Careers
Teach adult learners. Strengthen community college education. Build the skills needed to advance your career as an educator to the community college level, working either as an instructor or administrator in the community college ecosystem.
NC State’s M.Ed. in Adult and Community College Education prepares professionals to lead, teach, and innovate in adult learning environments. Designed for those who want to instruct beyond the traditional K-12 classroom, this program equips educators with the knowledge and practical skills to advance teaching, leadership, and program development in community colleges, workforce development organizations, nonprofit agencies, and other adult education settings.
As the demand for lifelong learning, workforce reskilling, and accessible postsecondary education continues to grow, professionals with expertise in adult education are increasingly needed across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. This Master of Education program prepares graduates to address the evolving educational needs of adult learners through evidence-based instructional design, learner-centered teaching strategies, program assessment, and organizational leadership. Students develop a strong understanding of adult learning theory while gaining the tools to create impactful educational experiences that support career advancement, workforce readiness, and community development.
Graduates of this community college education degree are prepared for leadership roles in institutions and organizations focused on continuing education, technical training, and adult learner success. Whether working directly with students, designing innovative educational programs, or shaping institutional strategy, graduates are positioned to make meaningful contributions to educational access and workforce advancement.
Through coursework focused on adult learning theory, curriculum development, instructional leadership, and program evaluation, graduates of this adult education master’s degree gain the skills to:
- Design and deliver effective instruction for adult learners
- Develop workforce and continuing education programs
- Lead instructional innovation in community college settings
- Assess program effectiveness and learner outcomes
- Support adult student success and persistence
- Build partnerships between education providers and employers
- Apply research-based practices to improve teaching and learning
- Address issues of access, equity and inclusion in adult education
Job Titles
Graduates of the M.Ed. in Adult and Community College Education typically find employment in positions similar to the following job titles:
- Adult Basic Education / Literacy Instructor
- College Professor (Other)
- Training and Development Specialist
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