I’m currently a high school senior trying to figure out college apps and such.
What do you have to major in to become an elementary school teacher?
Some websites are saying that I have to major in elementary education and others say a bachelor’s degree will suffice.
(If I don’t have to major in elementary education, then my major will be either history or sociology.)
Do I have to attend a school with a teaching program?
Which schools even offer teaching programs? Which schools have strong education colleges?
I do know that I need a multiple subject teaching certification or something of the sorts.
I had been previously considering UC Davis, UC Santa Barbara, and UC Irvine just by sort of guessing and not knowing anything about colleges.
If I major in say history, will I have to go back to college to get certified to become a teacher?
Do I need a masters degree to become a teacher?
Any input from college students currently trying to become an elementary school teacher would be greatly appreciated
Look at the websites for the colleges you wish to attend.
Then look at their “Teacher Ed” program and the requirements for the elementary Ed major.
The site will explain that school’s requirements, along with state certification tests required, and student teaching experience hours. I know that a lot of the CSUs have good programs.
How would you teach with just a diploma?
You have to do student teaching hours and pass the state tests. You wouldn’t be hired by public schools without your credential and, most principals will ask you about your student teaching experience. Multiple subject requirements for elementary ed means that you should be able to teach math, language arts, science, history, and art.
If you decide to major in history, you may want to target a single subject credential to teach history/social sciences in middle school and high school.
California actually prohibits students from majoring in Elementary Ed. The closest you will find is a Liberal Studies major. This major often has a track which is geared toward obtaining the Multiple Subject credential which allows you to teach in K-8 classrooms. Some programs are accelerated so that the Bachelor’s degree and credential can be completed in four years. Or students earn a Bachelor’s degree and then take a separate credential program, at the same or a different college. You don’t have to major in Liberal Studies, but those programs are geared to provide you with the content matter you need to pass the required tests.
If you major in another subject, make sure to work with the credentialing department at the school to take the additional courses you need to prepare yourself for a 5th year credential program.
The CSUs are historically more focused on teacher prep than the UCs. Sonoma State has a top notch program with a variety of options. Many privates colleges have programs as well if that is an option for you financially.
You don’t need a Master’s degree to become a teacher. You may want to earn one eventually for the higher pay.
Sonoma State has an outstanding accelerated program that’s worth a look