Career Development: Teaching

A degree in Theology and Arts is a perfect route to a successful and satisfying career in Education

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Education

I have come to believe that a great teacher is a greater artist and that here is and that there are as few as there are any other great artists. Teaching might be the even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit.

John Steinbeck

Why an Arts Degree?

Choosing a Degree in Arts or Humanities, including Theology, is choosing a subject for its own sake. It deepens knowledge, ability and awareness within a subject. A subject you were passionate about in secondary school you now get to study for three years. At the same time, other skills are fostered: critical thinking, self-initiative and confidence, debate and presentation of ideas. With such knowledge and skill, a Degree in Arts or Humanities can lead places. One of those places is teaching. Many graduates from St Patrick’s College Maynooth become successful primary and secondary teachers. This could be the exciting route for you.

Teaching a Primary Level

Primary teaching can be a rewarding career. A number of colleges in Ireland offer a two-year Professional Masters in Education (Primary). In most of these institutions, it is a two-year full-time programme to prepare graduates for the sector, by providing the foundation, skills and methodology for primary education, coupled with the experience of school placement and teaching practice. A degree at honour level is a requirement along with at least a H3 in Irish in the Leaving Cert. Students from Ireland are also in demand on many programmes in the U.K.

Career Development Office

A student-focussed, professional and informative service for you.

Teaching at Second Level

Teaching at second level can be an enriching experience. A number of colleges offer a two-year programme Professional Masters in Education (Secondary) for graduates with an Arts Degree at honours level. These consist of a study of all aspects of teaching and learning, and assist the student- teachers in preparing for today’s classroom. Included also are modules in teaching of the subject that the graduate specialised in their degree, e.g. teaching religion, German, history, etc. Another route many graduates take is to complete a qualification in England or Scotland.

Teaching at Third Level

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