Advice from any students/teachers/esp. Masters students please!

[showtime7]

Okay, please give me your opinions/advice. I simply cannot make my mind up. Excuse poor writing but just to condense - Been in teaching 10 years, been deputy for last 3, teach far less now which I miss but am learning lots as DH.

Did a degree in English Lit (and got a first) - I am pretty passionate about reading!! Have been considering doing an MA for some time. I have spent hours looking at different courses and almost signed up for MA in Education through the OU. I have just finished the NPQSL (related to teaching) which was ok but not entirely stimulating. I love being in education, but, find writing essays about it extremely boring!

So - found a distance MA with perfect content of modern literature. Its over 4 years, so 40 credits for three years then one year dissertation. Have discussed it with the university who assure me that it is built to suit people like me.

I have a 17 year old son and a partner. I enjoy going to the gym to keep fit. I go back to work next week and know I will have long days. BUT - for so long I have wanted to study and deep down, literature is my 'thing'. I know it won't earn me more money etc. My long term plans are to teach abroad and I know I don't 'need' to do it. Tell me I am mad. Tell me I will or won't regret doing it. Any opinions will be appreciated. I am the only one in my large family to get a degree and I need to discuss this with people who have done it or are doing it. Thank you!

[starsandstripes2016]

do it! it's so stimulating and has the feel good factor. as you know horizons open up for you.

[showtime7]

Thank you for your reply starsandstripes2016; my gut feeling is that it will stimulate me. I think its just the thought of fitting everything in and not being entirely sure of the time commitments.

[starsandstripes2016]

most part-time MA's are spread over 2 years which for a teacher is too intense. The one you're choosing will enable you to leave it during the intense Autumn and summer terms and use the summer holiday to really get stuck in. studying something outside of education but within your subject area brings an authenticity to your teaching and management style because you see outside the institution. To me I feel it brings me alive, I am doing what I'm struggling to get others to do so my frustration levels are reduced.

[JeepersMcoy]

I did my MA in a completely random subject that has not served me in any practical way (except to provide an interesting talking point in job interviews), but I loved every minute of it and do not regret it one bit. Just the experience of studying to that level teaches you a lot in my opinion and is really valuable. In terms of time 4 years seems completely achievable. I did mine in one year, but was working part time and didn't have any children at the time. I had a friend who did hers in one year while working full time and renovating a house. I think she was insane and I don't think she really had the time to enjoy it. I think 4 years will give you the space to really have fun while studying without feeling too overwhelming.

Go for it!

[JeepersMcoy]

Oh and the OU is awesome! Both my parents did degrees and masters through the OU and loved it. I am starting a module in Human Biology in October and really looking forward to it.

[showtime7]

thank you both for your replies.

I'm not normally such a wimp in making decisions but I guess I just don't want to take something on that I haven't thought a lot about.

Jeepers- it is interesting to hear of actual experiences fitting in with your life.