[BellaLucia]

I have a degree in Political science. Should I try to get a Master's in Education or go back and get certified? I live in MD by the way.

[agirlscamaro]

What area and grade level do you want to teach? I'm in the same boat, my degree is History though so it's a wee easier for me.

Anyways check out Liberty.edu. They have a great DLP (online) program. I'm currently 1/2 way through my Masters of Arts in Teaching with a Secondary Education specialization. I have to take a couple community college classes in order to get the needed classes in but otherwise it's great. They have a great "chat online' feature that connects you to their admin people.

It's kinda expensive at $395 an hour. Don't let the whole "jerry falwell" thing turn you off. I'm not a fan of him but put my issues asside. It's a great school.

[trailgroomer]

don't know your certification needs in MD. but I would approach it from the school end - there is a critical need for teachers esp. at the secondary level & so you could get hired and ceritified via an alternate program. From there, choosing the MA. would fit right in to what your interests are and could be paid via your teaching contract.

trailgroomer

[kisskiss]

I agree with trailgroomer--you might get certified a bit faster if there is need. OUt here in California, we have emergency credentials. I am majoring in English (we dont have a Education major) and I plan on getting EC when I graduate. If not, I believe that certification takes about 1-2 years. Good LUck

[Tonia]

I would check with the local colleges that offer credentially programs. I have had my credential for a number of years so I may be out of touch...but this is how I understand it (for CA at least, where I have heard it requires the most b/s to get your credential)...

The state schools will make you have a degree in what you want to teach...for example, if you want to teach elementary school you must have a degree in child development or liberal studies. The private schools are much more expensive but may save you valuable time. You may be able to take a test to opt out of certain classes...you may HAVE to take a test to continue with the credential.

Here is my advice (sorry, I can talk forever and never get to the point...!)..check with the school districts you are interested in (check out their websites, many are very helpful) and see what the requirements are. Then, check out local or online programs (again, check out the web). With you already having a degree it shouldn't be too hard.

btw, have you tried subbing to help you decide what grade level you may be interested in? That is really all subbing is good for 'cause the kids learn by about 6th grade how much fun it is to torture subs!

Good luck!

[EZMONEY]

KissKiss...if you just get your EC then you can only sub...you need to get your credential!!

[BellaLucia]

I'm actually a substitute teacher right now.

[StillTryin]

I would call the your State Department of Public Instruction (DPI) and see what they require for you to do.

[trailgroomer]

yes - the state dept will have the entire layout for certification needs - I understand that now undergrads declare a major and then add on the teacher certification but since you have the degree adding the certification can come in other forms - check it out though and I wish you luck -
I love teaching!
trailgroomer

[nelie]

It also really depends, I think many years ago, teachers in California were teaching without credentials on the promise that they would get one because teachers were badly needed. Now many schools in CA are closing and teachers are being laid off. Of course it does depend on the area and if you go to a high need area, then you can possibly teach without a credential temporarily.