Teacher
Education required for this profession
Traditional education programs for kindergarten and elementary school teachers include courses designed specifically for those preparing to teach. These courses include mathematics, physical science, social science, music, art, and literature, as well as prescribed professional education courses, such as philosophy of education, psychology of learning, and teaching methods. Aspiring secondary school teachers most often major in the subject they plan to teach while also taking a program of study in teacher preparation. Many 4-year colleges require students to wait until their sophomore year before applying for admission to teacher education programs. To maintain their accreditation, teacher education programs are now required to include classes in the use of computers and other technologies. Most programs require students to perform a student-teaching internship. Teacher education programs are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Teacher Education Accreditation Council. Graduation from an accredited program is not necessary to become a teacher, but it may make fulfilling licensure requirements easier.
Many States now offer professional development schools, which are partnerships between universities and elementary or secondary schools. Professional development schools merge theory with practice and allow the student to experience a year of teaching firsthand, under professional guidance. Students enter these 1-year programs after completion of their bachelor’s degree.
Relevant Degree/Diploma/Certificatebachelors Degree in Education
Quick Facts
Public school teachers must be licensed, which typically requires a bachelor’s degree and completion of an approved teacher education program.
Many States offer alternative licensing programs to attract people into teaching, especially for hard-to-fill positions.
Job prospects should be favorable; opportunities will vary by geographic area and subject taught.
SalaryMedian annual earnings of kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers ranged from $43,580 to $48,690 ; the lowest 10 percent earn $28,590 to $33,070; the top 10 percent earn $67,490 to $76,100. Median earnings for preschool teachers are $22,680.