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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
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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

Based on the requirements of Teacher job openings on Indeed in the United States within the last three years.
required level of educationpercent of job openings
Bachelor's degree5.0%
High school diploma or GED4.0%
Master's degree3.0%
Associate's degree2.0%
Doctoral degree1.0%
Middle school education0.0%
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Expected salary by experience

Based on resume data from Indeed users who reported working as a Teacher in the United States within the last three years.
Years of experienceAnnual 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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