Here are six steps you can take to learn how to become a teacher:
I. Research Different Specializations
There are a lot of fields to choose from when it comes to education. I recommend doing what you are interested in the most. If athletics is what you are most interested in then a Personal Education teacher is what you would most likely enjoy doing. If you enjoy research and history then I recommend you go for a History Education degree or Social Studies degree. Writing, reading, and language fields are most of English Teachers.
A good idea would be to talk to some teachers or shadow a teacher for a day to see if you like that particular specialization.
It is also a good idea to get endorsements and associates degrees in multiple areas to make you a more valuable hire for a school district. For example most PE teachers have health education or driver’s ed endorsements.
Do what you enjoy not what may be the easiest to graduate from. Remember, this is a career choice.
II. Research Your State’s Certification Requirements
Most states vary in their requirements. Some have higher required grade point averages, certification tests, and required classes. It is important that you talk to an academic adviser to find out these requirements.
III. Get Your Bachelor’s Degree
All of the states in the US require teachers to have at least a Bachelor’s Degree though some require you to have a Master’s Degree. Talk to your academic adviser to find out your state’s requirements.
IV Get Your Master’s Degree
Most states require only a bachelor’s degree to teach. However some do require a master’s degree. Also, in order to be a college professor in most cases you need a master’s degree.
V. Pass Teachers Examinations
All states have some type of certification exam that you must pass in order to become a certified teacher. A majority of them will require the PRAXIS exam in order for you to become teaching certified.
VI. Common Questions
How Long Does It Take To Get A Teachers Education Degree?
Most often you can complete a Bachelor’s of Education degree in 4 years. Some have Master’s Degree programs that can be completed in 5 years.
What Are The Typical Teaching Pre-Requisite Classes?
Most states require at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 grade scale. They almost all include undergraduate classes with basic pre-requisites in reading, writing, and mathematics.
What Is A Typical Beginners Teaching Salary?
In 2006 the average salary was around $49,000.
How Many Hours Per-Week Do Teachers Work?
Full time teachers work 40 hours per week. Most will have at least 12 weeks paid vacation. Many teachers have the Summer season off and their salaries are average to still get compensated for these moths off. Many teachers participate in extra-curricular activities such as coaching sports, drama club, and beta club. These activities take place generally after regular school hours.
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