Best Jobs You Can Get With an Education Degree That Aren’t Teaching for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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An education degree offers diverse career opportunities beyond teaching, with a notable trend being the increased demand for educational technology expertise. Professionals with a background in education can bridge the gap between pedagogy and technology integration in roles such as instructional technologists, e-learning specialists, and educational software developers. As online education and remote learning continue to expand, education degree holders can also explore virtual teaching positions, course design, and content creation for digital platforms (Akram et al., 2021).

When searching for jobs you can get with an education degree, it can be beneficial to leverage the transferable skills gained, such as communication, leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These skills, coupled with the emerging trend of educational technology roles, provide education degree holders with a wide array of rewarding career options beyond traditional teaching.

In this guide, our Research.com team will delve into careers in education other than teaching. We will provide valuable insights into the best job options in the current year, equipping you with the knowledge needed to navigate the job market.

Jobs You Can Get With an Education Degree Table of Contents

• Career Options Beyond Teaching with an Education Degree
• Can Accredited Certifications Expand Your Career Opportunities?
• Top Jobs You Can Get With an Education Degree for 2025
• How Can You Effectively Market Your Education Background for Non-Teaching Careers?
• How Can You Effectively Negotiate Your Salary in Non-Teaching Roles?
• Is Library Science a Strategic Career Pivot for Education Graduates?
• Is an Advanced Online Degree a Cost-Effective Investment for Your Career Transition?
• How to Transition into Non-Teaching Jobs You Can Get With an Education Degree
• Remote/Freelance Jobs for Education Graduates
• Professional Development and Additional Certifications
• How Can Creative Writing Expand Your Career Horizons?
• Could Advanced Specialization Accelerate Your Career?
• What Networking Strategies Can Accelerate Your Non-Teaching Career Transition?

The easiest to start a career in education is by getting an online associate degree education degree. From there, you can advance to bachelor’s and postgraduate studies to qualify for high-paying jobs. Advanced studies include a master’s degree in elementary education, for example.

The job market can often serve as a catalyst for individuals to explore alternative jobs for teachers. Changing economic landscapes, evolving industries, and shifting demands in the job market can create opportunities and challenges that prompt professionals to consider different careers for their skills and expertise. For instance, fluctuations in the availability of teaching positions or limited job prospects in specific geographic areas can encourage education degree holders to look beyond traditional teaching roles and explore alternative career paths.

Exploring alternative career paths allows individuals to leverage their educational foundation while branching out into new and exciting fields, expanding their horizons and unlocking a wealth of rewarding opportunities in the ever-evolving job market. By paying attention to the trends and demands in the job market, you can identify jobs you can get with an education degree where your transferable skills and educational background can be leveraged, leading you to explore alternative paths that align with your interests, strengths, and professional goals.

Career Options Beyond Teaching with an Education Degree

An education degree is highly valued in various industries and sectors that prioritize learning and development. These include educational technology, where education degree holders can contribute to the design of digital learning platforms and educational software. The nonprofit sector also recognizes the expertise of education professionals in program development, community outreach, and educational advocacy. Corporate training and development positions at companies that hire former teachers, educational publishing, government jobs for teachers outside of education, and educational institutions are other areas where education degree holders can thrive. With 71% of companies in the United States prioritizing upskilling their employees, there is an evident demand for education experts in this field (Udacity, 2022).

In these industries, specific job roles benefit from an education background. Instructional designers create effective learning experiences, while curriculum developers design educational content aligned with learning objectives. Educational consultants provide guidance to improve educational practices, and professionals in training and development focus on enhancing employee skills. With their transferable skills and specialized knowledge, education degree holders can make a significant impact in these roles and contribute to the advancement of learning and development in diverse sectors. Related read: Tips for teaching effectively online.

Can Accredited Certifications Expand Your Career Opportunities?

Education graduates seeking roles beyond classroom teaching can elevate their profiles by acquiring industry-recognized credentials that validate specialized skills. Earning additional qualifications demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and provides a competitive edge in sectors embracing innovative educational methodologies and technology integration. Research available accredited online teacher certification programs to gain recognized credentials that not only affirm technical competence but also open doors to emerging roles in curriculum development, educational technology, and corporate training. Strategic investments in these certifications can streamline the transition to non-traditional jobs while aligning professional expertise with current industry standards.

