<p>After much thinking, I decided I want to do what I have always wanted to do:
Teach middle school or high school English ("language arts"). I think I went through all the phases of a recent college graduate with a BA in the humanities (English. Oh, the horror).</p>
<p>Just to be clear: This is my "dream job"; I have been exposed to tutoring, classroom environments, and observations hours. </p>
<p>In order to teach in California ( I am in California and would ideally like to teach here) would require a credential, which can be completed at most universities. These can take
up too two academic years, and frankly from what I have heard of them, they do not appeal to me. BUT I do realize I need to get credentialed anyway, so I will do it.</p>
<p>My question: Since I will be effectively going back to
school full time, I figure I go for a Masters as well. I
initially thought about simply getting a Masters in English,
but I have been getting advice on getting instead a Masters
in Art of Teaching (MAT).</p>
<p>I am not sure which would be an advantage toward beginning
my career in education, especially given the dire
circumstances involving all things education.</p>
<p>Though I can't be sure, I think I would enjoy the MA in English more
than the "Art of Teaching" MA. I fear the MAT will involve a lot of the
unappealing things I hear about the credential program. </p>
<p>Any advice? Would an MA in English coupled with credentials
be "inferior" compared to the MA in Art of Teaching? For
whatever reason,** intuitively I feel that the MA in English
would be better, but most of the advice I have received so far
recommends the MAT. What gives? Wouldn't I be "specialized" for
teaching "language arts with a BA in English and MA in English
(mind you, I am not trying to avoid any state's or school district's
credentialing requirements, like I said I will be getting my credentials).**</p>
<p>Help!</p>