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Which Degree Should I choose
Good evening everyone,
I am an international student in the U.S., and I have been recently admitted into two master's programs which are the MA in TESOL in American University in Washington, DC, and the MA in Liberal Arts in Georgetown University. However, since I am fascinated by both programs and universities, I have not been able to decide which college I need to attend; therefore, I would like to ask you in order to help me in my dilemma. I need to mention that both programs are going to be held in Washington, DC, and they have nearly the same tuition as well as the expected time to graduate, so my concern is which degree will be beneficial for me, either personally or professionally, in the future.
The MA in TESOL from American University:
Pros:
1. Most universities in my country have not offered this major yet, so it may give me a credit when I return back.
2. There is continuous demand for studying English in my country. For example, in some universities, studying English is required during the foundation year.
3. I personally like to deal and learn English linguistics and grammar, and I often taught my classmates some grammar lessons during my studying English in the U.S.A.
Cons:
1. I assume this degree might minimize my career only in teaching and educational fields.
2. Since English is not my native Language, I am worried that I will not be preferred by some English institutes to teach it, although the vast majority of English teachers in public schools and universities in my home are non-native speakers of English.
The MA in Liberal Studies from Georgetown University:
Pros:
1. The major is unlimited and broad, so it will probably boost my career into several jobs and positions, such as a professor, author, or editor.
2. Georgetown University is a prestigious university, and its reputable name will possibly attract different universities and organization when I return to my country. I know Georgetown University because I have studied English as a foreign language for a year and half int its English center, and it was such as spectacular experience.
3. I enjoy Studying and learning about history, religion, language, literature, and political subjects.
Cons:
1. I have been told by many professors and students that a degree in liberal studies is useless and jobless, and it cannot enhance my job opportunities in the future.
As a result, I hope from you to assist me to decide which degree I am recommended to choose, so I can tell both universities my final decision, which should be sent by Oct, 10. Finally, I truly appreciate your advice, and please accept my sincere apology for this long topic, and any inconvenience this may cause.
Best wishes,
Moataa
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Well, a lot of foreign ESL teaching positions seem to require you to be a native speaker, but as long as you are planning on taking opportunities in your home country, where it sounds like many non-native speakers are teaching, I would go for the MA in TESOL. That degree may even give you higher qualification than the competition in your country if they don't offer this degree (MA TESOL) there. good luck to you! I wish you all the best!
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I cannot say what a Liberal Arts Degree even with an MA will mean in your home country. What I can tell you is that an MA Degree here in the states is a waste of money. What a Liberal Arts Degree tells me as a Recruiter is you are undecided. That you have little to no background in any work related field. If I hire you you're more of a liability than an asset because it will take longer to train you. If you accept the MA in Liberal arts expect to be offered entry level low paying opportunities.
On the other hand I see many opportunities for the Degree in the MA in TESOL from American University which is a well recognized University. Besides the teaching positions there are many opportunities in business and government this degree will open for you. The world is growing smaller each day.
English and French have been the two common languages for years. In aviation the common language is English. For commerce to continue between countries I foresee TESOL to be a requirement many major companies will need as will government if for no more than interpretation or refinement of what they already know.
My recommendation is to give TESOL a very serious consideration.
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