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I graduated with a BA in Communications a few years ago, but I would like to switch careers and become an elementary school teacher in California. Is there someone who can help me navigate this process?
#elementaryschoolteacher #teacher #careerchange
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4 answers
Updated
Sanober’s Answer
Hi Elizabeth!
After doing some research online, I have gathered the following information that may help you:
- You CAN become a teacher without going back for a second bachelor's in teaching, and you can do this by enrolling in an alternative teaching program. I would find out if California has any you can enroll in with your current credentials. I also found this website helpful: https://www.teachaway.com/blog/can-you-become-teacher-without-teaching-degree
- Requirements will vary by state for the number of student teaching hours needed before becoming an independent teacher.
I hope this helps, best of luck on your journey :)
Sanober
After doing some research online, I have gathered the following information that may help you:
- You CAN become a teacher without going back for a second bachelor's in teaching, and you can do this by enrolling in an alternative teaching program. I would find out if California has any you can enroll in with your current credentials. I also found this website helpful: https://www.teachaway.com/blog/can-you-become-teacher-without-teaching-degree
- Requirements will vary by state for the number of student teaching hours needed before becoming an independent teacher.
I hope this helps, best of luck on your journey :)
Sanober
Updated
Dana’s Answer
Hello!
I found myself in a similar situation! I got my undergraduate degree in psychology a few years ago and then decided to make the switch to education! The first thing you need to do is check out schools! Figure out what schools you are interested in! Once you have decided on a school they can help you determine what the next time would be. For me it was getting my masters instead a second bachelors. I am still enrolled in the masters program and will be taking the required teaching tests for my state. Once you are enrolled in a school you can start finding out about what tests you will need for the state you plan to teach in! Once you finish your program you will do some student teaching in a classroom for about a semester. This is a full time commitment so be ready to be able to take that on! After you have taken the tests required for your state, and you have completed student teaching you will be able to get a job as a teacher!
Hope this helps!
Dana
Find a university you would like to attend
Look up state requirements for becoming a teacher
I found myself in a similar situation! I got my undergraduate degree in psychology a few years ago and then decided to make the switch to education! The first thing you need to do is check out schools! Figure out what schools you are interested in! Once you have decided on a school they can help you determine what the next time would be. For me it was getting my masters instead a second bachelors. I am still enrolled in the masters program and will be taking the required teaching tests for my state. Once you are enrolled in a school you can start finding out about what tests you will need for the state you plan to teach in! Once you finish your program you will do some student teaching in a classroom for about a semester. This is a full time commitment so be ready to be able to take that on! After you have taken the tests required for your state, and you have completed student teaching you will be able to get a job as a teacher!
Hope this helps!
Dana
Dana recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Arturo’s Answer
Hi Elizabeth,
I reside in California. I obtained my BA in Liberal Studies at CSU Stanislaus. Basically, you can major in anything, and once you receive or before your BA make sure to apply to the credential program. When applying they give you a list of what you need to complete before applying. Make sure you take the CBEST! If you receive financial aid you can still continue to get it if you are pursuing to become a teacher. When you are finished applying to the credential that is when you decide to either focus on the multiple subjects (Elementary) or a single subject. If you need any more advice let me know!
Hoped this helps!
-Arturo Avila
I reside in California. I obtained my BA in Liberal Studies at CSU Stanislaus. Basically, you can major in anything, and once you receive or before your BA make sure to apply to the credential program. When applying they give you a list of what you need to complete before applying. Make sure you take the CBEST! If you receive financial aid you can still continue to get it if you are pursuing to become a teacher. When you are finished applying to the credential that is when you decide to either focus on the multiple subjects (Elementary) or a single subject. If you need any more advice let me know!
Hoped this helps!
-Arturo Avila
Updated
Atul’s Answer
I do not know about CA but in NJ you need a degree in Education.
You have to pass exams for the state to become a teacher.
Please do the homework to find out what is required in CA and follow that path.
You may not have to spend too much time to acquire BS or MS in Education since you already have a degree.
You have to pass exams for the state to become a teacher.
Please do the homework to find out what is required in CA and follow that path.
You may not have to spend too much time to acquire BS or MS in Education since you already have a degree.