Top Jobs You Can Get With an Education Degree for 2025

At Research.com, our team has conducted a thorough analysis of the current job market to identify the top best jobs for teachers who do not want to teach for 2025. Our rankings take into account factors such as job prospects, salary potential, job satisfaction, and growth opportunities to provide valuable guidance to aspiring professionals in the field of education.

Related read: How to fund your studies with scholarships for education majors.

1. Educational Consultant

Educational consultants provide expertise and guidance to educational institutions, organizations, or individual clients. They assess educational needs, develop strategies for improvement, offer recommendations, and provide professional development support. An education degree is valuable in this role as it provides a deep understanding of educational systems, pedagogical approaches, and curriculum design, which can be applied to offer informed advice and solutions. Current trends in educational consulting include a focus on technology integration, personalized learning, and inclusive practices.

Median salary: $107,301

2. Instructional Designer

Instructional designers create engaging and effective learning experiences by designing instructional materials, courses, and training programs. They analyze learning objectives, develop learning content, incorporate multimedia elements, and assess learning outcomes. An education degree is beneficial in this role as it equips instructional designers with a solid foundation in learning theories, instructional strategies, and assessment methods, enabling them to create impactful learning experiences. Current advancements in instructional design include the integration of digital platforms, adaptive learning technologies, and microlearning approaches.

Median salary: $77,564

3. Curriculum Developer

Curriculum developers design and revise educational curricula to meet learning objectives and standards. They collaborate with educators, subject matter experts, and stakeholders to create comprehensive curriculum frameworks, learning materials, and assessment tools. An education degree is applicable in this role as it provides knowledge of curriculum development principles, educational standards, and instructional strategies. Current trends in curriculum development involve the integration of technology tools, culturally responsive practices, and competency-based approaches.

Median salary: $68,897

4. Training and Development Specialist

Training and development specialists are responsible for designing and delivering training programs to enhance employee skills and performance. They assess training needs, develop training materials, facilitate workshops or online sessions, and evaluate the effectiveness of training initiatives. An education degree is valuable in this role as it provides a deep understanding of learning theories, instructional design principles, and assessment practices that can be applied to create impactful training programs. Current trends in training and development include the use of technology for remote and virtual training, gamification, and the emphasis on continuous learning and professional development.

Median salary: $58,104

5. Educational Program Manager

Educational program managers oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs. They collaborate with stakeholders to define program goals, allocate resources, and ensure program effectiveness. An education degree is applicable in this role as it provides knowledge of curriculum development, educational administration, and instructional strategies, allowing program managers to design and manage effective educational programs. Current advancements in educational program management include the integration of technology for program delivery and assessment, the focus on personalized learning experiences, and the emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion in program design.

Median salary: $80,540

6. Education Policy Analyst

Education policy analysts examine, analyze, and assess education policies to inform policy development and implementation. They conduct research, evaluate the impact of policies, and provide recommendations for improvement. An education degree is beneficial in this role as it provides a deep understanding of education systems, policies, and instructional practices that can be applied to analyze policies effectively. Current trends in education policy analysis include examining policies related to educational equity, addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education, and advocating for innovative approaches to improve educational outcomes.

Median salary: $63,336

7. Academic Advisor

Academic advisors provide guidance and support to students in educational institutions, helping them navigate their academic journey and make informed decisions about their courses and career paths. They assess students’ academic progress, provide information on degree requirements, offer advice on course selection, and address students’ concerns. An education degree is valuable in this role as it equips advisors with knowledge of educational systems, counseling techniques, and academic policies. Current trends in academic advising include a focus on holistic student support, career readiness, and the integration of technology tools for virtual advising.

Median salary: $52,500

8. Education Technology Specialist

Education technology specialists play a vital role in integrating technology tools and platforms into educational settings to enhance teaching and learning experiences. They assess the needs of educators and students, provide training on technology tools, troubleshoot technical issues, and support the integration of technology in curriculum delivery. An education degree is applicable in this role as it provides a strong foundation in educational theories, instructional design, and pedagogical approaches that can be applied to effectively integrate technology in educational settings. Current advancements in education technology include the use of learning management systems, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence for personalized learning experiences.

