How to Become a Teacher

Becoming a teacher is not as hard as you might think. Sure, it requires determination and considerable training and study; but for those who feel like they were “born to teach,” it is nothing less than a labor of love. Dealing with children, adolescents, teens, and all the accompanying problems comes standard with the job; but most teachers truly see this as less of burden and more of an opportunity to direct these students toward a brighter future. If you have any doubts about whether or not you should pursue this career path, try to find temporary employment as a youth sports coach or set up some time to volunteer at your local school.

As you might expect, a degree is going to be required for a teaching position; but just what type of degree is necessary? Ideally, you should have an idea about what subject and/or grade level you wish to teach. If you don’t have things pinned down to subject and grade level, you should probably just go with your strongest subject with a focus on education grades K-12. This way you have most of your bases covered and can easily adjust your program if you make a decision later on.

Future teachers are going to need at least a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate to find employment as a teacher; the actual subject you get a degree in isn’t as important as you might think for finding employment. One thing to keep in mind however is that priority is given to those with the exact qualifications needed to fill a position. For example; if you have a degree in general education you could teach in almost any subject at a school, but if it was a position for a math teacher and someone you’re competing with specialized in mathematics, the other applicant is more likely to be hired. Having a degree in the area that you specialize in teaching is very important for two reasons: 1.) You can negotiate a higher salary and 2.) You’re less likely to be replaced down the line.

Before you select your educational program, check to make sure that they offer the proper certification requirements that you are going to need after graduation in order to apply for a teaching position. After you’ve received your degree, you’ll need to complete a series of additional training programs and teacher certification programs, as well as meet student teaching requirements. The student training will give you much needed classroom experience and should last for around a full school year.

You can apply directly to an institution for employment or go through your college’s job placement program (if they have one). Many teachers have found it beneficial to belong to some form of professional teaching organization like the NSTA or NCTE; and potential employers often favor those that belong to these types of organizations over those that do not.