Question about MLS vs MA in English

Due to responsibilities to my son and to work, I need to pursue a Master's Degree with no residency requirements. The University of British Columbia offers a distance degree in English and Literature. Ft. Hayes State University offers a degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration in English. I hope one day to be able to teach English or Literature on a part time basis. Would a degree in Liberal studies be sufficient? Thank you for any advice you can give.

Marie

 

For most undergrad teaching positions, the minimum requirement is a Master's degree with 18 graduate semester hours in the field you wish to teach.

Keep in mind that's the minimum. All other things being equal, someone with a M.A. in English is probably going to get the job ahead of someone with a M.L.S. with a concentration in English, but there are many other variables involved. For example, someone who is an experienced police officer who has a M.L.S. with a concentration in Criminal Justice will most likely get the teaching job over the 20-something store clerk with a newly-minted M.A./M.S. in Criminal Justice.

 

Thank you Bruce. I appreciate it. Do you have any in put on Ft Hayes or the University of British Columbia?

Marie

 

I only know British Columbia through their excellent reputation. I've looked into Fort Hays quite a bit, they're actually one of my favorite DL graduate programs. The program is high-quality, offers some flexibility, and you can't beat the price for a US school.

I don't know if you've looked into it, but National University offers an online M.A. in English that looks like it might be a good fit for you.

 

I cannot seem to find any DL MA in English on the University of British Columbia website www.ubc.ca .

 

Ted,

You are right, my mistake. I was looking for a degree in either English, English Lit or Writing, which I have an equal passion for. I came across http://www.creativewriting.ubc.ca/programs/lowres.cfm, which is a distance MFA degree, not English degree.

Bruce,

Thank you again. I will also check National University.

This site is a blessing.

 

A few years ago I had occasion to talk to Fort Hayes a number of times. They seemed to be very responsive. I can't say much about their staff, but I suspect they're excellent.

I did my M.A. in Humanities at CSU Dominguez Hills. My thesis and concentration was in English. I haven't taught at University level, though.

I think the advice you've received is excellent. You can't go wrong by listening to the informed opinions of the folks on this board.

T.

 

I'm currently enrolled in the MLS program at Fort Hays State, and my concentration is in English (I have the same goals as you). Please let me know if you have any questions about the school or the program...

My experience has been excellent so far.

 

Thank you for your post. I did send you a note with several questions.

Marie