What College is Required for Becoming a Secondary Teacher

All secondary teachers must have at least a bachelor's degree.

Secondary teachers instruct students in middle and high school grades in specific subject areas. Typically, most secondary teachers specialize in one subject area such as English, math, science, social studies, computer technology, music or art. Secondary teachers usually teach more than one specific area within their chosen subject area. For example, a science teacher might teach sections of biology, physics and chemistry all during the school day. All secondary teachers must have at least a bachelor's degree.

Traditional Route

If you know you want to be a secondary teacher before entering college, you should enroll in a teacher preparation program approved by the state where you live. Your state department of education can provide you with a list of approved programs. Approved teacher education programs typically include a core curriculum with basic classes in English, history, science and math along with advanced classes in the area you want to teach, teacher preparation courses and a student teaching internship.

Alternate Route

If you already have a bachelor's degree, you should enroll in an approved alternate route teacher preparation program. You may be required to take additional classes in the subject area you wish to teach along with teacher preparation courses. Alternate route teachers usually receive provisional teaching licenses until after they complete one year of successful teaching.

Additional Education

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some states may require that teachers complete a master's degree before beginning a teaching career. You should check with your state department of education to determine if your state requires an advanced degree. While most states do not require master's degrees, many teachers opt to complete a master's degree to move into a higher salary bracket.

Other Educational Requirements

All states require prospective teachers to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise through various teacher examinations. Many states use the Praxis tests, but some states use alternate testing. You should determine specific testing requirements by consulting with your state department of education. Your state may also require that your undergraduate GPA meet a certain minimum as well.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Secondary School Teachers
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Teacher
• ETS: Praxis Tests: About the Praxis Series Tests

Resources

• U.S. Department of Education: State Department Contacts and Information