I'm looking at credential programs in California and trying to decide if it's worth it to get my masters too. Some people say that you will have the advantage when applying for teaching positions, whereas others say that districts don't always want to hire people who have a masters because they have to start them higher on the pay scale. Any opinions or useful information would be appreciated!
2007-03-17 11:55:46 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Teaching
I'm a teacher in California, and have sat on a number of hiring panels. I suppose it depends on the district, but my district doesn't care if you already have a master's, as long as you are hire-able. How you come across in your interview is much more important than whether you have an advanced degree or not. So make sure that you get lots of experience during your practicum and student teaching, and are able to use that during your interview(s). Good luck!
2007-03-17 15:44:03 · answer #1 · answered by elljay 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In order to advance in the field of education, a master's degree is necessary at some point. If you have the time and can afford it, then go and get it out of the way. The master's program will help toward a doctorate too. The master's degree should give you more options of places for employment and quicker advancement. Am not aware of California standards but Missouri wants teachers to get the masters program ASAP.
2007-03-17 12:06:39 · answer #2 · answered by kriend 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It would be a good idea to get an advanced degree. In Pennsylvania, I believe teachers must get a master's degree at some point, whether you have it when you start teaching or earn it later on. Some people feel it is harder to go back to school after they've been away for a while.
I earned my master's right out of college, and I'm very glad I did. I taught in high school, and the advanced degree allowed me to transition to community college right away without having to go back to school. I think I would have had a difficult time getting back into the student mode after that time on the other side of the desk.
2007-03-18 02:46:17 · answer #3 · answered by duke95 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Enjoy the best of both worlds--get your Masters Degree after you are hired to be a teacher.
As a school principal, I would rather hire an inexperienced teacher with a Bachelors Degree, than an inexperienced teacher with a Masters Degree--simply to save money in my budget.
If both teachers had experience then I may be willing to pay more the Masters Degree---it would depend.
Good Luck
2007-03-17 16:39:47 · answer #4 · answered by Teacher Man 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have always heard the same thing. Districts don't want to pay the higher pay scale for someone who has their master's but has no experience. It's a valid arguement. Most states require teachers to get their master's at some point in order to keep their teaching certification. My suggestion would be to get your teaching certification and then get into a district that has tution reimbursement to complete your master's.
2007-03-17 15:15:39 · answer #5 · answered by tchrnmommy 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you have the time and money, I say go for it. I'm from Texas and teachers with a master's make about $6-7000 a year more than those with a bachelor's.
Plus, they are a couple of rungs higher on the professional scale, thus are closer to the top.
2007-03-17 12:18:30 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Go for it! Get your master's degree. Someday you may decide to leave the teaching field and a master's degree will apply.
When it comes to what you are worth and what people are willing to pay you, you will be in a better position to call the shots for yourself.
A master's degree will also help you boost your self-esteem. Don't forget that there are many people out there who will provide you with unfounded information, just so that you won't surpass them. It's called 'crabs in the barrel'.
Look Out For #1. Yourself! Get your MASTER'S DEGREE!
2007-03-17 14:11:46 · answer #7 · answered by DARMADAKO 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In Maryland, they reimburse you for working on your master's. I'm sure they do this elsewhere as well. With No Child Left Behind, the more accolades you have, the more highly qualified you are...sure they have to pay you more, but if you actually take the time to learn while you are working on your Master's you might end up a better teacher in the long run.
2007-03-17 12:10:30 · answer #8 · answered by violamom74 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Go for it, if you can afford the time and money needed to earn it!
A Masters degree does mean more pay (5-6 thousand per year) and it will make you more marketable.
I'm kicking myself for not earning mine...
2007-03-18 20:05:37 · answer #9 · answered by Kintaro 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go for it! In an interview situation you may say that you are willing to negotiate salary.
2007-03-20 00:02:54 · answer #10 · answered by bandit 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