How to become a Teacher
If you want to become a teacher, you need to complete the following steps:
- Start by acquiring a bachelor's degree. Elementary school teachers need a degree in elementary education (although pre-school teachers are sometimes able to begin working with an associate's degree while pursuing a bachelor's degree). Those working in upper-level schools should major in a particular subject.
- Make sure you have honed your communication and listening skills, have a deep passion for learning and teaching, have an innate ability to foster caring relationships and are friendly, organized and ethical.
- Engage in student teaching as the next step on your journey to becoming a teacher.
- Next, you will need to get licensed or certified as a teacher to work in schools within the public sector.
- Finally, keep up on continuing education to maintain employment as a teacher over time.
How to become: Elementary School Teacher · School Teacher · Tutor · Preschool Teacher · Early Childhood Teacher
These qualifications are required: Special Education Certification · ESL Certification · Montessori Certification
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What skills help Teachers find jobs?
- Behavior management
- Bilingual
- Childcare
- Classroom experience
- Classroom management
- Communication skills
- Computer literacy
- Computer skills
- Customer service
- Data collection
- Deaf education
- Early childhood education
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Career progression for Teacher
Education levels for Teachers
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | 5.0% |
| High school diploma or GED | 4.0% |
| Master's degree | 3.0% |
| Associate's degree | 2.0% |
| Doctoral degree | 1.0% |
| Middle school education | 0.0% |
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Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $25,000 |
| 4 - 8 | $27,300 |
| 8 - 12 | $30,700 |
| 12 - 16 | $33,700 |
| 16 - 20 | $35,400 |
| 20 - 24 | $37,200 |
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Common qualifications for Teachers
AED Certification
CPR Certification
First Aid Certification
Child Development Associate Certification
ESL Certification
TESOL Certification
Montessori Certification
Driver's License
Educator License with Stipulations
Special Education Certification
Teaching Certification
Substitute Teaching Certification
RN License
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Common questions about career advices for a Teacher
Is a master's degree required to become a teacher?
Although earning a master's is not required, acquiring one will help you keep your position as well as acquire better-paying jobs.
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