Masters Programs

[kathyselden]

I am currently pursuing my BA in Theatre Arts (Performance Emphasis) with Teacher Licensure and hope to teach high school theatre. I know a lot of high schools encourage (and sometimes even pay for) teachers to obtain their masters -- are these preferred to be M of Ed or MFA's or... what? I'm currently at Greensboro College and am interested in

Comments

[emspunky]

A school district will usually support, and sometimes help pay for, a MA degree that has to do with teaching, curriculum, etc. It would be extremely difficult to #1. get the support or $$$ from a school district for an MFA in acting, and #2. teach while pursuing your MFA at the same time. Most teachers need to earn their Master's during the summer months, or take time off once they've worked a few years in a district and have a continuing contract

[fightdirector]

I am a bit curious as to why you would want to get your MFA to specifically teach High School. An MFA is a terminal degree (tenure track similar to PhD) and is more suitable for post-secondary education. As someone who just completed an MFA, I can tell you that you will have NO time for teaching - aside from undergrad courses from whatever school you attend. The MFA is also a practical degree designed specifically to prepare the student for work in professional theatre (i.e. acting, directing, dramaturgy, etc...). If all want to do is teach, you might consider an MA in Theatre (usually a 2 year program) which you can always further with a PhD in Theatre History, Performance Studies, etc... I would personally avoid a M of Ed to teach theatre. Good Luck!