How Do I Become a Learning Specialist?

A learning specialist provides support and instruction to students or educational professionals and may help with program development as well. To pursue this career, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field, though some employers may give preference to candidates who hold master's degrees instead. You may also need experience related to the job you will perform. For instance, if you hope to work in policy creation, prior experience with creating and implementing policies is usually important. Additionally, you will likely need skills in leading and training others as well as relevant computer application and presentation skills.

Bachelor's degrees are usually required when you want to become a learning specialist. Often, degrees in education and human resources are considered appropriate for a career in this field. In fact, a technology or psychology degree may even prove acceptable for some learning specialist jobs. The important thing is that the degree you seek will be applicable to the job for which you apply. Additionally, you may need a teaching certificate for some jobs in this field, and some employers prefer individuals with master's degrees as well.

You will usually need experience to become a learning specialist as well, but the type you'll need will depend on the unique job description. For instance, you may seek a job as a learning specialist who works with technology. In such a case, you will typically need experience with the specific types of technologies the hiring organization uses. For example, some schools might look for candidates who can help educational staff use technology to teach students. On the other hand, if you will have direct contact with students, you may need teaching experience instead.

There are many skills that are important when you want to become a learning specialist. For example, you will likely need excellent communication skills when it comes to both written and verbal communication as well as a knack for getting along well with others. You also may be required to train others and provide guidance, even after official training is complete. Most employers prefer candidates with organizational abilities and critical-thinking skills as well. Additionally, leadership skills are important for this job.

Your skill levels with certain tools may also affect your chances of securing the position you want. You will likely need computer and software skills as well as skills with presentation tools and technologies. In some cases, you may need the know-how to use various types of media to become a learning specialist, as you might have the responsibility of creating training materials, including those that are computer and print based.