How to Become an English Teacher

English is one of the most common spoken languages in the world. Many people want to learn English as a second language to become successful in business. English teachers are in demand in many countries, along with grade school and college English teachers in the United States. If you'd like to become an English teacher, follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Search online job postings to find employment as an English teacher in other countries. Some countries seek all types of people as English teachers and don't always require a college education.

2. Talk to some grade school English teachers to find out if being an English teacher is right for you. Ask if you can observe some of their classes.

3. Try substitute teaching in grades six through twelve to see how you like the classroom. Check online to find the substitute teaching certificate requirements for your particular state.

4. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree in English in order to teach English in grade school in the United States. Individual states differ as to their teacher preparation requirements, but usually always require at least a Bachelor's Degree to begin teaching. If your Bachelor's Degree is in an area besides English, you may need to pass a subject area test in order to teach English.

5. Enroll in a teacher preparation program in the state where you'd like to teach or look online to find the state's requirements. Some programs are more rigorous than others. If you move to a different state after receiving your teaching certificate, you may need to complete additional requirements in order to teach in that state.

6. Earn a Master's Degree in English in order to become a college English teacher in the United States. Most colleges require at least a Master's Degree in English and some may require a Ph.D.