GED Instructor Certification
GED instructors teach classes that prepare adult students to take the qualifying examination for the General Education Development (GED) certificate. The GED certificate is widely accepted as a substitute for a high school diploma; the qualifying exam tests students for competency in the main subjects taught during secondary school, such as math, science, social studies, writing and critical reading. There are no uniform certification requirements for GED instructors; states and educational institutions have varying criteria.
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Bachelor's Degree
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Although GED instructor certification requirements vary, most states require instructors to have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. A specific major is not required, although earning a bachelor's degree in education would allow future GED instructors to gain valuable student teaching experience. No matter the major, bachelor degree students should be sure to take courses that provide the expertise necessary to teach a secondary school curriculum, including mathematics, biology, chemistry, English, reading comprehension, writing and social science.
Master's Degree
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Some states require GED instructors to have a master's degree. As GED instructors deal solely with an adult population, having a master's degree in social work, psychology or adult education is often useful. Earning a master's degree typically takes two years of full-time study; at the close of the program, students are generally required to present a thesis or presentation based on original research.
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Teaching Experience
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Most colleges, universities and centers for adult education require GED instructors to have some teaching experience. Those with bachelor's or master's degrees in education will fulfill this requirement through their program's mandatory student teaching component. Applicants with degrees in other subjects can apply to one of the many teacher education programs offered around the country. These programs act as liaisons between universities and elementary or secondary schools to provide future educators with education and experience in the teaching profession. Post-graduate teacher programs typically last one year.
Teacher Certification
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There are some institutions that will require GED instructors to hold a state teaching certificate. Certification requirements vary; applicants will have to check with their state's board of education for details. The most common requirements are a bachelor's degree, completion of a teacher education program, passing a teacher assessment examination and a criminal background check, and the payment of a licensing fee.
AEL Certification
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Many educational institutions require GED instructors to hold an AEL (Adult Education and Literacy) certification. Some schools that offer GED instruction also offer AEL certification; in other cases, AEL certification is available through state boards of education. A bachelor's degree is typically a mandatory prerequisite, as well as a criminal background check. A pre-specified amount of continuing education credits may be required to maintain the certification.
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References
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