Education, General.

Degree Overview

Education, General (CIP 13.0101) is a broad, interdisciplinary field of study that focuses on the theory, practice, and delivery of educational services. Unlike specialized degrees that focus on a single subject or age group, a General Education degree provides a comprehensive overview of how people learn and how educational systems function. It is designed for students who want a flexible foundation in the field of education without necessarily committing to a specific classroom teaching track immediately.

This degree is ideal for students who are passionate about the power of learning and want to explore the various facets of the industry—from policy and administration to instructional design and community outreach. It serves as a versatile "launching pad" for a wide variety of careers in schools, non-profits, and the private sector.

What Is an Education, General Degree?

An Education, General degree focuses on the fundamental principles of pedagogy (the art and science of teaching), human development, and educational philosophy. These programs often allow students to sample courses from various specialties, such as special education, educational technology, and urban education, providing a holistic view of the field. It is often chosen by students who plan to pursue specialized graduate work or those looking for roles in educational support and advocacy.

Schools offer this degree to:

• Provide a broad understanding of the historical and social foundations of education
• Prepare students for non-licensure roles in educational settings
• Offer a flexible pathway for students who may want to work in education-adjacent fields
• Establish a strong theoretical background for future research or policy work

This structure emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and a deep appreciation for the diverse ways in which knowledge is shared.

What Will You Learn?

Students in general education programs learn to analyze the educational process from multiple perspectives, including psychological, sociological, and practical angles.

Core Skills You’ll Build

Most students learn to:

• Understand how cognitive and social development affects learning at different ages
• Communicate complex ideas effectively to diverse audiences
• Analyze educational data and research to identify trends and issues
• Design basic instructional materials and learning activities
• Navigate the ethical and legal responsibilities of working with students and families
• Collaborate with stakeholders to improve educational environments

These skills are highly transferable to any career that involves training, management, or communication.

Topics You May Explore

Depending on the program, students may study:

• Introduction to the Teaching Profession
• Educational Psychology and Human Growth
• History and Philosophy of Education in the U.S.
• Diversity and Inclusion in Learning Environments
• Educational Technology and Digital Literacy
• Assessment and Evaluation of Learning
• Comparative and International Education Systems
• Classroom Management and Instructional Strategies

This coursework provides a "big picture" understanding of how education shapes society and individual lives.

What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?

An Education, General degree leads to a surprising variety of roles, many of which are outside the traditional classroom.

Common job roles include:

• Education Program Coordinator
• Community Outreach Specialist
• Educational Consultant
• Corporate Trainer or Learning Assistant
• Non-profit Program Assistant
• Museum Educator or Gallery Guide
• Adult Literacy Instructor
• Academic Advisor or Student Support Staff

Note: In many states, a "General Education" degree does not automatically grant a teaching license. Students wishing to become K–12 public school teachers usually need to complete a teacher preparation program and pass state certification exams.

Where Can You Work?

Graduates work in a wide range of organizations that value expertise in learning and development:

• Public and private schools (in support and administrative roles)
• Non-profit organizations and youth-serving agencies
• Higher education institutions and community colleges
• Corporate Human Resources and Training departments
• Museums, zoos, and cultural institutions
• Educational publishing and media companies
• Government agencies and policy think tanks
• After-school and summer enrichment programs

These environments rely on professionals who understand how to make information accessible and engaging.

How Much Can You Earn?

Earnings vary significantly based on the specific job title and the sector of employment.

• Education Coordinators and Program Specialists often earn between $45,000 and $65,000.
• Corporate Trainers can earn between $55,000 and $85,000 depending on the industry.
• Academic Advisors in higher education typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000.
• Non-profit roles often offer salaries ranging from $35,000 to $55,000 to start.

Advancing to a Master’s degree or gaining specialized certifications in areas like instructional design or school administration can significantly increase earning potential.

Is This Degree Hard?

General Education programs are generally considered manageable for students who enjoy social sciences, writing, and working with people. The coursework focuses on human behavior, communication, and organizational theory rather than high-level mathematics or technical science. However, students must be prepared for a significant amount of reading, writing, and critical analysis of social issues.

Success in this field requires empathy, strong organizational skills, and a genuine interest in helping others grow.

Degree Levels and Learning Formats

Programs are offered across all levels of higher education:

• Associate Degrees for entry-level roles as teacher assistants or childcare workers.
• Bachelor’s Degrees for professional roles in education support, non-profits, or corporate training.
• Master’s Degrees for those looking to specialize or move into leadership and policy roles.

Because of its broad nature, this degree is very common in online and hybrid formats, making it accessible for students who are already working or have other commitments.

Who Should Consider This Degree?

This degree may be a good fit if you:

• Believe education is the key to solving social problems
• Enjoy working with people and helping them learn new things
• Are interested in the "behind-the-scenes" of how schools and programs work
• Want a flexible degree that keeps your career options open
• Are considering a future career in counseling, law, or public policy
• Prefer a mix of theoretical study and practical application

It is an excellent choice for the student who knows they want to be in the "education world" but is still exploring where they fit best.

How to Prepare in High School

You can prepare for an education-related degree by:

• Volunteering at a local library, summer camp, or after-school program
• Taking classes in Psychology, Sociology, and Child Development
• Working as a peer tutor or mentor for younger students
• Practicing public speaking and presentation skills
• Leading a club or sports team to develop leadership abilities

You do not need prior experience to begin. A passion for learning, a service-oriented mindset, and the ability to connect with people from different backgrounds are the most valuable assets you can have.