Median salary: $59,224

9. Corporate Trainer

Corporate trainers are responsible for designing and delivering training programs to enhance employee skills and knowledge in a corporate setting. They assess training needs, develop training materials, facilitate workshops or online sessions, and evaluate the effectiveness of training initiatives. An education degree is beneficial in this role as it provides a deep understanding of learning theories, instructional design principles, and assessment practices that can be applied to create impactful training programs. Current trends in corporate training involve the use of digital platforms, microlearning, and the integration of soft skills training.

Median salary: $56,835

10. Education Researcher

Education researchers conduct research studies to explore educational phenomena, evaluate programs and policies, and contribute to the advancement of educational knowledge. They design research projects, collect and analyze data, interpret findings, and publish research papers. An education degree is applicable in this role as it provides knowledge of research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and educational theories. Current advancements in education research include the use of quantitative and qualitative research methods, the exploration of technology-enhanced learning, and the focus on evidence-based practices for educational improvement.

Median salary: $49,803

How Can You Effectively Market Your Education Background for Non-Teaching Careers?

Employers seeking professionals for non-teaching roles value the strategic translation of classroom experience into business-oriented outcomes. Position your achievements by quantifying initiatives, demonstrating leadership in digital integration, and highlighting collaborative projects that align with current industry trends. Refine your resume and online profiles to emphasize skills in strategic planning, curriculum adaptation, and technology-enhanced solutions. Enhance your profile further by pursuing targeted academic qualifications, such as a master degree in special education online programs, to validate your expertise and signal commitment to continuous learning. Tailor your professional narrative to reflect a clear alignment between your educational background and the evolving demands of diverse industries.

How Can You Effectively Negotiate Your Salary in Non-Teaching Roles?

When entering non-teaching positions, leveraging your background in education along with industry benchmarks is essential for successful salary negotiation. Begin by researching compensation standards within your targeted field, using reputable sources to compare median figures and growth projections. Quantify your accomplishments—such as improvements in curriculum design or successful technology integrations—and emphasize how these achievements drive measurable results. Consider obtaining additional credentials, such as EdD online programs, to strengthen your negotiating position and highlight your commitment to continuous professional development. Tailor your negotiation strategy by aligning your unique expertise with the role’s requirements and current market trends, ensuring that your pitch is both well-informed and competitive.

Is Library Science a Strategic Career Pivot for Education Graduates?

Exploring library and information science can provide education graduates with a distinct advantage in roles that require robust research, digital curation, and information management skills. This alternative career path leverages core competencies acquired during education studies while expanding opportunities in academic libraries, corporate information centers, and public institutions, where strategic planning and data organization are in high demand.

For professionals seeking to enhance their qualifications and enter this field, dedicated online credentials can serve as a stepping stone. Consider enrolling in online MLIS programs to gain the technical and managerial expertise needed for leadership roles in library science and information management.

Is an Advanced Online Degree a Cost-Effective Investment for Your Career Transition?

When evaluating a shift from traditional teaching roles, it is essential to measure the acquisition cost of an advanced online degree against its potential to enhance career prospects and earnings. Consider factors such as program accreditation, industry reputation, and alumni success when assessing your investment. Analyze tuition fees relative to projected salary increases and professional growth. For a cost-sensitive option, review our article on the cheapest master of education online to ensure that your decision supports both your financial and career objectives.

How to Transition into Non-Teaching Jobs You Can Get With an Education Degree

1. Assess Your Transferable Skills: Take inventory of the skills you have acquired through your education degree, such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. Recognize how these skills can be applied to non-teaching roles and highlight them in your resume and job applications.
2. Research and Explore Alternative Careers for Teachers: Conduct thorough research to identify the non-teaching job options that align with your interests, skills, and career goals. Explore industries and sectors that value education degrees, such as educational consulting, instructional design, curriculum development, and training and development. For instance, according to Data USA, 8.54% of training and development managers have an education degree (Data USA, n.d.). As such, it is best to familiarize yourself with the responsibilities, qualifications, and potential career growth opportunities in these fields.
3. Gain Additional Experience and Skills: Consider acquiring additional experience or skills that are relevant to jobs you can get with an education degree. This could include pursuing internships, volunteering, or taking professional development courses, such as a bachelor’s in child development to expand your knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to the field. You could also impress a hiring manager by being prepared with your insights into these jobs you can get with an education degree, including awareness of effective ways to track employee training progress if you want to become a training specialist.
4. Network and Seek Mentorship: Connect with professionals working in non-teaching roles related to your interests. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and utilize online networking platforms to build meaningful connections. Seek mentorship from experienced professionals who can provide guidance and advice as you navigate your transition into jobs you can get with an education degree.

