How To Become a Teacher, From Getting a Degree to Getting a Job

Considering a career in teaching? The demand for teachers is higher than ever. Discover how to embark on this path, from selecting a college and obtaining certification to securing your first teaching position!

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Should I become a teacher?

The greatest reward of being a teacher is influencing how students perceive themselves. By consistently acknowledging their learning efforts, they begin to see themselves as learners. —Teacher Sheila K.

Before committing to a career that could span years, it’s crucial to ensure teaching is the right fit for you. While teaching can be immensely rewarding, it is also quite demanding. Consider these questions to determine if this career path aligns with your goals.

Does the job meet your salary needs?

According to the NEA, the current average salary for teachers is approximately $72,000, although this varies based on factors like state, location, school, and experience. Starting salaries are typically lower, averaging about $47,000 annually.

Tip: Check the average salaries in the state where you plan to teach, and compare them with the cost of living and your desired lifestyle.

Are you counting on having summers off?

While the idea of summers off might seem appealing, many teachers spend a significant portion of this time on professional development and other school-related tasks. Those who don’t often work summer jobs to earn extra income.

Tip: Explore our survey to discover what teachers actually do during the summer.

Do you know what teachers actually do all day?

Before learning how to become a teacher, connect with current educators. Shadow them in the classroom or volunteer as a teacher aide to understand the full scope of teaching duties, both inside and outside the classroom. (Hint: There’s more paperwork and bureaucracy than you might expect!)

Tip: Connect with local teachers to learn more, and join the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook to chat with real educators.

Can you handle the workload?

A teacher’s day often extends beyond the school bell. Despite attempts to establish a 40-hour workweek, teachers frequently find themselves arriving early, staying late, and taking work home. Teaching is only a fraction of the job, with planning, administrative tasks, meetings, and other duties consuming much of their time.

Tip: Learn more about a teacher’s workload here.

Are you passionate about education?

Teachers must possess a deep knowledge of their subject as well as the latest educational theories and techniques. They need a diverse set of instructional strategies to reach every student. Ultimately, teachers must be deeply committed to their students, school, and community every day.

Tip: Reflect on “Why do I want to teach?” and read Discovering Your Teaching Mission: The Only Way To Avoid Burnout to understand why passion for education is crucial.

Are you willing to continue learning throughout your career?

Maintaining a teaching license or certification requires ongoing professional development, typically a set number of hours annually. While some schools cover these costs, others may require you to pay out of pocket. These credits may need to be completed outside of regular teaching hours, adding to your workload. On the bright side, you’ll continually learn something new every year until you retire!

Tip: Explore the types of professional development teachers pursue here.

We can only anticipate what the future holds and prepare students for it, making adaptability vital for thriving in this ever-evolving profession. —Teacher Brianna Vuori

Are you patient?

High school ELA teacher Ann Cox suggests, “If a teacher can remain calm, consider others’ perspectives, and think through situations, they can handle almost anything that comes their way.”

She adds: “Patience helps teachers avoid reacting impulsively when students are off-task or disrespectful. It’s also crucial when interacting with angry parents to avoid saying or doing something regrettable. Patience is especially necessary during meetings and professional development sessions!”

Tip: Discover the top 15 qualities of successful teachers here.

Are you a people person?

Teachers are in constant contact with people of all ages. They must be comfortable speaking to groups or individuals, with limited personal time during the workday. If you thrive in social settings (hello, extroverts!), teaching might suit you. Even if you’re an introvert, teaching can still be rewarding, depending on your priorities and preferences.

Tip: Learn what it’s like to be a teacher AND an introvert.

Can you be a team player?

According to a Washington 2nd grade teacher, “Good teachers must share ideas, seek help, communicate with colleagues and families, and not take things personally.” If you struggle to work as part of a team, teaching might not be the right career for you.

Tip: Consider how you feel about collaborating with colleagues and families daily or if you prefer working independently.

Will you find teaching rewarding, despite the challenges?

If you’ve reached this point, you likely have what it takes to be a teacher! The rewards, beyond financial, are immense. Successful teachers find great fulfillment in guiding the next generation, teaching valuable skills, and supporting students through life’s ups and downs. While it’s a challenging job, dedicated teachers wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Tip: Discover what makes teaching a fulfilling career choice for many:

Interested in education but not keen on classroom teaching? There are numerous other career opportunities to explore!

Traditional vs. Alternative Paths to Becoming a Teacher

Pursue a master’s degree while in school. The pay increase justifies the extra effort. Keep an open mind—I have a master’s in teaching, but I found my passion as an elementary librarian. —Librarian Roger J.

Many people take a traditional route to becoming a teacher, including:

Some aspiring teachers already hold a college degree but wish to change careers. The alternative path to becoming a teacher might involve:

• Completing necessary college courses in pedagogy and other education topics
• Passing certification exams and fulfilling other licensure requirements

For those seeking a faster alternative to certification, Moreland University provides a 100% online program that can be finished in as little as nine months, including student teaching. Moreland offers rolling admissions and monthly start dates, allowing you to begin your program at your convenience.

