The recent economic downturn has led many Americans to return to school in an effort to improve their skills. Because of the increase in student enrollment, many schools nationwide are expanding the number of degrees they offer.
Some academic institutions have launched new masters programs, which can benefit people who are looking to enhance their professional value, and qualify for both promotions and salary increases. For instance, Metropolitan State College in Colorado has announced it will now offer graduate degrees in teacher education, accounting and social work, according to the Denver Post.
The school created these new educational opportunities to help students obtain advanced certification, which is needed for many jobs in these fields.
Cindy Lindquist, chair of the school's teacher education department, told the news source that these new graduate programs "[mean] more opportunity and options for our students." She added that "we already have a fairly large number of post-baccalaureate teacher licensure students, and a masters degree will make them more marketable, with a higher earning potential."
July 30 is the last day applications will be accepted for the accounting and teaching programs, while students must apply for the social work option by April 1.
Government statistics suggest that by 2018, the employment of social workers is expected to grow by 16 percent, and this demand will create proximately 103,400 new jobs across the country.
