Careers in Adult Education Are on the Rise

As businesses and organizations collectively tighten their belts, employers are adding more stringent hiring requirements for new employees, and corporations are placing a stronger emphasis on training in the workplace. Such actions have led to an increased need for qualified adult education professionals in community centers, higher education institutions, and corporate training centers.

To help meet this rising demand, Penn State World Campus has partnered with the College of Education to offer an online master's degree in adult education.

Why Adult Education Online at Penn State

In our program, students from diverse backgrounds and careers can come together to enhance their understanding of the unique needs of today’s adult learners and how they learn best. The courses are taught by the same world-renowned faculty who teach on campus. One of the faculty members who helped design the program is Professor Michael Moore, the founding director of the American Center for the Study of Distance Education and the founder and editor of The American Journal of Distance Education.

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics and allows you to pick concentrated areas of study, such as distance education, education technology, and family literacy. Each course focuses on preparing you to help adult learners build on their existing knowledge base and learn in a purposeful way.

Act 48 Approved

Penn State is an Act 48-approved provider for Pennsylvania educators, so the courses for the master of education in adult education may count toward professional development hours.

Choose the Online Graduate Program in Adult Education That Is Right for You

Penn State offers an online master’s degree program in adult education and a graduate certificate in distance education. You can choose the program that’s best for you and make your interest in adult education the focus of your professional development plan.

Master of Education in Adult Education

This program offers you a well-rounded, practical introduction to adult education. Elective courses can give you the ability to either focus on specific areas or choose a broader perspective of adult education topics.

Distance Education Certificate

This graduate-level certificate addresses the constantly evolving field of distance education. All of the credits you earn may be applied toward the requirements for the master’s degree in adult education, upon your acceptance into that program.

Who Should Apply?

If you are a professional who is interested in working with adults in such fields as distance education, continuing professional education, adult and family literacy, corporate training, or education technology, this could be the program for you.

Please note that this program does not lead to initial teacher certification, however, this program may help you to renew your certification. Check with your state's Department of Education for exact requirements for recertification.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

Our graduates work in the following fields:

• adult basic education
• community education and organizing
• adult and family literacy
• professional and continuing education
• distance education
• human resource development
• workplace learning
• informal education
• educational outreach
• postsecondary education
• religious education
• social advocacy and action

Online Education at Penn State

Penn State has a history of 100+ years of distance education and more than a decade of experience in online learning. We strive to create an online learning environment that brings you as close to the face-to-face experience as possible. Learn more about Penn State World Campus.