It’s no secret that getting a degree in education can be extremely rewarding. Not only do you get to help mold the minds of the next generation, but you’re also often given opportunities to work with children in a variety of settings. However, before you can start enjoying all these benefits, there are some things you need to do first. Here is a guide on how to get started.
Classroom Experience
While a degree in education is crucial in becoming a teacher, you also need to have experience. This means getting a part-time job in the after-school care programs or tutoring students from your alma mater. You may even get further opportunities from it such as being able to observe classes or maybe do some research on your own. While it may not be as rewarding as teaching a class, you will learn things that can help you in the long run.
This can be an invaluable experience, one that can help you build your confidence and better prepare you for the challenges of teaching.
Bachelor’s Degree
While most would think that getting a bachelor’s degree is only something that those who wish to pursue higher education need, this isn’t always true. There are states such as California that require people with a bachelor’s degree to have students in public school until they get their teaching credentials. And since California is relatively big, getting your teaching license elsewhere without having a bachelor’s degree could put you at a disadvantage.
Also, while getting your bachelor’s degree, you can take other subjects such as psychology and sociology to help better prepare you for the challenges of teaching. This will give you a wider range of knowledge that will be relevant in helping students learn.
Get Your Master’s Degree
Though it isn’t required, earning your master’s degree in education is still something that you may want to consider doing. Though it will take time and money, getting one can definitely give you an edge when applying for jobs and in keeping your current position with the school. There are also many schools that will give you tuition waivers so you won’t have to pay anything for your classes. Keep in mind that you can get a master’s in teaching online as well so you can do it from the comfort of your own home. Look up different colleges and universities near you to find one that fits your needs.
Many people are getting master’s degrees today so that they can pursue better career opportunities in the future. Though it might not be something that you’re completely interested in, it will help you get what you want out of your job and give you extra perks like promotions.
Plus, getting your master’s degree can sometimes allow you to teach at higher grades instead of just teaching kindergarteners or first graders.
Look Into A Doctorate Degree
Another option that you may want to consider is getting a doctorate degree in education. Though this degree will take the longest time and money, it is something that can really help your career by giving you an advantage over other applicants or staying competitive with those who are already employed with the school. Many employers may prefer to hire people with a doctorate since it means you have an advanced level of knowledge and expertise.
Earning Your Teaching Credential
Even if you’ve earned a bachelor’s degree and have classroom experience, you will still need to take specific courses in education. These classes are usually general, like taking English and history courses, which means that they can range from covering the whole curriculum of your chosen discipline or just reviewing past material. You may even find yourself taking pedagogy courses, which are basically learning how to teach others.
Furthermore, there are states that have their own teaching certification process, so you will need to check if your state requires you to secure one. Even if they don’t, it’s still something you should get because of the benefits it brings.
If you’ve decided on getting a teaching credential, look around for schools that offer it online. This way, you won’t just save time and money, but you’ll also be able to work or take care of your family first before doing your classes.
Take The GRE
Even if you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree and passed the state-mandated tests, there’s still one more step. You need to take the GRE general test, which assesses your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. This part isn’t mandatory but because of its importance in obtaining a teaching credential and gaining admission to graduate school, it’s highly advisable that you do.
People that take the GRE include those who are applying for a master’s degree in education. If you’re taking the test, keep in mind that there are usually two options: computer-administered and paper-based tests. The first one is generally taken on an Internet-connected computer while the latter is available offline.
While some say that taking this test can be easy, it’s not. So if you’re able to give yourself enough time to study for the test, take advantage of that time. The more effort you put in studying, the better your chances are of doing well on the exam and getting into your desired college or university.
Apply For A Job
Since the state is requiring that bachelor degree holders teach until they get their teaching credential, then the next step is to actually apply for a job. After your application has been reviewed and deemed satisfactorily complete by your school district, you will be given your official teaching credential. This can take anywhere from a few months to a year.
Look for various opportunities around you or online. Some teachers prefer applying to charter schools for specific subjects since they don’t have to follow the curriculum mandated by their school district. There are also openings in private schools that only offer classes up to a certain grade level, so if you can fill that gap then go for it!
The job of being an educator is not something you can just do on a whim. It’s something that you need to be dedicated to and have the right knowledge and skills for. With these tips, you’ll be able to achieve your dreams of being a teacher more quickly and with less hassle.
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