Job Discussion Forums

[andrew murphy]

I believe the tertiary education system is somewhat different in Australia to the U.S. and I read a lot of talk in this forum about having an M.A. for teaching English in a number of countries. What exactly is the nature of an American M.A.? I have a B.A.(Hons) in Classics from an Australian university. Is this in any way equivalent to an American M.A.?

[Irish]

Andrew:

Yes, our systems are a bit different. Although I'm no expert, my impression is that the Australian BA (Honors) would not be considered equivalent to the MA in the US. Of course, that depends on whether you're talking academically equivalent or equivalent in the eyes of a potential employer.

The big difference is at the undergraduate level. Here, a BA is a 4 year degree; we don't have the 3-year or 4th year honors versions that you have. My understanding is that the honors year is spent doing research and a thesis. We don't do that until the master's level. (I'm talking in general, you understand--I'm sure someone knows of an exception.)

Naturally, MA programs vary somewhat by subject and institution. Most of the programs I've seen involve 18 to 24 months of study (assuming full-time status and going at a regular pace) with a thesis component...but not always. I've just begun an MA TESL program that has no thesis. Instead, we have the option of doing a comprehensive exam, an in-service project (for people already employed as teachers), or a professional portfolio (which is not as easy as it sounds).

I hope that helps a little.

[Afra]

Approach your local university or a good reference library. There is an international degree equivalency publication which should answer your question. I worked in a university which required US university MA's but would accept BA Hons + DELTA or similar from UK universities.

[Celeste]

In Canada we have BA honours programmes as well, and they are not equivalent to an MA in Canada or the States.

[Ann]

Heck no! I had a BA Honors but it was not equivalent to a Masters in the States.

[andrew murphy]

Could I ask you in which country did you obtain your BA Hons, Ann?

[Albulbul]

Direct or Indirect Question

Where did you study.
Tell me where you studied.

And you are an English teacher ?

[Bindair Dundat]

No, your degree is not the equivalent of a US MA. The MA is a fifth- and sixth-year degree (depending on the program and the options you choose).

However, a LOT of potential employers might not realize this -- or care. If you see a job that interests you, apply for it and prepare to talk your way into it.

[The_Prodiigy]

The BA differs in significance as it has a detrimental effect on the way and the method of being able to improve the skills study.
As an example, a colleague of mine had already graduated from the PA State University four or potentially five summers ago (the northern winter) and when they finally issued his Warrant of Conscience it had been previously backdated so that the other female professors and support staff were able to identify his records.

Now.

If this is common practise within the boundaries and the confines of such a respected and respectable institution then I can accept that. What is quite difficult to comprehend and ascertain is whether he or she is liable for a refund and then able to retract the bespoke Honours qualifications.

The MA was awarded. The study was under a gross misapprehension on the way that the online community works. But I do feel that the MA is worth it if you invest the time and the money and the skills and the line of enquiry.

Amen!

[Nabby Adams]

While we are on topic, can any one tell me if my BA is equal to a PHD? Can you really go to university for several years and not no the difference between an MA and a BA?

[danielb]

[alexcase]

I was expecting a philosophical discussion on what MAs really mean in a fundamental sense

But no...