Education & Training

Postsecondary educators teach at colleges and universities, combining instruction with original research and publication in their field of expertise. They develop syllabi, mentor graduate students, serve on academic committees, and seek grant funding. The BLS reports a median salary of $84,380 with 8% projected growth. A doctoral degree is typically required for tenure-track positions, though a master's may suffice at community colleges.

Curriculum developers, also known as instructional coordinators, design educational programs and materials for school districts, states, or educational publishers. They analyze student performance data, align content with standards, and train teachers on new curricula. The BLS reports a median salary of $74,620 with 2% projected growth. A master's degree in education or curriculum and instruction is typically required.

ESL teachers, also called ESOL or ELL educators, instruct non-native English speakers in language acquisition, literacy, and cultural integration. They assess language proficiency levels, differentiate instruction for multilingual classrooms, and collaborate with content teachers to support academic language development. The BLS reports a median salary of $59,720 with 4% projected growth. A bachelor's degree and ESL certification or endorsement are typically required.

Elementary school teachers instruct students in grades K-5 across multiple subjects, adapting instruction to diverse learning styles and developmental stages. They create lesson plans aligned with state standards, assess student progress, and collaborate with parents and specialists. The BLS reports a median salary of $61,690 with 1% projected growth. A bachelor's degree in education and state licensure are required.

High school teachers instruct students in grades 9-12 in specific subject areas, developing curriculum aligned with state standards and preparing students for post-secondary education or the workforce. They assess student progress, communicate with parents, and often sponsor extracurricular activities. The BLS reports a median salary of $62,360 with 1% projected growth. Many states require a bachelor's degree plus teaching certification.

Librarians curate, organize, and provide access to information resources in public, academic, and school settings. They assist patrons with research, teach information literacy, manage digital databases, and develop community programming. The BLS reports a median salary of $61,190 with 3% projected growth. A master's degree in library science (MLS) is typically required for professional positions.

School principals oversee all operations of an elementary, middle, or high school, including academic programs, budgets, staffing, and student discipline. They set educational goals, evaluate teachers, and ensure compliance with district and state regulations. The BLS reports a median salary of $101,320 with 1% projected growth. A master's degree in educational leadership and administrative certification are typically required.

School psychologists apply expertise in mental health, learning, and behavior to help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. They conduct psychoeducational assessments, develop intervention plans, provide counseling, and consult with educators and families. The BLS reports a median salary of $84,940 with 6% projected growth. A specialist-level degree (Ed.S.) or doctorate and state certification are required.

Special education teachers work with students who have a range of disabilities, developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and adapting general education curriculum to meet unique learning needs. They collaborate with parents, therapists, and general education teachers. The BLS reports a median salary of $62,950 with 2% projected growth. A bachelor's degree in special education and state certification are required.