Remote/Freelance Jobs for Education Graduates

With the rise of digital tools and remote work opportunities, education degree holders can explore flexible career options that offer autonomy and the possibility to work from anywhere. Here are some potential roles in remote and freelance capacities:

• Online Curriculum Developer: Freelance curriculum developers design educational materials for online learning platforms or private clients, tailoring lessons to meet diverse learning needs. This role requires expertise in curriculum standards and the ability to adapt content for virtual learning environments.
• Educational Content Writer: Content writers with an education background can create resources for educational publishers, blogs, and online learning platforms. They may write lesson plans, articles, or study guides on various subjects, using their educational knowledge to produce engaging and informative content.
• Virtual Tutor or Coach: Many online platforms hire educators to provide one-on-one or group tutoring sessions. This flexible role allows educators to apply their teaching skills in a remote setting, covering subjects from elementary to advanced levels.
• Instructional Designer for E-Learning: Instructional designers in the freelance space work with clients to create interactive online courses and training programs. This role often involves content structuring, multimedia integration, and user experience optimization.

These remote and freelance opportunities offer flexibility while leveraging the skills gained from an education degree, making them ideal for those seeking non-traditional career paths.

Professional Development and Additional Certifications

• Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest developments and advancements in desired jobs you can get with an education degree by pursuing continuing education opportunities, such as an educational psychology degree. You could also consider a doctorate in educational leadership online to delve into management positions or academic research in this field. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to your industry of interest to expand your knowledge and skills.
• Obtain Additional Certifications: Enhance your qualifications and marketability by obtaining additional certifications that are relevant to your chosen non-teaching career path. Look for certification programs or courses that align with your professional goals and demonstrate your expertise in specific areas in lucrative alternative jobs you can get with an education degree.
• Join Professional Associations: Become a member of professional associations or organizations in your desired field. These associations provide networking opportunities, access to resources, and professional development opportunities that can further enhance your skills and expand your professional network, helping you land jobs you can get with an education degree faster.
• Engage in Skill-building Activities: Seek out opportunities to develop specific skills that are in demand in jobs you can get with an education degree. This could involve taking online courses, participating in workshops, or engaging in hands-on projects to gain practical experience and showcase your abilities. For example, the most common skill for training managers is customer service, with 19.3% of training manager resumes featuring this skill (Zippia, 2022). It could also mean staying updated on the latest trends of the career you want to pursue, like becoming familiar with corporate training statistics

How Can Creative Writing Expand Your Career Horizons?

Integrating creative writing expertise can unlock unique career avenues in digital media, marketing, and corporate communications. This skill set complements your education background by enhancing your ability to craft engaging narratives and tailor content for diverse audiences. Leveraging creative strategies in content development can further differentiate your professional profile in a competitive job market. For a focused enhancement of these skills, consider exploring options such as a creative writing degree online that merge innovative storytelling with digital proficiency.

Could Advanced Specialization Accelerate Your Career?

For many education professionals, pursuing an advanced specialization can open doors to niche roles and leadership opportunities that are not accessible with a general education degree. In particular, acquiring targeted expertise—supported by graduate programs designed to deepen technical and pedagogical skills—can enhance your professional profile and offer a competitive edge in the evolving job market. For instance, a focused study through a master degree in special education online programs pathway not only broadens your subject matter expertise but also enables you to respond effectively to emerging demands in inclusive and adaptive learning environments. This specialized knowledge is increasingly valued by employers seeking professionals who can lead innovative projects and drive progressive educational initiatives.

What Networking Strategies Can Accelerate Your Non-Teaching Career Transition?

