What Are the Requirements to Become a Science Teacher?

A science teacher can specialize in any number of subjects, and will be responsible for traditional classroom instruction as well as lab experiments and demonstrations. It is important to check your state's specific requirements for teacher certification, but the general requirements are similar nationwide.

Science Degree

You need to complete a four-year undergraduate degree in a scientific field such as biology, chemistry, physics or general science at an accredited college or university. The degree you receive will usually correspond with the science subject you will be certified to teach.

Education Courses

You must either complete a traditional education track as part of your undergraduate degree or a post-baccalaureate education program. Some states also offer a provisional teachers' program that enables an individual with the appropriate degree to complete "alternate route" education courses during his first year of teaching.

Praxis

Sign up for the appropriate Praxis test by visiting the Educational Testing Service (ETS) website. The site gives information about test score requirements for each state (see Resources).

Teacher's Certificate

Contact your county or state's Department of Education for an application for a teacher's certificate. You will have to submit the completed application along with your college transcripts and your passing Praxis test results.

Resume Package

The Department of Education will send you a science teacher's certificate once they receive your application package. You must submit a copy of this certificate along with your resume when applying for science teaching jobs.

Resources

• Educational Testing Service