Hi all, Long-time lurker, first-time poster here. I apologize if the answer to this is posted elsewhere, but after searching through the threads here I haven't found a clear answer. I am considering WNMU's MAIS with a concentration in English (secondary concentration in either history or writing). I am also considering the MA in English offered by NSU. The MAIS is very attractive because I would be able to gain enough credits to be qualified to teach in two areas, but how does this type of credential stack up against the MA when it comes to adjunct positions? I am aware that the market for humanities instructors is saturated, but I am still interested (even if I only end up with the experience and knowledge I gain from the program). Thank you!
What is NSU? Nova? Northwestern State University of Louisiana has a DL MA in English that is well priced and better for teaching or going on to a PhD that the MAIS: http://ensu.nsula.edu/ While concentrations are nice you will not fare as well as an individual with a more in depth degree.
I teach with the half of the MAIS program I've finished so far as an adjunct. To tell you the truth, English is an in-demand field, just like Math. Basically all colleges that offer 4 year degrees require some sort of English and Math coursework, so there is a huge demand. Many schools don't have enough faculty to fill the need and English courses in my area always fill up fast. Since aquiring my MA + 18 graduate credits in English I've never had any of the deans that I work with ever say, "Well we can't take you because you don't have a MA in English." All they really want to see is the 18 graduate credits in "ENG" and they meet the requirements for their accrediation. Now a full time position, that is another story. Since a MA in English is common, I would say that getting a full time position teaching English is more competitive. You will have more people with traditional MAs in English and a picky dean may be more comfortable with someone with those credentials. But, if you do have concentrations in two different areas like English and Psychology you can always argue that you are worth two professors because you would be able to teach in two different departments whereas a professor with only a MA in English can only teach English classes. In this economy, everybody is looking to save on the bottom line. I find community colleges and proprietary colleges more open to "think outside the box", so you may want to start there. However, it might be worth your time to talk to the deans in the schools where you plan to eventually teach to get their perspective. I have done this and it helps a lot. Good luck! By the way, I have found the English and Writing classes at WNMU to be superb.
Sorry I should have specified that by NSU I meant the program you suggested, sorry if I used the wrong acronym. Thank you both for your input and suggestions! Has anyone here tried the program at Northwestern State University? I see a lot of comments on the WNMU program, but I haven't seen specific feedback on the online MA in English from Northwestern State (if I'm missing it please let me know). Thank you all!
