How to Become a Physics Teacher

The Physics Teacher Education Coalition released a report in 2009 expressing the need for qualified physics teachers in high schools across the United States. They estimated that approximately only one-third of current physics teachers have a degree in physics and are adequately educated and trained to teach that subject in the high school classroom. If you have an interest in teaching and science, you can help decrease this shortage by learning how to become a physics teacher.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Have a strong interest in science, especially physics. To become a physics teacher, you must take many science courses in college before you enter the classroom and spend your day teaching physics and other science courses to students. To ensure the time you spend learning about physics and teaching it isn't boring, make sure you have an interest and passion in science and physics.

2. Earn your undergraduate degree. Before you can step foot in a classroom you need a bachelor's degree in physics or physics teaching. Getting teachers with a degree in physics in the classroom is a goal of the Physics Teacher Education Coalition since only about one-third of physics teachers in the U.S. hold a degree in the field.

3. Pass the Praxis exam. Teaching physics at a secondary school in the United States requires passing a certification or licensing exam proving you have the skills and knowledge to teach this subject. Most states use the Praxis exam, which offers an exam in basic skills, principles of learning/teaching and specific subject areas such as physics.

4. Apply for a teaching license. After passing the Praxis exams required by your state, you can apply for your teaching license. This requires submitting an application and licensing fee as well as documentation proving completion of your undergraduate degree and passing scores on the Praxis exam.

5. Find a position with a school board. After you've received your teaching license, you can apply for positions with school boards needing a physics teacher. Be prepared to complete a phone and in-person interview with school personnel as well as meet the school board representatives before you are hired.

Tips & Warnings

• Each state has different requirements for the renewal of teaching licenses such as what continuing education credits are needed and how often licenses must be renewed. You can find out more by contacting your state's professional or occupational licensing division.

References

• Physics Teacher Shortage Information
• State testing requirements

Resources

• American Association of Physics Teachers

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