When I went to college (just over a decade ago), online education was just beginning. While I did take a few online courses during my undergraduate years, the thought of teaching online – especially full-time – didn’t seem like a realistic or lucrative career path.
After spending 5 years teaching in a traditional high school classroom (and obtaining my Master’s Degree in Political Science), I transitioned to teaching college courses. I’ve now been teaching online for longer than I taught in the traditional classroom. Not only is my salary more than it would be if I was still teaching at the high school, but teaching online has also provided me with needed flexibility as I raise three young children.
For those just starting out or interested in transitioning to a career in online education, I would recommend obtaining as much education as possible (a Ph.D. is preferred) and I would encourage one to have traditional teaching experiences -perhaps as a teaching assistant or in a traditional college or high school setting. In order to be successful as an online educator, I think one must love the field of teaching first.
In choosing to pursue a career in online education there are numerous positives:
- Flexibility – Being able to teach online (especially in a part-time capacity) provided much needed flexibility when I had a one-year-old and newborn twins at home. I’ve continued to enjoy flexibility with my full-time position, as I’m still able to drop my kids off and pick them up from school, work around Christmas programs and Halloween parties, and be home when the kids are sick. The flexibility teaching online has provided is unlike any other position I could have with my qualifications and skills.
- Ability to Work From Home – Once again, the ability to with my kids more is priceless. I also love working from home because I don’t have to worry about a commute, worry about being dressed well, etc. Working from home also allows me time to do laundry, pick-up toys in the living room, and throw dinner in the crock-pot during “breaks.” It’s perfect for a busy mom like myself and I’m sure the benefits would apply to those who don’t have children as well.
- Time is the only limit to earnings – The amount of money available to be earned is only limited by the time and effort one is willing to invest. As a self-motivated individual, this has been a great career for me as I’m able to teach for multiple schools and therefore, earn a higher income. That said, if one wants to spend the day surfing Facebook, their overall earnings will reflect that choice!
When I went to college, I couldn’t imagine teaching from home as a lucrative career – but over time I’ve found it to not only work well with my life but also to continue to foster my love of teaching. I can’t imagine a more rewarding career.
About the Author
Jamie Weitl is a WAHM teaching for several online universities and raising three precocious little ones. In her spare time she enjoys writing, baking, and running. For more info, see my Google Plus Profile.
