AppleLinguist

I have just completed my first year of an MA program in applied linguistics and I am also pursuing a certificate (focusing on adults) for TESOL. I love putting theory into practice and I love learning about the different methods and approaches to language education. I was not sure whether or not I would ever go after a doctorate but now I know that should I choose this route, i'd like to do so in education. I applied to a few schools of education for MA programs and was accepted but ultimately decided against them for reasons of funding (TC and Penn).

After gaining more teaching experience, I would like to start prepping for my doctorate. Are there any programs out there would allow me not only to focus on second/foreign language education, but also on first language education in such a way that I could get some kind of certification/credential? I am most interested in programs that offer some kind of reading specialist training that covers all ages in addition to a main program that is more general? Does there exist such a program or would I have to consider another MA (or MEd) and then go into a PhD ?

I'm on my way out the door so pardon me if this post seems a bit rushed....let me know if I need to clarify anything. I will check back later on.

happymomof1

For the reading specialist certificate, you are probably going to have to pick a state and go through at least an MAT or MSEd program that will get you certified to teach in that state. Maryland will (or at least used to) do a credit count which means that if you had the right courses from where ever, you could get hired with a "provisional certificate" and teach for a couple of years in order to earn your state teaching certificate so another MA, MAT, MSEd or whatever isn't always necessary.

As for the PhD, read the literature, see where the people whose research you like are working, and then apply to that program.

Wishing you all the best.

AppleLinguist

Thanks. I think I would like to stay in the state of PA or else NY, MA, DC-metro, or IL (Chicago) I still have time so I will be on the lookout for the programs that suit me best. I am especially loving Penn's program.