Leveraging industry contacts and professional networks is vital when shifting away from traditional teaching roles. Focus on building relationships through targeted mentorship programs, alumni associations, and professional conferences that align with your new career pathway. Engage with industry-specific online communities and platforms to exchange insights and uncover emerging trends. Furthermore, enhance your credentials by exploring specialized academic programs, such as online master's of library science programs, to bolster your expertise and expand your professional network.

Explore New Career Pathways with an Education Degree

An education degree offers a diverse range of career opportunities for those searching for jobs you can get with an education degree, allowing individuals to explore alternative paths and make a meaningful impact in various professional fields. From educational consulting and instructional design to curriculum development and training and development, an education degree provides a strong foundation of transferable skills that are highly valued in today’s job market.

By delving into the job options presented in this guide and leveraging their education background, you can uncover new career pathways that align with your interests and strengths and possibly land one of the highest-paying jobs with a teaching degree.

Key Insights

• Diverse Career Opportunities: An education degree opens doors to various non-teaching roles such as instructional technologists, e-learning specialists, and educational software developers.
• Emerging Demand in Educational Technology: With the rise of online education and remote learning, there is a growing need for professionals who can integrate technology into educational settings.
• Transferable Skills: Education degree holders possess valuable skills like communication, leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving that are applicable in multiple industries.
• High Salary Potential: Non-teaching roles such as educational consultants and instructional designers offer competitive salaries and significant growth opportunities.
• Professional Development: Continuous learning and obtaining additional certifications can enhance qualifications and marketability for non-teaching career paths.
• Growing Fields: Sectors such as corporate training, educational publishing, and government roles are increasingly recognizing the value of education professionals.

FAQ

1. What are some non-teaching career options for education degree holders? Non-teaching career options include educational consultants, instructional designers, curriculum developers, training and development specialists, educational program managers, education policy analysts, academic advisors, education technology specialists, corporate trainers, and education researchers.
2. How can I transition from teaching to a non-teaching role? Transitioning from teaching to a non-teaching role involves assessing your transferable skills, researching alternative careers, gaining additional experience and skills, networking, and seeking mentorship from professionals in your desired field.
3. What additional certifications can enhance my qualifications for non-teaching roles? Additional certifications that can enhance qualifications include certifications in instructional design, project management, educational technology, corporate training, and any specific certification relevant to your desired career path.
4. Why is there a growing demand for educational technology expertise? The growing demand for educational technology expertise is driven by the expansion of online education and remote learning, which require professionals who can integrate and manage technology in educational settings effectively.
5. What skills are essential for non-teaching roles in education? Essential skills for non-teaching roles in education include communication, leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving, instructional design, curriculum development, technology integration, and data analysis.
6. How can I gain experience in non-teaching roles while still working as a teacher? You can gain experience in non-teaching roles by pursuing part-time internships, volunteering, taking online courses, or participating in professional development workshops related to your desired career path.
7. What are some high-paying non-teaching jobs for education degree holders? High-paying non-teaching jobs for education degree holders include educational consultants, instructional designers, curriculum developers, educational program managers, and education policy analysts.
8. What are the current trends in the field of educational consulting? Current trends in educational consulting include a focus on technology integration, personalized learning, inclusive practices, and the use of data-driven strategies to improve educational outcomes.
9. How does an education degree benefit a career in corporate training? An education degree benefits a career in corporate training by providing a deep understanding of learning theories, instructional design principles, and assessment practices, which are essential for creating effective training programs.
10. What role do education technology specialists play in modern education? Education technology specialists integrate technology tools and platforms into educational settings to enhance teaching and learning experiences. They provide training on technology tools, troubleshoot technical issues, and support the integration of technology in curriculum delivery.

References

• Akram, H., Ying-Xiu, Y., Al-Adwan, A. S., & Alkhalifah, A. (2021). Technology Integration in Higher Education During COVID-19: An Assessment of Online Teaching Competencies Through Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge Model. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.736522
• Data USA. (n.d.). Training & development managers | Data USA. https://datausa.io/profile/soc/training-development-managers
• Udacity. (2022). Talent Transformation Global Impact Report. https://www.udacity.com/talent-transformation-global-impact-report
• Zippia. (2022). Top 15 Training Manager Skills. https://www.zippia.com/training-manager-jobs/skills