5 In-Demand Careers in Education

Here are five, in-demand and rewarding careers in the education field, and the degrees needed to pursue them.

1. Special education services director

As a director of special education services for a school or school district, you oversee the entire special education program and services for all students’ needs. Additionally, you lead training for other educators, evaluate program and student needs, track state and federal law, as well as special education issues, and work to secure and follow federal and state grants. This career is an administrative job, so employers look for candidates with experience in education and leadership. There is a growing need for special education professionals around the country and employers are citing a lack of qualified applicants as one of their top reasons why.

Average annual salary in CT (2025)

$98,000

Degrees to pursue

This career path requires a strong educational foundation, along with specialized training and advanced learning, such as Sacred Heart University’s degree programs of Master of Education in special education, Ed.D. in educational leadership, Sixth-Year Degree in special education.

2. STEAM teacher

While there is always a need for passionate educators in a variety of subjects, there is a growing need for gifted educators in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) —specifically in the mathematics, physics, chemistry and computer science fields. A career as a STEAM teacher is not dissimilar from a general education teacher, as you should expect to guide student research, inspire critical thinking and lead important conversations. However, a STEAM educator must prepare students for the rapidly changing world of technology and engineering. Ideal candidates will have a comprehensive understanding of their respective fields of study, as well as experience leading a classroom.

Average annual salary in CT (2025)

$58,000

Degrees to pursue

This career path requires a solid grounding in classroom teaching, along with a focus on STEAM learning—a path that can include a Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies, Master of Arts in teaching, Bachelor’s-Masters of Arts in teaching (dual degree program) and Sixth-Year Degree in STEAM.

3. School counselor

The role of a counselor is crucial at all levels of a school ecosystem. Your role is to help diverse groups of students unearth their potential. That means guiding students through college and career searches, creating dynamic plans of action for school improvement and promoting positive peer-to-peer relationships. Counselors are most needed in middle and high schools to help combat a growing need for mental health services, as well as college and career counseling services on school campuses nationwide.

Average annual salary in CT (2025)

$53,600

Degrees to pursue

This career path requires an adept understanding of student needs and behaviors, along with rigorous training, that could include a Master of Arts in school counseling, Sixth-Year Degree in SEAL and Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling.

4. Superintendent of schools

Are you interested in having a larger role in guiding the educational needs of all students in a community? There is no position more important to local educational leadership than a superintendent of schools. In this role, you oversee a school district's performance, from crafting curriculum and managing resources and budgets to supervising school staff and advocating for the district on a local and state level. The role of a superintendent is crucial to municipalities across the country, as the position addresses the well-being of students, teachers and their families. Succeeding in this role requires a great deal of training and experience.

Average annual salary in CT (2025)

$96,000

Degrees to pursue

This career path requires multiple certifications that can vary by state and region, but a background in training in educational and leadership practices, which can be attained through an Ed.D. in educational leadership, Bachelor's-Master of Arts in teaching (dual degree program), an intermediate administrator certificate or a superintendent certification (necessary in Connecticut) are all great ways to start.

5. Academic adviser

In addition to opportunities in primary and secondary education, there are also many jobs education professionals can pursue in higher education. In this role, candidates can expect to guide students throughout their college career, from orientation to graduation. Advisers help make schedules, monitor academic performance and help students devise long-term plans for success. As colleges and universities around the globe are focusing their efforts on improving student retention rates, an academic adviser can help positively affect the life and well-being of a student, lowering the chances a student leaves an institution.

Average annual salary in CT (2025)

$46,000

Degrees to pursue

A career in higher education requires slightly different training than primary and secondary education. A pathway to this career includes a Master of Arts in higher education & student affairs.

Are you ready for a career in education?

SHU equips the next generation of talented and motivated educators to be fully prepared to pursue careers that span from classroom teacher to district leadership and higher education.  You can learn more by reaching out to Whitney Kolwicz, director of graduate admissions & recruitment, by phone at 203-365-4716 or by email. Or  schedule an appointment to learn more about SHU’s Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development.

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