Can I still be a teacher?

Question

I will be graduating in two years with a degree in Business Management. However, the thought of becoming an elementary school teacher has always crossed my mind. I know some people might say "switch your major to education now", but it's not so easy when I already invested two years into my business major. Being an education major would mean 6 years instead of 4, and like $40,000. So, I was wondering if anyone knows whether or not I can just get my masters in education and still be a teacher? Any one who knows please help? What are the pre-reqs for a masters program??? Thank you so much

Answer 1

It really is dependent on which state you are in. In Ohio, you can receive a Master's in Middle Childhood Education (grades 4-8/9) without previous educational experience but not in Pre-K - 3, or 7-12.

Talk to an advisor at your college in the Education department.

Answer 2

It truly depends on your state's requirments.  With No Child Left Behind, the demand for Highly Qualified Teachers is at an all time high.  That means your degree is in what you teach (not business). Regardless you will probably have to pass a certification test in addition to your education.  This can be very difficult without the proper education.  I would contact your state's Department of Education to find out.

Answer 3

Your thinking is a bit off on this - but yes, of course you can still be a teacher.

Here is whats off -

1. Your first two years of your BA is often alot of general requirements that do cross over to both programs.

2. No you cannot teach with simply a masters - you need a credential - which is a post bac graduate - 2 yr program - so its will be six years. There are combination masters/credential programs.

3. cost doesnt matter. take loans, do whatever it takes - your first year salary may be as high as that 40k depending on where you teach.

See your schools education department and start learning about it now.