To become a teacher involves many steps including getting at least a bachelor’s degree and the rewards are worth the effort. The role of a teacher is a unique and special one since teachers are instrumental in presenting information and concepts to young and open minds. If you become a teacher you can encourage, inspire and instruct students of all ages as they learn not just to get good jobs but to become better people.

Online Degree Programs for Potential Teachers

There are a number of schools that offer online degree programs in education and teaching and learning at the bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. level.  Once again, an online degree in education or teaching allows students with families or jobs to achieve the career goal of becoming a teacher with the flexibility and convenience that comes with an online education.

What Kind of Education Do I Need to Become a Teacher?

In order to become a teacher you must have a bachelor’s degree although many teachers have master’s degrees or a Ph. D., particularly when teaching at the university level. When teaching at the elementary level, it is best to pursue a degree in elementary education. Teaching at the secondary or high school level often requires a secondary education degree but in some cases a degree in a specific subject, for instance history or science, can qualify you for some secondary education teaching positions in that same subject.

Education Requirements for Teaching Specializations

Many teachers pursue degrees in a teaching specialization such as art, music, reading, physical education or special education. Even if not required, a master’s degree or Ph.D. can improve job opportunities and increase earnings potential.

Teacher Certification

To become a public school teacher in the United States you must be certified through your individual state education board. Some private schools also require certification but many do not. It is important to know the specific certification and licensing requirements of each state since they are not all the same.

Potential Salaries for Teachers

The following are median annual earnings for different types of teachers according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2006:

• Post secondary teachers: $56,120
• Adult Literacy & remedial teachers: $43,910
• Preschool, elementary, middle and secondary teachers: $43,580
• Special education (elementary school) teachers: $46,360
• Special education (middle school) teachers: $47,650
• Special education (secondary school) teachers: $48,330