Full Careers

Starting a career in education - please advise?

I am 24 years old, with a master's in English and one in Management. While I once wanted to be a college professor, I now think I might be better suited to high school. Does my MA inhibit me from finding work in a high school because of the higher salary draw? Also, I wonder if I ought to restrict myself exclusively to looking at private schools, or if I am better off putting in the time and money getting licensed by the state. If I decide to go back to school, what is the most productive career for me to pursue while I am doing so?

Public Comments

1. I hate to be a downer, but where I'm from (Chicago area) having a master's degree and no teaching experience will make it almost impossible to find a job. I've heard of a lot of people having difficulty with this. Private schools might be different though, and you may have better luck there. Maybe try being a teacher's aide first, or a sub and try to get your foot in the door at a district, then try to get a high school teaching job. If they know you well and are familiar with your work, maybe they would be more likely to hire you with a masters.
2. Do it because you love it, not for the money. I am in Nevada. My wife has been teaching (in 2 states) for over 15 years. In this area, masters degrees are a dime a dozen. It is practically a requirement. Many high schools DO require it. My wife has taught in private and public schools. THE PRIVATE SCHOOLS ALWAYS PAID LESS! And BTW.... don't worry about being overpriced due to your degree. Entry level teaching jobs have got to be the lowest paying jobs for a masters degree. (They are, after all.... a dime a dozen!)
3. I think the MA would have to be in education for it to count. Not sure. I was also a career changer. Look for transition-to-teaching and alternative ed certification programs. You do not have to get another degree, just the coursework for certification. My certification program only took 13 months and I could work for part of that time. Call the education offices at local colleges and ask about teaching career changer programs. Be sure to let them know you have a degree already. If you have trouble finding one in your area, call the ed dept. at Indiana University. They should be able to give you contacts in your area. I personally wouldn't look at private schools. There is very little job security, poor pay, and even poorer benefits; especially in those that hire unlicensed teachers. I tried this route for a year and came up empty. As for working while you get trained, try for something in childcare, nannying, tutoring, or a teacher's aide/assistant. Anything related to the teaching field will help you get hired. Good luck!