subject: How Long Does It Take To Become A Teacher [print this page] If youre thinking about pursuing a teaching career, youre probably wondering, How long does it take to become a teacher? It is very important to consider the amount of time required and the cost for any college programs you enter, of course, but with teaching it is particularly important. The degrees and certifications required to become a teacher vary depending on the state you live in and the type of teaching you want to do. It is more complex and time consuming than the average liberal arts degree, but the rewards of working as a teacher more than make up for the hard work you put in.
All teachers must complete a bachelors degree, which typically takes four years. You must also complete licensing certification, which varies depending on which state you live in. The answer to How long does it take to become a teacher definitely depends on your location. You may need to finish a one-year credential program after completing your bachelors degree, or you may need to finish a two-year masters degree in education. The type of teaching you want to do may also change the amount of time it takes. A basic elementary school teacher may be able to get started much more quickly than a special education teacher or advanced high school mathematics teacher, for example.
The steps to becoming a teacher should begin with talking to teachers and deciding exactly what type of teacher you want to become. Then you can research your states teaching certification requirements and the credentials and certifications needed for the age group or subject area you want to teach. At this point you should be ready to start your bachelors degree at an accredited college or university if you havent already. After graduation, you will still need to complete an accredited teacher education program or masters degree program depending on your state, which will take one to two years. And finally, youll need to pass either a state test or the PRAXIS exam to become a licensed teacher.
So, the question of How long does it take to become a teacher depends on your state, the kind of teacher you want to become and other factors.
