MEd vs. MA vs. MS

[Lemurian_Spirit]

Hey There,

This might sound weird, but generally speaking, is one of these seen as more relevant or better to have than the other? I'm looking at Master of Education (MEd) in Instructional Design (my field), vs. a Master of Arts (MA) in in Educational Technology and Online Learning, for example, or a Master of Science, Educational Technology (M.S.E.T.). I've even seen a Master of Educational Technology (M.E.T.). Any of these could apply to what I do, though I think the first might be the best fit. However, does an MA or MS carry more weight than an MEd?

[bricabrac]

This is where knowing your industry comes into play. I would look at senior management in your industry (not necessarily just your company) and follow the path set. When headhunters/recruiters are seeking out management there is usually a set standard to weed out the masses (eg degree(s), experience, previous/current employers, organizations) then delve into specific areas they are looking to match (eg specialty area(s), personality fit, background, goals, networks, etc.).

So to your question if I take a look at job titles 3-5 levels above my own, they all have MS, MPH, MD, PhD or PharmD as the required credential. I would seek out one of these degrees first then for a second advanced degree look at the job descriptions for where you want/expect to be in 10yrs and act accordingly. You could always supplement the MEd with a Grad Cert in Technology and Online Learning. In six years you might decide to pursue a MBA to separate yourself even further from the competition.

In my world, the more you bring to the table (credentials, knowledge, varied experience) equals your worth - title, salary, bonus/options structure, perks (housing and/or car/allowance). I've had scenarios where Directors make just as much money as VPs. Or Sr Managers darn close to Sr Directors. It would depend on the department, exposure, and experience (KOLs, FDA, patent holders, author scientific publications, etc). For example, someone pushing paper and delegating is simply not as valued as an individual who can present and defend study results positively to the FDA. To that end in my industry salary packages are usually held quite close to the vest; as some will forgo title for salary or vice versa, most walk in with both.

Also keep in mind many organizations offer tuition reimbursement. At the masters level, to be approved, it should be tailored to your career path. If appropriate you should set a meeting with your manager to discuss your goals and company expectations. They may be willing to support your educational goals while at the same time help to decide which would be the better fit (the one they will pay for... ).

Researching and making the ultimate decision is not easy. In my view the masters degree is a life choice, unlike the bachelors which is an entry level/check a box degree. Just my thoughts, hope they provide room for added reflection.

Good luck in your journey! Happy Holiday Season!

[Yanji]

All of the programs you listed are essentially the same program. The name of the degree doesn't make any difference.

[Lemurian_Spirit]

Thanks bunches everyone,

With regards to Bricabrac's comments, I like the idea of seeing if my future company even wants me to have a master's before pursuing one. That way I can choose the right one. Most of the positions I've seen and applied for require a bachelors and prefer a master's (which tells me it is optional for now). I am now just over eleven years or so away from retirement, so in regards to where I want to be in ten years--my answer would be a year or so away from retirement. Also, I'm currently unemployed and don't have the funds to start a program now. I've applied for financial aid (potentially thinking of a master's at WGU on the advice of others on this forum), and am only eligible for a student loan. Again, being unemployed the last thing I want to do is incur even more debt than I already have. I'm also really hoping that I won't be unemployed for the year or so it would take for me to get a master's, since my rent just went up this month. I need to be working ASAP. Given that context, I really like the idea of letting the management of my next full-time job decide whether to pursue a master's at all, and if so, which master's to pursue.

Also, I just found this regarding MA vs. MS (though it doesn't mention MEd):

MA vs. MS
A Master of Arts program usually provides general knowledge in a specific program. Some institutions require MA students to have a concentration in order to obtain their degree. For example, if you want an MA in political science, you must have a concentration in economics, public policy or foreign affairs.
A Master of Science program is more specific. These programs have a heavy emphasis on a particular subject and are usually more hands-on. Getting a MS degree, depending on the school, may take longer than getting an MA degree because of the work you will need to do outside the classroom.

Read more : http://www.ehow.com/way_5798750_fastest-...egree.html

I really appreciate the help of those on this forum! Many thanks!

[SteveFoerster]

Also, I just found this regarding MA vs. MS (though it doesn't mention MEd):

MA vs. MS
A Master of Arts program usually provides general knowledge in a specific program. Some institutions require MA students to have a concentration in order to obtain their degree. For example, if you want an MA in political science, you must have a concentration in economics, public policy or foreign affairs.
A Master of Science program is more specific. These programs have a heavy emphasis on a particular subject and are usually more hands-on. Getting a MS degree, depending on the school, may take longer than getting an MA degree because of the work you will need to do outside the classroom.

eHow, huh? I think someone just basically made that up, because it's not my observation.

Anyway, among MEd, MA, or MS, put me down in the "doesn't matter" column.

[Lemurian_Spirit]

Thanks Bunches Steve,

I was chatting with a colleague yesterday (who has a master's and is in my field). She agreed that in my case the MEd might make the most sense if I end up pursuing a master's at all. She said of all the jobs she's applied for since she got her master's degree, there were a total of two where it mattered and might have given her an edge. At this point I might get called on more interviews if I had a master's degree, but even that seems to be a crap shoot. Given that (and my current unemployment situation) I think I'll stick to my new plan that if an employer wants to pay me to get a master's degree I will--and will let them determine which degree to get. Sorry to have troubled you all, but many thanks for your help. I appreciate it more than I can say.

Happy new year!

[UptonSinclair]

Good luck with your journey. Education decisions are never easy.

[Lemurian_Spirit]

Thanks Bunches,

You've got that right! I look forward to getting this resolved within the next year. Many thanks again for all your help!