What are the perks of being a high school English teacher versus a college literature professor?

Question

I'm an English major who will soon graduate with an undergraduate degree. I am debating whether to go on and get my PhD in English literature or a Masters in education. What are the perks/downfalls of each profession? I am also an avid horseback rider and would like the funds and the time to pursue my interests. Thank you!

Answer 1

I taught high school English for 35 years, and I made more money (about $20,000) than a college English professor.  Public school teachers generally make more money than college teachers.  I suggest you get a masters in English instead of a masters in education.  Not only will you be better prepared to teach, salary schedules generally pay more for degrees in a teaching field.  You will not learn anything earning a masters in education.  My graduate degrees, masters and Ph.D., were in my teaching field

Answer 2

College professors earn more money.

Answer 3

This is just an opinion, but I think besides the fact that college professors make more money, I would rather teach somebody who is career minded and seeking an education.  In high school, too many of the students are hostile and do not want to be there.  It would be frustrating to have to deal with discipline problems while trying to teach somebody.