Which states require school teachers to eventually obtain a master's degree?

Should I pursue a Masters degree in English Education or English/American Literature?

• Quick synopsis: I graduated several years ago with a BS in Psychology. I recently discovered that my true passion is Literature and Creative Writing. I plan to return to school to obtain a Masters degree in either English Education (7-12) or English/American Literature. My goal at this point is to teach High School English, but I I am also interested in eventually teaching Literature at the College/University level down the line. If I obtain a Masters degree in English Literature or Comparative Literature, will that enable me to teach at both the High School and University level in New York State? I do understand that the more prestigious universities require a PhD, which I may eventually pursue.

• Answer:

  I don't know the particulars for NY State, but generally, you'll need state certification to teach at a public school. You can usually teach at private schools with an MA in Lit, but not at public schools. In terms of the long road, teaching Lit at the college level is tough. With an MA in Lit, you could find adjunct (part-time, pay-per-class) work as needed here and there (not much security of employment) and possibly full time employment at a community college (where teaching loads are usually 5 classes/term). Full-time tenure-track jobs at colleges/universities almost always (not just the fancier schools, but almost all of them) require a PhD. Good luck!