I asked my local community college today what they require in terms of a degree to teach literature. They?

Question

told me a masters degree and a few years of teaching. And that the salary would start at $44K. That seems reasonable. Is it? (school is in Boston) I'm considering entering a university masters program in English.

Answer 1

I don't understand what "reasonable" has to do with anything.  Community college teaching requirements vary from school to school and a master's is run of the mill in terms of requirements.  Some schools only require a BA, if they have a lot to draw from, I'm sure that some go for PhD's.  Same for the experience, some will go for little or none, some probably require more than 3 years.

Answer 2

That is normal. A community college requires at LEAST a Masters, but they prefer a PhD. They usually require a few years teaching as well. The salary seems a little low for Boston. Whether or not it's fair depends on the class load, tenure track, etc.

Just make sure you understand the job market for post secondary English. It is VERY difficult to get any kind of college level position in English. Most PhDs and MAs are lucky to find part-time, non-tenure positions! To get any position, you have to be willing to move anywhere in the country for any available spot because it is so hard to get a job right now.

I am finishing my MA and looking into PhD programs, but I'm seriously considering a temporary sidetrack into secondary teaching as a back up since the market for PhDs and Masters is so bad.