salary of $79,640 per year.
Job growth prospects for adult literacy and high school equivalency teachers are expected to decrease by 6% through 2031, while postsecondary teachers can expect a job growth of 11% through 2031.
Full-time positions are available for qualified educators, but many positions are part-time.
To become an Adult and Continuing Education Teacher and qualify for higher salaries, one should pursue a bachelor’s degree in the desired career field, gain experience, and complete a teacher preparation program or earn a master’s degree if required.
Additional Resources
Furthermore, educators may want to explore additional resources to further their knowledge in adult and continuing education. Some options to consider are:
Professional Organizations:
- American Association for Adult and Continuing Education
- National Association for the Education of Adults
Online Courses:
- Udemy
- Coursera
- EdX
Conclusion
Adult and continuing education teachers play a crucial role in helping adult learners develop new skills and knowledge.
Becoming an adult and continuing education teacher requires earning a degree and gaining experience.
With the right degree and experience, adult and continuing education teachers can expect a competitive salary and positive job outlook.
Those interested in this career should explore the available degree programs and resources to gain a better understanding of the requirements and job responsibilities.
