Can you become an elementary school teacher with only a bachelors degree?

Question

I'm graduating next June with a degree in Sociology and was thinking about becoming an elementary school teacher. I've heard many different things, like you need a masters at minimum. Is that true? I'm not interested in going to graduate school right away.

If not what other kind of qualifications, training, credentials are necessary to become a K-5 public school teacher in the state of California.

Answer 1

A lot of schools offer an undergraduate degree in Education, with which you can start working in schools. If your degree isn't in education, then most states will only hire on an emergency basis (don't count on that).

For masters in Ed programs, this is usually only a one year program, so you may want to consider it if you really want to teach.  Otherwise, contact some local schools and find out what they need.

Answer 2

I'm sure each state is different. I don't know of any that require a Masters to start. Actually you are better off with a Bachelors Degree; however, you will need you education classes and student teaching in most states. It's best to check with your university. You'll also probably have to pass several tests. Good Luck to you.

Answer 3

Yes...that and teacher training....

Answer 4

You need a degree in elementary education. You cannot get a full time regular teaching position with a degree in Sociology. You could substitute part-time, that's about it.

You don't need a Master's degree to teach, you just need a degree in the areas you are going to teach. Sociology does not qualify you to teach at the elementary level, the NCLB act requires teachers to be certified in the area they teach.

Answer 5

Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has their own program. Go to their web site and check it out. Their is also one in San Francisco. You go to classes that they provide while you teach. So you get paid as a normal teacher and go to class. The only down side is you will not get a college degree in teaching. You will get a California Professional Clear Teaching Credential and can teach any where in california after some experience. The only problem comes if you try and transfer it to another state.

Answer 6

Some states have a way for you to receive your teacher's certificate (which you need to have to teach in a public school) without having to go back to school and receive ANOTHER BA in Education.  If you are sure you would like to teach, you can look into getting a Masters Degree in Education, but you do not need a Masters degree to teach.  A BA is suitable.  I'd contact the Professional Standards Commission in the state of California and see if they offer an alternative way to earn your teacher's certificate.  Sometimes it involves taking several key courses as well as teaching with a provisional certificate for a year or two while you are under the guidance of master teachers and being observed by administration.