Online college courses are becoming a popular way for many professionals, such as teachers, to enhance their educational qualifications without sacrificing their career development. As a result, many campus-based and online schools are beginning to vary their offerings to cater to working adults.

For instance, an Oregon-based school recently announced that individuals who enroll in its masters of education program will be able to choose when and how they would like to study. In addition to online classes, students will have the option to study over the summer or attend campus-based evening classes.

Similar programs could help educators develop valuable skills, such as new approaches to teaching, technical knowledge as well as a deeper understanding of the educational, psychological and sociological issues that are common among today's students. Consequently, higher education could be an integral step in a teacher's professional development.

Furthermore, masters degrees could help teachers remain competitive in the educational job industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, available positions in this field are expected to increase by 13 percent over the next eight years.