How to Teach High School Economics

Teaching high school economics will prepare students for the world of business and finance.

Not everyone with a degree in economics has the desire to work on Wall Street. Teaching is stable and recession-proof, and a personally rewarding career choice. Teaching economics in high school will help prepare students for life after school, by helping them learn how businesses and markets operate. If you already have a bachelor's degree, see the tips below for alternative teacher certification.

Instructions

1. Choose an accredited college to attend. Teachers in public schools need a minimum of a bachelor's degree to become certified. Choose a degree in education, with a specialty in secondary (high school) education to avoid additional education to become certified.

2. Choose a minor in economics or a related field to better your chance of teaching high school economics immediately after graduation. Keep your grade point average (GPA) up and do well in college to be more competitive in the job market.

3. Volunteer with community outreach programs to become more comfortable working with teenagers. While this is optional, it will add experience to your resume and help you communicate with your students.

4. Search for teacher openings in the area you want to teach in. If you want to teach economics immediately, note it on your resume to inform the school boards. If you have an excellent track record with a high college GPA, you will have more teaching positions to choose from and more say-so in your class selection.

Tips & Warnings

• If you already have a bachelor's degree and it's not in education, check your state's alternative teaching programs. Many states with teacher shortages will pay for your required teacher certification courses if you agree to sign a contract to work in particular school districts initially. Do everything you can to promote a positive learning environment. High school teachers are mentors to many students. Be a positive role model and communicate with your students. Teaching is more than just lecturing.

References

• Major: Education
• The Economics Degree

Resources

• Lesson Plans for Economics Teachers
• National Council for Accredited Teacher Certification