How to Become a Home Economics Teacher

Qualifying to become a home economics teacher generally requires a bachelor's degree. But if you choose to teach the subject in a college or university, you will need to acquire your masters or doctorate degree. Focusing on educating students in the areas of food, nutrition and everyday living, the home economics teacher plays a vital role in the educational system. As a home economics teacher, you will be providing students with the tools necessary to make informed decisions about domestic and consumer related situations.

Instructions

1. Earn your high school diploma or GED. In order to attend an accredited college or university you will need to complete this step. Once you have fulfilled your high school requirements, begin your search for a college or university.

2. Attend a four year college or your local community college. Keeping in mind that most community colleges only offer a two year associates degree program. Once you have earned your associates degree, you will need to transfer your credits to a four year college in order to complete an undergraduate degree. Classes for Home Economics preparation include sociology, psychology and economics. Other concentrations are on diet, nutrition and family dynamics. It's at this time that you want to specialize your studies.

3. Complete a bachelor degree program through an accredited college program. Schools that are in need of hiring a home economics teacher will be requiring a teaching certificate. In order to qualify for the certificate, you will need to have a bachelor's degree. A Bachelor of Science in Economics is the degree that is required in most instances. This will offer a concentration in oral and written skills, creative thinking, and the ability to present ideas to your students as a Home Economics teacher.

4. Increase your odds of getting hired by adding to your educational profile. Achieving a certification in family and consumer science will give you an extra edge when it comes to competing for a teaching position. Home economic teachers that have completed a four year degree can sit for the examination offered by the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences in order to get this extra certification.

5. Continue your education by completing a master's or doctorate degree in order to teach home economics in a college or university. If you wish to expand your horizons and venture into the realm of higher learning, earn a higher degree in home economics. The additional degrees will afford you the opportunity to share your knowledge and prepare others in the field of teaching home economics.

Tips & Warnings

• A career in home economics is not limited to general classroom teaching. Those with a background in home economics can broaden their career choices by venturing out into other related programs like food demonstrating, hospitality, textile art, and the tourism industry.

• Be careful when choosing a college or university in pursuit of your degree. Some online schools may not be accredited, and that can limit your prospective career choices in the future.

Resources

• Becoming a Home Economics Teacher
• Promising Career Outlook for Home Economic Teachers
• Employment of Home Economic Teachers
• International Federation of Home Economics