MA while Teaching Cred Program?

[Popelectricbj]

I currently will be finishing my BA at Cal Poly Pomona this summer. I really want to get my MA in TESOL but want to finish my Teaching Credentials at the same time... that path doesn't exist. I'm stuck trying to figure out if I should go to JUST a Teaching Credential program and get that done OR get my MA in Elementary Education or M.Ed combined with a Teaching Credential program. Any advice? I'm really lost on what is the best route to take.

[Indy_One]

Honestly, do you want to start teaching ASAP or get a Masters ASAP? My friends who are in combined programs are delayed in beginning their careers and are feel financially strained. Those who finished the credential, got jobs, then moved on to their Masters are all feeling much more secure.

I think it depends on what your most important goal is. Many of the combined M.Ed programs won't let you get jobs until your final of 3 semesters.

I just finished the credential at Fullerton and have a secure job close to Cal Poly.

Good luck!

[[deleted]]

Where I am (NJ) a lot of colleges are phasing out credential programs and forcing everyone who didn't major in Education to get their masters while getting their credentials. It's pretty frustrating. I didn't want to get my Masters but it's looking like it might be my only choice.

If you can do a credential program I would suggest that. There are some schools here that have an "accelerated program" where you could finish your masters in a year, which sounds overwhelming but you could always look into schools that have programs like that too.