BEd vs. NET Exam Key Differences, and How to Make Informed Career Choice

From the definition of BEd and NET to the differentiation, career scope, and salary.

Bachelor's of Education (BEd) vs National Eligibility Test (NET)

The role of a teacher is important as teaching is the only profession in the world that contributes to nation-building. Teachers are the first people a child listens to after their parents, that is the reason why teaching as a profession is always considered noble and is a hot cake for candidates wanting to have a settled career. To become a Teacher or Professor in India, candidates need to meet certain eligibility criteria, and in this article on BEd vs NET, we will discuss everything in detail.

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What is the BEd vs NET confusion?

There is confusion among students when choosing between a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree and a National Eligibility Test (NET). In simple layman's language, it can be understood that BEd is an undergraduate degree course that candidates pursue to apply for teacher positions in private and government schools, whereas NET is an entrance exam which candidates can qualify to become Assistant Professors in Universities and Colleges. 

It needs to be understood that BEd and NET are two distant things. They are not the same by any margin. The BEd is a course while NET is an entrance examination. 

Both paths offer distinct advantages and cater to different career goals. Through this article, we will help students understand the differences between the BEd and NET exams so that they can make informed choices.

What is a Bachelor of Education (BEd)?

A BEd is an undergraduate professional degree program that helps students acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective teachers. While pursuing the BEd course, students are taught educational psychology, curriculum development, pedagogy, and teaching methodologies. Once candidates complete the BEd course, they will be eligible to apply in TET exams and work as school teachers or pursue further studies in education-related fields.   

What is the National Eligibility Test (NET)?

The National Testing Agency (NTA), on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC) conducts the NET exam, which is a nationwide competitive examination that determines the eligibility of candidates for the role of Assistant Professor or to secure a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. Candidates are tested on their knowledge in specific subjects and their aptitude for teaching and research.

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Differentiating Betwwen BEd vs NET:

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BEd vs NET Salary

Candidates who qualify for BEd can apply as Teachers. In India, the salary of a private school teacher can be anything between INR 15,000 to INR 50,000, depending upon their experience, the class of students they teach, as well as the brand of the private school. The salary of a government school teacher starts from INR 40,000 and can go anywhere between INR 70,000 to 80,000 depending upon the pay scale.

Candidates who qualify for NET become eligible to apply as Assistant Professor in Colleges or Universities. In India, the salary of a private college professor can be anything between INR 30,000 to INR 60,000, depending upon their experience, the course they teach, as well as the brand of the college or the university. The salary of a government college professor starts from INR 70,000 and can go anywhere between INR 1,00,000 to 1,25,000 depending upon the pay scale.

Also read:

• Distance BEd vs Regular BEd - Advantages, Disadvantages, and Colleges
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How to Make an Informed Career Choice?

1. Identify Career Goals:
• If you are keen on making a career in teaching at the school level and your focus subjects are pedagogy and classroom management, then BEd is the right choice.
• If you aspire to teach at the college level or want to pursue a research career, then you can take the NET exam.
2. Consider Educational Background:
• BEd is for graduates who want to specialize in teaching methodologies and practical skills while the NET course is designed for candidates with a strong academic background and in-depth knowledge of a particular subject.
3. Long-term Career Growth:
• Before taking forward to any course, be it BEd or NET, students analyze long-term career prospects. BEd offers growth in school education, while 
• NET opens doors to advanced academic roles.
4. Salary:
• This is the most important aspect as at the end of the day it comes down to finances. While entry-level salaries for school teachers (BEd) may be lower, government positions offer long-term financial security and perks.
• NET-qualified professionals, especially in reputed institutions, can command higher salaries and grants.

The choice between pursuing a BEd degree or appearing for the NET exam solely depends on the student and their career aspirations, interests, as well as their long-term goals. By understanding the differences mentioned in this article on BEd vs NET, students will be able to comprehend the pros and cons and make informed decisions to pursue a career in education.