Teaching can be rewarding as it supports the youth and can eliminate the achievement gap in America. Most teachers have attained their Master’s, but did you know you can become a teacher without a Master’s? As long as you have earned a Bachelor’s degree, you can enroll in an alternative teacher certification program to become a licensed teacher. Most states offer the certification, but it is important to research your state’s Department of Education certification requirements.
For example, Connecticut requires applicants seeking a certification to have received their Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college and submit an official transcript, application fee, and online application. These requirements may look different for other states. Additionally, some private, charter and not-for-profit schools do not require a teaching degree.
Lastly, if you do not plan on seeking a Master’s degree or certification to teach, consider becoming a substitute teacher. In CT, substitute teachers are largely required to have a bachelor’s degree and experience with school-age children. Long-term substitute teachers require more experience as they must work over 40 days in a single school year.
If you have any additional questions or are looking for guidance, you can make an appointment with one of our Career Coaches at the Center for Career Development. Good luck in your possible journey to becoming a future educator!
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/teacher-teaching-students-about-geography-using-a-globe-5428267/
