Lindenwood University's MFA course prefixes

Would LU's MFA in writing course prefixes, which are 'IMF', be a hindrance in getting teaching jobs in online college English courses?

 

Probably not. The bigger obstacle will be the fact that the job you're applying for will be inundated with applicants with MFAs and MAs in English.

 

Thanks, and yes, I understand. I suppose the same would be true for part-time adjuncts?

 

That's the bulk of online teaching work.

It's online, so anyone can apply. And it's English.

So, competing for those jobs will be any MFA, any MA, any M.Ed. in English Education and any PhD in English who is either under or unemployed (or simply wants to make a few extra bucks).

There are many of them. There are significantly fewer jobs.

 

Yes, I get it.

I think, though, that I will continue with the MFA. With it, I have a slim chance, but without it I have no chance. I also have decided not to switch to an MA or MLS because I don't want to 'lose' the credits I already have, and because the MFA is a terminal degree. I realize that I'm in for more time and money, but I suppose I'll take the gamble. I hope I can make it.

 

I wasn't trying to discourage you and if you really put your mind to it, I'm sure you can pull off getting a job.

The biggest issue is that many people rely solely on a degree to get an adjunct job. When there are a lot of people with that degree then the school can get more selective and seek students with more teaching experience or, in some cases, publications or relevant projects under their belt.

I have a colleague who is an adjunct at Binghamton University in the accounting department. His highest degree is his BS. But his CPA is really why they hired him. For me, there were plenty of MBAs applying for the job but few were actually HR professionals. A lot of them were managers making the case that they can teach HR subjects. And neither of my degrees are in HR. My job title, experience and HR certifications won the day for me. So, it isn't always cut and dry and just because a field is competitive doesn't mean it isn't worth entering the competition. As long as you enter with eyes wide open then I say good luck, don't give up, adapt and overcome.

I just wanted to convey that it would be unlikely that course prefixes will impact anything because there are so many more variables at play. Either way, good luck with your program. And seriously, don't give up when you hit the job market.