How to Pursue a Teaching Career

Rural elementary schools provide employment options for new teachers.

Earning a degree in education requires admission to a four-year college. Some course can be taken online, but the bulk of the educational core courses must be taken in the classroom. Teaching candidates must also complete a field experience in an educational setting and one quarter of student teaching at an area school district.

Things You'll Need

• High school diploma Funds or financial aid to take college courses Clear background check

Instructions

1. Earn a bachelor's degree in education from an accredited college. Some states allow students to hold a bachelor's degree in a specific field and offer instruction on related topics only. The state department of education must approve all related degree candidates.

2. Complete all required general or Tier-I courses as required by the chosen college and educational discipline selected. Various criteria exist, depending on the grade level for which the potential teacher will receive certification.

3. Arrange for the field experience component of the educational degree program. Work with the college of education counselor to secure a spot in the teacher candidate's rotation program. During the field experience, education students will lead classroom activities, supervise children and assist with lesson plans.

4. Register for and complete all Tier-II level and education methods courses as directed by an academic adviser and arrange for a student teaching rotation. During the quarter or semester-long student teaching rotation, potential educators will develop lesson plans, provide educational center activities, lecture on subject area, grade papers and assume nearly all classroom duties under the supervision of a certified teacher.

5. Register to take the required state educational licensure examination. Pass the test and file the results with the state department of education. Undergo a background check; felony arrests or convictions will prevent the issuance of a teaching license. Apply for teaching positions at public, private or charter school districts.

References

• eHow: How to Become an Elementary School Teacher
• Become a Teacher
• University of Phoenix Education Courses and Program Information

Resources

• eHow How to Become a Secondary School Teacher Article