How do I become a teacher in a field other than the one I already have a degree in?

Question by fujiyakai: How do I become a teacher in a field other than the one I already have a degree in?

Do I have to go back to get another BA in the field that I want to teach in, or should I get an AA or certificate for my credentials, or pursue another field as an MBA to teach? Ultimately I want to teach kids, not sure what field, but most likely English or similar. Initially I guess I would be fine with just teaching kids English, but I'm just not sure I want to go back to school for very long, although I might consider going back after getting teaching credentials. Does it work that way? Is it as simple as going to a Junior College and getting credentials? How long does it take?




Best answer:

Answer by Tonya H
It really depends on the teacher education requirements in the state in which you live as well as the kind of licensure you are seeking (I was licensed in Wisconsin; I got my license at the same time I completed my English degree. In California, the teaching credential is earned by taking coursework post-baccalaureate). If you plan to teach at the elementary school level, you will need to have completed very specific coursework in all of the fields, as you will be teaching nearly all subjects (and there may be a restriction on how old your coursework is). If you plan to teach at the middle or high school level, you will need a specialty, such as English. Again, there will be specific classes you will need to take to qualify you to teach the subject material. Regardless of the subject level, you will need to do classroom experience and teaching methods, child psychology, etc.

Add your own answer in the comments!