CHOOSING YOUR ACADEMIC PATH More on our Whatsapp channel here https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VawxT6K0LKZLwCgPb034 I have had the opportunity to interact with many colleagues, especially teachers, and I realized that the majority of them do not fully understand the following academic abbreviations. To address this, I decided to use this opportunity to provide some education on the subject. Common Academic Abbreviations B.Ed – Bachelor of Education B.Sc – Bachelor of Science B.A – Bachelor of Arts BTech – Bachelor of Technology M.Ed – Master of Education M.Sc – Master of Science M.A – Master of Arts M.Tech – Master of Technology MBA – Master of Business Administration MPhil – Master of Philosophy (Advanced Research) PhD – Doctor of Philosophy There are various types of degrees worldwide, but to the best of my knowledge, the ones listed above are the most common in the Ghanaian academic setting. To keep the discussion focused, we will base our lecture on academia. Understanding the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) Ideally, the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) is considered a professional degree in Ghana, particularly by the Ghana Education Service (GES). Any other degree that does not include education qualifies you as a non-professional teacher within GES. Academic Requirements To pursue a Bachelor’s Degree (First Degree), you must possess either a Senior High School (SHS) certificate or a Diploma certificate. To enroll in a Master’s Degree (Second Degree), you must have a First Degree. A Master’s Degree or a good First Degree is a basic requirement for pursuing a PhD. Master’s Degree Duration and Structure in Ghana The Master of Education (M.Ed) program in Ghana typically lasts one year in most universities. It consists of coursework only, without a research component. You might be made to take a course in introduction to research. This program can be pursued in three modes: distance learning, sandwich, or regular study. The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a regular two-year program that includes both coursework and research (thesis). One can pursue an M.Ed and later top up to an MPhil. In most cases, to pursue a PhD in Ghana, you need to have either an M.ED, MPhil or a good First Degree. Choosing the Right Academic Path If you aim to be in academia, it is prudent to ensure your degrees follow a vertical progression. For example, if your First Degree is in Mathematics, your Second Degree should also be in Mathematics or a closely related field. A mismatch in degree progression (often called "skirt and blouse") may create challenges in career advancement. The Value of a Master’s Degree in GES Did you know that obtaining a Master’s Degree as a Basic School teacher is an added advantage? Some of my colleagues say, “A Master’s Degree in GES is nothing; it is a waste of time and money.” However, this is a gross misconception. It is not true that a Master’s Degree in GES has no value. When competing for supervisory roles like Head of school, SISO, Head of Units and Directorship, you stand a higher chance. Have you ever wondered where the lecturers in our tertiary institutions come from? The majority were once basic school teachers who advanced through continuous education. So why can’t you? My Final Words Never relax if you have the desire, time and resources to pursue further studies. The reward for procrastination is regret. Remember, the world is full of choices, but the choices you make will determine your destiny. Thank you. Yours truly, Ibrahim Kassim Counseling Psychologist (0243760382)