These requirements vary by state and school type, so verify your state and desired school district’s requirements.

Earning Your College Degree

Build connections with classmates now, as you’ll collaborate with these future colleagues in your career. —Teacher Erica C.

Whether you start right out of high school or pursue your degree later in life, here are some tips for your college years.

Choosing and Applying to a College Program

Select a program that is well-respected and state-accredited. Evaluate their entire program, including the amount of classroom experience you’ll gain before graduation. Tour the campus, speak with current students, and learn about the support available when it’s time to seek employment.

Tip: If you plan to teach in a different state than your current residence, consider attending a college program in that state to ensure you meet all the requirements upon completion.

Paying for College

A college education is a significant investment. Learn how to manage expenses while you study.

Surviving Student Teaching

Observing experienced teachers is invaluable, but don’t overlook new teachers. They provide realistic insights into what your first year will be like. —Teacher Emily C.

Being in the classroom as a “real teacher” is both thrilling and daunting. Make the most of your experience by asking questions and being open to feedback. We’ve compiled tips from real teachers to help you maximize your student-teaching experience.

Wondering if you’re getting a quality experience? Look for these elements:

• Co-teaching: Your sponsor teacher should gradually introduce you to teaching, spending time co-teaching with you. Learn more about co-teaching here.
• Planning and paperwork: It’s vital to learn how to develop lesson plans, complete paperwork, and manage other daily administrative tasks.
• Parent interaction: From making phone calls to participating in conferences or responding to emails, ensure you gain experience interacting with parents.
• Independent teaching: By the end of your student teaching, you should manage a full class day from start to finish. Your sponsor teacher will support you but primarily observe as you take the lead.
• Coaching and feedback: Ideally, you and your sponsor teacher should review your progress daily. Set measurable goals (teachers excel at these!) and monitor your growth.

If your experience feels inadequate, speak up! Discuss your needs with your sponsor teacher. If they can’t help, consult your college advisor for guidance.

Getting Certified

Every U.S. state mandates teacher certification or licensure, with requirements varying by state. Conduct thorough research. Begin with our comprehensive guide to teacher certification exams across states.

If you’re on a traditional teaching path, your college program will guide you through the steps. They’ll assist with exam scheduling (many offer on-site testing) and determine additional requirements like background checks and fingerprinting. Prepare for the costs associated with these requirements, which are typically the applicant’s responsibility.

For those transitioning to teaching without a college program, most licensure or certification requirements remain the same, including passing necessary exams. Check with your state’s board or department of education for specific requirements.

Keep in mind many states initially issue provisional certificates or licenses. You’ll need to complete classroom hours and possibly continuing education credits to obtain a professional license. In most cases, you’ll also need to earn continuing education credits (sometimes at your own expense) to maintain your license or certificate throughout your career.

Landing a Teaching Job

With your teaching certificate or license, you’re ready to find your first job! Fortunately, we have plenty of advice to assist you.

Building a Teacher Portfolio and Resume

Mastering the Job Hunt

If you don’t secure a teaching job immediately after graduation, consider a paraprofessional position. It’s an excellent learning opportunity. It was invaluable for me! —Jennifer L.

Nailing the Teacher Interview

How To Become a Teacher FAQs

What skills do you need to be a successful teacher?

Teachers must be patient, kind, empathetic, and compassionate, with a genuine passion for education. They should be willing to collaborate with colleagues and families. Many teachers work long hours, juggling multiple tasks and thinking on their feet, requiring them to be organized and flexible in their thinking. They must also be comfortable speaking publicly and communicating one-on-one.

How long does it take to become a teacher?

Following the traditional path, becoming a certified or licensed teacher typically takes about four years through a college teacher prep program. However, most states offer alternative paths to certification or licensure, particularly for those transitioning to teaching after earning a different college degree. Visit your state’s department of education website to learn about alternative paths to becoming a teacher.

Do you need a college degree to become a teacher?

Yes. A bachelor’s degree is required to become a fully certified or licensed full-time public school teacher. Although private schools may not always require a degree, they usually prefer candidates who have one.

Do you have to major in education to teach?

Not necessarily. If you already have a degree in your intended teaching subject, you can typically follow an alternative path by taking educational pedagogy courses to earn your certification.

Is teaching a good career choice right now?

Currently, there are significant teacher shortages in many areas, especially in special education and STEM fields. However, job prospects vary by location, so it’s essential to explore anticipated needs in your area over the coming years.

It’s also crucial to be aware of the current challenges in the education sector. Changes in education policies have led to funding shortages, and some teachers face more restrictions in the classroom. The teaching environment varies significantly from state to state and school to school, so speak with local teachers to gain insights into the current teaching climate in your area.

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Have more questions about how to become a teacher? Check out our career advice page, with dozens more articles to explore!

Plus, check out The Big List of Teacher Discounts and Perks.